Sermons for SDA - John the Baptist And The Remnant

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS are ordained of God to do a special work. That work is to enlighten the world with the everlasting gospel. We have one mission while we live, and only one, and that is to give the three angels’ messages. Anything that does not pertain to this work is not worthy of our time.

“Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” Joel 2:1. Something startling and tremendous is about to occur in this world. “The day of the Lord cometh.” An alarm must be sounded; the world must be aroused and warned.

We as a people stand related to our work, to the world, and to God as did John the Baptist in his time. Seven hundred years before John’s birth the prophet declared, “the voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” Isaiah 40:3. Centuries passed by, until, at last, a man began to preach in the wilderness just as the prophet had foretold. When asked who he was, he replied, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.” John 1:23.

John was simply a “voice.” However Seventh-day Adventists are to be the “voice” of the angels of Revelation 14. The voice of John was heard only in the wilderness of Judea; but the voice of the three angels is to sound to “every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.”

This makes our mission and work a matter of life and death. The one all-absorbing thought should be the proclamation of the message. Every plan and purpose of our lives should be, and will be, colored by the faith we have in this message. That which will form the object of our constant contemplation will be this gospel work and how to perform it. Every plan for labor, the arrangement and furnishings of our homes, the buying and selling of property, the education of our children, the use we make of our money and, in truth, every act and plan of life will be made with direct reference to the light that God has given us the third angel’s message.

The character of John the Baptist has been set before us as an example of those who should bear the last warning message just prior to Christ’s second coming. “In preparing the way for Christ’s first advent, he was a representative of those who are to prepare a people for our Lord’s second coming.” Desire of Ages, p. 101.

The prophet of God admonishes us that “the message given to John the Baptist for the people of his day is one that every believer might study to advantage.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 517. The parallels between John’s day and ours speaks to us of the fact that, indeed, the King draweth nigh. To the end that we may understand our work, the times in which we live and the character we must have, to prepare the way of the Lord, is this book dedicated. “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” Isaiah 60:1

The State And Decay Of Society

Beyond any question, we are fast approaching a time of darkness unlike any time since the thoughts of men were only evil continually. “As it was in the days of Noah so also shall the coming of the Son of man be.” Soon the thoughts and intents of the heart will be judged by a message that will bring in everlasting righteousness. The debased condition and upheaval of society today demands a message from God through His people that will bring about “the hour of His judgment.” Let us notice the similarities between John’s day and ours, a day of wickedness that demands that the light should shine in “the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.”

The State of Society in the Days of John

“The state of public affairs when John’s work commenced, was unsettled. Discord and insurrection were prevailing.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (2)

“The indulgence of appetite in luxurious food, and the use of wine, were lessening physical strength, and weakening the intellect, so that crime and grievous sins did not appear sinful.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 121 (2)

“In the time of John the Baptist, greed for riches, and the love of luxury and display had become widespread. Sensuous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were causing physical disease and degeneracy, benumbing the spiritual perceptions, and lessening the sensibility to sin.” Desire of Ages, p. 100

“The deception of sin had reached its height. All the agencies for depraving the souls of men had been put in operation. They had chosen a ruler who chained them to his car as captives. Bewildered and deceived, they were moving on in gloomy procession toward eternal ruin, to death in which is no hope of life, toward night to which comes no morning. Satanic agencies were incorporated with men. The bodies of human beings, made for the dwelling place of God, had become the habitation of demons. The senses, the nerves, the passions, the organs of men, were worked by supernatural agencies in the indulgence of the vilest lust. The very stamp of demons was impressed upon the countenances of men. Human faces reflected the expression of the legions of evil with which they were possessed. Such was the prospect upon which the world’s Redeemer looked.” Desire of Ages, p. 36

“The love of money was the ruling passion in the Jewish age. Worldliness usurped the place of God and religion in the soul.” Mount of Blessing, pp. 88, 89

“Christ’s coming was at a time of intense worldliness. Men were subordinating the eternal to the temporal, the claims of the future to the affairs of the present. They were mistaking phantoms for realities, and realities for phantoms. They did not by faith behold the unseen world. Satan presented before them the things of this life as all attractive and all absorbing, and they gave heed to his temptations.” Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 366

The State of Society Today

“We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude.

“The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. Great changes are soon to take place in our world, and the final movements will be rapid ones.

“The condition of things in the world shows that troublous times are right upon us. The daily papers are full of indications of a terrible conflict in the near future. Bold robberies are of frequent occurrence. Strikes are common. Thefts and murders are committed on every hand. Men possessed of demons are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. Men have become infatuated with vice, and every species of evil prevails.

“The enemy has succeeded in perverting justice and in filling men’s hearts with the desire for selfish gain.

“‘Justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.’ Isaiah 59:14. In the great cities there are multitudes living in poverty and wretchedness, well-nigh destitute of food, shelter, and clothing; while in the same cities are those who have more than heart could wish, who live luxuriously, spending their money on richly furnished houses, on personal adornment, or worse still, upon the gratification of sensual appetites, upon liquor, tobacco, and other things that destroy the powers of the brain, unbalance the mind, and debase the soul. The cries of starving humanity are coming up before God, while by every species of oppression and extortion men are piling up colossal fortunes.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, pp. 11, 12

Is not this a description of our day? Millions this day are without adequate housing, sleeping on the streets from New York to Calcutta. Millions more are on the brink of starvation while men build and plan, not knowing the fires of destruction are coming. Today the news is no news, but only the continual relating of the evil passions of men under the control of demons. Hurricanes, storms and floods, earthquakes and destruction rampage through the earth in ever increasing intensity and regularity. As in John’s day, insurrection and discord are sweeping the world from Korea to Panama, from Eastern Europe to Africa; in all corners of the globe, people are rebelling.

Jesus told of this time in Mark 13:8; “and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.” Troubles are defined this way “a mob sedition,” “local insurrection in opposition to civil authority.” The word “trouble” is given by our Lord as a sign of the crisis hour that is now sweeping in upon the world, announcing that the beginning of sorrows is upon us.

“The youth are swept away by the popular current. Those who learn to love amusement for its own sake open the door to a flood of temptations. They give themselves up to social gaiety and thoughtless mirth. They are led on from one form of dissipation to another, until they lose both the desire and the capacity for a life of usefulness. Their religious aspirations are chilled; their spiritual life is darkened. All the nobler faculties of the soul, all that link man with the spiritual world, are debased.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 90

“Look at the picture which the world presents today. Dishonesty, fraud, and bankruptcies, violence and bloodshed, exist on every hand. The widows and the fatherless are robbed of their all. Plays, horseraces, and amusements of every kind occupy the mind. In the church, sins have become fashionable. They are glossed over and excused. The right hand of fellowship is given to the very men who bring in false theories and sentiments. Thus the discernment and sensibilities have become deadened as to what constitutes right principles. Conscience has become insensible to the counsel and reproofs which have been given. The light given, calling to repentance, has been shut out by the thick cloud of unbelief and opposition brought in by human plans and human inventions.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 287 (3)

It is in such an hour as this that God is calling for a work of reform among His people; that they in turn can bring the gospel of hope to a hopeless world. Awake, child of the King, awake to the work set before us as ambassadors of the kingdom of light and glory.

The Parallels Between John’s Day and Ours

“When Christ sent forth the disciples with the gospel message, faith in God and His word had well-nigh departed from the world. Among the Jewish people, who professed to have a knowledge of Jehovah, His word had been set aside for tradition and human speculation. Selfish ambition, love of ostentation, greed of gain, absorbed men’s thoughts. As reverence for God departed, so also departed compassion toward men. Selfishness was the ruling principle, and Satan worked his will in the misery and degradation of mankind.

“What is the condition in the world today? Is not faith in the Bible as effectually destroyed by the higher criticism and speculation of today as it was by tradition and rabbinism in the days of Christ? Have not greed and ambition and love of pleasure as strong a hold on men’s hearts now as they had then? In the professedly Christian world, even in the professed churches of Christ, how few are governed by Christian principles. In business, social, domestic, even religious circles, how few make the teachings of Christ the rule of daily living. Is it not true that ‘justice standeth afar off; equity cannot enter; And he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey?’ Isaiah 59:14, 15

“We are living in the midst of an epidemic of crime, at which thoughtful, God-fearing men everywhere stand aghast. The corruption that prevails, it is beyond the power of the human pen to describe. Every day brings fresh revelations of political strife, bribery, and fraud. Every day brings its heart-sickening record of violence and lawlessness, of indifference to human suffering, of brutal, fiendish destruction of human life. Every day testifies to the increase of insanity, murder, and suicide. Who can doubt that satanic agencies are at work among men with increasing activity to distract and corrupt the mind, and defile and destroy the body?

“And while the world is filled with these evils, the gospel is too often presented in so indifferent a manner as to make but little impression upon the consciences or the lives of men. Everywhere there are hearts crying out for something which they have not. They long for a power that will give them mastery over sin, a power that will deliver them from the bondage of evil, a power that will give health and life and peace. Many who once knew the power of God’s word have dwelt where there is no recognition of God, and they long for the divine presence.” Ministry of Healing, pp. 142, 143

“The world needs today what it needed nineteen hundred years ago a revelation of Christ. A great work of reform is demanded, and it is only through the grace of Christ that the work of restoration, physical, mental, and spiritual, can be accomplished.” Ministry of Healing, p. 143

This, brothers and sisters, is our work. Our light should not be hid beneath a bushel. A new life from above that can be lived and demonstrated to those in darkness this is the world’s need, and for this cause were we born into this world. Think about it! To us, in cooperation with Christ, has been given the answer and the solution to bring this world of darkness and confusion to an end, so that everlasting righteousness and peace may reign once more. If the world’s condition is heart-sickening to you, pray, pray, that light from heaven would come to your soul so clearly, so forcefully that it will bring about the cleansing of your soul temple. It is as we have that experience that we can call the church and the world to the “hour of His judgment,” and then “shall the end come.”

A FEARFUL DECEPTION

The Attitude of the Church in the Days of John

“He [John] told them that if they were really the children of Abraham, they would do the works of their father Abraham. They would have Abraham’s faith, love, and obedience. But they did not bear this fruit. They had no claim to Abraham as their father, or the promises God made to the seed of Abraham. While they were professing to be God’s commandment-keeping people, their works denied their faith, and without true repentance for their sins they would have no part in the kingdom of Christ. Justice, benevolence, mercy, and the love of God would characterize the lives of His commandment-keeping people. Unless these fruits were seen in their daily life, all their profession was of no more value than chaff which would be devoted to the fire of destruction.

“The Jews had deceived themselves by misinterpreting the words of the Lord through His prophets, of His eternal favor to His people Israel.

“‘Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; the Lord of hosts is His name: If those ordinances depart from before Me, saith the Lord, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before Me forever. Thus saith the Lord: If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the Lord.’ Jeremiah 31:35-37.

“These words the Jews applied to themselves. And because God had shown them so great favor and mercy, they flattered themselves that, notwithstanding their sins and iniquities, He would still retain them as His favored people, and shower especial blessings upon them. They misapplied the words of Jeremiah, and depended for their salvation upon being called the children of Abraham. If they had indeed been worthy of the name of Abraham’s children, they would have followed the righteous example of their father Abraham, and would have done the works of Abraham.

“This has been the danger of the people of God in all ages; and especially is this the danger of those living near the close of time.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 123 (1, 2)

What is the special danger of God’s people today? It is to look with human vision upon apparent outward prosperity, interpreting it as a sign of God’s favor, when in reality we are walking contrary to God’s commands. Oh, strange infatuation! Help us Father to see our true condition; help us to repent and return to our first love, lest our candlestick be removed. To whom is God’s blessing bestowed? Inspiration gives the answer:

“To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves from God. Because of their sins they were suffering under His judgments. This was the cause of their bondage to a heathen nation. Their minds were darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown them so great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men, and entitled to His blessings.

“These things ‘are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’ 1 Corinthians 10:11. How often we misinterpret God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do. His gifts are used to increase our self-satisfaction, and to harden our hearts in unbelief and sin.

“John declared to the teachers of Israel that their pride, selfishness, and cruelty showed them to be a generation of vipers, a deadly curse to the people, rather than the children of just and obedient Abraham. In view of the light they had received from God, they were even worse than the heathen, to whom they felt so much superior. They had forgotten the rock whence they were hewn, and the hole of the pit from which they had been digged. God was not dependent upon them for the fulfilling of His purpose. As He had called Abraham out from a heathen people, so He could call others to His service. Their hearts might now appear as lifeless as the stones of the desert, but His Spirit could quicken them to do His will, and receive the fulfillment of His promise.

