The Sabbath School Lesson

REV. 14: 12 "THIS CALLS FOR PATIENT ENDURANCE ON THE PART OF THE PEOPLE OF GOD WHO KEEP HIS COMMANDS AND REMAIN FAITHFUL TO JESUS." Click on the links for the SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON OF THE ONGOING WEEK AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS MESSAGE TO THE RIGHT. And Read THE INTRODUCTION, THE SUBTITLES AND THE CONCLUSION first, then if you just want to have a general idea of the text, read the beginning and the end of each paragraph. ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND AND RELATE TO THE SPECIFIC SUBJECT YOU ARE STUDYING, REMEMBER THE BIG TITLE AND THE SUBTITLES. Always be aware of the context. WHAT IS THE QUESTION AT STAKE? This is what's important...BE BLESSED!!!

Monday, May 31, 2010

INTEGRITY: WHOLENESS AND HOLINESS

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http://faithcenter.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/jesus-christ-sermon-mount.jpg
http://www.essene.com/Yeshua/JesusMountCarmel.gif

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-05-integrity-wholeness-and-holiness



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


http://www.absg.adventist.org/




www.ssnet.org

Integrity: Wholeness and Holiness

Lesson graphic





Bible Version

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SABBATH AFTERNOON

Read for This Week's Study:


Gen. 39:6–12; 1 Sam. 24:1–10; Dan. 6:1–10; Matt. 4:1–11; Rom. 1:26, 27; Eph. 3:14–21.

Memory Text:


“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us(Titus 2:7-8, NIV).


The preacher was being distracted by noisy children. To make matters worse, they were his own. Finally, he had to stop preaching and tell the children they would be punished when the service was over. Silence descended on not only the children but everyone. The sermon was completed, the service ended, and Sabbath lunch was a delight. Visitors laughed and relaxed, and it was a happy Sabbath.

That evening a pleasant euphoria came over the household. The little daughter, feeling perhaps the freedom of relaxation, came to her preacher dad. “Daddy?” she said. “Yes, dear?” he responded. “Today, you promised to punish me and you didn’t. You told a lie.”

No question, integrity is a lot easier to talk about than to display. Even the “best” of us find ourselves easily compromised unless we are careful. Truly in the “littlest things” it is so easy to slip.

This week we will take a look at this topic and how it impacts our lives on so many levels.

The Week at a Glance:


Moral integrity impacts our health—spiritually, mentally, and physically. Notes

*Study this week's lesson to prepare for Sabbath, June 5.


SUNDAY May 30

Jesus in the Wilderness

Compromise is so easy, isn’t it? Especially as one gets older, things do not often appear so black and white as they once did. We give in a little here, a little there, and hold firm from our new position. Then, over time, we give in a little here, a little there, and hold firm from our newest position. Then, over time, from this latest position, we give a little here, a little there, and then hold firm. Before long, we find ourselves in a place that we once never would have dreamed we would be in. That is what compromise is all about.

And though sometimes we need to loosen up a bit and be willing to give here and there, oftentimes we do so on the very things that we should not budge on at all!

Read Matthew 4:1–11. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by Satan, what were the three avenues of temptation through which Satan approached Him? How did Jesus refute those temptations, and what can we take away from this account for ourselves? Notes



Satan found Jesus an impregnable wall. No matter what he tried to do, he failed to get Jesus to compromise on anything. Jesus was as impregnable as the Great Wall of China had been for centuries. Only better. And that was because the Great Wall was once breached. What happened? Someone bribed the gatekeeper! All that work, all that masonry, all that stone became almost useless when one single guard stopped doing what he was supposed to.

Yes, compromise is easy. Too easy. Satan will work through our appetite, through our presumption and pride, and through our desire for worldly things, through any avenue he can in order to lead us into sin, to get us to violate our integrity, and to push us away from Jesus. We not only need to be aware of his devices, we need to know how to claim God’s promises and not be seduced into doing what we know is wrong. Only through a constant and firm reliance on the power of God, and a willingness to die to self, can we overcome.

In what areas of your life have you compromised what you know is right? How did you feel the first time you did it? Does it bother you less now than at first? Or does it not even bother you at all anymore? Notes

MONDAY May 31

Maintaining Integrity

There are so many temptations out there, temptations that can so often lead to moral compromise. How easy it is for a traveling staff person to pad the expense account? How easy for a man to sneak a few looks at Internet pornography? How easy for children to lie to their parents? How easy for folks to cheat on their taxes? How easy to overindulge in food and drink? How easy to cheat in school. How easy to . . . and the list goes on, and on, and on.

Read the following accounts. In what ways could these men have so easily violated their integrity? What can we learn from these stories? As you read each account, think of the background to these temptations, think of all the pressure on these men to compromise, think about how easily they could have rationalized another choice.

