sdarm qtr. 2 1990 bible study

8/8/2019 SDARM Qtr. 2 1990 Bible Study

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Lesson

Sabbath Bible LessonsLATTER-DAY DECEPTIONS

Titles Page12345678910111213

Snares of SatanFanaticism .The Masterpiece of Deception .The Masterpiece of Deception (cont'd) .Special Tools of Satan .Love of theWorld .Dangerous Associations .Pride and Correlated Sins .Presumption .Faith Without Works .Stubborn Resistance of Truth .Rebellion .Two Companies of Believers

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Volume 65 Number 2

The Sabbath Bible Lessons, is published quarterly by the Seventh Day AdventistReform Movement General Conference, Sabbath School Department.Annual subscriptions: U.S.A. $7.00. Other countries $8.00.It is printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240Hollins Rd., Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A. Phone (703) 366-9400.Send subscription requests and payments in United States currency to the addressbelow. Application to mail at second-class postage rate is pending at Roanoke,VA 24022-9651.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

RHPA PO Box 7240 Roanoke, VA 24019-0240PRINTED IN U.S.A.

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000 000 038 489GC Archive

FOREWORDThe apostle Peter was especially worried about this last generation of Christians when he wrote:"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,walketh about, seeking whom he may devour; whom resist stedfast in the faith,knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are inthe world." 1 Peter 5:8, 9.Satan knows that the end is very near and that he has but a short time inwhich to carry on his evil work. He is not worried about the world in general, orthe fallen denominations, or the inveterate Laodiceans (who want to continue inthe Laodicean condition), because these have already made their decision. He isgreatly concerned about those who do not accept his leadership. Therefore, he

has prepared different deceptions and trials for these faithful few. We read:"If men are so easily misled, how will they stand when Satan shall personateChrist, and work miracles? . . . What will hold God's people from giving theirallegiance to false christs?"-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 58."Are we prepared to resist them [Satan's agents] by the word of God, the on-ly weapon we can use successfully?"-Testimonies, vol. I, p. 302.We may think that these temptations will be no problem for us, because weknow the truth. But let us be well assured that a mere theoretical knowledge ofthe truth will not be enough. Unless we are sanctified by the truth that we pro

fess, we will not be able to stand. Satan knows this, and for this reason the remnant people of God are the main target of the arch-deceiver's attacks."The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Thosewhokeep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of thedragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained con-trol of the apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting hissupremacy. I f he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be com-plete."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 472, 473."Satan is now more earnestly engaged in playing the game of life for soulsthan at any previous time; and unless we are constantly on our guard, he will

establish in our hearts pride, love of self, love of the world, and many other eviltraits. He will also use every possible device to unsettle our faith in God and in thetruth of His Word. I f we have not a deep experience in the things of God, if wehave not a thorough knowledge of His Word, we shall be beguiled to our ruin bythe errors and sophistries of the e n e ~ y . " -Selected Messages, book 2, p. 58.In view of these very schemings and maneuverings of Satan, we havethought it necessary to place into the hands of our brethren and friends the present series of studies entitled Latter-day Deceptions, which we hope will arousemany souls to see the perils that are threatening us as individuals and as a church.May the blessings of God attend both teachers and students as they studythese lessons!

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

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Special Project Offeringfor Imphal, Manipur, India

Our North India Mission, with several hundred members, was organizedin October 1983, in Imphal, the capital city of the state of Manipur. If youlook at the map of India, you will see that Manipur lies in a northeastern "ap-pendix" surrounded by Bhutan, China, Burma, and Bangladesh. Imphal isclose to the border between India and Burma.Although all our brethren there lived in the northeastern part of thecountry at the time the Mission was organized, they decided to become in-corporated under the name of SDA Reform Movement, North India Mis-sion, because, from the beginning, it has been their plan to branch out to thewest and cover the whole of north India. And, with the help of God, they areworking to this effect.

The establishment of their center of operations in Imphal has had itsstrategic importance also for the work in Burma. From Imphal our workerscan easily cross the border and render assistance to our people in thatneighboring country. Everything seems to indicate that the organization ofthat new mission is an answer to the prayers of our Burmese brethren.Brother D. Sureshkumar, who had come from the SDA Church as an or-dained minister, has been the North India Mission leader. He was reordainedto the ministry by Brethren F. Devai and A. C. Sas during a conference held

in South India, November 1984.Until now, the office of the North India Mission has been located in theschool that is being run by Brother Sureshkumar in Imphal. But, as theneeds of the work in that area are growing, the brethren there are makingplans to purchase or build their own mission house. In a letter directed to ourGeneral Conference office they make the following appeal: "Kindly makesome feasible arrangements so that we can have an office building and achurch in Imphal, the capital city." Our brethren in that part of the vineyardare willing to make great sacrifices at their end to see their project

materialized, but they still need help from outside. Therefore, their appeal ishereby extended to all. our members and friends around the world.Remember, brethren, that the Sabbath offering to be taken up at the end ofthis quarter is for Imphal, Manipur, India. Please, plan ahead to make aspecial sacrifice. The Lord will certainly reward the cheerful donors.On behalf of our North India Mission, we thank you in advance for yourgenerous contributions.

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

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Lesson 1 Sabbath, April 7, 1990

SNARES OF SATAN

"The enemy has great power over minds that are not thoroughly fortified byprayer and established in Bible truth."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 292.KEY TEXT: "And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no mandeceive you." Matthew 24:4.WARNING AGAINSTFAULTFINDERS AND ACCUSERS D SundayApril 1

1. What did many disaffected disciples do as they turned away from Christ?John 6:66. (Fi rs t note.) Who, better than any others, knows how to opposethe true faith? 1 John 2:19. In this connection, how does history repeat itselftoday?"As those di.saffected disciples turned away from Christ, a different spirit tookcontrol of them. They could see nothing attractive in Him whom they had once foundso interesting. They sought out His enemies, for they were in harmony with theirspirit and work. They misinterpreted His words, falsified His statements, and im-pugned His motives. They sustained their course by gathering up every item thatcould be turned against Him; and such indignation was stirred up by these false

reports that His life was in danger."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 392, 393."None understood so well how to oppose the true Christian faith as did those whohad once been its defenders."-The Great Controversy, p. 45."The greatest harm to God's people comes through those who go out from amongthem speaking perverse things. Through them the way of truth is evil spoken of."Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 291.2. What type of people, under the training of Satan, become his most effective

agents? What kind of work do they do? Jude 9-11, 16-19."There has ever been a class professing godliness, who, instead of following on toknow the truth, make it their religion to seek some fault of character or error of faithin those with whom they do not agree. Such are Satan's right-hand helpers. Accusersof the brethren are not few, and they are always active when God is at work and Hisservants are rendering Him true homage. They will put a false coloring upon thewords and acts of those who love and obey the truth.' They will represent the mostearnest, zealous, self-denying servants of Christ as deceived or deceivers. It is their

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work to misrepresent the motives of every true and noble deed, to circulate insinuations, and arouse suspicion in the minds of the inexperienced. In every conceivablemanner they will seek to cause that which is pure and righteous to be regarded as fouland deceptive."-The Great Controversy, p. 519."The worst enemies we have are those who are trying to destroy the influence ofthe watchmen upon the walls of Zion."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 294.WARNING AGAINST HERETICS AND HERESIES D MondayApril 23. What plan does Satan have concerning the old landmarks of our faith? What

warning should we heed? Proverbs 22:28; Jeremiah 6:16. What instructionof Paul applies to this danger? 1 Corinthians 3:11."Satan hopes to involve the remnant people of God in the general ruin that is coming upon the earth. As the coming of Christ draws nigh, he will be more determined

and decisive in his efforts to overthrow them. Men and women will arise professing tohave some new light or some new revelation whose tendency is to unsettle faith in theold landmarks. Their doctrines will not bear the test of God's word, yet souls will bedeceived. False reports will be cirCUlated, and some will be taken in this snare. Theywill believe these rumors and in their turn will repeat them, and thus a link will beformed connecting them with the archdeceiver."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 295.4. What is Satan constantly try ing to introduce in to the church? 1 Corinthians

11:19."The great deceiver has many agents ready to present any and every kind of error to ensnare souls-heresies prepared to suit the varied tastes and capacities ofthose whom he would ruin. It is his plan to bring into the church insincere, unregenerateelements that will encourage doubt and unbelief, and hinder all who desire to see thework of God advance and to advance with it. Many who have no real faith in God or inHis word assent to some principles of truth and pass as Christians, and thus they areenabled to introduce their errors as Scriptural doctrines."- The Great Controversy, p.520.