“‘And now also,’ said the prophet, ‘the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.’ Not by its name, but by its fruit, is the value of a tree determined. If the fruit is worthless, the name cannot save the tree from destruction. John declared to the Jews that their standing before God was to be decided by their character and life. Profession was worthless. If their life and character were not in harmony with God’s law, they were not His people.” Desire of Ages, pp. 106, 107

“The Jewish people cherished the idea that they were the favorites of heaven, and that they were always to be exalted as the church of God. They were the children of Abraham, they declared, and so firm did the foundation of their prosperity seem to them that they defied earth and heaven to dispossess them of their rights. But by lives of unfaithfulness they were preparing for the condemnation of heaven and for separation from God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 294

“The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness.” Desire of Ages, p. 309

The Attitude of the Church Today

The Jewish church was God’s covenant church, the movement He raised up to declare the glory of Jehovah and to prepare a people for the Messiah’s advent. Through unbelief, the deceitfulness of sin, and spiritual pride in their heritage as children of Abraham, they forfeited their position as an instrument in God’s hands. They were never able to bring the shadows of their teaching into the reality of heart and life. God has brought the Seventh-day Adventist Church into covenant relation to Himself. Our destiny is to usher in and prepare the way for the great test “the hour of His judgment.” Our destiny is to show forth in the life the sanctuary experience, culminating in the cleansing of both the character and the heavenly sanctuary.

There will not be another remnant church; but will pride and unbelief and sin cut us off, even as it did the people of Israel? Being a Seventh-day Adventist in name is not enough. We must “know Him.” John 17:3. This is the only knowledge that will give us an entrance into heaven. Let us consider the following statements, and take heed lest we fall after the same manner of unbelief. Let us acknowledge and repent of our condition as God sees it. Do we think ourselves something we are not? Do we deal truly with our own soul’s condition?

“The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness.… The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not believed and loved it, therefore they have not received the power and grace that come through sanctification of the truth. Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world.” Desire of Ages, pp. 309, 310

This is a serious statement, brothers and sisters. Are we converted to Christ or to intellectual understanding? Has the truth only found acceptance intellectually but not in practice? We may look upon the Jewish church with abhorrence, but we are as fully capable of “worshiping in vain” the commandments and doctrines of men. Our religion is just as legalistic if the truth we profess does not possess us to the sanctification of our souls.

“I am filled with sadness when I think of our condition as a people. The Lord has not closed heaven to us, but our own course of continual backsliding has separated us from God. Pride, covetousness, and love of the world have lived in the heart without fear of banishment or condemnation. Grievous and presumptuous sins have dwelt among us. And yet the general opinion is that the church is flourishing and that peace and spiritual prosperity are in all her borders.

“The church has turned back from following Christ her leader and is steadily retreating toward Egypt.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 217

“As Christ was riding into Jerusalem, on the crest of Olivet He broke forth in uncontrollable grief, exclaiming in broken utterances as He looked upon Jerusalem: ‘If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.’ He wept not for Himself, but for the despisers of His mercy, long-suffering, and forbearance. The course taken by the hardhearted and impenitent inhabitants of the doomed city is similar to the attitude of churches and individuals toward Christ at the present time. They neglect His requirements and despise His forbearance. There is a form of godliness, there is a ceremonial worship, there are complimentary prayers; but the real power is wanting. The heart is not softened by grace, but is cold and unimpressible. Many, like the Jews, are blinded by unbelief and know not the time of their visitation. So far as the truth is concerned, they have had every advantage; God has been appealing to them for years in warnings, reproofs, corrections, and instruction in righteousness; but special directions have been given only to be disregarded and placed on a level with common things.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 258

“Like ancient Israel the church has dishonored her God by departing from the light, neglecting her duties, and abusing her high and exalted privilege of being peculiar and holy in character. Her members have violated their covenant to live for God and Him only. They have joined with the selfish and world-loving. Pride, the love of pleasure, and sin have been cherished, and Christ has departed. His Spirit has been quenched in the church. Satan works side by side with professed Christians; yet they are so destitute of spiritual discernment that they do not detect him. They have not the burden of the work. The solemn truths they profess to believe are not a reality to them. They have not genuine faith. Men and women will act out all the faith which they in reality possess. By their fruits ye shall know them. Not their profession, but the fruit they bear, shows the character of the tree. Many have a form of godliness, their names are upon the church records; but they have a spotted record in heaven. The recording angel has faithfully written their deeds. Every selfish act, every wrong word, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling, is faithfully chronicled in the book of records kept by the recording angel.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 441, 442

“We want to understand the time in which we live. We do not half understand it. We do not half take it in. My heart trembles in me when I think of what a foe we have to meet, and how poorly we are prepared to meet him. The trials of the children of Israel, and their attitude just before the first coming of Christ, have been presented before me again and again to illustrate the position of the people of God in their experience before the second coming of Christ how the enemy sought every occasion to take control of the minds of the Jews, and today he is seeking to blind the minds of God’s servants, that they may not be able to discern the precious truth.” Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 406

“What is our condition in this fearful and solemn time? Alas, what pride is prevailing in the church, what hypocrisy, what deception, what love of dress, frivolity, and amusement, what desire for the supremacy! All these sins have clouded the mind, so that eternal things have not been discerned. Shall we not search the Scriptures, that we may know where we are in this world’s history? Shall we not become intelligent in regard to the work that is being accomplished for us at this time, and the position that we as sinners should occupy while this work of atonement is going forward? If we have any regard for our souls’ salvation, we must make a decided change. We must seek the Lord with true penitence; we must with deep contrition of soul confess our sins, that they may be blotted out.” Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 125

May we each one see our weakness, for the weakness of the church is often our own. May we repent of our indifference and unbelief. Let us join ourselves to the Lord’s army. The suffering of God and creation has gone on too long! May we see wherein we have erred and repent, and encourage others by prayer and admonition to be among the true remnant of God “who have the faith of Jesus.”

There is no reason for us not to know the time of our visitation. There is no reason for us to be satisfied with a legalistic profession. God has come to us as He did to Israel, to wake us from slumber, to behold the King, to see our condition and to seek the Saviour.

Will you not seek the Saviour now? If you have grown cold and indifferent, allow His love to melt your ice-bound heart. If the prevailing apostasy has hardened your heart with pharisaical pride and condemnation, look to the example of Christ. He loved the downcast; He loved the people who were rejecting the truth. You who have settled down to slumber and the numbing of your spiritual faculties, will you not “awake to righteousness and sin not?” You who have been at the broken cisterns of the world’s theology and ideas, will you not exchange that for the living water, the water that a man may drink thereof and never thirst? Will you not heed the Master’s call?

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man will hear My voice, and open the door, I will come into him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. Revelation 3:20

A MESSAGE REJECTED

The Message and its Rejection in The Days of John the Baptist

“John was to go forth as Jehovah’s messenger, to bring to men the light of God. He must give a new direction to their thoughts. He must impress them with the holiness of God’s requirements, and their need of His perfect righteousness.” Desire of Ages, p. 100

“Anciently, when a king journeyed through the less frequented parts of his dominion, a company of men was sent ahead of the royal chariot to level the steep places and to fill up the hollows, that the king might travel in safety and without hindrance. This custom is employed by the prophet to illustrate the work of the gospel. ‘Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low.’ When the Spirit of God, with its marvelous awakening power, touches the soul, it abases human pride. Worldly pleasure and position and power are seen to be worthless. ‘Imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God’ are cast down; every thought is brought into captivity ‘to the obedience of Christ.’ 2 Corinthians 10:5. Then humility and self-sacrificing love, so little valued among men, are exalted as alone of worth. This is the work of the gospel, of which John’s message was a part.

“John came in the spirit and power of Elijah, to do such a work as Elijah did. If the Jews had received him, it would have been accomplished for them. But they did not receive his message. To them he was not Elijah. He could not fulfill for them the mission he came to accomplish.” Desire of Ages, p. 135

“I was pointed back to the proclamation of the first advent of Christ. John was sent in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for Jesus. Those who rejected the testimony of John were not benefited by the teachings of Jesus. Their opposition to the message that foretold His coming placed them where they could not readily receive the strongest evidence that He was the Messiah. Satan led on those who rejected the message of John to go still farther, to reject and crucify Christ. In doing this they placed themselves where they could not receive the blessing on the day of Pentecost, which would have taught them the way into the heavenly sanctuary.” Early Writings, p. 259

The call to humility and self-sacrifice was unwelcome to the proud hearts of John’s day, for men loved darkness rather than light. The holiness of God’s requirements were unwelcome to the souls bound by the deceitfulness of tradition, pride and sin. To break down these walls of human devising was the work of the prophet John, and is the work of this last gospel message that we are to bear.

A Present-day Rejection

“The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people through Elders Waggoner and Jones. This message was to bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. Many had lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes directed to His divine person, His merits, and His changeless love for the human family. All power is given into His hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His own righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel’s message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure.” Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 91, 92

The present-day rejection of the message of righteousness is much deeper than theological arguments, much deeper than the argument of whether or not the church accepted then or now, the message of 1888. The issues and needs are those of the heart. The message was, and is, to bring Christ to view before the world, an invitation to make the character of Christ our own by faith. This is the gospel “whereunto He called you to the obtaining of the glory [character] of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 2:14. As in the days of the Jewish church, and as in the days of our forefathers, so today we have lost sight of Jesus.

The Jews rejected the symbol of all their shadows, and chose to live in the darkness of unbelief. Our sole purpose as a people is to live the hope, “Christ in you the hope of glory.” This is to be our message and experience.

As Israel was given the types, and by faith in and the acceptance of Christ, they were to see their shadow become reality, so our purpose is more than to be just another denomination.

We as a church have also been given symbols and oracles. By a daily walk with God and earnest study and prayer, we shall be enabled to live out the promises given us of God, promises that will shake the world and bring it to judgment. Christ cannot come before this experience is gained. Like Israel, unbelief has kept us grasping for the meaning and the relevance of our shadows, but it is time now, “Having brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; and having an high priest over the house of God; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:19-23

Blessed assurance, God has promised us hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience. His word was a promise in 1888. May we lay hold of these promises, brothers and sisters, for God is not asking us to do something grievous, but rather He is offering us the way home. Let us note the precious messages God is offering us, and let us not reject them, for they are for our salvation and the salvation of the world.
This message was to bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world.

“Some have limited views of the atonement. They think that Christ suffered only a small portion of the penalty of the law of God; they suppose that, while the wrath of God was felt by His dear Son, He had, through all His painful sufferings, the evidence of His Father’s love and acceptance; that the portals of the tomb before Him were illuminated with bright hope, and that He had the abiding evidence of His future glory. Here is a great mistake. Christ’s keenest anguish was a sense of His Father’s displeasure. His mental agony because of this was of such intensity that man can have but a faint conception of it.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 213, 214

It is because of our limited views of the sufferings of Christ that we sin so carelessly. For this reason we needlessly wound our Saviour and one another. It is because of our limited views that the salvation of others does not burn within us as fire in the bones. May we consider in brief the uplifted Saviour, and covenant with God to make this study our own. For this is part of the last message to the world, righteousness and truth, mercy and justice combined. Yet, how little we know of the high cost of our salvation, which our Lord and Master paid for us.

“Oh, was there ever suffering and sorrow like that endured by the dying Saviour! It was the sense of His Father’s displeasure which made His cup so bitter. It was not bodily suffering which so quickly ended the life of Christ upon the cross. It was the crushing weight of the sins of the world, and a sense of His Father’s wrath. The Father’s glory and sustaining presence had left Him, and despair pressed its crushing weight of darkness upon Him and forced from His pale and quivering lips the anguished cry: ‘My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?’” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 209

“Even doubts assailed the dying Son of God. He could not see through the portals of the tomb. Bright hope did not present to Him His coming forth from the tomb a conqueror and His Father’s acceptance of His sacrifice. The sin of the world, with all its terribleness, was felt to the utmost by the Son of God. The displeasure of the Father for sin, and its penalty, which is death, were all that He could realize through this amazing darkness. He was tempted to fear that sin was so offensive in the sight of His Father that He could not be reconciled to His Son. The fierce temptation that His own Father had forever left Him caused that piercing cry from the cross: my God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?