Gen. 39:6–12 Notes



1 Sam. 24:1–10 Notes



Dan. 6:1–10 Notes



If we are honest with ourselves, many of us will admit we are devious or at least less than transparent in many of our dealings. Sometimes we will not tell a lie, but we do not exactly convey the truth. We may believe a situation is not helped by openness. Such behavior can be found in many areas of life. What are ways in which you may have chosen expediency over forthrightness? Why is it so easy to do?

Think about a non-biblical character, either from history from the news or from a personal acquaintance, whom you deem as a person of integrity. What are the traits this person has that you wish you did? How can you seek to emulate those traits better in your own life? Notes

TUESDAY June 1

Integrity in Our Spiritual Lives

A young man purchased a pleasure boat with a nice little motor and trailer. The unit appeared clean and satisfactory, and—being purchased second hand—it was not too expensive. Eager to try out his new acquisition, he took some friends and rode out to the public slip and launched the boat. It ran well, and the group made their way to a small island off the mainland in Lake Ontario.

Beaching the little boat, they explored the island and returned to the boat to head home. A short distance out, a splashing sound alerted them to the fact that they were taking on water. Quickly, the boat capsized, dumping the three friends into the chilly waters. A most fortunate rescue forestalled serious repercussions. What happened? A single rotted timber was found in the base of the hull that, with the wave action on the beach, had led to a split in the wood. Just one bad piece, out of all the others, was enough to overturn the boat.

How similar can it be in our lives, as well? We might be so solid, so faithful, so firm and unwavering in so many ways, and yet with one area in which we have not surrendered to the Lord, one sinful area we seek to hold onto, we can find ourselves in deep moral, spiritual and even physical trouble.

Read Ephesians 3:14–21. What is Paul saying to us here? How does this bear on our personal integrity? How can we experience these promises in our own lives? Notes



So much is promised us in these texts. The Holy Spirit can strengthen us from within; that is, He can change us, not like some cosmetic surgery but more like heart surgery, something working deep within us. And this change comes to us by faith, by knowing the reality of God’s love for us. The Lord seeks a complete transformation in our lives; He desires that we be “filled with the fulness of God.” Notice, too, that unlike many self-help and new age philosophies, Paul is not talking about our tapping into some innate power found within us. No, the power that “works in us” is the power of God, who can do more than we ask or think. The question is, Are we allowing Him to, or are we letting our carnal natures rule instead?

What might it mean to be “filled with the fulness of God”? Be prepared to talk about your answer in class. Notes

WEDNESDAY June 2

Sexual Integrity

Read Romans 1:26, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:15-18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Jude 1:7. What is the basic message of these texts to us today? Notes




Young Megan went off to college. It was her first time away from home for a long period of time. Though she had been taught about sexual immorality, and though she knew what the Bible and her church taught about it, she suddenly found herself in situations where the pressure was very great to give in. She knew it was wrong, she knew this was not what she wanted for her life, she knew that God had something better for her. At first she was strong; at first she resisted. Then, slowly but surely, she compromised, one step at a time. In the beginning, the guilt was terrible; but over time it did not bother her as much as before—not until she found herself with an incurable sexually transmitted disease. Then, and only then, did she start to really ponder the reality of her mistakes.

Sexual immorality in and of itself is bad enough. It is sin, and sin damages our relationship with God and with others. But in this day and age, it can be a very real physical hazard. There are numerous sexually transmitted diseases, from herpes to HIV-AIDS, that can be physically devastating. The surest way to protect yourself from these diseases is to follow biblical principles of sexual morality. Sexual pleasure is for a man and a woman within marriage. Period. Anything outside of that is outside of God’s plan and is wrong; even worse, it can lead to some very serious physical consequences, as well.

And not just physical either. The emotional toll can be terrible, especially for women, upon whom the stigma for sexual immortality often falls the heaviest, however unjustly. Even some secular organizations agree that sexual abstinence outside of marriage is the best choice a person can make.

Of particular concern today is the question of pornography, which since the rise of the Internet is more prevalent than ever. God alone knows how many millions of lives will be ruined through this terrible scourge. There is help for those who get caught up in it; however, for many the shame seems so great they are afraid to get the help they need.

What are your temptations, struggles, frustrations and fears in this special area of human life? Whatever your situation, how can you better avail yourself of the promises of God to see you through them? Notes

THURSDAY June 3

Acting on Belief

In Romans 12:1, 2, Paul implores the Christian to present himself or herself in wholeness to the Lord in service. The integrity of body, mind, and spirit is brought as a whole to the Lord. This requires integrity in each part of the whole.

Some easily comprehend the importance of pure minds but are lax about their physical bodies. As we have seen, this is not a biblical position. Our bodies are gifts from God, and because of that we are commanded by God to take care of them.

Integrity requires that our actions reflect our belief. Today, there remains little room for debate over the broad principles of healthful living. Medical science teaches what we have known for years now. Exercise is important for the body. If we know this, we show a lack of integrity if we neglect giving our bodies the exercise they need. Fresh clean water and moderate amounts of sunshine are so very beneficial. Because we know these things, we are called upon to follow them.