WARNING AGAINST USELESS DISCUSSIONSAND SPECULA,TIONS

D TuesdayApril 3

5. What lesson should we learn from Mathew 15:1, 2? (First note.)What warn-ing was given by Paul concerning men who caused much disturbance overfables and unimportant question&,? 1 Timothy 1:4; 4:7; 2 Timothy 2: 16. Howare we to take this warning today?"Whenever the message of truth comes home to souls with special power, Satanstirs up his agents to start a dispute over some minor question. Thus he seeks to attract attention from the real issue. Whenever a good work is begun, there are cavilers

ready to enter into dispute over forms or technicalities, to draw minds away from theliving realities."-The Desire ofAges, p. 396."And unless ministers and people practice the truth and are sanctified by it, theywill allow speculation regarding questions of no vital importance to occupy the mind.This will lead to caviling and strife; for countless points of difference will arise."-Gospel Workers, p. 312."Those who are unwilling to accept the plain, cutting truths of the Bible are continually seeking for pleasing fables that will quiet the conscience. The less spiritual,-6-


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self-denying, and humiliating the doctrines presented, the greater the favor with whichthey are received."- The Great Controversy, p. 523.6. What does God want us to do concerning that which He has not revealed?Deuteronomy 29:29. How is Satan t ry ing to deceive people on this point?

"It is a masterpiece of Satan's deceptions to keep the minds of men searching andconjecturing in regard to that which God has not made known and which He does notintend that we shall understand."- The Great Controversy, p. 523."It is presumption to indulge in suppositions and theories regarding matters thatthe Lord has not revealed."-Gospel Workers, p. 314.

WARNING FOR THOSE INCLINED TO DOUBT D WednesdayApril 47. How did King J ehoiakim react to the word of God which came to h im throughJeremiah and Baruch? Jeremiah 36:4, 10, 15, 16,22-25. How does historyrepeat itself as the messages of God are rejected by many professed Adventists?"The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony ofthe Spirit of God. 'Where there is no vision, the people perish' (Prov. 29:18). Satanwill work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettlethe confidence of God's remnant people in the true testimony."-SelectedMessages, book 1,p.48."One thing is certain: Those Seventh-day Adventists who take their stand underSatan's banner will first give up their faith in the warnings and reproofs contained inthe Testimonies of God's Spirit."-Ibid., book 3, p. 84.

8. What are the underlying motives that prompt men either to accept or rejectthe messages of God? John 7:17; James 1:12-14. What enables Satan todestroy the confidence of thousands not only in the Testimonies but also inthe Bible?"It is becoming fashionable to doubt. There is a large class by whom the word ofGod is looked upon with distrust for the same reason as was its Author-because itreproves and condemns sin. Those who are unwilling to obey its requirementsendeavor to overthrow its authority. They read the Bible, or listen to its teachings aspresented from the sacred desk, merely to find fault with the Scriptures or with thesermon. Not a few become infidels in order to justify or excuse themselves in neglectof duty. Others adopt skeptical principles from pride and indolence. Too ease-lovingto distinguish themselves by accomplishing anything worthy of honor, which requireseffort and self-denial, they aim to secure a reputation for superior wisdom by criticizing the Bible."- The Great Controversy, p. 526.

D ThursdayWARNING AGAINST TWO VERY COMMON DANGERS April 59. What special way has Satan devised to lead many souls astray? Proverbs14:12."There have ever been in the church those who are constantly inclined toward in-dividual independence. They seem unable to realize that independence of spirit is

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liable to lead the human agent to have too much confidence in himself and to trust inhis own judgment rather than to respect the counsel and highly esteem the judgmentof his brethren, especially of those in the offices that God has appointed for the leadership of His people. God has invested His church with special authority and powerwhich no one can be justified in disregarding and despising, for he who does thisdespises the voice of God."Those who are inclined to regard their individual judgment as supreme are ingrave peril. It is Satan's studied effort to separate such ones from those who are channels of light, through whom God has wrought to build up and extend His work in theearth. To neglect or despise those whom God has appointed to bear the responsibilities of leadership in connection with the advancement of the truth, is to reject themeans that He has ordained for the help, encouragement, and strength of His people.

For any worker in the Lord's cause to pass these by, and to think that his light mustcome through no other channel than directly from God, is to place himself in a position where he is liable to be deceived by the enemy and overthrown." - The Acts of theApostles, pp. 163, 164."We must move discreetly, sensibly, in harmony with the judgment of Godfearing counselors; for in this course alone lies our safety and strength."- Testimonies,vol. 9, p. 257.

10. When a person believes he has received new light, what is the only safecourse that he should take? Proverbs 11:14; 1 Peter 5:5. What rule has Godgiven us to test all doctrinal questions? Isaiah 8:20."There are a thousand temptations in disguise prepared for those who have thelight of truth; and the only safety for any of us is in receiving no new doctrine, no new

interpretation of the Scriptures, without first submitting it to brethren of experience.Lay it before them in a humble, teachable spirit, with earnest prayer; and if they seenot light in it, yield to their judgment; for 'in the multitude of counselors there is safety.' "-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 293.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS D FridayApril 6a. In the history of the Christian church, how have the righthand helpers ofSatan revealed themselves?b. How has Satan succeeded in introducing heresies into the church centuryafter century?c. How has Satan always tried to draw minds away from the main issues?d. Why do many people have doubts in the writings of E.G. White and even inthe Bible?e. How are we to close the door against the temptations of Satan which comeunder the cloak of "new light"?

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FANATICISM

"Mere noise and shouting are no evidence of sanctification, or of the descentof the Holy Spirit. Your wild demonstrations create only disgust in the mindsof unbelievers."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 35.KEY TEXT: "If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, andall speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, orunbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?" 1 Corinthians 14:23.

o SundayFANATICISM IN EVERY REVIVAL AND REFORMATION April 81. With what problem, and through what kind of elements, has Satan introducedhimself among the remnant people of God in every revival? 2 Timothy 4:3,4;1 Thessalonians 5: 14.

"In every revival he is ready to bring in those who are unsanctified in heart andunbalanced in mind. . . ."The prince of evil contests every inch of ground over which God's people advance in their journey toward the heavenly city. In all the history of the church noreformation has been carried forward without encountering serious obstacles. Thus itwas in Paul's day. Wherever the apostle raised up a church, there were some whoprofessed to receive the faith, but who brought in heresies, that, if received, wouldeventually crowd out the love of the truth. Luther also suffered great perplexity anddistress from the course of fanatical persons who claimed that God had spoken directly through them, and who therefore s t their own ideas and opinions above thetestimony of the Scriptures. Many who were lacking in faith and experience, but whohad considerable self-sufficiency, and who loved to hear and tell some new thing,were beguiled by the pretensions of the new teachers, and they joined the agents ofSatan in their work of tearing down what God had moved Luther to build up. And theWesleys, and others who blessed the world by their influence and their faith, encountered at every step the wiles of Satan in pushing overzealous, unbalanced, andunsanctified ones into fanaticism of every grade."- The Great Controversy, p. 396.2. Upon whom did Satan lead his agents to charge the evils of fanaticism, notonly in the days of the Reformation but also in the early days of the AdventMovement? What history should we expect to be' repeated in our days? Acts

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"In the days of the Reformation its enemies charged all the evils of fanaticismupon the very ones who were laboring most earnestly against it. A similar course waspursued by the opposers of the advent movement. And not content with misrepresenting and exaggerating the errors of extremists and fanatics, they circulated unfavorable reports that had not the slightest semblance of truth. These persons wereactuated by prejudice and hatred. Their peace was disturbed by the proclamation ofChrist at the door. They feared it might be true, yet hoped it was not, and this was thesecret of their warfare against Adventists and their faith. . . ."Let the people of God arouse out of sleep and begin in earnest the work of repentance and reformation; let them search the Scriptures to learn the truth as it is inJesus; let them make an entire consecration to God, and evidence will not be wantingthat Satan is still active and vigilant. With all possible deception he will manifest hispower, calling to his aid all the fallen angels of his realm."- The Great Controversy, pp.397,398.

FALSE CLAIMS ABOUT PERFECTION DMondayApril 9

3. What should we know about persons who dare to c la im that they are sanc-tified beyond the possibility f committing sin? (Note.) How does the Biblewarn us against this type of deception? 1 John 1:8."They [some fanatics] declare that they were perfected, that body, soul, and spiritwere holy. . . .They declared that as their flesh was purified, they were ready for

translation."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 34."All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to haveholy flesh. . . . Let this phase of doctrine be carried a little further, and it will lead tothe claim that its advocates cannot sin; that since they have holy flesh, their actionsare all holy. What a door of temptation would thus be opened!"-Ibid., p. 32.