“Christ felt much as sinners will feel when the vials of God’s wrath shall be poured out upon them. Black despair, like the pall of death, will gather about their guilty souls, and then they will realize to the fullest extent the sinfulness of sin.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 209, 210

“Nothing could have induced [or motivated] Christ to leave His honor and majesty in heaven, and come to a sinful world, to be neglected, despised, and rejected by those He came to save, and finally to suffer upon the cross, but eternal, redeeming love, which will ever remain a mystery.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 207

It is an understanding of this love that gives us power as we look upon the Saviour crucified for us. As we contemplate the price He was willing to pay for us personally, then, “the love of Christ constraineth us.” 2 Corinthians 5:14. Then there is power to live the gospel before the world “as a witness and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:14

This is a message that we as a people are ignorant of, but let us not remain in ignorance any longer. Let us look and live, pointing to the “Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world.” John 1:29

“The reason that we carelessly indulge in sin is that we do not see Jesus. We would not lightly regard sin, did we appreciate the fact that sin wounds our Lord. Did we know Jesus by an experimental knowledge, we would not esteem duty as of small importance; but would manifest faithful integrity in the performance of every service. A right estimate of the character of God would enable us rightly to represent Him to the world. Harshness, roughness in words or manner, evil speaking, passionate words, cannot exist in the soul that is looking unto Jesus. He who abides in Christ is in an atmosphere that forbids evil, and gives not the slightest excuse for anything of this kind.” Youth’s Instructor, pp. 319, 320

The message we are to accept for our salvation and the salvation of the world is to have as its focus the uplifted Saviour. This is the message God commanded to be given to the world. This study of the uplifted Saviour is calculated to prepare a people to be those “that keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus.” In the trials ahead, when all the world shall wonder after the beast and receive his mark, only the faith of Jesus shall keep us.

The message of God through Jones and Waggoner invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God.

The very fact that we are still on this earth shows that we have not individually or as a Church accepted this promise. For when we reach this experience, the dividing line will be drawn. A reenactment of Mount Carmel will take place, as Christ and Satan, truth and error, are set before the people that they might make a choice for life or death. Satan will then call for his witnesses, he will “Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears” those people who have refused the message of God. “Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and show us former things? Let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified; or let them hear, and say, It is truth.” We see here outlined a time when the whole world will be brought, as it were, to the plains of Dura. All will have opportunity to accept the claims of God’s truth or choose the delusions of the prince of evil.

At this point in time, Satan and his followers, his witnesses, can point to God and declare their way is truth and feel justified in that claim, even though Satan has been cast down from the affection of the heavenly Host. He still finds a link of sympathy with earth’s inhabitants. However, God has a desire to bring forth His witnesses to declare the glory and truth of His character. He says, “every one that is called by My name I have created for My glory,” “Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, and My servant whom I have chosen.” Isaiah 43:7-10. This is the same term Jesus used in the gospel of Matthew, where He said this gospel must be preached as a witness. The witness here is the same as that in Isaiah. It means evidence given.

By our life and by our doctrine we are called to testify for God when the “hour of His judgment [crisis]” comes. As the whole world chooses between Christ and Satan, the seal of allegiance to God, or the mark and image of the beast, God needs a people who have the faith of Jesus. The destiny of God’s remnant is to be a witness for God in the great controversy. The experience we have neglected and rejected is calculated to bring forth this final crisis, but we as a people have said we will not have this man (Christ) to rule over us. How have we said this? Many have succumbed to a legalistic code of conduct, trying to obtain righteousness by the law rather than “righteousness by faith in Christ.”

On the other hand, adopting the spirit of the world and the theology of Babylon and her daughters has brought others in our church to a legalism which is manifested by a spirit of worldliness and the lack of grace and power in the life. Both extremes are legalism; the one a false obedience apart from the love and the grace of Christ; the latter in setting up man’s standards as the rule of conduct and thus conforming us to the image of man. This is leading us to worship the image of the beast, the mind of man, and the mind of Satan. The message of Christ and His righteousness has been obscured, rejected and misrepresented. Yet, God still invites us to receive Christ in His fullness.

What is the righteousness of Christ?

“It is a principle of life that transforms the character and controls the conduct. Holiness is wholeness for God; it is the entire surrender of heart and life to the indwelling of the principles of heaven.” Desire of Ages, p. 556

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Titus 3:5, 6

This washing is a spiritual regeneration, which is that change by which the will and natural enmity of man to God and His law are subdued and a principle of supreme love to God and holy affection towards Him is placed within our hearts. See Strong’s Concordance; Webster’s 1828 Dictionary.

This is the work of the Holy Spirit and has been shed upon “us abundantly [richly] through Jesus Christ our Saviour.” Titus 3:6. Will we not accept this abundant gift? It has been so freely shared and has cost all of heaven, such a high price. How can we neglect so great a salvation?

How do we obtain the righteousness of Christ?

According as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 2 Peter 1:3, 4

“‘As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.’ John 1:12. This power is not in the human agent. It is the power of God. When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the life of Christ.” Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 314

God spoke worlds into existence. That same Divine power is available to us, and has been given to us. In its acceptance is life and godliness. God’s promises are exceedingly great and are such that we can become partakers of the Divine nature. All these gifts come through a knowledge of Him, and this is not just any knowledge, for we read:

“To know Christ savingly is to be vitalized by spiritual knowledge, to practice His words, without this all else is valueless.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1146

Many had lost sight of Jesus in the 1880’s. They needed to have their eyes directed to His divine person, His merits and His changeless love for the human family. We also need to have our eyes of understanding directed to Christ, for we are told that we are saved by His life. (See Romans 5:10.)

“Beholding Christ means studying His life as given in His Word. We are to dig for truth as for hidden treasure. We are to fix our eyes upon Christ. When we take Him as our personal Saviour, this gives us boldness to approach the throne of grace. By beholding we become changed, morally assimilated to the One who is perfect in character. By receiving His imputed righteousness, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, we become like Him. The image of Christ is cherished, and it captivates the whole being.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6, p. 1098

All power is given into His hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His own righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world.

We noted earlier that the power was not in the human agent but in God. The same hands that reached into the clay and with care and love began to form man is the same God who will impart from His own hands the priceless gift of “His own righteousness to the helpless human agent.” This message is to be given to the world, but first we must have the faith of Jesus. And what is that?

“‘The faith of Jesus.’ It is talked of, but not understood. What constitutes the faith of Jesus, that belongs to the third angel’s message? Jesus becoming our sinbearer that He might become our sin-pardoning Saviour. He was treated as we deserve to be treated. He came to our world and took our sins that we might take His righteousness. And faith in the ability of Christ to save us amply and fully and entirely is the faith of Jesus.” Selected Messages, vol. 3, p. 172

May we give heed to the following statements and not walk after the unbelief of ancient Israel. We must choose and make the conscious decision not to listen to the lying reports of those who say we cannot go up to possess the land, that land “wherein dwelleth righteousness.” 2 Peter 2:13. Rather, let us be among those who “through the Spirit wait [confidently expect] for the hope of righteousness by faith.” Galatians 5:5.

“There is a deplorable lack of spirituality among our people. A great work must be done for them before they can become what Christ designed they should be the light of the world. For years I have felt deep anguish of soul as the Lord has presented before me the want in our churches of Jesus and His love. There has been a spirit of self-sufficiency and a disposition to strive for position and supremacy. I have seen that self-glorification was becoming common among Seventh-day Adventists, and that unless the pride of man should be abased and Christ exalted, we should, as people, be in no better condition to receive Christ at His second advent than were the Jewish people to receive Him at His first advent.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, pp. 727, 728

“May the Lord forbid that the history of the children of Israel in departing from God, in refusing to walk in the light, in refusing to confess their sins and rejection of His messages, should be the experience of the people claiming to believe the truth for this time. For if they do as did the children of Israel in the face of warnings and admonitions, the same result will follow in these last days as came upon the children of Israel.” Review and Herald, vol. 2, p. 433 (3)

“What is justification by faith?—It is the work of God in laying the glory of man in the dust, and doing for man that which it is not in his power to do for himself. When men see their own nothingness, they are prepared to be clothed with the righteouness of Christ. When they begin to praise and exalt God all the day long, then by beholding they are becoming changed into the same image. What is regeneration? It is revealing to man what is his own real nature, that in himself he is worthless.” Series A, No. 9, p. 62

The above message seems to be rejected by high and low. We as a people have sought our own glory and wisdom as we have laid aside the wisdom of God through His prophets. As ancient Israel we profess to believe the prophets, but what is our real attitude?

And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness. And lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not. Ezekiel 33:31, 32

“The people of God were represented to me as in a backslidden state. They have not an eye single to the glory of God. Their own glory is prominent. They seek to glorify themselves and yet call themselves Christians.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 444, 445

Our homes are often set up in the wisdom of men. We too often neglect the blessings set before us by God on how to conduct our home and personal lives. We have too often allowed the glory and wisdom of man to obscure God’s good way. We have allowed the wisdom of this world to come into our homes and dominate our lives. However, the result of true justification by faith will allow God’s spirit to lay in the dust our human plans, human ideas and human desires. Our home life should be founded and built upon the word, and then we have true glory and wisdom. “Let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me.” With our glory laid in the dust and God’s glory before us, our homes will glorify God, and we will be an influence in the church and society.

Because we have held on to our own glory, we are seeing the fruit of the rejection of justification by faith. Holding on to human ideas has allowed a new organization to come into greater influence amongst us as a people.

“The enemy of souls has sought to bring in the supposition that a great reformation was to take place among Seventh-day Adventists, and that this reformation would consist in giving up the doctrines which stand as the pillars of our faith, and engaging in a process of reorganization. Were this reformation to take place, what would result? The principles of truth that God in His wisdom has given to the remnant church, would be discarded. Our religion would be changed. The fundamental principles that have sustained the work for the last fifty years would be accounted as error. A new organization would be established. Books of a new order would be written. A system of intellectual philosophy would be introduced. The founders of this system would go into the cities, and do a wonderful work. The Sabbath, of course, would be lightly regarded, as also the God who created it. Nothing would be allowed to stand in the way of the new movement. The leaders would teach that virtue is better than vice, but God being removed, they would place their dependence on human power, which, without God, is worthless. Their foundation would be built on the sand, and storm and tempest would sweep away the structure.” Series B #2, pp. 54, 55

Within the realms of Adventism, we see internal dissension, lawsuits and threatened bankruptcy. Instead of being a pillar and source of truth that would ground our people to the rock and cause heresy and fanaticism to vanish away, many teachers and theologians have sought their own bread, presenting it to the flock of God. Many because of this have come to deny outright or have neglected the doctrines that are the pillars of our faith. Instead of rejoicing in those good red books that God has given us, some have written their own “books of a new order.” This removes the power of God from His people. These new books often deny our most holy faith and are too often devoid of soul-stirring, life-changing truth.

Now a theological crisis is before us. The church is at a crossroads. The choice is before us, to continue drinking the wine of false theology or to heed the pleadings of God. “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16. Our current crisis has come because the majority in heart and life has rejected the message of the righteousness of Christ, and now we are harvesting the baleful fruit.

God still has His 7000 faithful who are contending for the faith once delivered unto the saints, while others, no doubt just as sincere but sincerely mistaken, seek to take the church down the pathway of fallen protestant theology.

There is but one cure for this dilemma, a cure that will wrench our souls to the very depths and our church structure to the very foundation. What will be its consequences? “To obey His teaching would require a change in all [our] habits of thought and action.” Mount of Blessing, p. 147. “There will be great humbling of heart before God on the part of everyone who remains faithful and true to the end.” 1888 Materials, vol. 1, p. 166

By prayer and supplication, earnest study and repentence, we can humble ourselves before God who, in due time, will lift us up to glorify His name before the world. If we choose not to do this, then the judgments of God shall humble us.