In a time where an epidemic of obesity sweeps many nations, few would refute the dangers of gluttony. We must make choices that only we as individuals can make, regarding how much food we eat and the kind we eat, especially if we are having problems with weight. Tobacco is recognized by nearly all as being the world’s most rampant killer. The use of substances ranging from alcohol and marijuana to cocaine has gutted the productive lives of millions. The Spirit of Prophecy no longer stands alone in advocating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Even government departments of agriculture recommend a reduction in the consumption of many high-fat flesh foods. In short, how much better to follow a vegetarian diet, especially when we know how much better it is for us.

“True religion and the laws of health go hand in hand. It is impossible to work for the salvation of men and women without presenting to them the need of breaking away from sinful gratifications, which destroy the health, debase the soul, and prevent divine truth from impressing the mind. Men and women must be taught to take a careful view of every habit and every practice and at once put away those things that cause an unhealthy condition of the body, and thus cast a dark shadow over the mind. God desires His light bearers ever to keep a high standard before them. By precept and example they must hold their perfect standard high above Satan's false standard, which, if followed, will lead to misery, degradation, disease, and death for both body and soul.”—Ellen G. White, Counsels on Health, p. 480. Notes



Review all of your personal health habits. Are you living up to all the light you know? If not, what is keeping you from making the kinds of changes that can do you only good? Notes

FRIDAY June 4

Further Study:


“The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.”—Ellen G. White, Education, p. 57.

“There is work for us to do—stern, earnest work. All our habits, tastes, and inclinations must be educated in harmony with the laws of life and health. By this means we may secure the very best physical conditions, and have mental clearness to discern between the evil and the good.”—Ellen G. White, Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 28.

“Our danger is not from scarcity, but from abundance. We are constantly tempted to excess. Those who would preserve their powers unimpaired for the service of God, must observe strict temperance in the use of His bounties, as well as total abstinence from every injurious or debasing indulgence.”—Ellen G. White, Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 29. Notes

Discussion Questions:


1 Look at the last Ellen G. White quote above. What does she mean when she write that our danger is from excess? Notes

2 Sunlight is an important component of good health. Here, too, however, we need a balance: a few minutes of sunlight each day can be a great blessing for us; on the other hand, overexposure can lead to health problems. How do we find the right balance here as with everything else? Notes

3 What can your local church do to help with the problem of HIV-AIDS in your local community? Though in some parts of the world, the problem is greater than in others, we all can do at least a small part. Notes

4 What can you do to encourage the young people in your church to abstain from sexual activity outside of marriage? Why is this so important? How can the church help, not just in sexuality but in other things, as well that the young struggle with? How can you help the young (or old, for that matter) make the right choices when it comes to drugs, alcohol, and tobacco? It is one thing to give them dire warnings; it is another actually to do things to help them avoid making the wrong choice or to give them help if they do make mistakes. Notes




I N S I D E Story


Treasure in the Street

by HILARIO CATUKU

As I walked along the street in Luanda, the capital city of Angola, one day, I noticed a folded paper fluttering on the ground. I picked it up and read the title. "Three Angels' Messages," it said. Later at home I read the tract. It spoke about spiritual Babylon, a term that I didn't know.

I asked some church members what "spiritual Babylon" meant, but no one knew. I read the tract again, and asked God to show me what lesson He had for me from this tract.

One day I felt impressed to ask a classmate about the Ten Commandments. As we talked, he recited the Ten Commandments. When he got to the fourth commandment, I asked him to tell me more about it. He explained that Jesus kept the Sabbath.

I sensed that this was what God was trying to tell me through the tract. But I didn't know of any church that worshiped on Saturday. Then my classmate invited me to worship with him on Sabbath. I was curious, so I went. I was impressed with the way the members talked about the Bible issues. The pastor's message touched my heart too.

After the worship service, I met the church elder, who gave me some Bible study guides and information on the Sabbath to read during the week. I continued worshiping with my friend on Sabbath.

Several weeks later I told my aunt, with whom I live, that I was attending the Seventh-day Adventist church. She told me that Sabbath is a Jewish tradition; Christians don't keep the Sabbath. I read Hebrews 4:8-10 to her and explained that this was written after Christ died, meaning that the Sabbath is still valid. She felt betrayed and urged me to give up these false beliefs. But I felt I had found something precious.

I attended school at night, and my classes didn't end until after sunset on Fridays. I talked to the principal, who allowed me to take my exams earlier on Fridays. But sometimes I still couldn't finish before the sun set. So I left the remaining answers blank. In spite of this, I passed. I know that God used these experiences to lead me to a deeper faith.

Angola has more than 300,000 Adventist believers, but many more need to hear God's call out of "spiritual Babylon." Your offerings help us reach more people for Christ in Angola.