4. How will genuine Christians regard themselves when they behold Chris t?Romans 7:18, 24."None of the apostles or prophets ever claimed to be without sin. Men who have

lived nearest to God, men who would sacrifice life itself rather than knowingly commit a wrong act, men whom God had honored with divine light and power, have confessed the sinfulness of their own nature. They have put no confidence in the flesh,have claimed no righteousness of their own, but have trusted wholly in the righteousnessof Christ. So will it be with all who behold Christ."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 160.

FALSE PROPHETSD TuesdayApril 10

5. What warning about false prophets has a special application today? Matthew24:4; 2 Peter 2:1,2."We shall encounter false claims; false prophets will arise; there will be falsedreams and false visions; but preach the Word, be not drawn away from the voice ofGod in His Word. Let nothing divert the mind. The wonderful, the marvelous, will berepresented and presented. Through satanic delusions, wonderful miracles, theclaims of human agents will be urged. Beware of all this."-SelectedMessages, book 2, p. 49.

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"In one place, four in one family professed to have communications from theLord, reproving wrong, and they predicted things that actually did take place. . . ."I have seen several fall in vision; but when I rebuked the spirit which controlledthem, they immediately came out of vision, and were in great distress of mind."-Ibid.,pp. 76, 77.6. What tes t should we always have in mind when someone claims to be a prophet or a messenger of the Lord? Isa iah 8:20; Matthew 7:20.

"All along our pathway to the heavenly Canaan we see many souls that havemade shipwreck of faith, and in their false movements have led others astray throughthe supposition that they were led of God in special revelations. I have had to writemany, many pages to correct these errors. I have been burdened and oppressed nightafter night, unable to sleep because of the agony of my soul for God's heritage, Hispeople, who are in danger of being misled. Many things in these visions and dreamsseem to be all straight, a repetition of that which has been in the field for many years;but soon they introduce a jot here, a tittle of error there, just a little seed which takesroot and flourishes, and many are defiled therewith."-SelectedMessages, book 2, pp. 86,87. "Nor can we trust impressions. The voice or spirit that says to a man, You areunder no obligation to obey the law of God; you are holy and sinless, while he istrampling on the divine law, is not the voice of Jesus."-Ibid., p. 49.

LESSONS FROM 1 CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 14 o WednesdayApril 117. To what dangerous situation among the Corinthians did Paul refer, and withwhat instruction did he try to correct it? 1 Corinthians 14:6-9 ,23,33,40.8. What simple rules would have helped them close the door against spurious

manifestations? 1 Corinthians 14:19-22,27, 28.

WORSHIP WITH NOISE AND CONFUSION o ThursdayApril 129. Describe in a few words a scene of ancient Baal worship. 1 Kings 18:26-28.

What manifestations characterize modern "charismatic" meetings?"God does not require His people to imitate Baal's prophets, to afflict their bodiesand cry out and shout, and throw themselves into almost every attitude, having noregard for order, until their strength fails through sheer exhaustion."- Testimonies, vol. 1,

p. 231."I will not go into all the painful history; it is too much. But last January the Lordshowed me that erroneous theories and methods would be brought into our campmeetings, and that the history of the past would be repeated. I felt greatly distressed.I was instructed to say that at these demonstrations demons in the form of men arepresent, working with all the ingenuity that Satan can employ to make the truthdisgusting to sensible people."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 37."The things you have described as taking place in Indiana, the Lord has shownme would take place just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will bedemonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, Il).usic, and dancing. The sensesof rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make rightdecisions. And this is called the moving of the Holy Spirit.

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"The Holy Spirit never reveals itself in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise.This is an invention of Satan to cover up his ingenious methods for making of none ef-fect the pure, sincere, elevating, ennobling, sanctifying truth for this time."-Ibid., p. 36.10. How does the Bible show the difference between the false and the genuine

gift of tongues? Isaiah 8:19; Acts 2:1-8."Some of these persons [who are fanatics] have exercises which they call giftsand say that the Lord has placed them in the church. They have an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but bythe Lord and all heaven. Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided bythe great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisyexercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church. Some havebeen deceived here."- Testimonies, vol. I, p. 412.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo FridayApril 13

a. How has Satan always worked to counteract the work of reformation?b. What presumptuous claim will true Christ ians never make while they are in

the flesh?c. For what purpose does Satan put into the mouth of his agents much truth

and only a little of error? Why not the other way around?d. What is the evidence that, along with the t rue gift of tongues, there was also

a spurious manifestation among the Corinthians?e. How can we distinguish the work of the Holy Spirit from Satan's counterfeitin any revival?

"It is the desire and plan of Satan to bring in among us thosewho will go to great extremes-people of narrow minds, whoare critical and sharp, and very tenacious in holding their ownconceptions of what the truth eans. They will be exacting, andwill seek to enforce rigorous duties, and go to great lengths inmatters of minor importance, while they neglect the weightiermatters of the law- judgment and mercy and the love of God.Through the work of a few of this class of persons, the whole bodyof Sabbathkeepers will be designated as bigoted, Pharisaical, andfanatical. The work of the truth, because of these workers, willbe thought to be unworthy of notice." -Evangelism, p. 212.

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Lesson 3 Sabbath, Apri121, 1990

THE MASTERPIECE OF DECEPTION

"If our eyes could be opened to discern the fallen angels at work with thosewho feel at ease and consider themselves safe, we would not feel so secure,"- Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 302.KEY TEXT: "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shewgreat signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shalldeceive the very elect." Matthew 24:24.

SPIRITUALISM IN THE PASTo SundayApril 15

1. How did Satan deceive Pharaoh and how did he also try to delude the peopleof Israel? Exodus 7:8-13. Why should miracles alone never be taken as atest of faith?"The man who makes the working of miracles the test of his faith will find thatSatan can, through a species of deceptions, perform wonders that will appear to begenuine miracles. It was this he hoped to make a test question with the Israelites atthe time of their deliverance from Egypt."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 52.

2. By what means did Satan mislead people in the days of the apostles? Acts8:9-11; 13:6-8.

SPIRITUALISM IN THE PAST (cont 'd)o MondayApril 16

3. How did Satan try to deceive the early Christian church? How was his planthwarted? Acts 8:13, 18-24. Why was the Roman emperor greatly incensedagainst Peter?

"About the time of Paul's second arrest Peter also was apprehended and thrustinto prison. He had made himself especially obnoxious to the authorities by his zealand success in exposing the deceptions and defeating the plots of Simon Magus, thesorcerer, who had followed him to Rome to oppose and hinder the work of the gospel.Nero was a believer in magic, and had patronized Simon. He was therefore greatly in-censed against the apostle, and was thus prompted to'order his arrest."-The Story ofRedemption, p. 315.-1 3 -


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4. How did God defeat the plan of Satan in connection with Elymas the sorcerer,and Sergius Paulus the deputy? Acts 13:9-12.What lesson should we learnfrom the firmness of Paul?"Elymas was not a man of education, yet he was peculiarly fitted to do the workof Satan. Those who preach the truth of God will meet the wily foe in many differentforms. Sometimes it will be in the person of learned, but more often of ignorant, men,whom Satan has trained to be successful instruments to deceive souls. It is the duty ofthe minister of Christ to stand faithful at his post, in the fear of God and in the powerof His might. Thus he may put to confusion the hosts of Satan and may triumph in thename of the Lord."- The Acts 0/ the Apostles, p. 169.

IN OUR DAYSo TuesdayApril 17

5. How will God manifest His power among His remnant people in these lastdays? Acts 2: 17, 18. How is Satan working to introduce a counterfeit? Matthew 7:22, 23."Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will beamong the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not beenwitnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out uponHis children. At that time many will separate themselves from those churches inwhich the love of this world has supplanted love for God and His word. Many, both ofministers and people, will gladly accept those great truths which God has caused to beproclaimed at this time to prepare a people for the Lord's second coming. The enemyof souls desires to hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shallcome, he will endeavor to prevent it by introducing a counterfeit. In those churcheswhich he can bring under his deceptive power he will make it appear that God'sspecial blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be greatreligious interest. Multitudes will exult that God is working marvelously for them,when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan will seek to ex-tend his influence over the Christian world."- The Great Controversy, p. 464.