“Unless the church, which is now being leavened with her own backsliding, shall repent and be converted, she will eat of the fruit of her own doing, until she shall abhor herself.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 250

“Satan will work his miracles to deceive; he will set up his power as supreme. The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion are sifted out this is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place. None but those who have been overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony will be found with the loyal and true, without spot or stain of sin, without guile in their mouths.” Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 380

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. However, we are promised that the church, “when she resists the evil and chooses the good, when she seeks God with all humility and reaches her high calling in Christ, standing on the platform of eternal truth and by faith laying hold upon the attainments prepared for her, she will be healed. She will appear in her God-given simplicity and purity, separate from earthly entanglements, showing that the truth has made her free indeed. Then her members will indeed be the chosen of God, His representatives.” Selected Messages, vol. 2, pp. 250, 251

As in the days of John two parties are developing; those who bring upon themselves as did ancient Israel the judgments of God; and those who follow on to know the Lord and will be used to turn the world again upside down with the glory of the Lord. The choice is again before us. Will we crucify the Lord, seeking to save ourselves, or will we take up the cross, bearing the shame?

Knowing The Time

“The pious Jews were looking, believing, and earnestly praying, for the coming of the Messiah. God could not manifest His glory and power to His people through a corrupt priesthood. The set time to favor His people had come. The faith of the Jews had become clouded in consequence of their departure from God. Many of the leaders of the people brought in their own traditions, and enforced them upon the Jews as the commandments of God.

“The pious Jews believed, and trusted in God that He would not leave His people in this condition, to be a reproach to the heathen. He had, in time past, raised them up a deliverer when in their distress they had called upon Him. From the predictions of the prophets, they thought the time appointed of God had arrived when Messiah would come. And when He should come, they would have a clear revelation of the divine will, and that their doctrines would be freed from the traditions and needless ceremonies which had confused their faith. The pious, aged Jews waited day and night for the coming Messiah, praying that they might see the Saviour before they died. They longed to see the cloud of ignorance and bigotry dispelled from the minds of the people.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 121 (1)

We see here that it was the pious Jews who knew the time. The believers knew by faith and by looking into the holy oracles that the time for Messiah had come. The faithful and true of all ages have understood the time of visitation and have looked with hopeful longing for the appearing of their Redeemer.

Only a Few Discerning Ones Know the Time

“As the end of all things earthly should approach, there would be faithful ones able to discern the signs of the times. While a large number of professing believers would deny their faith by their works, there would be a remnant who would endure to the end.” Acts of the Apostles, pp. 535, 536

“The crisis is fast approaching. The rapidly swelling figures show that the time for God’s visitation has about come. Although loath to punish, nevertheless He will punish, and that speedily. Those who walk in the light will see signs of the approaching peril; but they are not to sit in quiet, unconcerned expectancy of the ruin, comforting themselves with the belief that God will shelter His people in the day of visitation. Far from it. They should realize that it is their duty to labor diligently to save others, looking with strong faith to God for help. ‘The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.’” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 209

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:36

“We have reached the period foretold in these Scriptures. The time of the end is come, the visions of the prophets are unsealed, and their solemn warnings point us to our Lord’s coming in glory as near at hand.

“The Jews misinterpreted and misapplied the word of God, and they knew not the time of their visitation. The years of the ministry of Christ and His apostles, the precious last years of grace to the chosen people, they spent in plotting the destruction of the Lord’s messengers. Earthly ambitions absorbed them, and the offer of the spiritual kingdom came to them in vain. So today the kingdom of this world absorbs man’s thoughts, and they take no note of the rapidly fulfilling prophecies and the tokens of the swift-coming kingdom of God.

“‘But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.’” 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6. Desire of Ages, p. 235

Faithful souls who have put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and are seeking to please the Lord in all things, can see the storm clouds of judgment on the horizon. Already drops of the coming storm of wrath are falling. To us as to ancient Israel the prophecies of the soon-coming Saviour, and the experience needed to meet Him in peace, are clearly outlined. As anciently, the Scriptures have been obscured and misunderstood. Peace and safety is the cry. It is now time to go up to the “mountain of the Lord” by faith and let Him “teach us of His ways. For the law shall go forth out of Zion and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”

May we understand the time before us, “that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” Romans 13:11, 12. Prepare to meet thy God!

THE HOME LIFE A PREPARATION FOR ETERNITY

The Upbringing of John

“The angel Gabriel enjoined upon Zacharias that John should be brought up with strictly temperate habits. This was to secure to him physical, mental, and moral health, that he should be qualified for the important mission of making ready a people for the Lord.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 121 (2)

“His parents had in a most solemn manner dedicated him to God from his birth.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (1)

“The words of the angel to Zacharias had been often repeated by his God-fearing parents. From childhood his mission had been kept before him, and he accepted the holy trust.” Counsels to Parents and Teachers, p. 446

To John’s parents was given the solemn duty of preparing the messenger of the Lord for his work. Parents, to you and to your children is given the same work, a work that calls for divine help and more than conventional wisdom. Our families are to be the tools of God to call this world to repentance and judgment. Are we preparing ourselves and our children through God’s help to be that people?

Parenting By the Remnant

“‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature’ (Mark 16:15), is Christ’s command to His followers....

“In view of this command, can we educate our sons and daughters for a life of respectable conventionality, a life professedly Christian, but lacking His self-sacrifice, a life on which the verdict of Him which is truth must be, “I know you not?”

“Thousands are doing this. They think to secure for their children the benefits of the gospel while they deny its spirit. But this cannot be. Those who reject the privilege of fellowship with Christ in service, reject the only training that imparts a fitness for participation with Him in His glory. They reject the training that in this life gives strength and nobility of character. Many a father and mother, denying their children to the cross of Christ, have learned too late that they were thus giving them over to the enemy of God and man.” Education, p. 264

This statement tells us that unless trained rightly for service, we are offering our children to Satan. What a horrible thought! None of us, I am sure, would do this knowingly; but ignorance is now to be seen and put away. We must gather our families about us and consecrate them to God. Then with an earnestness worthy of the object set before us, we must, by faith and prayer, live by divine grace the high calling of God.

“The Lord has entrusted to parents a solemn, sacred work. They are to cultivate carefully the soil of the heart. Thus they may be laborers together with God. He expects them to guard and tend carefully the garden of their children’s hearts. They are to sow the good seed, weeding out every unsightly weed. Every defect in character, every fault in disposition, needs to be cut away; for if allowed to remain, these will mar the beauty of the character.

“Patiently, lovingly, as faithful stewards of the manifold grace of God, parents are to do their appointed work. It is expected of them that they will be found faithful. Everything is to be done in faith. Constantly they must pray that God will impart His grace to their children. Never must they become weary, impatient, or fretful in their work. They must cling closely to their children and to God.

“If parents work in patience and love, earnestly endeavoring to help their children to reach the highest standard of purity and modesty, they will succeed. In this work parents need to manifest patience and faith, that they may present their children to God, polished after the similitude of a palace.” Notebook Leaflets, p. 91

The preparation before us, parents, is not alone for the children, but one we must enter into for ourselves for our sake, for the sake of our children, and for the sake of the world lying in the darkness of midnight evil.

“For Christ’s sake, for the sake of your children, seek to conform your own life to the divine standard. Let nothing come in between you and your God. Be earnest, be patient and persevering, instant in season, out of season. Give your children intellectual culture, and moral training. Let their young hearts be fortified with firm, pure principles. While you have the opportunity, lay the foundation for a noble manhood and womanhood. Your labor will be rewarded a thousand fold.

“You must make the Bible your guide, if you would bring up your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Let the life and character of Christ be presented as the pattern for them to copy. If they err, read to them what the Lord has said concerning similar sins. There is need of constant care and diligence in this work. One wrong trait tolerated by parents, uncorrected by teachers, may cause the whole character to become deformed and unbalanced. Teach the children that they must have a new heart; that new tastes must be created, new motives inspired. They must have help from Christ; they must become acquainted with the character of God as revealed in His word.

“Parents and guardians must themselves maintain purity of heart and life, if they would have their children pure. They must give the needed instruction, and in addition to this, they must exercise unceasing watchfulness. Every day new thoughts are awakened in the minds of the young, new impressions made upon the hearts. The associations they form, the books they read, the habits they cherish all must be guarded. The interests of your children, for this life and the next, are at stake.” Signs of the Times, vol. 1, p. 301 (2, 3)

Temperance in the Home— The Example of John

“John the Baptist was a reformer. To him was committed a great work for the people of his time. And in preparation for that work, all his habits were carefully regulated, even from his birth. The angel Gabriel was sent from heaven to instruct the parents of John in the principles of health reform. He ‘shall drink neither wine nor strong drink,’ said the heavenly messenger; ‘and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.’ Luke 1:15.

“John separated himself from his friends, and from the luxuries of life, dwelling alone in the wilderness, and subsisting upon a purely vegetable diet. The simplicity of his dress a garment woven of camel’s hair was a rebuke to the extravagance and display of the people of his generation, especially of the Jewish priests. His diet also, of locusts and wild honey, was a rebuke to the gluttony that everywhere prevailed.

“He was a representative of those living in the last days, to whom God has entrusted sacred truths to present before the people, to prepare the way for the second appearing of Christ. And the same principles of temperance which John practiced should be observed by those who in our day are to warn the world of the coming of the Son of man.

“John was a representative of the people of God in the last days, to whom God has committed important and solemn truths. The world at large are given to gluttony and the indulgence of base passions. The light of health reform is opened before the people of God at this day, that they may see the necessity of holding their appetites and passions under control of the higher powers of the mind. This is also necessary, that they may have mental strength and clearness to discern the sacred chain of truth, and turn from the bewitching errors and pleasing fables that are flooding the world. Their work is to present before the people the pure doctrine of the Bible. Hence health reform finds its place in the preparatory work for the second appearing of Christ.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 121 (3)

Temperance in the Home— The Work of the Remnant

Temperance is to find its place in the lives of all those who are preparing themselves and the world for the second coming of Christ.

“As a prophet, John was ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.’ In preparing the way for Christ’s first advent, he was a representative of those who are to prepare a people for our Lord’s second coming. The world is given to self-indulgence. Errors and fables abound. Satan’s snares for destroying souls are multiplied. All who would perfect holiness in the fear of God must learn lessons of temperance and self-control. The appetites and passions must be held in subjection to the higher powers of the mind. This self-discipline is essential to that mental strength and spiritual insight which will enable us to understand and to practice the sacred truths of God’s word. For this reason temperance finds its place in the work of preparation for Christ’s second coming.” Desire of Ages, p. 101

“Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turn the people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, and their extravagance in dress and other things.

“The self-denial, humility and temperance required of the righteous, whom God especially leads and blesses, is to be presented to the people in contrast to the extravagant, health-destroying habits of those who live in this degenerate age. God has shown that health reform is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is with the body.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, pp. 62, 63

“As we near the close of time we must rise higher and still higher upon the question of health reform and Christian temperance, presenting it in a more positive and decided manner. We must strive continually to educate the people, not only by our words, but by our practice. Precept and practice combined have a telling influence.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 112

John the Baptist A Country Dweller

“The life of John, although passed in the wilderness, was not inactive. His separation from society did not make him gloomy and morose, neither was he unreconciled with his lonely life of hardship and privation. It was his choice to be secluded from the luxuries of life, and from depraved society. Pride, envy, jealousy, and corrupt passions, seemed to control the hearts of men. But John was separated from the influence of these things, and, with discerning eye and wonderful discrimination, read the characters of men. He lived in the quiet retreat of the wilderness, and occasionally he mingled in society, but would not remain long where the moral atmosphere seemed to be polluted. He feared that the sight of his eyes and the hearing of his ears would so pervert his mind that he would lose a sense of the sinfulness of sin.

“John did not feel strong enough to stand the great pressure of temptation he would meet in society. He feared his character would be molded according to the prevailing customs of the Jews, and he chose the wilderness as his school, in which his mind could be properly educated and disciplined from God’s great book of nature. In the wilderness, John could more readily deny himself and bring his appetite under control, and dress in accordance with natural simplicity. And there was nothing in the wilderness that would take his mind from meditation and prayer.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (1, 2)

“It was a lonely region where he found his home, in the midst of barren hills, wild ravines, and rocky caves. But it was his choice to forego the enjoyments and luxuries of life for the stern discipline of the wilderness. Here his surroundings were favorable to habits of simplicity and self-denial.” Desire of Ages, p. 101

Country Dwelling For the Remnant

As we contemplate God’s counsel in this section, we need not be discouraged if we find ourselves in difficult situations, seemingly bound to a city with no escape. In the experience of friends, and in my own experience, we found ourselves in cities, in difficult situations and wicked neighborhoods. Having determined to follow God’s counsel, we began by prayer, and then began looking for opportunities to escape, working with our prayers. Many have had absolutely no way of escape, but God performed miracles. God is no respecter of persons. What He has done for me and others, He will do for you. “But in patience possess ye your souls,” work and pray, watching for God’s leading. And while still in the city, we are to follow this counsel:

“More and more, as time advances, our people will have to leave the cities. For years we have been instructed that our brethren and sisters, and especially families with children, should plan to leave the cities as the way opens before them to do so. Many will have to labor earnestly to help open the way. But until it is possible for them to leave, so long as they remain, they should be most active in doing missionary work, however limited their sphere of influence may be.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 278 (2)

We must realize that it is a God of love and mercy who has told us to dwell in the country. This was our original home before sin overruled the world. Let us take courage from the following counsel as God tells us why we should be making homes in the country. As we note the benefits to our children, and us let us not give heed to the words of doubt suggested by well-meaning friends. However, let us, like Abraham, trust in God’s leading. Like Abraham, we may have to leave family and friends behind, stepping forward by faith in the opening providences of God.