HILARIO CATUKU is a teenager who lives in Luanda, Angola.


Produced by the General Conference Office of Adventist Mission.
email: info@adventistmission.org website: www.adventistmission.org

INTEGRITY: WHOLENESS AND HOLINESS

http://faithcenter.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/jesus-christ-sermon-mount.jpg
http://www.essene.com/Yeshua/JesusMountCarmel.gif

Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q206-05-integrity-wholeness-and-holiness



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM

htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org


http://www.absg.adventist.org/




Integrity: Wholeness and Holiness


Memory Text: Titus 2:7-8 NIV 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.


“Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION”. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson Publishers. Used by Permission.


Sabbath Afternoon


Sunday

Jesus in the Wilderness


Matthew 4:1-11 NKJV 1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. 3 Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." 4 But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" 5 Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, 6 and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: 'He shall give His angels charge over you,' and, 'In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.'" 7 Jesus said to him, "It is written again, 'You shall not tempt the LORD your God.'" 8 Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to Him, "All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me." 10 Then Jesus said to him, "Away with you, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.'" 11 Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.


Monday

Maintaining Integrity


Genesis 39:6-12 NKJV 6 Thus he left all that he had in Joseph's hand, and he did not know what he had except for the bread which he ate. Now Joseph was handsome in form and appearance. 7 And it came to pass after these things that his master's wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, "Lie with me." 8 But he refused and said to his master's wife, "Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand.


Genesis 39:9-12 "There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" 10 So it was, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, that he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her. 11 But it happened about this time, when Joseph went into the house to do his work, and none of the men of the house was inside, 12 that she caught him by his garment, saying, "Lie with me." But he left his garment in her hand, and fled and ran outside.


1 Samuel 24:1-10 NKJV 1 Now it happened, when Saul had returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, "Take note! David is in the Wilderness of En Gedi." 2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men from all Israel, and went to seek David and his men on the Rocks of the Wild Goats. 3 So he came to the sheepfolds by the road, where there was a cave; and Saul went in to attend to his needs. (David and his men were staying in the recesses of the cave.) 4 Then the men of David said to him, "This is the day of which the LORD said to you, 'Behold, I will deliver your enemy into your hand, that you may do to him as it seems good to you.'" And David arose and secretly cut off a corner of Saul's robe. 5 Now it happened afterward that David's heart troubled him because he had cut Saul's robe. 6 And he said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the LORD'S anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD." 7 So David restrained his servants with these words, and did not allow them to rise against Saul. And Saul got up from the cave and went on his way. 8 David also arose afterward, went out of the cave, and called out to Saul, saying, "My lord the king!" And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed down. 9 And David said to Saul: "Why do you listen to the words of men who say, 'Indeed David seeks your harm'? 10 "Look, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD delivered you today into my hand in the cave, and someone urged me to kill you. But my eye spared you, and I said, 'I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD'S anointed.'


Daniel 6:1-10 NKJV 1 It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom one hundred and twenty satraps, to be over the whole kingdom; 2 and over these, three governors, of whom Daniel was one, that the satraps might give account to them, so that the king would suffer no loss. 3 Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. 4 So the governors and satraps sought to find some charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him. 5 Then these men said, "We shall not find any charge against this Daniel unless we find it against him concerning the law of his God." 6 So these governors and satraps thronged before the king, and said thus to him: "King Darius, live forever! 7 "All the governors of the kingdom, the administrators and satraps, the counselors and advisors, have consulted together to establish a royal statute and to make a firm decree, that whoever petitions any god or man for thirty days, except you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions. 8 "Now, O king, establish the decree and sign the writing, so that it cannot be changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which does not alter." 9 Therefore King Darius signed the written decree. 10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.


Tuesday

Integrity in Our Spiritual Lives


Ephesians 3:14-21 NKJV 14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height-- 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.


Wednesday

Sexual Integrity


Romans 1:26-27 NKJV 26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.


1 Corinthians 6:15-18 NKJV 15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Certainly not! 16 Or do you not know that he who is joined to a harlot is one body with her? For "the two," He says, "shall become one flesh." 17 But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. 18 Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.


1 Thessalonians 4:3 NKJV 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;


Jude 1:25 NKJV 25 To God our Savior, Who alone is wise, Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever. Amen.

Thursday

Acting on Belief


Romans 12:1-2 NKJV 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.


Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.