6. When miracles are wrought by the power of God, what miracles will also bewrought by the power of Satan? 2 Thessalonians 2:9."Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration,will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands ofvoices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, thesick will be healed, and signs and wand rs will follow the believers. Satan also workswith lying wonders, even bringing down fire from heaven in the sight of men. Revelation 13:13. Thus the inhabitants of the earth will be brought to take their stand."-TheGreat Controversy, p. 612. o Wednesday

THE CULMINATION OF THE WORK OF DECEPTION April 187. What kind of miracle, and for what purpose, will Satan perform in the nearfuture? Revelation 13:13."Weare coming right upon the time when Satan ,is to work with all manner ofbewitching influences, and those who are charmed with them now, or give them theleast countenance now, will be all ready to be swept right in to act a part with the devil

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then. Evil angels are working all the time upon the hearts of men. Satan is workingwith everyone who is not under the control of the Spirit of God. It is the lying wondersof the devil that will take the world captive, and he will cause fire to come down fromheaven in the sight of men. He is to work miracles; and this wonderful, miracle-workingpower is to sweep in the whole world. It is now just beginning."-SelectedMessages, book 2, p.51.8. What claim will Satan finally make in connection with his miracles?How will

the world support his claim? Matthew 24:23."The time is coming when Satan will work miracles right in your sight, claimingthat he is Christ; and if your feet are not firmly established upon the truth of God, thenyou will be led away from your foundation."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. WhiteComments], vol. 7, p. 911."Satan came as an angel of light in the wilderness of temptation to deceive Christ;and he does not come to man in a hideous form, as he is sometimes represented, butas an angel of light. He will come personating Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles;and men will fall down and worship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded toworship this being, whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do?"-Ibid.,vol. 6, pp. 1105, 1106.

MANY WILL BE DECEIVED o ThursdayApril 199. In connect ion with what class of believers will Satan make special efforts,

and what resul ts does he hope to achieve? Matthew 24:24 (second part).What will be the unfortunate experience of those who profess the truth butare not sanctified by it? 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 12."The sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our sight. Arewe prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying wonders of Satan shall bemore fully exhibited? Will not many souls be ensnared and taken? By departing fromthe plain precepts and commandments of God, and giving heed to fables, the minds ofmany are preparing to receive these lying wonders."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 302."The cause of Christ will be betrayed. Those who have had the light of truth, and

have enjoyed its blessings, but who have turned away from it, will fight down theSpirit of God. Inspired with a spirit from beneath, they will tear down that which theyonce built up."-The Review and Herald, May 24,1898."The Word of God . . . is to be our defense when Satan works with such lyingwonders that, if it were possible, he wotfld deceive the very elect. It is then that thosewho have not stood firmly for the truth will unite with the unbelieving, who love andmake a lie. When these wonders are performed, when the sick are healed and othermarvels are wrought, they will be deceived. Are we prepared for the perilous timesthat are right upon us? Or are we standing where we will fall an easy prey to the wilesof the devil?"-Selected Messages, book 3, pp. 407, 408.10. Wha t will be our defense when mult itudes of professed believers in the

threefold message will be falling prey to Satan's deceptions? Isaiah 8:20.Besides having a theoretical knowledge of the t ru th , what experience mustwe have?

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THE MASTERPIECE OF DECEPTIONIcontinued)

"Spiritualism is about to take the wor ld captive. There are many who th inkthat spiritualism is upheld through trickery and imposture, but this is farfrom the t ruth. Superhuman power is working in a variety of ways, and fewhave any idea as to, what will be the manifestations of spiritualism in thefuture,"-Evangelism, pp. 602, 603.KEY TEXT: "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shalldepart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines ofdevils." 1 Timothy 4:1.

MODERN SPIRITUALISMo SundayApril 22

1. What does Bible prophecy declare concerning the rise of modern spiritualism?1 Timothy 4:1,2."The moral atmosphere is poisoned with cruel, horrible doings. The spirit ofstrife is spreading; it abounds in every place. Many souls are being taken possessionof by the spirit of fraud, or underhand dealing. Many will depart from the faith, givingheed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. They do not discern what spirit hastaken possession of them."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 249 .

2. What special effort will be made by the agents of Satan in connection withthe agelong battle between truth and error? 2 Timothy 4:3, 4."The miracle-working power manifested through spiritualism will exert its in-

fluence against those who choose to obey God rather than men. Communicationsfrom the spirits will declare that God has sent them to convince the rejecters of Sunday of their error, affirming that the laws of the land should be obeyed as the law ofGod. They will lament the great wickedness in the world and second the testimony ofreligious teachers that the degraded state of morals is caused by the desecration ofSunday. Great will be the indignation excited against' all who refuse to accept theirtestimony."- The Great Controversy, pp. 590, 591.-1 6 -


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SPECIFIC CHARACTERISTICS o MondayApril 23 .3. What warning did Paul and Peter leave for us concerning the work of the

agents of spiritualism? 2 Thessalonians 2:9; 2 Peter 2:1,2.

"Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, points to the special working of .Satan in spiritualism as an event to take place immediately before the second adventof Christ. Speaking of Christ's second coming, he declares that it is 'after the workingof Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.' 2 Thessalonians 2:9. And Peter,describing the dangers to which the church was to be exposed in the last days, saysthat as there were false prophets who led Israel into sin, so there will be falseteachers, 'who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord thatbought them. . . . And many shall follow their pernicious ways.' 2 Peter 2:1,2. Herethe apostle has pointed out one of the marked characteristics of spiritualist teachers.They refuse to acknowledge Christ as the Son of God." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 686.4. How did John warn us against these agents? 1 John 2:22, 23.

A GREAT DANGER BEFORE US o TuesdayApril 245. How did King Saul fall prey to spiritualism? 1 Samuel 28: 6-8 . What decep

tion will some or many of us have to face?"I saw that the saints must have a thorough understanding of present truth,

which they will be obliged to maintain from the Scriptures. They must understand thestate of the dead; for the spirits of devils will yet appear to them, professing to bebeloved relatives or friends, who will declare to them unscriptural doctrines. Theywill do all in their power to excite sympathy and will work miracles before them toconfirm what they declare. The people of God must be prepared to withstand thesespirits with the Bible truth that the dead know not anything, and that they who thusappear are the spirits of devils."-Early Writings, p. 262.6. What other form of deception, used in the pas t, will Satan use again in our

days? (Note.) What warning should never be forgotten? Ephesians 6:10-12."Thus men came to Christ. And mingling with His hearers were (evil) angels inthe form of men, making their suggestions, criticizing, misapplying, and misinterpreting the Saviour's words. . . ."In this time evil angels in the form of men will talk with those who know thetruth. They will misinterpret and misconstrue the statements of the messengers of

God."-Selected Messages, book 3, pp. 410, 411.

INCREASED POWER OF DECEPTION o WednesdayApril 257. What accounts for the fact that spiritualism will have an unprecedented suc

cess with the fallen churches? 2 Corinthians 11:13-15."As spiritualism more closely imitates the nominal.christianity of the day, it hasgreater power to deceive and ensnare. Satan himself is converted, after the modernorder of things. He will appear in the character of an angel of light. Through the agen-

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cy of spiritualism, miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and many undeniable wonders will be performed. And as the spirits will profess faith in the Bible, andmanifest respect for the institutions of the church, their work will be accepted as amanifestation of divine power."-The Great Controversy, p. 588.8. While Satan, working through the agency of spir itualism, seems to bring

benefits to the world, what aim is he actually pursuing? Revelation 16:13,14."Through spiritualism, Satan appears as a benefactor of the race, healing thediseases of the people, and professing to present a new and more exalted system ofreligious faith; but at the same time he works as a destroyer. His temptations areleading multitudes to ruin. Intemperance dethrones reason; sensual indulgence,strife, and bloodshed follow. Satan delights in war, for it excites the worst passions ofthe soul and then sweeps into eternity its victims steeped in vice and blood. It is hisobject to incite the nations to war against one another, for he can thus div'ert the

minds of the people from the work of preparation to stand in the day of God."-TheGreat Controversy, p. 589."There are only two parties in our world, those who are loyal to God, and thosewho stand under the banner of the prince of darkness. Satan and his angels will comedown with power and signs and lying wonders to deceive those who dwell on theearth, and if possible the very elect. The crisis is right upon us."-The SDA Bible Com-mentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 982.

BEWARE D ThursdayApril 269. As evil angels seduce and control apostatized Christianity, what condition

will develop in the nominal churches? Matthew 24: 11, 12. What will be thesituation in the Laodicean church?Editor's Note: The word "iniquity" in Matthew 24:12, as well as in Matthew 7:23,is translated from the Greek word anomia, which means "lawlessness" or "refusal topay attention to the law.""As the teachings of spiritualism are accepted by the churches, the restraint im-posed upon the carnal heart is removed, and the profession of religion will become acloak to conceal the basest iniquity. A belief in spiritual manifestations opens the doorto seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and thus the influence of evil angels will befelt in the churches."- The Great Controversy, pp. 603, 604."They [the faithful few] lament and afflict their souls because pride, avarice,selfishness, and deception of almost every kind are in the [unreformed Laodicean]church. The Spirit of God, which prompts to reproof, is trampled underfoot, while theservants of Satan triumph. God is dishonored, the truth made of none effect."Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 210, 211.