“It is Satan’s purpose to attract men and women to the cities, and to gain his object he invents every kind of novelty and amusement, every kind of excitement. And the cities of the earth today are becoming as were the cities before the Flood.

“We should carry a continual burden as we see the fulfillment of the words of Christ, ‘As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.’ Matthew 24:37. In the days before the Flood, every kind of amusement was invented to lead men and women to forgetfulness and sin. Today, in 1908, [1991] Satan is working with intensity, that the same conditions of evil shall prevail. And the earth is becoming corrupt. Religious liberty will be little respected by professing Christians, for many of them have no understanding of spiritual things.

“We cannot fail to see that the end of the world is soon to come. Satan is working upon the minds of men and women, and many seem filled with a desire for amusement and excitement. As it was in the days of Noah, every kind of evil is on the increase. Divorce and marriage is the order of the time. At such a time as this, the people who are seeking to keep the commandments of God should look for retired places away from the cities. Who will be warned? We say again, Out of the cities. Do not consider it a great deprivation, that you must go into the hills and mountains, but seek for that retirement where you can be alone with God, to learn His will and way.

“I urge our people to make it their lifework to seek for spirituality. Christ is at the door. This is why I say to our people, do not consider it a privation when you are called to leave the cities and move out into the country places. Here there await rich blessings for those who will grasp them. By beholding the scenes of nature, the works of the Creator, by studying God’s handiwork, imperceptibly you will be changed into the same image.” Manuscript 85, 1908. Country Living, p. 14, 1946

“To parents who are living in the cities, the Lord is sending the warning cry, Gather your children into your own houses; gather them away from those who are disregarding the commandments of God, who are teaching and practicing evil. Get out of the cities as fast as possible.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 400

May we heed this plea from God. We are to put a hedge about our children and our homes. We must take a decided stand that no corrupting influence shall come in. We are ever to seek to be kind and considerate, but for the sake of your children, do not let them associate in play and companionship with those whose influence is so detrimental to their young minds.

“In choosing a home, God would have us consider, first of all, the moral and religious influences that will surround us and our families. We may be placed in trying positions, for many cannot have their surroundings what they would; and whenever duty calls us, God will enable us to stand uncorrupted, if we watch and pray, trusting in the grace of Christ. But we should not needlessly expose ourselves to influences that are unfavorable to the formation of Christian character. When we voluntarily place ourselves in an atmosphere of worldliness and unbelief, we displease God and drive holy angels from our homes.” Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 169

“Life in the cities is false and artificial. The intense passion for money getting, the whirl of excitement and pleasure seeking, the thirst for display, the luxury and extravagance, all are forces that, with the great masses of mankind, are turning the mind from life’s true purpose. They are opening the door to a thousand evils. Upon the youth they have almost irresistible power.

“One of the most subtle and dangerous temptations that assails the children and youth in the cities is the love of pleasure. Holidays are numerous; games and horse racing draw thousands, and the whirl of excitement and pleasure attracts them away from the sober duties of life. Money that should have been saved for better uses is frittered away for amusements.” Ministry of Healing, pp. 364, 365

“It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many also of those older in years, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 101

Please, brothers and sisters, consider Lot and how the wickedness of the cities deadened his perception of sin. He came to the point that even though he loved God, he had to be hurried out by the hands of angels. In addition, what did he lose, his family and all that was dear to him. Because of one step of unbelief in moving to Sodom, Lot’s posterity became, not a holy line of God’s servants, but rather the rebellious race of Moab and Ammon.

Do not consider your case hopeless, for the God who fed the children of Israel in the desert can and will make a way of escape for you. While still in the cities guard well the avenues of your soul and those of your family. Fight manfully and with all diligence the creeping inroads of worldliness and compromise into your home and church. Make your home a “Bethel,” a place were God dwells, so that even in the midst of a “crooked and perverse generation,” in a city teeming with iniquity, your home can be a Garden of Eden, where communion with God is cherished and where angels draw nigh to protect and to teach. And constantly, prayerfully seek the will of the Lord, and watch as He opens before you a way out of the cities.

SELF-DENIAL AS A LIFESTYLE

Self-Denial Practiced by John

“The prophet John separated himself from his friends and kindred, and made his home in the wilderness. He denied himself of the ordinary comforts of life. His food was simple. His clothing was a garment made of hair-cloth, confined about the waist with a leather girdle.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (1).

“John the Baptist was a man filled with the Holy Ghost from his birth, and if there was anyone who could remain unaffected by the corrupting influences of the age in which he lived, it was surely he. Yet he did not venture to trust his strength; he separated himself from his friends and relatives, that his natural affections might not prove a snare to him. He would not place himself unnecessarily in the way of temptation nor where the luxuries or even the conveniences of life would lead him to indulge in ease or to gratify his appetite, and thus lessen his physical and mental strength. By such a course the important mission upon which he came would have failed of its accomplishment.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, pp. 108, 109

“John had been called to reprove the sins and excesses of his time, and his plain dress and self-denying life were in harmony with the character of his mission.” Desire of Ages, pp. 218, 219

Self-Denial and Sacrifice Practiced by the Remnant

As was stated in the introduction to this book, our main work is to propagate the message of Revelation fourteen. It is our privilege to do all we can for others, and for Christ, and to promote to our fullest ability this last message. Our mission and the example of our Lord calls for self-denial in all that we do. It is our privilege, as Paul said in Philippians 1:29, “Not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Paul says this privilege is “given” to us as a favor. May these statements not cause us to chafe under the demands of God. Rather, may we count it all joy, as we discover what our Father is asking of us, not only for His glory but also for our benefit and the benefit of the world.

“We are not safe for one moment in cherishing indifference and carelessness in regard to our soul’s salvation. Many will have to arouse and change their course of action if they are saved. The perils of the last days are upon us. Connection with divine influence through a strong, living, working faith, can alone make us to be laborers together with God. Those who would shun the self-denying, self-sacrificing part of religion, will never be partakers with Christ in His glory. There must be prayerful study and determined effort on the part of all who shall win the crown of life.” Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 212

Tragically, the remnant has lost much of this spirit of sacrifice. All is made very easy now. We glory that we are “heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ,” Romans 8:17. But we have left out the condition of becoming heirs, for the verse continues, “If so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:17. Our portion in this world is to “humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God,” realizing that our Lord lowered Himself before He was glorified. Our portion is the same, for Jesus bids us, “take up thy cross and follow Me.” This sacrifice must become a living reality in all the practical duties of life. Our attitudes, our lifestyles, our expenditure of means and our use of time must revolve around the cross of Christ.

“Everything must be viewed in the light of the example of Christ. He is the truth. He is the true Light that lighteth every man who cometh into the world. Listen to His words, copy His example in self-denial and self-sacrifice, and look to the merits of Christ for the glory in character which He possesses to be bestowed on you. Those who follow Christ live not to please themselves. Human standards are like feeble reeds. The Lord’s standard is perfection of character.” Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 419, 420

“Is the servant greater than his Lord? Shall the world’s Redeemer practice self-denial and sacrifice on our account, and the members of Christ’s body practice self-indulgence? Self-denial is an essential condition of discipleship.

“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” I lead the way in the path of self-denial. I require nothing of you, My followers, but that of which I, your Lord, give you an example in My own life.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 388

How deep does the Lord wish us to go in bearing the cross of self-denial?
“Will every soul consider the fact that Christian discipleship includes self-denial, self-sacrifice, even to the laying down of life itself if need be, for the sake of Him who has given His life for the life of the world?” Review and Herald, vol. 3, p. 375 (3)

“When the Lord sees His people restricting their imaginary wants and practicing self-denial, not in a mournful, regretful spirit, as Lot’s wife left Sodom, but joyfully, for Christ’s sake, and because it is the right thing to do, the work will go forward with power.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, pp. 52, 53

“The reception of Bible truth will lead to continual self-denial; for self-indulgence can never be found in a Christlike experience. Truly converted men and women will reveal the cross of Calvary in their daily actions.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 499 (1)

“Self-denial and cross-bearing lie directly in the path we must travel if we reach the gates of the city of God. Jesus has led the way; will we follow?” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 548

Through the Holy Spirit we can hear the inhabitants of the unfallen worlds asking us this solemn question. Ponder it well, my friends. For in our answer contains our eternal destiny. The question will not be asked but once only. No, deeper and deeper will this searching question go, until, like Jacob, we are found stripped of all our human crutches. With death-like grip we will have to hold on to our Redeemer as He says, “let Me go.” We will have arrived to the place where, indeed, we “shall resist sin even unto blood,” following the path of self-denial to its fullest potential in the human experience, even “bearing the indignation of the Lord.” Micah 7:9.

“I gave My life for thee, My precious blood I shed, That thou might ransomed be, And quickened from the dead; I gave, I gave My life for thee, What hast thou given for Me?

“I suffered much for thee, More than thy tongue can tell, Of bitterest agony, To rescue thee from hell; I’ve borne, I’ve borne it all for Thee, What hast thou borne for Me?” Church Hymnal 230

DEPENDENCE UPON GOD ALONE

John was not Under Man’s Authority And Educational System

“In the natural order of things, the son of Zacharias would have been educated for the priesthood. But the training of the rabbinical schools would have unfitted him for his work. God did not send him to the teachers of theology to learn how to interpret the Scriptures. He called him to the desert, that he might learn of nature and nature’s God.” Desire of Ages, p. 101

“What was it that made John the Baptist great? He closed his mind to the mass of tradition presented by the teachers of the Jewish nation, and opened it to the wisdom which comes from above.” Counsel to Parents and Teachers, pp. 445, 446

“There was a great work appointed for the prophet John, but there was no school on the earth with which he could connect. His learning must be obtained away from the cities, in the wilderness. The Old Testament Scriptures, God, and the nature which God had created, were to be his study books. God was fitting John for his work of preparing the way of the Lord. His food was simply locusts and wild honey. The customs and practices of men were not to be the education of this man. Worldly engrossment was to act no part in the formation of his character.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1115

“John was called to do a special work; he was to prepare the way of the Lord, to make straight His paths. The Lord did not send him to the school of the prophets and rabbis. He took him away from the assemblies of men to the desert, that he might learn of nature and nature’s God. God did not desire him to have the mold of the priests and rulers. He was called to do a special work. The Lord gave him his message. Did he go to the priests and rulers and ask if he might proclaim this message? No, God put him away from them that he might not be influenced by their spirit and teaching.” Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 410

The Remnant Today

As we contemplate the message we are to bear to the world and the message John bore, we are encouraged that God will use those who are dependent on Him. God will use those who have been educated, not so much by institutions, though there is a place and purpose for that, but rather, a divine education received day by day in earnest study and prayer. In the mind’s eye, we can see John in the desert pouring over the ancient Scriptures, studying the prophets, listening to the voice of God in his wilderness home, spending time with His God by faith, until his vision was so bright, his understanding so clear, that at the unction of God he went forth to be a voice in the wilderness. We are in the wilderness of sin, and to us is granted the privilege of study and meditation. To us is granted the privilege of coming to the word to be taught of God.

God will draw nigh to those of a humble contrite spirit. He has promised to fill those “who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” For “the anointing [Holy Spirit] which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things.” 1 John 2:27. We must be honest with ourselves and confess that the education we need above all education, and indeed is the key which will give us an entrance into the kingdom of God, is to know God and Jesus Christ. May we be encouraged by the following statements to seek that wisdom from above, as the most precious treasure in our lives.