Ellen G. White comments, Counsels on Health, p. 480


The Lord has been sending us line upon line, and if we reject these principles, we are not rejecting the messenger who teaches them, but the One who has given us the principles. {CH 480.1}

Be Light Bearers Reform, continual reform, must be kept before the people, and by our example we must enforce our teaching. True religion and the laws of health go hand in hand. It is impossible to work for the salvation of men and women without presenting to them the need of breaking away from sinful gratifications, which destroy the health, debase the soul, and prevent divine truth from impressing the mind. Men and women must be taught to take a careful view of every habit and every practice and at once put away those things that cause an unhealthy condition of the body, and thus cast a dark shadow over the mind. God desires His light bearers ever to keep a high standard before them. By precept and example they must hold their perfect standard high above Satan's false standard, which, if followed, will lead to misery, degradation, disease, and death for both body and soul. Let those who have obtained a knowledge of how to eat and drink and dress so as to preserve health, impart this knowledge to others. Let the poor have the gospel of health preached unto them from a practical point of view, that they may know how to care properly for the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. (481) {CH 480.2}


Friday


Ellen G. White Comments, Education, p. 57


What a lifework was that of these noble Hebrews! As they bade farewell to their childhood home, how little did they dream of their high destiny! Faithful and steadfast, they yielded themselves to the divine guiding, so that through them God could fulfill His purpose. {Ed 57.1}

The same mighty truths that were revealed through these men, God desires to reveal through the youth and the children of today. The history of Joseph and Daniel is an illustration of what He will do for those who yield themselves to Him and with the whole heart seek to accomplish His purpose. {Ed 57.2}

The greatest want of the world is the want of men--men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall. {Ed 57.3}

But such a character is not the result of accident; it is not due to special favors or endowments of Providence. A noble character is the result of self-discipline, of the subjection of the lower to the higher nature--the surrender of self for the service of love to God and man. {Ed 57.4}

The youth need to be impressed with the truth that their endowments are not their own. Strength, time, intellect, are but lent treasures. They belong to God, and it should be the resolve of every youth to put them to the highest use. He is a branch, from which God expects (p.58)

fruit; a steward, whose capital must yield increase; a light, to illuminate the world's darkness.

Ellen G. White, Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 28-29


To win the prize for which they strove,--a chaplet of perishable flowers, bestowed amid the applause of the multitude,--was considered the highest honor. If so much could be endured, so much self-denial practiced, in the hope of gaining so worthless a prize, which only one at best could obtain, how much greater should be the sacrifice, how much more willing the self-denial, for an incorruptible crown, and for everlasting life! {CD 28.1}

There is work for us to do--stern, earnest work. All our habits, tastes, and inclinations must be educated in harmony with the laws of life and health. By this means we may secure the very best physical conditions, and have mental clearness to discern between the evil and the good. {CD 28.2} Daniel's Example (1890) C.T.B.H. 25-28

33. In order rightly to understand the subject of temperance, we must consider it from a Bible standpoint; and nowhere can we find a more comprehensive and forcible illustration of true temperance and its attendant blessings, than is afforded by the history of the prophet Daniel and his Hebrew associates in the court of Babylon. . . . {CD 28.3}

God always honors the right. The most promising youth from all the lands subdued by the great conqueror had been gathered at Babylon, yet amid them all, the Hebrew captives were without a rival. The erect form, the firm, elastic step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath,--all were so many certificates of good habits,--insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws. {CD 28.4}

The history of Daniel and his companions has been recorded on the pages of the Inspired Word for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding ages. What men have done, men may do. Did those youthful Hebrews stand firm amid great temptations, and bear a noble testimony in favor of true temperance? The youth of today may bear a similar testimony. (p. 29 {CD 28.5}

The lesson here presented is one which we would do well to ponder. Our danger is not from scarcity, but from abundance. We are constantly tempted to excess. Those who would preserve their powers unimpaired for the service of God, must observe strict temperance in the use of His bounties, as well as total abstinence from every injurious or debasing indulgence. {CD 29.1}

The rising generation are surrounded with allurements calculated to tempt the appetite. Especially in our large cities, every form of indulgence is made easy and inviting. Those who, like Daniel, refuse to defile themselves, will reap the reward of their temperate habits. With their greater physical stamina and increased power of endurance, they have a bank of deposit upon which to draw in case of emergency. {CD 29.2}

Right physical habits promote mental superiority. Intellectual power, physical strength, and longevity depend upon immutable laws. There is no happen-so, no chance, about this matter. Nature's God will not interfere to preserve men from the consequences of violating nature's laws. There is much sterling truth in the adage, "Every man is the architect of his own fortune." While parents are responsible for the stamp of character, as well as for the education and training, of their sons and daughters, it is still true that our position and usefulness in the world depend, to a great degree, upon our own course of action. Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have made them what they were. The time came when they must act for themselves--when their future depended upon their own course. Then they decided to be true to the lessons given them in childhood. The fear of God, which is the beginning of wisdom, was the foundation of their greatness. His Spirit strengthened every true purpose, every noble resolution. {CD 29.3} R. & H., Jan. 25, 1881 34. The youth [DANIEL, HANANIAH, MISHAEL, AND AZARIAH] in this school of training were not only to be admitted to the royal palace, but it was provided that they should eat of the meat, and drink of the wine, which came from the king's (p. 30) table. In all this the king considered that he was not only bestowing great honor upon them, but securing for them the best physical and mental development that could be attained. {CD 29.4}

Jerry Giardina of Pecos, Texas, assisted by his wife, Cheryl, prepares a series of helps to accompany the Sabbath School lesson. He includes all related scripture and most EGW quotations. Jerry has chosen the "New King James Version" of the scriptures this quarter. It is used with permission.