10. What confederacy will be formed as the end draws nigh, and on what basis?What will be the final result of the work of deception? (Notes.) What will beour defense against the deceptions of this confederacy? Isaiah 8:12-16, 20."Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness,Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the founda-

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Lesson 5 Sabbath, May 5, 1990

SPECIAL TOOLS OF SATAN

"As the people of God approach the perils of the last days, Satan holds earnestconsultation with his angels as to the most successful plan of overthrowingtheir faith.... [H]e directs his angels to lay their snares especially for thosewho are looking for the second advent of Christ and endeavoring to keep allthe commandments of God."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 472.KEY TEXT: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaringlion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8.

DECEPTION AND CRUEL MEASURES o SundayApril 291. What deception has Satan prepared for the world, for the churches, and forthe professed people of God, as he knows that he has but a short time?

Revelation 12:12; 1 Peter 5:8. What does he say to his angels?"Says the great deceiver: 'We must watch those who are calling the attention ofthe people to the Sabbath of Jehovah; they will lead many to see the claims of the lawof God; and the same light which reveals the true Sabbath reveals also the ministration of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, and shows that the last work for man's salvation is now going forward. Hold the minds of the people in darkness till that work isended, and we shall secure the world and the church also. . . . We mustwork by signsand wonders to blind their eyes to the truth, and lead them to lay aside reason and thefear of God and follow custom and tradition." 'I will influence popular ministers to turn the attention of their hearers from thecommandments of God. That which the Scriptures declare to be a perfect law of liberty shall be represented as a yoke of b o ~ n d a g e . The people accept their minister's ex-planations of Scripture and do not investigate for themselves. Therefore, by workingthrough the ministers, I can control the people according to my will.' " - Testimonies to

Ministers, pp. 472, 473.

2. What cruel measures will Satan incite the powers of earth to take against theremnant people of God? Revelation 13:15-17; 12:17; 17:13, 14. What doesthe enemy say to his agents?" 'But our principal concern is to silence this sect of Sabbath keepers. We mustexcite popular indignation against them. We will enlist great men and worldly-wisemen upon our side, and induce those in authority to carry out our purposes. Then the

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sabbath which I have set up shall be enforced by laws the most severe and exacting.Those who disregard them shall be driven out from the cities and villages, and madeto suffer hunger and privation. When once we have the power, we will show what wecan do with those who will not swerve from their allegiance to God. We led theRomish church to inflict imprisonment, torture, and death upon those who refused toyield to her decrees; and now that we are bringing the Protestant churches and theworld into harmony with this right arm of our strength, we will finally have a law toexterminate all who will not submit to our authority. When death shall be made thepenalty of violating our sabbath, then many who are now ranked with commandmentkeepers will come over to our side.' " - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 473.

FOUR SPECIAL TOOLS D MondayApril 303. What three special tools does Satan employ to separate many from Christ

without necessarily separating them from the church?What instruction doeshe give to his angels? (Note.) How does the Bible warn us on this point?Romans 13:11-14." 'But before proceeding to these extreme measures, we must exert all our wisdomand subtlety to deceive and ensnare those who honor the true Sabbath. We can separatemany from Christ by worldliness, lust, and pride. They may think themselves safebecause they believe the truth, but indulgence of appetite or the lower passions, whichwill confuse judgment and destroy discrimination, will cause their fall.' " - Testimonies

to Ministers, p. 473.

4. With what other tool does he also hope to have much success? 1 Timothy 6:9,10. What work are his angels instructed to do among the professed followersof Christ?" 'Go, make the possessors of lands and money drunk with the cares of this life.Present the world before them in its most attractive light, that they may lay up theirtreasure here and fix their affections upon earthly things. We must do our utmost toprevent those who labor in God's cause from obtaining means to use against us. Keepthe money in our own ranks. The more means they obtain, the more they will injureour kingdom by taking from us our subjects. Make them care more for money than

for the upbuilding of Christ's kingdom and the spread of the truths we hate, and weneed not fear their influence; for we know that every selfish, covetous person will fallunder our power, and will finally be separated from God's people.' "-Testimonies toMinisters, p. 474. UNCONVERTED CHURCHGOERS D TuesdayMayl5. On whom does Satan count as his special helpers? Ezekiel 33:31; 2 Timothy

3:4, 5. Through the neglect ofwhat two spiritual duties does Satan find easyaccess to the hearts of these believers? (Second note.)" Through those that have a form of godliness but know not the power, we cangain many who would otherwise do us harm. Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of

God will be our most effective helpers. Those of this class who are apt and intelligentwill serve as decoys to draw others into our snares. Many will not fear their influence,because they profess the same faith. We will thus lead them to conclude that the re--2 0 -


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quirements of Christ are less strict than they once believed, and that by conformity tothe world they would exert a greater influence with worldlings. Thus theywill separatefrom Christ; then they will have no strength to resist our power, and erelong they willbe ready to ridicule their former zeal and devotion.' "-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 474."Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searchingof the Scriptures, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore he invents every possiblc_ device to engross the mind."- The Great Controversy, p. 519.6. Under what symbols did Christ refer to this class of believers? Matthew25:8, 10; 24:48-51.

"That evil servant who said in his heart, 'My Lord delayeth His coming,' professedto be waiting for Christ. He was a 'servant,' outwardly devoted to the service of Godwhile at heart he had yielded to Satan. He does not, like the scoffer, openly deny thetruth, but reveals in his life the sentiment of the heart-that the Lord's coming isdelayed. Presumption renders him careless of eternal interests. He accepts theworld's maxims and conforms to its customs and practices. Selfishness, worldly prideand ambitions predominate. Fearing that his brethren may stand higher than himself,he begins to disparage their efforts and impugn their motives. Thus he smites hisfellow servants."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 101, 102."This is the class [2 Tim. 3:1-5] that in time of peril are found crying, Peace andsafety. They lull their hearts into security, and dream not of danger. When startledfrom their lethargy, they discern their destitution, and entreat others to supply theirlack; but in spiritual things no man can make up another's deficiency."-Christ's Object

Lessons, pp. 411, 412.

DANGER IN OUR MEETINGS o WednesdayMay2

7. What concern does Satan have in connection with the meetings of the peopleof God? (Notes.) What warning comes to us on this point in Hebrews 10:23-25?

" 'Vntil the great decisive blow shall be struck, our efforts against commandmentkeepers must be untiring. We must be present at all their gatherings. In their largemeetings especially our cause will suffer much, and we must exercise great vigilance,and employ all our seductive arts to prevent souls from hearing the truth and becoming impressed by it.' "-Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 474, 475 ."The Scriptures declare that uponone occasion, when the angels of God came topresent themselves before the Lord, Satan came also among them (Job 1:6), not to bowbefore the Eternal King, but to further his own malicious designs against the righteous.With the same object he is in attendance when men assemble for the worship of God.Though hidden from sight, he is working with all diligence to control the minds of theworshipers. Like a skillful general he lays his plans beforehand. As he sees themessenger of God searching the Scriptures, he takes note of the subject to bepresented to the people. Then he employs all his cunning and shrewdness so to control circumstances that the message may not reach those whom he is deceiving onthat very point. The one who most needs the warning will be urged into some businesstransaction which requires his presence, orwill by someother means be prevented fromhearing the words that might prove to him a savor of life unto life."- The Great Controver-sy, pp. 518, 519.

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8. For what purpose does Satan send his agents to our meetings? (Note.) Howdoes Paul warn us on this point? Romans 16:17." 'I will have upon the ground, as my agents, men holding false doctrines mingledwith just enough truth to deceive souls. 1will also have unbelieving ones present whowill express doubts in regard to the Lord's messages of warning to His church. Should

the people read and believe these admonitions, we could have little hope of overcoming them. But if we can divert their attention from these warnings, they will remainignorant of our power and cunning, and we shall secure them in our ranks at last.' "- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 475.

DISSENSION AND DIVISION IN THE CHURCH o ThursdayMay39. What special effort does Satan put forth in opposition to the prayer of Christin John 17:21?

" 'We must cause distraction and division. We must destroy their anxiety fortheir own souls, and lead them to criticize, to judge, and to accuse and condemn oneanother, and to cherish selfishness and enmity. For these sins, God banished us fromHis presence; and all who follow our example will meet a similar fate. ' "-Testimoniesto Ministers, p. 475.10. How does Satan use men to create dissension and division in the church?Acts 20:28-30; Revelation 2:2. How are we to obtain the victory over Satan'stemptations and deceptions? James 4:7,8; Romans 8:37.