“More depends upon consecrated activity and perseverance than upon genius and book learning.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, pp. 178, 179

“God can teach you more in one moment by His Holy Spirit than you could learn from the great men of the earth.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 119

Blessed promise! Have you had this experience, friend? It will come as you search the word prayerfully and with the attitude of obedience. Texts will be as the voice of God to your soul. God has ordained teachers as a gift of the Spirit to build up the church. However, never are we to substitute the teachings of even godly teachers for our own time seated at the feet of Jesus in the study of His word.

God’s Calling to the Lowly

Throughout sacred history God has called many from a life of obscurity. He took John and placed him in the most humble of circumstances. Out of these humble circumstances, God placed upon John the message of heaven. We have the promise and assurance that God will once again call the meek and lowly to lift up their voices announcing the coming of the King.

“Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the work goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 300

“The message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions.” Great Controversy, p. 606

“God will carry on His work through wholly consecrated workmen. If His ministers fail of representing Christ, He will turn to others, many of whom have not been prepared for the work by a regular course of study, and will put a message into their lips, even the last message of warning. He will call men from their various employments, and to His bidding, they will go forth to proclaim present truth.” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 472 (3)

“We are made sad as we see in many places so much left undone that should be done. But the Lord will use in the accomplishment of His work means that we do not now see. He will raise up from among the common people, men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to be His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to be done, will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who are called the common people, fitting them to carry the truth to many places. Now is the time for us to awake and do what we can.” Loma Linda Messages, p. 83

“The Lord Himself will call men, as of old He called the humble fishermen, and will Himself give them instruction regarding their field of labor and the methods they should follow. He will call men from the plow and from other occupations, to give the last note of warning to perishing souls. There are many ways in which to work for the Master, and the Great Teacher will open the understanding of these workers, enabling them to see wondrous things in His word.” Counsels on Health, p. 395

To the people of God longing to do a greater work for the Master, the call is to be faithful in that which is least. Be faithful to exemplify the principles of the Master on the job and in the home. Disciples of the King, study and look for opportunities of service. Through faithfulness in little things God is preparing you to step forward at His calling to be a part of His loud-cry army. It is faithfulness in raising and teaching our children, faithfulness in the present opportunities, which is preparing us to be used of God for greater service and greater responsibilities.

True Education is to be Taught of God

God is our primary instructor, for only the things of God will last. The prophet Isaiah has told us, “let not the wise man glory in his wisdom but let him that glorieth glory” in God. Whatever education we may need to gain a living in this world, through it all we need to make divine wisdom the primary education. This true wisdom, that comes from God, is to be carried into the classroom, the home and the workplace.

“God deals with men as individuals, giving to everyone his work. All are to be taught of God. Through the grace of Christ every soul must work out his own righteousness, maintaining a living connection with the Father and the Son. This is a genuine experience that is of value.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 488

“Higher education is an experimental knowledge of the plan of salvation, and this knowledge is secured by earnest and diligent study of the Scriptures. Such an education will renew the mind and transform the character, restoring the image of God in the soul.

“It will fortify the mind against the deceptive whisperings of the adversary, and enable us to understand the voice of God. It will teach the learner to become a co-worker with Jesus Christ, to dispel the moral darkness about him, and bring light and knowledge to men. It is the simplicity of true godliness our passport from the preparatory school of earth to the higher school above.” Counsels to Parents and Teachers, p. 11

“The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone.” Desire of Ages, p. 250

This is the beauty of divine education. It teaches us as we behold Christ, our utter unworthiness apart from Him. This is the education we need in order to be God’s witnesses to the world.

“There is no education to be gained higher than that given to the early disciples, and which is revealed to us through the word of God. To gain the higher education means to follow this word implicitly; it means to walk in the footsteps of Christ, to practice His virtues. It means to give up selfishness and to devote the life to the service of God. Higher education calls for something greater, something more divine, than the knowledge to be obtained merely from books. It means a personal, experimental knowledge of Christ; it means emancipation from ideas, from habits and practices, that have been gained in the school of the prince of darkness, and which are opposed to loyalty to God. It means to overcome stubbornness, pride, selfishness, worldly ambition, and unbelief. It is the message of deliverance from sin.” Counsels to Parents and Teachers, pp. 11, 12

The Danger of Trusting in Men And its Results

It is a Scriptural teaching that we are to give authority and honor to whom these are due. However, never are we to yield our conscience to another just because they are in places of authority, be it governmental or ecclesiastical. Our trust is not to be in jobs, in public institutions, in our churches or in each other, even though these can all be instruments in God’s hands. What we need is a firm trust in God that will abide in the times of test ahead of us. For when God says, bear My message to the world and to the church, we must obey regardless of what men may threaten us with.

“The Jews perished as a nation because they were drawn from the truth of the Bible by their rulers, priests, and elders. Had they heeded the lessons of Jesus, and searched the Scriptures for themselves, they would not have perished.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 109

“The people had been deeply moved by the words of Christ. The divine beauty of the principles of truth attracted them; and Christ’s solemn warnings had come to them as the voice of the heart-searching God. His words had struck at the very root of their former ideas and opinions; to obey His teaching would require a change in all their habits of thought and action. It [the message of truth] would bring them into collision with their religious teachers; for it would involve the overthrow of the whole structure which for generations the rabbis had been rearing. Therefore, while the hearts of the people responded to His words, few were ready to accept them as the guide of life.” Mount of Blessing, p. 147

That truth which was life to the soul was rejected merely because the people trusted to their elders, pastors and families. May we never allow the truth to be shackled in chains. May we purpose to obey the teachings of Christ regardless of the abuse heaped upon the truth and us by professed leaders or friends. May we love truth enough that we are willing to be stripped of our righteousness, even if it means the structure of our whole experience must be broken up. Christ wants to come in and build us up into a holy temple unto the Lord. (See Ephesians 2:21.)

“I entreat you, brethren, be not like the Pharisees, who were blinded with spiritual pride, self-righteousness, and self-sufficiency, and who because of this were forsaken of God. For years I have been receiving instructions and warnings that this was the danger to our people. Says the Scripture: ‘Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on Him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.’ John 12:42, 43.

“There is positive danger that some who profess to believe the truth will be found in a position similar to that of the Jews. They take the ideas of the men they are associated with, not because by searching the Scriptures they conscientiously accept the teachings in doctrine as truth. I entreat you to make God your trust; idolize no man, depend upon no man. Let not your love of man hold them in places of trust that they are not qualified to fill to the glory of God; for man is finite and erring, liable to be controlled by his own opinions and feelings. Self-esteem and self-righteousness are coming in upon us, and many will fall because of unbelief and unrighteousness, for the grace of Christ is not ruling in the hearts of many.” 1888 Materials, vol. 1, p. 166

There is a great danger to the people of God today as many echo the teachings of a favorite author or speaker, or the doctrines of the church, without really investigating to see if these things are so. The tendency to surface read and not to reason from Scripture places us in a fearful state. This practice, unless repented of, will prepare us to receive the words of men over even the clearest words of God.

“Christ foresaw that the undue assumption of authority practiced by the scribes and Pharisees would not cease with the dispersion of the Jews. He had a prophetic view of the work of exalting human authority to rule the conscience, which has been so terrible a curse to the church in all ages. And His fearful denunciations of the scribes and Pharisees, and His warnings to the people not to follow these blind leaders, were placed on record as an admonition to future generations.

“With the many warnings against false teachers, why are the people so ready to commit the keeping of their souls to the clergy? There are today thousands of professors of religion who can give no other reason for points of faith which they hold than that they were so instructed by their religious leaders. They pass by the Saviour’s teachings almost unnoticed, and place implicit confidence in the words of the ministers. But are ministers infallible? How can we trust our souls to their guidance unless we know from God’s word that they are light-bearers?” Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, pp. 414, 415

Unwarranted trust in men apart from a diligent searching of the Scriptures for ourselves brings us into great danger. Satan will interpose himself and cause us to reject the very messages God has for His people.

“Now, it has been Satan’s determined purpose to eclipse the view of Jesus and lead men to look to man, and trust to man, and be educated to expect help from man.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 93

“The great danger with our people has been that of depending upon men and making flesh their arm. Those who have not been in the habit of searching the Bible for themselves, or weighing evidence, have confidence in the leading men and accept the decisions they make; and thus many will reject the very messages God sends to His people, if these leading brethren do not accept them.” Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 106, 107

“Has your obedience to men become rebellion against God?” Special Testimonies, Series B, No. 2, p. 17

This question will become more and more of a testing point. We must walk the tight rope of respect and courtesy, and have mercy towards loved ones and those in authority in the workplace, the church and the government, while at the same time giving heed to all the commandments of God. This will require a much more earnest life of study and prayer than that to which we are currently accustomed. I pray we do not fail this test for the sake of a false peace leading to the numbing of the conscience. For if we do this, we are heading for the step in which we shall receive the “number of his name,” for it is the number and the character of man.

Today all churches, governments, families, businesses and institutions which speak, teach and act according to man will lead us downward and are opposed to the principles of God. Let us resist this downward path and stand firmly for the right. We may lose much, but that is better than to lose our souls. On the other hand, by standing for God’s principles in the right spirit, we may actually gain the respect of those in authority who have opposed us and the principles of truth. Daniel and Joseph are mighty examples of that fidelity to God, which brings the opposition to a respect for the truth, and the God of Israel whose ambassadors we are.

HUMAN SPECULATION ABOVE DIVINE REVELATION

In the days of John, the people were devoid of a knowledge of Scripture for themselves. The speculations and traditions of the church were as empty husks given to the people. John, in contrast, was educated by earnest study and the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. By his diligent effort and the power of God, he lived a righteous life. He spoke the word and it was with power. Hearts were convicted as God’s word, like a sharp arrow, pierced the hardened consciences of men. It is obvious that today the same lack of understanding, the same reliance upon human ideas and traditions, has supplanted the word of God. The word is read but not studied. Its solemn truths are generally not comprehended or taught. Because of this neglect of Scriptures, wide scale iniquity prevails in both society and the churches. If we are ever to be used of God to sound an alarm in His holy mountain, to prepare the way of the Lord, then we must become earnest students of the Bible, as not only readers but also doers of the word.

In the midst of an epidemic of infidelity, we are to stand upon the principles and teachings of the word. The prophet saw in the last days believers hastening from home to home with the Bible in their hands opening the Scriptures to those willing to hear the great truth of the three angles messages. However, the majority of us cannot give an answer for our faith upon the Bible and the Bible alone. May we repent of our laziness, may we seek the pure word of truth, “being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. As newborn babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” 1 Peter 1:23; 2:2.

With prayerful consideration may you read this chapter, and where necessary, repent of your disregard of Scripture. Seek to be a doer of the word in your home, your workplace and your church. Soon the Scriptures will be the only thing that will keep us, for we shall lose every earthly support, and we will not be able to believe our senses. Our whole life experience must be grounded upon the Word if we are to bear the fires of affliction and trial soon to come upon us with overwhelming speed and force. “And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Acts 20:32.

“The teachers of Israel were not sowing the seed of the word of God. Christ’s work as a teacher of truth was in marked contrast to that of the rabbis of His time. They dwelt upon traditions, upon human theories and speculations. Often that which man had taught and written about the word, they put in place of the word itself.

“Their teaching had no power to quicken the soul. The subject of Christ’s teaching and preaching was the word of God. He met questioners with a plain, ‘It is written.’ ‘What saith the Scriptures?’ ‘How readest thou?’ At every opportunity, when an interest was awakened by either friend or foe, He sowed the seed of the word. He who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Himself the living word, points to the Scriptures, saying, “They are they which testify of Me.” And ‘beginning at Moses and all the prophets,’ He opened to His disciples ‘in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.’ John 5:39; Luke 24:27.

“Christ’s servants are to do the same work. In our day, as of old, the vital truths of God’s word are set aside for human theories and speculations. Many professed ministers of the gospel do not accept the whole Bible as the inspired word. One wise man rejects one portion; another questions another part. They set up their judgment as superior to the word; and the Scripture which they do teach rests upon their own authority. Its divine authenticity is destroyed. Thus the seeds of infidelity are sown broadcast; for the people become confused and know not what to believe. There are many beliefs that the mind has no right to entertain. In the days of Christ the rabbis put a forced, mystical construction upon many portions of Scripture. Because the plain teaching of God’s word condemned their practices, they tried to destroy its force. The same thing is done today. The word of God is made to appear mysterious and obscure in order to excuse transgression of His law. Christ rebuked these practices in His day. He taught that the word of God was to be understood by all. He pointed to the Scriptures as of unquestionable authority, and we should do the same. The Bible is to be presented as the word of the infinite God, as the end of all controversy and the foundation of all faith.