CHAPTER 26

A Work of Reform

The work of Sabbath reform to be accomplished in the last days is foretold in the prophecy of Isaiah: "Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil." "The sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve Him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, everyone that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of My covenant; even them will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer." Isaiah 56:1, 2, 6, 7.

These words apply in the Christian age, as shown by the context: "The Lord God which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him." Verse 8. Here is foreshadowed the gathering in of the Gentiles by the gospel. And upon those who then honor the Sabbath, a blessing is pronounced. Thus the obligation of the fourth commandment extends past the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, to the time when His servants should preach to all nations the message of glad tidings.

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The Lord commands by the same prophet: "Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples." Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God's law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows His claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the Decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath of the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator's memorial and the sign of His authority.

"To the law and to the testimony." While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring rule by which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be tested. Says the prophet: "If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Verse 20.

Again, the command is given: "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." It is not the wicked world, but those whom the Lord designates as "my people," that are to be reproved for their transgressions. He declares further: "Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God." Isaiah 58:1, 2. Here is brought to view a class who think themselves righteous and appear to manifest great interest in the service of God; but the stern and solemn rebuke of the Searcher of hearts proves them to be trampling upon the divine precepts.

The prophet thus points out the ordinance which has been forsaken: "Thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. If thou turn away

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thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord." Verses 12-14. This prophecy also applies in our time. The breach was made in the law of God when the Sabbath was changed by the Roman power. But the time has come for that divine institution to be restored. The breach is to be repaired and the foundation of many generations to be raised up.

Hallowed by the Creator's rest and blessing, the Sabbath was kept by Adam in his innocence in holy Eden; by Adam, fallen yet repentant, when he was driven from his happy estate. It was kept by all the patriarchs, from Abel to righteous Noah, to Abraham, to Jacob. When the chosen people were in bondage in Egypt, many, in the midst of prevailing idolatry, lost their knowledge of God's law; but when the Lord delivered Israel, He proclaimed His law in awful grandeur to the assembled multitude, that they might know His will and fear and obey Him forever.

From that day to the present the knowledge of God's law has been preserved in the earth, and the Sabbath of the fourth commandment has been kept. Though the "man of sin" succeeded in trampling underfoot God's holy day, yet even in the period of his supremacy there were, hidden in secret places, faithful souls who paid it honor. Since the Reformation, there have been some in every generation to maintain its observance. Though often in the midst of reproach and persecution, a constant testimony has been borne to the perpetuity of the law of God and the sacred obligation of the creation Sabbath.

These truths, as presented in Revelation 14 in connection with "the everlasting gospel," will distinguish the church of Christ at the time of His appearing. For as the result of the

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threefold message it is announced: "Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." And this message is the last to be given before the coming of the Lord. Immediately following its proclamation the Son of man is seen by the prophet, coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth.

Those who received the light concerning the sanctuary and the immutability of the law of God were filled with joy and wonder as they saw the beauty and harmony of the system of truth that opened to their understanding. They desired that the light which appeared to them so precious might be imparted to all Christians; and they could not but believe that it would be joyfully accepted. But truths that would place them at variance with the world were not welcome to many who claimed to be followers of Christ. Obedience to the fourth commandment required a sacrifice from which the majority drew back.

As the claims of the Sabbath were presented, many reasoned from the worldling's standpoint. Said they: "We have always kept Sunday, our fathers kept it, and many good and pious men have died happy while keeping it. If they were right, so are we. The keeping of this new Sabbath would throw us out of harmony with the world, and we would have no influence over them. What can a little company keeping the seventh day hope to accomplish against all the world who are keeping Sunday?" It was by similar arguments that the Jews endeavored to justify their rejection of Christ. Their fathers had been accepted of God in presenting the sacrificial offerings, and why could not the children find salvation in pursuing the same course? So, in the time of Luther, papists reasoned that true Christians had died in the Catholic faith, and therefore that religion was sufficient for salvation. Such reasoning would prove an effectual barrier to all advancement in religious faith or practice.

Many urged that Sundaykeeping had been an established doctrine and a widespread custom of the church for many

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centuries. Against this argument it was shown that the Sabbath and its observance were more ancient and widespread, even as old as the world itself, and bearing the sanction both of angels and of God. When the foundations of the earth were laid, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy, then was laid the foundation of the Sabbath. Job 38:6, 7; Genesis 2:1-3. Well may this institution demand our reverence; it was ordained by no human authority and rests upon no human traditions; it was established by the Ancient of Days and commanded by His eternal word.