"Upon the occurrence of trials in the church let every member examine his ownheart to see if the cause of trouble does not exist within. By spiritual pride, a desire todictate, an ambitious longing for honor or position, a lack of self-control, by the in-dulgence of passion or prejudice, by instability or lack of judgment, the church maybe disturbed and her peace sacrificed."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 241.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS o FridayMay4a. Against whom and how does Satan direct his special attacks in these lastday!!?b. What are the four special tools that Satan is using in his warfare against theremnant people of God? c. Mention two neglects through which Satan is sure to accomplish his aim with

professed believers in the threefold message.d. What plans does Satan make in connection with our meetings?e. What problems does Satan introduce among lay members and leaders inorder to create unrest and dissension within the borders of Israel?

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He gave special directions concerning this ordinance, clothing it with sanctity andbeauty; but these directions were forgotten, and marriage was perverted and made tominister to passion."A similar condition of things exists now. That which is lawful in itself is carriedto excess. Appetite is indulged without restraint. Professed followers of Christ are to-day eating and drinking with the drunken, while their names stand in honored churchrecords. Intemperance benumbs the moral and spiritual powers and prepares the wayfor indulgence of the lower passions. Multitudes feel under no moral obligation tocurb their sensual desires, and they become the slaves of lust. Men are living for thepleasures of sense; for this world and this life alone."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 101,102.

THE DAYS OF LOT/OUR DAYS D MondayMay73. What condition promoted sensualism and materialism in the days of Lot?Ezekiel 16:49. What did Christ say about the inhabitants of Sodom? Luke

17:28, 29. How great is our guilt before God i f we tolerate transgression ofthe seventh commandment?"The most solemn message ever committed to mortals has been entrusted to thispeople, and they can have a powerful influence if they will be sanctified by it. Theyprofess to be standing upon the elevated platform of eternal truth, keeping all ofGod's commandments; therefore, if they indulge in sin, if they commit fornication andadultery, their crime is of tenfold greater magnitude than is that of the classes I have

named, who do not acknowledge the law of God as binding upon them. In a peculiarsense do those who profess to keep God's law dishonor Him and reproach the truth bytransgressing its precepts."- Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 450, 451.4. What sin, so common in our days, involves more guilt than the sins of Sodom

and Gomorrah? (Note.) What did Jesus and Peter say about the comingdestruction? Luke 17:29,30; 2 Peter 3:10."The flames that consumed the cities of the plain shed their warning light downeven to our time. Weare taught the fearful and solemn lesson that while God's mercybears long with the transgressor, there is a limit beyond which men may not go on insin. When that limit is reached, then the offers of mercy are withdrawn, and theministration of judgment begins."The Redeemer of the world declares that there are greater sins than that for ..which Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed. Those who hear the gospel invitationcalling sinners to repentance, and heed it not, are more guilty before God than werethe dwellers in the vale of Siddim. And still greater sin is theirs who profess to knowGod and to keep His commandments, yet who deny Christ in their character and theirdaily life. "-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 162, 165.

LESSONS FROM THE PAST D TuesdayMay 85. What special stratagem did Satan use before the Flood to turn the descendants of Seth away from God? Genesis 6:1, 2: Whose tragic marriages are

recorded in the Bible as a warning to all future generations? Judges 14:1-3;1 Kings 11:1-4; Nehemiah 13:23-27.- 24 -


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"The children of Seth, attracted by the beauty of the daughters of Cain's descendants, displeased the Lord by intermarrying with them. Many of the worshipers ofGod were beguiled into sin by the allurements that were now constantly before them,and they lost their peculiar, holy character. Mingling with the depraved, they becamelike them in spirit and in deeds."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 81."Never should God's people venture upon forbidden ground. Marriage betweenbelievers and unbelievers is forbidden by God. But too often the unconverted heartfollows its own desires, and marriages unsanctioned by God are formed."- The Adventist Home, p. 63.6. For what purpose were the children of Israel required to wear distinctivegarments? Numbers 15:38-41. What lesson does that requirement containfor us?"Here [Num. 15:38-41] God expressly commanded a very simple arrangement ofdress for the children of Israel for the purpose of distinguishing them from theidolatrous nations around them. As they looked upon their peculiarity of dress, theywere to remember that they were God's commandment-keeping people, and that Hehad wrought in a miraculous manner to bring them from Egyptian bondage to serveHim, to be a holy people unto Him. Theywere not to serve their own desires, or to im-itate the idolatrous nations around them, but to remain a distinct, separate people,that all who looked upon them might say: These are they whom God brought out ofthe land of Egypt, who keep the law of Ten Commandments. An Israelite was knownto be such as soon as seen, for God through simple means distinguished him asHis."- Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 524."If God gave such definite directions to His ancient people in regard to theirdress, will not the dress of His people in this age come under His notice? Should therenot be in their dress a distinction from that of the world? Should not the people ofGod, who are His peculiar treasure, seek even in their dress to glorify God? Andshould they not be examples in point of dress, and by their simple style rebuke thepride, vanity, and extravagance of worldly, pleasure-loving professors? God requiresthis of His people."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1114."Obedience to fashion is pervading our Seventh-day Adventist churches and isdoing more than any other power to separate our people from God."-Testimonies, vol. 4,

p.647.

LESSONS FROM ANCIENT ISRAELAND THE EARLY CHRISTIAN CHURCH o WednesdayMay 97. How did Satan succeed in c o r r ~ p t i n g ancient Israel? Deuteronomy 31:16,29. How does friendship with the world affect modern Israel? James 4:4.

"Satan is continually seeking to overcome the people of God by breaking downthe barriers which separate them from the world. Ancient Israel were enticed into sinwhen they ventured into forbidden association with the heathen. In a similar mannerare modern Israel led astray."-The Great Controversy, p. 508."Jesus is coming; and will He find a people conformed to the world? and will Heacknowledge these as His people that He has purified unto Himself? Oh, no. None butthe pure and holy will He acknowledge as His. Those who have been purified andmade white through suffering, and have kept themselves separate, unspotted fromthe world, He will own as His."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 133.

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8. How did Satan succeed in corrupting the ear ly Chris tian church after thedeath of the apost les, when it had become evident that persecution wasunable to exterminate th e true faith? 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4."Satan therefore laid his plans to war more successfully against the governmentof God by planting his banner in the Christian church. If the followers of Christ couldbe deceived and led to displease God, then their strength, fortitude, and firmnesswould fail, and they would fall an easy prey."The great adversary now endeavored to gain by artifice what he had failed tosecure by force. Persecution ceased, and in its stead were substituted the dangerousallurements of temporal prosperity and worldly honor. Idolaters were led to receive apart of the Christian faith, while they rejected other essential truths. They professedto accept Jesus as the Son of God and to believe in His death and resurrection, butthey had no conviction of sin and felt no need of repentance or of a change ofheart. . . ."Most of the Christians at last consented to lower their standard, and a union was

formed between Christianity and paganism."-The Great Controversy, pp. 42, 43."That which Satan has led men to do in the past, he will if possible, lead them todo again. The early church was deceived by the enemy of God and man, and apostasywas brought into the ranks of those who professed to love God; and today, unless thepeople of God awake out of sleep, they will be taken unawares by the devices ofSatan."-Review and Herald, Nov. 22,1892.

GOD CALLS FOR A REFORMATION o ThursdayMaylO9. How do we know that God will not accept a divided heart? Matthew 6:24:John 17:14-16.

"All who are not decided followers of Christ are servants of Satan. In the unregenerate heart there is love of sin and a disposition to cherish and excuse it. In therenewed heart there is hatred of sin and determined resistance against it. WhenChristians choose the society of the ungodly and unbelieving, they expose themselvesto temptation. Satan conceals himself from view and stealthily draws his deceptivecovering over their eyes. They cannot see that such company is calculated to do themharm; and while all the time assimilating to the world in character, words, and ac-tions, they are becoming more and more blinded."- The Great Controversy, p. 508. f"We are co-workers with Christ, or co-workers with the enemy. We either gatherwith Christ or scatter abroad. Weare decided, wholehearted Christians, or none atall."- Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 126. "We cannot be half the Lord's an'Q half the world's. We are not God's peopleunless we are such entirely."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 83."Those who begin their Christian life by being half and half, will at last be foundenlisted on the enemy's side, whatever may have been their first intentions."-The

SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1086.10. What reformation does God require of us before He can accept us as sons and

daughters? 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Luke 21:34,35; 1 John 2:15-17."The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, powers infinite and omniscient,receive those who truly enter into covenant relation with God. They are present atevery baptism, to receive the candidates who have renounced the world and havereceived Christ into the soul temple. These candidates have entered into the family

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of God, and their names are inscribed in the Lamb's book of life."- The SDA Bible Com-mentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1075."Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regardthemselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a childbelieves every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Thosewho unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives thatthey are no longer following the course they followed before they united with thesedivine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. . . ."After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regardour duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than wehave ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate.Those who seek to answer the prayer, 'Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,'will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God isdone in heaven."-Ibid., p. 1102.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS o FridayMay 11

a. Describe the influence of the world upon professed believers in our days, inthe light of Luke 17:26, 27.

b. What sins did Christ mention when He compared our days with the days ofLot?

c. How can God be glorified or dishonored?d. What warning should we take from past apostasies?e. How are we to answer the prayer, "Thy will be done ..."?