“The Bible has been robbed of its power, and the results are seen in a lowering of the tone of spiritual life. In the sermons from many pulpits of today there is not that divine manifestation which awakens the conscience and brings life to the soul. The hearers cannot say, ‘Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?’ Luke 24:32. There are many who are crying out for the living God, longing for the divine presence. Philosophical theories or literary essays, however brilliant, cannot satisfy the heart. The assertions and inventions of men are of no value. Let the word of God speak to the people. Let those who have heard only traditions and human theories and maxims hear the voice of Him whose word can renew the soul unto everlasting life.” Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 38-41

“The priests and Pharisees thought they were doing great things as teachers by putting their own interpretation upon the word of God; but Christ said of them, ‘Ye know not the Scriptures, neither the power of God.’ Mark 12:24. He charged them with the guilt of ‘teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.’ Mark 7:7. Though they were the teachers of the oracles of God, though they were supposed to understand His word, they were not doers of the word. Satan had blinded their eyes, that they should not see its true import.

“This is the work of many in our day. Many churches are guilty of this sin. There is danger, great danger, that the supposed wise men of today will repeat the experience of the Jewish teachers. They falsely interpret the divine oracles, and souls are brought into perplexity and shrouded in darkness because of their misconception of divine truth.” Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 110, 111

“The law of God, unmixed with human tradition, was presented by Christ as the great standard of obedience. This aroused the enmity of the rabbis. They had set human teaching above God’s word, and had turned the people away from His precepts. They would not give up their man-made commandments in order to obey the requirements of the word of God. They would not, for the truth’s sake, sacrifice the pride of reason and the praise of men. When Christ came, presenting to the nation the claims of God, the priests and elders denied His right to interpose between them and the people. They would not accept His rebukes and warnings, and they set themselves to turn the people against Him and to compass His destruction.

“For the rejection of Christ, with the results that followed, they were responsible. A nation’s sin and a nation’s ruin were due to the religious leaders.

“In our day are not the same influences at work? Of the husbandmen of the Lord’s vineyard are not many following in the steps of the Jewish leaders? Are not religious teachers turning men away from the plain requirements of the word of God? Instead of educating them in obedience to God’s law, are they not educating them in transgression? From many of the pulpits of the churches the people are taught that the law of God is not binding upon them. Human traditions, ordinances, and customs are exalted. Pride and self-satisfaction because of the gifts of God are fostered, while the claims of God are ignored.

“The words of God to ancient Israel have a solemn warning to the church and its leaders today. Of Israel the Lord said, ‘I have written to him the great things of My law; but they were counted as a strange thing.’ Hosea 8:12. And to the priests and teachers He declared, ‘My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee; seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.’ Hosea 4:6.

“Shall the warnings from God be passed by unheeded? Shall the opportunities for service be unimproved? Shall the world’s scorn, the pride of reason, conformity to human customs and traditions, hold the professed followers of Christ from service to Him? Will they reject God’s word as the Jewish leaders rejected Christ? The result of Israel’s sin is before us. Will the church of today take warning?” Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 304-306

THE LIFE AND THE CHARACTER

John the Baptist

“John the Baptist in his desert life was taught of God. He studied the revelations of God in nature. Under the guiding of the Divine Spirit, he studied the scrolls of the prophets. By day and by night, Christ was his study, his meditation, until mind and heart and soul were filled with the glorious vision.

“He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was lost sight of. He beheld the majesty of holiness and knew himself to be inefficient and unworthy. It was God’s message that he was to declare. It was in God’s power and righteousness that he was to stand. He was ready to go forth as Heaven’s messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine. He could stand fearless in the presence of earthly monarchs because with trembling he had bowed before the King of kings.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, pp. 331, 332

“The people thought that John might be the promised Messiah. His life was unselfish and marked with humility and self-denial. His teachings, exhortations, and reproofs, were fervent, sincere, and courageous. In his mission, he turned not to the right or to the left to court the favors or applause of any. He did not aspire to worldly honor or worldly dignity, but was humble in heart and life, and did not assume honors that did not belong to him. He assured his followers that he was not the Christ.

“As John saw that the attention of the people was directed to him, thinking that he might be the Coming One, he sought every opportunity to direct the attention of the people to One mightier than himself.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 124 (1).

“John had by nature the faults and weaknesses common to humanity but the touch of divine love had transformed him. He dwelt in an atmosphere uncontaminated with selfishness and ambition, and far above the miasma of jealousy.

“Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God.” Desire of Ages, p. 179

We can see from this brief account of John’s experience that he had a relationship with his heavenly Father. That relationship colored his whole experience. This walk with God gave him power and confidence to preach to high and low. By looking to his Redeemer, the common frailties of humanity were replaced by attributes of humility and holiness. His consistent life was a power that gave substance to his teachings. He gained an experience even as we can, by study, prayer, and looking upon the Lamb of God, until the whole being is transformed. Many would seek to imitate the boldness of John in denouncing sin. However, without an experience with Christ, we are as “sounding brass,” or a “tinkling cymbal.” John’s message was to prepare hearts and direct minds to the “Lamb of God,” and this is to be our work.

Experience and Character of the Remnant

“The true seeker, who is striving to be like Jesus in word, life, and character, will contemplate his Redeemer and, by beholding, become changed into His image, because he longs and prays for the same disposition and mind that was in Christ Jesus. He is not restrained from evil through fear of shame or through fear of loss, for he knows that all he enjoys comes from God, and he would improve his blessings that he may represent Christ. He is not hungry to stand the highest, to obtain praise from human beings. This is not his eager interest. By making a wise improvement of what he now has, he seeks to obtain more and still more ability, that he may give to God greater service. He longs after God. The history of his Redeemer, the immeasurable sacrifice that He made, becomes full of meaning to him. Christ, the Majesty of Heaven, became poor, that we through His poverty might become rich; not rich merely in endowments, but rich in attainments.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 121

“God calls upon those who claim to be delegated to bear the truth to the world, to show in all places, both high and low, in public life and in the bypaths of private life, that they are in connection with God, that Christianity has done a noble work for them, that they are holier, happier than those who do not acknowledge their allegiance to God’s commandments. God demands nothing less of every one of His followers than that they reveal Christ’s character to the world in their individual life, and that they bear testimony by precept and example that it is not in vain that Christ has suffered and died, that the image of God might be restored in them through His redeeming grace.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 438

“We are the people who, like John, are to prepare the way of the Lord; and if we are prepared for the second coming of Christ, we must work with all diligence to prepare others for Christ’s second advent, as did the forerunner of Christ for His first advent, calling men to repentance. The truth of God must be brought into the soul temple, to cleanse and purify it from all defilement. May God help us to search the Scriptures for ourselves, and when we are all filled with the truth of God, it will flow out as water from a living spring. We cannot exhaust the heavenly fountain, and the more we draw, the more we shall delight to draw from the living waters. O may we be converted! We want the ministers and the young men to be converted. We want to lift up the standard. Let all the people come up to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us pray that we may hunger and thirst after righteousness; for Jesus says, “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” Review and Herald, vol. 2, p. 338 (1)

“There must be much more of Jesus and His meekness, His lowliness, His humility, His self-denial, His purity, His true goodness and nobility of character, brought into the experience and characters of all who claim to be acting any part in the sacred work of God.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 452

“Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who, like John the Baptist, takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. The heavenly intelligences can cooperate with him who is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save souls. He who feels most deeply his need of divine aid will plead for it; and the Holy Spirit will give unto him glimpses of Jesus that will strengthen and uplift the soul. From communion with Christ he will go forth to work for those who are perishing in their sins. He is anointed for his mission; and he succeeds where many of the learned and intellectually wise would fail.” Desire of Ages, p. 436

Holiness of Heart and Purity of Life— the Message of John and the Remnant

Holiness of heart and purity of life were subjects spoken forcefully and with conviction by the prophet John. The same message, the message of godliness, has been committed to us to give to the world.

“John would bring the people up to the standard of divine perfection.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (1)

“Kings and rulers came to the wilderness to hear the prophet, and were interested and deeply convicted as he fearlessly pointed out their particular sins. His discernment of character and spiritual sight read the purposes and hearts of those who came to him, and he fearlessly told, both rich and poor, the honorable and the lowly, that without repentance of their sins, and a thorough conversion, although they might claim to be righteous, they could not enjoy the favor of God, and have part in the kingdom of the Messiah, whose coming he announced.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (2)

“In the time of John the Baptist, Christ was about to appear as the revealer of the character of God. His very presence would make manifest to men their sin. Only as they were willing to be purged from sin could they enter into fellowship with Him. Only the pure in heart could abide in His presence.

“Thus the Baptist declared God’s message to Israel. Many gave heed to his instruction. Many sacrificed all in order to obey. Multitudes followed this new teacher from place to place, and not a few cherished the hope that he might be the Messiah. But as John saw the people turning to him, he sought every opportunity of directing their faith to Him who was to come.” Desire of Ages, p. 108

“Every true Christian will be a missionary; for he will look upon himself as the servant of Christ. In that wonderful prayer of Christ recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John, the Saviour prayed, “As thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” As Christ was a missionary from a higher world to this, so His followers are to be missionaries, teaching the truth of the gospel by precept and example, showing men and women how to live righteous and godly lives in this present evil world.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 407 (2)

“Everyone who teaches the truth by precept and example will give the trumpet a certain sound. You need ever to cultivate spirituality, because it is not natural for you to be heavenly-minded. The great work is before us of leading the people away from worldly customs and practices, up higher and higher, to spirituality, piety and earnest work for God.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 520

“The sowers of the seed have a work to do in preparing hearts to receive the gospel. In the ministry of the word there is too much sermonizing, and too little of real heart-to-heart work. At the very outset of the Christian life every believer should be taught its foundation principles. He should be taught that he is not merely to be saved by Christ’s sacrifice, but that he is to make the life of Christ his life and the character of Christ his character.” Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 57, 58

To be true missionaries for God we must teach the truth of the gospel by both precept and example. We are to show people a better way, leading them from the worldly customs and practices that debase the soul. We are to teach the people not only to accept Christ as the sacrifice for sins but as the Redeemer from sin in our lives, and the Ruler of our lives.

John’s Attitude

He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30.

“Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God. He himself had been only a voice, a cry in the wilderness. Now with joy he accepted silence and obscurity, that the eyes of all might be turned to the Light of life.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 333

The Attitude of the Remnant

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. Galatians 6:14.
“Let the people see you exalting Jesus, and hiding self. The sentiment of your heart should be, ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’ Exalt His matchless power and grace, but let self be crucified, let self be hidden in Christ.” Review and Herald, vol. 2, p. 563 (2)

THE STRAIGHT TESTIMONY

In the Days of John

“With no elaborate arguments or fine spun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness: ‘Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Matthew 3:2. With a new, strange power it moved the people. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.

“John fearlessly denounced the sins of the people, saying, ‘Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’

“It was the purpose of John to startle and arouse the people, and cause them to tremble because of their great wickedness. In simplicity and plainness, he pointed out the errors and crimes of men. A power attended his words, and, reluctant as the people were to hear the denunciation of their unholy lives, they could not resist his words. He flattered none; neither would he receive flattery of any.

“He fearlessly told, both rich and poor, the honorable and the lowly, that without repentance of their sins, and a thorough conversion, although they might claim to be righteous, they could not enjoy the favor of God, and have part in the kingdom of the Messiah, whose coming he announced.

“In the spirit and with the power of Elijah, John denounced the corruptions of the Jews, and raised his voice in reproving their prevailing sins. His discourses were plain, pointed, and convincing.” Review and Herald, vol. 1, p. 122 (2, 3)

Why was it that God had John speak so plainly? What was the necessity of so bold a message?

“The message that God had given him to bear was designed to startle them from their lethargy, and cause them to tremble because of their great wickedness. Before the seed of the gospel could find lodgment, the soil of the heart must be broken up. Before they would seek healing from Jesus, they must be awakened to their danger from the wounds of sin.