As the attention of the people was called to the subject of Sabbath reform, popular ministers perverted the word of God, placing such interpretations upon its testimony as would best quiet inquiring minds. And those who did not search the Scriptures for themselves were content to accept conclusions that were in accordance with their desires. By argument, sophistry, the traditions of the Fathers, and the authority of the church, many endeavored to overthrow the truth. Its advocates were driven to their Bibles to defend the validity of the fourth commandment. Humble men, armed with the word of truth alone, withstood the attacks of men of learning, who, with surprise and anger, found their eloquent sophistry powerless against the simple, straightforward reasoning of men who were versed in the Scriptures rather than in the subtleties of the schools.

In the absence of Bible testimony in their favor, many with unwearying persistence urged--forgetting how the same reasoning had been employed against Christ and His apostles: "Why do not our great men understand this Sabbath question? But few believe as you do. It cannot be that you are right and that all the men of learning in the world are wrong."

To refute such arguments it was needful only to cite the teachings of the Scriptures and the history of the Lord's dealings with His people in all ages. God works through

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those who hear and obey His voice, those who will, if need be, speak unpalatable truths, those who do not fear to reprove popular sins. The reason why He does not oftener choose men of learning and high position to lead out in reform movements is that they trust to their creeds, theories, and theological systems, and feel no need to be taught of God. Only those who have a personal connection with the Source of wisdom are able to understand or explain the Scriptures. Men who have little of the learning of the schools are sometimes called to declare the truth, not because they are unlearned, but because they are not too self-sufficient to be taught of God. They learn in the school of Christ, and their humility and obedience make them great. In committing to them a knowledge of His truth, God confers upon them an honor, in comparison with which earthly honor and human greatness sink into insignificance.

The majority of Adventists rejected the truths concerning the sanctuary and the law of God, and many also renounced their faith in the advent movement and adopted unsound and conflicting views of the prophecies which applied to that work. Some were led into the error of repeatedly fixing upon a definite time for the coming of Christ. The light which was now shining on the subject of the sanctuary should have shown them that no prophetic period extends to the second advent; that the exact time of this advent is not foretold. But, turning from the light, they continued to set time after time for the Lord to come, and as often they were disappointed.

When the Thessalonian church received erroneous views concerning the coming of Christ, the apostle Paul counseled them to test their hopes and anticipations carefully by the word of God. He cited them to prophecies revealing the events to take place before Christ should come, and showed that they had no ground to expect Him in their day. "Let no man deceive you by any means" (2 Thessalonians 2:3), are his words of warning. Should they indulge expectations that were not sanctioned by the Scriptures, they would be led to

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a mistaken course of action; disappointment would expose them to the derision of unbelievers, and they would be in danger of yielding to discouragement and would be tempted to doubt the truths essential for their salvation. The apostle's admonition to the Thessalonians contains an important lesson for those who live in the last days. Many Adventists have felt that unless they could fix their faith upon a definite time for the Lord's coming, they could not be zealous and diligent in the work of preparation. But as their hopes are again and again excited, only to be destroyed, their faith receives such a shock that it becomes well-nigh impossible for them to be impressed by the great truths of prophecy.

The preaching of a definite time for the judgment, in the giving of the first message, was ordered by God. The computation of the prophetic periods on which that message was based, placing the close of the 2300 days in the autumn of 1844, stands without impeachment. The repeated efforts to find new dates for the beginning and close of the prophetic periods, and the unsound reasoning necessary to sustain these positions, not only lead minds away from the present truth, but throw contempt upon all efforts to explain the prophecies. The more frequently a definite time is set for the second advent, and the more widely it is taught, the better it suits the purposes of Satan. After the time has passed, he excites ridicule and contempt of its advocates, and thus casts reproach upon the great advent movement of 1843 and 1844. Those who persist in this error will at last fix upon a date too far in the future for the coming of Christ. Thus they will be led to rest in a false security, and many will not be undeceived until it is too late.

The history of ancient Israel is a striking illustration of the past experience of the Adventist body. God led His people in the advent movement, even as He led the children of Israel from Egypt. In the great disappointment their faith was tested as was that of the Hebrews at the Red Sea. Had they still trusted to the guiding hand that had been with them in

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their past experience, they would have seen the salvation of God. If all who had labored unitedly in the work in 1844, had received the third angel's message and proclaimed it in the power of the Holy Spirit, the Lord would have wrought mightily with their efforts. A flood of light would have been shed upon the world. Years ago the inhabitants of the earth would have been warned, the closing work completed, and Christ would have come for the redemption of His people.

It was not the will of God that Israel should wander forty years in the wilderness; He desired to lead them directly to the land of Canaan and establish them there, a holy, happy people. But "they could not enter in because of unbelief." Hebrews 3:19. Because of their backsliding and apostasy they perished in the desert, and others were raised up to enter the Promised Land. In like manner, it was not the will of God that the coming of Christ should be so long delayed and His people should remain so many years in this world of sin and sorrow. But unbelief separated them from God. As they refused to do the work which He had appointed them, others were raised up to proclaim the message. In mercy to the world, Jesus delays His coming, that sinners may have an opportunity to hear the warning and find in Him a shelter before the wrath of God shall be poured out.