* * * * *[Continued from page I8}tion of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome. The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulfto grasp the hand of spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands withthe Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country willfollow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience." - The Great Con-troversy, p. 588.

"Except those who are kept by the power of God, through faith in His word, thewhole world will be swept into the ranks of this delusion."-Ibid., p. 562 .. ..

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS o FridayApril 27a. How will the movement fo r Sunday enforcement work in coopera tion with

spiritualism?b. What is one of the most outstanding teachings of spiritualism about Christ?c. What special danger is before us in connection with the work of spiritualism?d. How will spiritualism be instrumental in preparing the way for Armaged-

don?e. Who are the only ones that will not be carried away in the snares of

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DANGEROUS ASSOCIATIONS

"The followers of Christ are to separate themselves from sinners , choosingtheir society only when there is opportunity to do them good. We cannot betoo decided in shunning the company of those who exert an influence todraw us away from God."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 459.KEY TEXT: "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners." 1Corinthians 15:33.

IN THE DAYS OF THE PATRIARCHS o SundayMay 131. Explain why Lot's daughters became corrupted although they had a God-fearingfather. Genesis 13:12 , 13."Lot dwelt but a short time in Zoar. Iniquity prevailed there as in Sodom, and hefeared to remain, lest the city should be destroyed. Not long after, Zoar was consumed,as God had purposed. Lot made his way to the mountains, and abode in a cave, strippedof all for which he had dared to subject his family to the influences of a wicked city.But the curse of Sodom followed him even here. The sinful conduct of his daughterswas the result of the evil associations of that vile place. Its moral corruption hadbecome so interwoven with their character that they could not distinguish betweengood and evil."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 167, 168.o

2. What was the consequence of Dinah's association with the ungodly atShechem? Genesis 34:1, 2, 25, 27, 30, 31."The tarry of Jacob and his sons at Shechem ended in violence and bloodshed.

The one daughter of the household had been brought to shame and sorrow, twobrothers were involved in the guilt of murder, a whole city had been given to ruin andslaughter, in retaliation for the lawless deed of one rash youth. The beginning that ledto results so terrible was the act of Jacob's daughter, who 'went out to see thedaughters of the land,' thus venturing into association with the ungodly. He whoseeks pleasure among those that fear not God is placing himself on Satan's groundand inviting his temptations."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 204.-2 8 -


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APOSTASY IN THE JORDAN D MondayMay 143. How did Satan lead Israel into apostasy during their encampment beside the

r iver Jordan? Numbers 25:1-3; 1 Corinthians 10:8.

"At first there was little intercourse between the Israelites and their heathenneighbors, but after a time Midianitish women began to steal into the camp. Their ap-pearance excited no alarm, and so quietly were their plans conducted that the attention of Moses was not called to the matter. It was the object of these women, in theirassociation with the Hebrews, to seduce them into transgression of the law of God, todraw their attention to heathen rites and customs, and lead them into idolatry. Thesemotives were studiously concealed under the garb of friendship, so that they were notsuspected, even by the guardians of the people."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 454.4. In what sense should we take that woeful experience as a warning? 1 Corin

thians 10:11."As we approach the close of time, as the people of God stand upon the borders ofthe heavenly Canaan, Satan will, as of old, redouble his efforts to prevent them fromentering the goodly land. He lays his snares for every soul. It is not the ignorant anduncultured merely that need to be guarded; he will prepare his temptations for thosein the highest positions, in the most holy office; if he can lead them to poi!ute theirsouls, he can through them destroy many. And he employs the same agents now as heemployed three thousand years ago. By worldly friendships, by the charms of beauty,by pleasure seeking, mirth, feasting, or the wine cup, he tempts to the violation of the

seventh commandment."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 457, 458.LESSONS FROM THE APOSTASY AT THE JORDAN D TuesdayMay 155. What instruction, given to ancient Israel, is a vital issue for the people of God

today? Why? Leviticus 18:25-30; Proverbs 1:10; l/Corinthians 15:33."It was by associating with idolaters and joining in their festivities that theHebrews were led to transgress God's law and bring His judgments upon the nation.

So now it is by leading the followers of Christ to associate with the ungodly and unitein their amusements that Satan is most successful in alluring them into sin. 'Come outfrom among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.' 2Corinthians '6:17. God requires of His people now as great a distinction from theworld, in customs, habits, and principles, as He required of Israel anciently. If theyfaithfully follow the teachings of His word, this distinction will exist; it cannot beotherwise. The warnings given to the Hebrews against assimilating with the heathenwere not more direct or explicit than are those forbidding Christians to conform to theslJirit and customs of the ungodly."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 458.6. What accounts for the success of Satan in alluring professed Christians into

sin? Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 12:2; 1 Timothy 5: 13."It was when the Israelites were in a condition of outward ease and security thatthey were led into sin. They failed to keep God ever. before them, they neglectedprayer and cherished a spirit of self-confidence. Ease and self-indulgence left thecitadel of the soul unguarded, and debasing thoughts found entrance. It was the

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traitors within the walls that overthrew the strongholds of principle and betrayedIsrael into the power of Satan. I t is thus that Satan still seeks to compass the ruin ofthe soul."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 459.WARNING FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF SAMSON o WednesdayMay 167. How did Samson begin to corrupt his ways? Judges 14:1-3. With what kindof companions did Samson mingle? Judges 14:10, 15.

"God's providential care had been over Samson, that he might be prepared to ac-complish the work which he was called to do. At the very outset of life he was sur-rounded with favorable conditions for physical strength, intellectual vigor, and moralpurity. But under the influence of wicked associates he let go that hold upon Godwhich is man's only safeguard, and he was swept away by the tide of evil. Those whoin the way of duty are brought into trial may be sure that God will preserve them; butif men willfully place themselves under the power of temptation, they will fall, sooneror later."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 568.8. The calamity that Samson invited to come upon himself was finally, by the

mercy of God, turned into a blessing. Explain how. Judges 16:28 (compareHebrews 11:32)."In suffering and humiliation, a sport for the Philistines, Samson learned more ofhis own weakness than he had ever known before; and his afflictions led him to repen-tance."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 566.

VICTORY IS WITHIN OUR REACH o ThursdayMay 179. How can we close the avenues of the soul against Satan's attacks? Psalm101:2-4; Proverbs 4:23; 23:7."Many of the amusements popular in the world today, even with those who claimto be Christians, tend to the same end as did those of the heathen. There are indeedfew among them that Satan does not turn to account in destroying soul. Through thedrama he has worked for ages to excite passion and glorify vice. The opera, with its

fascinating display and bewildering music, the masquerade, the dance, the card table,Satan employs to break down the barriers of principle and open the door to sensual in-dulgence. In every gathering for pleasure where pride is' fostered or appetite indulged,where one is led to forget God and lose sight of eternal interests, there Satan is binding hischains about the soul. . . . .."Those who would not fall a prey to Satan's devices must guard well the avenues ofthe soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impurethoughts. . . ."This will require earnest prayer and unceasing watchfulness. We must be aided bythe abiding influence of the Holy Spirit, which will attract the mind upward, and habituateit to dwell on pure and holy things. And we must give diligent study to the word ofGod."-Patriflrchs and Prophets, pp. 459, 460.10. What help is at hand for those who want to be overcomers? John 6:37; Hebrews

1:13, 14. What consent and cooperation is required of the individual? Psalm119:9; 1 Peter 1:22.

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I PRIDE AND CORRELATED SINS

"If evil angels control the heart, it will be seen in various ways. The fruit willbe selfishness, covetousness, pride, and evil passions:' - Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 188.KEY TEXT: "Only by pride cometh contention; but with the well advised is wisdom." Proverbs 13:10.