“God does not send messengers to flatter the sinner. He delivers no message of peace to lull the unsanctified into fatal security. He lays heavy burdens upon the conscience of the wrongdoer, and pierces the soul with arrows of conviction. The ministering angels present to him the fearful judgments of God to deepen the sense of need, and prompt the cry, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ Then the hand that has humbled in the dust, lifts up the penitent. The voice that has rebuked sin, and put to shame pride and ambition, inquires with tenderest sympathy, ‘What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?’” Desire of Ages, pp. 103, 104

The Straight Testimony to the Remnant

“In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. Just such a work as that of John is to be carried on in these last days. The Lord has given messages to His people, through the instruments He has chosen, and He would have all give heed to the admonitions and warnings He sends. The message preceding the public ministry of Christ was, Repent, publicans and sinners. Repent, Pharisees and Sadducees. Repent, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Our message is not to be one of peace and safety. As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a message to bear, “Prepare to meet thy God.” We are to lift up the standard and bear the third angel’s message. Our message must be as direct as was the message of John. He rebuked kings for their iniquity. Notwithstanding that his life was in peril, truth did not languish upon his lips. And our work in this age must be as faithfully done.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 287 (2)

What is our direct message? It is the third angel’s message that points to the sanctuary above. It is a call to a holy life, a call to look away from the image of man. Our message is not to be one of all is well, that God will save us in our sins. Our message is the faith of Jesus.

“What constitutes the faith of Jesus, that belongs to the third angel’s message? Jesus becoming our sinbearer that He might become our sin-pardoning Saviour. He was treated as we deserve to be treated. He came to our world and took our sins that we might take His righteousness. And faith in the ability of Christ to save us amply and fully and entirely is the faith of Jesus.” Selected Messages, vol. 3, p. 172

We must not muffle our message to the world; we have the truths of the prophecies. We must make known the stealthy yet rapid inroads of the powers of darkness, of spiritualism and Catholicism. We must bear a pointed message in favor of the truth and righteous and godly living. The pointed message is the truth itself, given by a soul whose heart is kindled with the love of God.

“At this time the Laodicean message is to be given, to arouse a slumbering church. The Laodicean message must be given with earnestness and power, as a message from heaven. If it be ignored, the Lord will certainly cast away from Him those whose spiritual condition is so objectionable.” Special Testimonies, Series B, No. 2, pp. 14, 20

“The message given us by A. T. Jones and E. J. Waggoner is the message of God to the Laodicean church, and woe be unto anyone who professes to believe the truth, and yet does not reflect to others the God-given rays.” Letter S-24, 1892

“In this fearful time, just before Christ is to come the second time, God’s faithful preachers will have to bear a still more pointed testimony than was borne by John the Baptist. A responsible, important work is before them; and those who speak smooth things, God will not acknowledge as His shepherds. A fearful woe is upon them.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 321

We see here that the pointed message is a personal message, a direct message of truth that acts as an arrow of the Lord and causes us to tremble for our own great wickedness and unbelief. It is a message of present truth, a truth, the acceptance or rejection of which will determine our destiny. It is the message to make the righteousness of Christ our own. It is the message that uplifts the Saviour as man’s only hope.

“The Lord calls for a renewal of the straight testimony borne in past years. He calls for a renewal of spiritual life. The spiritual energies of His people have long been torpid, but there is to be a resurrection from apparent death.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 297

We do not need the messages of the past that were based on doctrines and standards and “the righteousness of the law.” We need that testimony borne in generations past that sets before us truth, the very nature of which is so elevating and holy that it causes us to see our need and leads us to our Saviour.

“God’s plan is first to get at the heart. Speak the truth, and let Him carry forward the reformatory power and principle. Make no reference to what opponents say, but let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut to the quick.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 400

“This message must be borne to a lukewarm church by God’s servants. It must arouse His people from their security and dangerous deception in regard to their real standing before God.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 259

“I was shown that the pointed testimony must live in the church. This alone will answer to the message to the Laodiceans. Wrongs must be reproved, sin must be called sin, and iniquity must be met promptly and decidedly, and put away from us as a people.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 260

This is not a harsh testimony, for it is the Saviour who is knocking at the heart’s door. The pointed testimony must be based upon truth, which is sharper than any two-edged sword and is a discerner (judge) of the thoughts and intents of the heart truth, Bible truth, set before the people, free of all human defilement, of harshness, of joking, free from storytelling or self-righteousness, free from denunciation or flattery. Truth alone, free from all these defilements, can bear witness to the souls of men and women and children of our great need of Christ.

“The message to the church of the Laodiceans is a startling denunciation, and is applicable to the people of God at the present time.

“The Lord here shows us that the message to be borne to His people by ministers whom He has called to warn the people is not a peace-and-safety message. It is not merely theoretical, but practical in every particular.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 252

“The message of peace and safety is one that does not exalt the standard of God. In fact, the current dearth of truth in our churches is clear warning that Satan has come down with great wrath knowing his time is short. “Satan has laid every measure possible that nothing shall come among us as a people to reprove and rebuke us, and exhort us to put away our errors.” Testimonies to Ministers, p. 411

Our message and witness must not only exalt the standard but must show the way. Its practicality must enter into the common everyday life. Only a message that affects our souls, not merely for one service only or a few days, but one that reaches into our daily lives, is pointed enough to be the straight testimony. It is that testimony which will prepare our hearts to stand before the world as God’s witnesses. It is that testimony which is the “voice of stern rebuke.”

“Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have separated the people from God. Infidelity is fast becoming fashionable.… The smooth sermons so often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God’s word.” Prophets and Kings, p. 140

“The work of reformation here brought to view by John, the purging of heart and mind and soul, is one that is needed by many who today profess to have the faith of Jesus Christ. Wrong practices that have been indulged in need to be put away; the crooked paths need to be made straight, and the rough places smooth. The mountains and hills of self-esteem and pride need to be brought low. There is need of bringing forth ‘fruits meet for repentance.’ When this work is done in the experience of God’s believing people, ‘all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 517 (2)

This straight testimony is not one of denunciation of the sins of others; it is not made up merely of declaring the apostasy in the church. Rather, it is a message of truth and principle. It is to be motivated by love, which can come only as we, like John, make the following experience our own: “By day and by night, Christ was his study, his meditation, until mind and heart and soul were filled with the glorious vision.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, pp. 331, 332. Only when this experience is gained can God trust us to bear a pointed testimony.

First, by study and by prayer, we must receive the straight testimony for our own souls and our families. Often those who are so quick to bear what they think is a straight testimony are devoid of an experience in their own heart and family. The truth is to do the cutting, not our snide remarks or feelings of bitterness or self-righteousness. Neither is the testimony to be born with a “them and us” attitude, for we read, “John saw his people deceived, self-satisfied, and asleep in their sins.”

We must ever remember that the straight testimony must cause our own souls to tremble; it must be ignited by love and in its sternness be full of hope. For its purpose is to awaken the inquiry of believer and unbeliever alike, “what must I do to be saved?”

BEHOLD THE LAMB

“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as He walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! John 1:29, 35, 36

“John the Baptist declared of himself that he was not the Light, but that he came to bear witness of the Light. To that Light he was ever pointing. His voice proclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Let the minister of Christ direct every word of praise away from self; put self out of sight, and never feel that his work is well done until the mind’s eye can see only Jesus, the crucified One.” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 227 (3)

“Christ came not to save man in his sins, but from his sins. John’s testimony of Him was, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” And “as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” Review and Herald, vol. 3, p. 577 (2)

The ministry of John was bound up in pointing people to Christ, preparing their hearts by repentance to receive the Messiah. For us Christ must be the central theme of all our messages.

The Fruit of Beholding the Lamb of God

To behold the Lamb of God is a living experience, for Christ is crucified for us and is to be crucified in us. To behold and live, to behold and to be freed of the defilements of this world is the fruit of beholding the Lamb “slain from the foundation of the world.”

“‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’ To all who believe in Him He promises power to become sons of God.” Review and Herald, vol. 5, p. 345 (3)

“Divine sonship is not something that we may gain of ourselves. Only to those who receive Christ as their Saviour is given the power to become sons and daughters of God. The sinner cannot, by any power of his own, rid himself of sin. For the accomplishment of this result, he must look to a higher Power. John exclaimed, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’ Christ alone has power to cleanse the heart. He who is seeking for forgiveness and acceptance can say only, ‘Nothing in my hand I bring; Simply to thy cross I cling.’” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 551 (1)

“As we look upon the world in its moral defilement, we see the poisonous serpents abroad, ready to sting us to death. To the cross of Calvary, bearing a dying Saviour, we must look. “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up.” Only the Lamb of God can take away our sins. We should think more of this than we do. Our eternal interests demand that we show faith in Christ.” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 463 (1)

“God has been waiting long for His followers to manifest true humility, that He may impart rich blessings to them. Those who offer Him the sacrifice of a broken and contrite spirit, will be hidden in the cleft of the rock, and will behold the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world. As Jesus, the sin-bearer, the all-sufficient sacrifice, is seen more distinctly, their lips are tuned to the loftiest praise. The more they see of the character of Christ, the more humble they become, and the lower is their estimate of themselves. No heedless presumption is seen in their work. They do not seek self-exaltation; they are not anxious to mix common fire with the sacred fire of God’s own kindling. Self is lost sight of in their consciousness of their own unworthiness and of God’s wonderful glory.” Review and Herald, vol. 3, p. 463 (3)

“Looking unto Jesus will subdue hated self, which is ever striving for the supremacy.” Review and Herald, vol. 3, pp. 333, 334 (3, 1)

May we each one look and live. Our eternal salvation and the salvation of others depend on our willingness to receive into our hearts the dying Lamb and the living Christ. Only the living Christ in our lives will accomplish the work of righteousness. By God’s grace may we from this day forward be able to say, “I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.”

“We must know by experience what it is to have Christ for our sin-bearer, in order that we may intelligently say to others, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world!’” Review and Herald, vol. 3, p. 319 (2)

Called to Minister— Sharing the Experience

We, for ourselves, must behold the precious Saviour, for if we miss this message we are as empty vessels. We must fall in love with the uplifted Saviour, who even now makes intercession for us. This beholding will transform the character; this is our hope and our message. With hearts aflame with the love of Christ, we can go forth to minister this experience to others. The message of Christ and holiness will be as a sword cutting both ways. For those who refuse, it will be as a sword of judgment and consternation; for those who receive the cutting truths, it will be as the sword of pruning and cleansing, administered by the gentle hand of the Father.

“The church today needs men who, like Enoch, walk with God, revealing Christ to the world. Church members need to reach a higher standard. Heavenly messengers are waiting to communicate with those who have sunk self out of sight, whose lives are a fulfilling of the words, “I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Of such men and women must the church be composed before her light can shine forth to the world in clear, distinct rays. Our views of the Sun of Righteousness are clouded by self-seeking. Christ is crucified afresh by many who through self-indulgence allow Satan to gain control over them. The church needs men of devotion to bear to the world the message of salvation, pointing sinners to the Lamb of God, men who, by their works of righteousness and their pure, true words, can lift their fellow men out of the pit of degradation.” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 244 (1, 2)

“The truths of the third angel’s message have been presented by some as a dry theory; but in this message is to be presented Christ the Living One. He is to be revealed as the first and the last, as the I AM, the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright and morning Star. Through this message the character of God in Christ is to be manifested to the world.”

“Now, with John the Baptist, we are to point men to Jesus, saying: ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’ John 1:29. Now as never before is to be sounded the invitation: ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.’ ‘The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.’” John 7:37; Revelation 22:17.

“There is a great work to be done, and every effort possible must be made to reveal Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour, Christ as the Sin Bearer, Christ as the bright and morning Star; and the Lord will give us favor before the world until our work is done.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, pp. 20, 21

“It is our duty to lead souls to ‘the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’” Review and Herald, vol. 4, p. 140 (2)

“The world needs today what it needed nineteen hundred years ago a revelation of Christ. A great work of reform is demanded, and it is only through the grace of Christ that the work of restoration, physical, mental, and spiritual, can be accomplished.” Ministry of Healing, p. 143

God, help us each one to see as we are seen, to know as we are known. God, help us each one to see Jesus crucified for us personally. God, help us to have the love for souls who are on the road to perdition. God, help us to be your tools, your remnant people in these final days of earth’s history. God, help us to bring Your suffering and the suffering of this world to an end. Help us, Father, to fulfill Your promise, to heed Your call:

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Isaiah 60:1. Amen.

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