PRIDE AND SOME OF ITS ASSOCIATESD SundayMay 20

1. What sin, general ly found in unregenerate hearts, is especially offensive toGod? Mark 7:21, 22; Proverbs 8:13. How does pride operate in humanhearts?"We profess to have the same Father, to be bound for the same immortal home,to enjoy the same solemn faith, and to believe the same testing message; and yetmany are at strife with one another like quarrelsome children. Some who are engagedin the same branch of the work are at variance with one another and therefore atvariance with the Spirit of Christ."The love of praise has corrupted many hearts. Those who have been connectedwith the Health Institute have at times manifested a spirit of finding fault with theplans laid, and Satan has given them a hold upon the minds of others there who have

t- accepted these persons as blameless while innocent persons have been charged withwrong. It is a wicked pride that delights in the vanity of one's own works, that boastsof one's excellent qualities, seeking to make others seem inferior in order to exalt self, claiming more glory than the cold heart is willing to give to God."-Testimonies, vol. 4,p. 223. "There is nothing so offensive to God or so dangerous to the human soul as prideand self-sufficiency. Of all sins it is the most hopeless, the most incurable."-Christ'sObject Lessons, p. 154.2. What a re some of the sins which often go together with pride? Psalm 101:4,

5; 2 Timothy 3:2."The sins which man is disposed to look upon as small may be the very oneswhich God accounts as great crimes. The drunkard is despised and is told that his sinwill exclude him from heaven, while pride, selfishness, and covetousness go unrebuked.But these are sins that are especially offensive to God."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 337.

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"Pride, ignorance, and folly are constant companions. The Lord is displeasedwith the pride manifested among His professed people. He is dishonored by their conformity to the unhealthful, immodest, and expensive fashions of this degenerateage."-Ibid., vol. 4, p. 643.

PRIDE'S CONSORT: SELFISHNESS o MondayMay 213. What is the most evident characteristic of selfishness? How did Chris t andPau l warn the disciples against self-love? Matthew 18:23-33; Philippians2:3-5; 1 Corinthians 10:24.

" If Christ does not reign in the heart, there will be discontent and moral deformi- ,ty. Selfishness will require of others that which we are unwilling to give them."-Testi-monies, vol. 3, p. 81.4. How does Satan use selfishness (self-love or self-esteem) in human hearts asan instrument to create confusion, perplexity, division and defeat? Proverbs16:25, 26, 28 ."The evils of self-esteem and an unsanctified independence, which most impairour usefulness and which will prove our ruin if not overcome, spring from selfishness.'Counsel together' is the message which has been again and again repeated to me bythe angel of God. By influencing one man's judgment, Satan may endeavor to controlmatters to suit himself. He may succeed in misleading the minds of two persons; but,when several consult together, there is more safety. Every plan will be more closely

criticized; every advance move more carefully studied. Hence there will be lessdanger of precipitate, ill-advised moves, which would bring confusion, perplexity, anddefeat. In union there is strength. In division there is weakness and defeat."- Testi-monies, vol. 5, pp. 29, 30."A strange deception is upon the people of God. Selfishness prevents the unitythat should exist."- The Youth Instmctor, March 22, 1900.

AN OFFSPRING OF PRIDE5. What is one of the offsprings of pride? 1 Timothy 6:4.

o TuesdayMay 22"Envy is one of the most despicable traits of Satanic character. It is constantlyseeking the lifting up of self, by casting slurs upon others. A man who is envious willbelittle his neighbor, thinking to exalt himself. The sound of praise is grateful to himwho has approbativeness highly developed, and he hates to hear the praises ofanother. Oh, what untold mischief has this evil trait of character worked in our world!The same enmity existed in the heart of Saul that stirred the heart of Cain against hisbrother Abel, because Abel's works were righteous, and God honored him, and hisown works were evil, and the Lord could not bless him."- The SDA Bible Commentary[E.G. White Comments], vol. 3, p. 1159.

6. What is the origin of envy and how does it operate? 1 Corinthians 3:3; James3:14,15."Envy is not merely a perverseness of temper, but a distemper, which disordersall the faculties. It began with Satan. . . .

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"The envious man shuts his eyes to the good qualities and noble deeds of others.He is always ready to disparage and misrepresent that which is excellent. Men oftenconfess and forsake other faults, but there is little to be hoped for from the enviousman. Since to envy a person is to admit that he is a superior, pride will not permit anyconcession. I f an attempt be made to convince the envious person of his sin, hebecomes even more bitter against the object of his passion, and too often he remainsincurable."The envious man diffuses poison wherever he goes, alienating friends and stirring up hatred and rebellion against God and man. He seeks to be thought best andgreatest, not by putting forth heroic, self-denying efforts to reach the goal of excellence himself, but by standing where he is and diminishing the merit due to the ef-forts of others." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 56.

FURTHER OFFSPRINGS OF PRIDE o WednesdayMay 237. What are the fruits of pride and envy? Proverbs 13:10 (first part); James3:16.

"Lucifer desired God's power, but not His character. He sought for himself thehighest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thusalienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable. Dominion becomes the prize of thestrongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regardsevery other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone onwhich he himself may climb to a higher place."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 435, 436.8. How did Christ warn the disciples against self-exaltation and why was this

warning necessary? Matthew 18:1-4; 20:20-28; 23:8."The Saviour gathered His disciples about Him, and said to them, 'If any mandesire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.' There was in thesewords a solemnity and impressiveness which the disciples were far from comprehending. That which Christ discerned they could not see. They did not understand thenature of Christ's kingdom, and this ignorance was the apparent cause of their con-tention. But the real cause lay deeper. By explaining the nature of the kingdom,

Christ might for the time have quelled their strife; but this would not have touched theunderlying cause. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question ofprecedence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been broughtto the church after Christ's departure."-The Desire ofAges, p. 435 .

THERE IS A CURE9. How can pride be overcome? James 4:6-10; 1 Peter 5:6-9.

o ThursdayMay 24

"God proves His people in this world. This is the fitting-up place to appear in Hispresence. Here, in this world, in these last days, persons will show what power affectstheir hearts and controls their actions. I f it is the power of divine truth, it will lead togood works. It will elevate the receiver, and make him noblehearted and generous,like his divine Lord. But if evil angels control the heart,. it will be seen in various ways.The fruit will be selfishness, covetousness, pride, and evil passions."- Testimonies, vol. 1,p.188.

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10. What is Christ 's prescription for the cure of pride and associated sins?Revelation 3 :18, 19."Self-exaltation is a dangerous element. It tarnishes everything it touches. It isthe offspring of pride, and it works so ingeniously that, unless guarded against, it willtake possession of the thoughts and control the actions."The Laodicean message must be proclaimed with power; for now it is especiallyapplicable. Now, more than ever before, are seen pride, worldly ambition, selfexaltation, double-dealing, hypocrisy, and deception."- The SDA Bible Commentary[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 962.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS D FridayMay 25a. How does God regard pride and self-sufficiency?b. How does self-esteem open the door to Satan?c. Describe and illustrate the behavior of the first offspring of pride.d. What is the origin of strife and alienation?e. What is Christ 's prescription fo r the cure of pride and its pathological complications?

* "* * "* *(Continued from page 30)"The very ones whom God purposes to use as His instruments for a special work,Satan employs his utmost power to lead astray. He attacks us at our weak points,working through defects in the character to gain control of the whole man; and heknows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. But none need be over

come. Man is not left alone to conquer the power of evil by his own feeble efforts.Help is at hand and will be given to every soul who really desires it."-Patriarchs andProphets, p. 568.o

REVIEW AND THOUGHTQUESTIONS D FridayMay 18a. Quote two examples of forbidden association which brought serious consequences before the days of Moses.

b. Describe the apostasy at the Jordan. What warning should we take from thatexperience?c. What condition offers Satan an excellent opportunity to lead professedChrist ians into sin?

d. What lesson should we learn from the unfortunate experience of Samson?e. How well can we guard the avenues of the soul?

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Lesson 9 Sabbath, June 2, 1990

PRESUMPTION

"Presumption is a common temptation, and as Satan assails men with this,he obtains the victory nine times out of ten. Those who profess to befollowers of Christ, and claim by their faith to be enl is ted in the warfareagainst al l evil in their nature, frequently plunge without thought into temp-tations from which it would require a miracle to bring them forth unsullied."- Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 44, 45.KEY TEXT: "Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them nothave dominion over me; then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocentfrom the great transgression." Psalm 19:13.

FAITH vs. PRESUMPTION1. What is presumption? Matthew 15:8; James 2:14.

o SundayMay 27

"A mere profession of discipleship is of no value. The faith in Christ which savesthe soul is not what it is represented to be by many. 'Believe, b

sdarm qtr. 2 1990 bible study

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