Now as in former ages, the presentation of a truth that reproves the sins and errors of the times will excite opposition. "Everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved." John 3:20. As men see that they cannot maintain their position by the Scriptures, many determine to maintain it at all hazards, and with a malicious spirit they assail the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. It is the same policy which has been pursued in all ages. Elijah was declared to be a troubler in Israel, Jeremiah a traitor, Paul a polluter of the temple. From that day to this, those who would be loyal to truth have been denounced as seditious,

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heretical, or schismatic. Multitudes who are too unbelieving to accept the sure word of prophecy will receive with unquestioning credulity an accusation against those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more. And the Bible plainly teaches that a time is approaching when the laws of the state will so conflict with the law of God that whosoever would obey all the divine precepts must brave reproach and punishment as an evildoer.

In view of this, what is the duty of the messenger of truth? Shall he conclude that the truth ought not to be presented, since often its only effect is to arouse men to evade or resist its claims? No; he has no more reason for withholding the testimony of God's word, because it excites opposition, than had earlier Reformers. The confession of faith made by saints and martyrs was recorded for the benefit of succeeding generations. Those living examples of holiness and steadfast integrity have come down to inspire courage in those who are now called to stand as witnesses for God. They received grace and truth, not for themselves alone, but that, through them, the knowledge of God might enlighten the earth. Has God given light to His servants in this generation? Then they should let it shine forth to the world.

Anciently the Lord declared to one who spoke in His name: "The house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto Me." Nevertheless He said: "Thou shalt speak My words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear." Ezekiel 3:7; 2:7. To the servant of God at this time is the command addressed: "Lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins."

So far as his opportunities extend, everyone who has received the light of truth is under the same solemn and fearful responsibility as was the prophet of Israel, to whom the word of the Lord came, saying: "Son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear

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the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me. When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul." Ezekiel 33:7-9.

The great obstacle both to the acceptance and to the promulgation of truth is the fact that it involves inconvenience and reproach. This is the only argument against the truth which its advocates have never been able to refute. But this does not deter the true followers of Christ. These do not wait for truth to become popular. Being convinced of their duty, they deliberately accept the cross, with the apostle Paul counting that "our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;" with one of old, "esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt." 2 Corinthians 4:17; Hebrews 11:26.

Whatever may be their profession, it is only those who are world servers at heart that act from policy rather than principle in religious things. We should choose the right because it is right, and leave consequences with God. To men of principle, faith, and daring, the world is indebted for its great reforms. By such men the work of reform for this time must be carried forward.

Thus saith the Lord: "Hearken unto Me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is My law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but My righteousness shall be forever, and My salvation from generation to generation." Isaiah 51:7, 8.



Monday, May 24, 2010

TEMPERANCE

JOHN THE BAPTIST
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http://myimages.bravenet.com/317/450/340/4/thexladder.GIF
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Here's Pastor Doug Batchelor from www.amazingfacts.org with the Sacramento church



To study the lesson with Dr Derek Norris of the Lake Forest church, click on the following link:

http://media.forestlakechurch.org/content/media/2010q205-29-temperance



PLEASE GO TO YOUR SIDE BAR AND CLICK ON VIEW AND ON ZOOM IN + AS MANY TIMES AS NEEDED TO ENLARGE THE WHOLE PAGE SO YOU MAY EASILY READ IN THE PDF WHOSE FONTS YOU MAY ENLARGE ALSO DIRECTLY BY RAISING THE PERCENTAGE INCLUDED. LIKE THAT YOU HAVE A BIRD VIEW OF MANY PERSPECTIVES. THANK YOU.

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htpp://www.cqbiblestudy.org



http://www.absg.adventist.org/






“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand”
(Phil. 4:5).

Too Much of a Good Thing
Janalee Shaw, Sykesville, Maryland, U.S.A.
Sabbath Introduction
1 Cor. 9:25–27

Her friends have nicknamed Rachel the Duracell Energizer Bunny in acknowledgment of her devotion to her exercise routine. A petite brunette in her mid-fifties, Rachel worries about the effects of aging on her physical appearance, so she exercises four to five hours every day. She’s been doing this so long that she’s now losing muscle mass. Her personal trainer describes the results: Rachel “is gaunt with more noticeable wrinkles on her face and her body is much flabbier than it used to be. . . . In between her aerobics and weight-training sessions she showers at the gym and blows her hair dry, putting on layers of makeup. She dons the mask of youth, but in my eyes and in the eyes of the other trainers, she looks like an old woman with layers of makeup.”1

Even healthful habits can become destructive.

This energizer bunny belongs to a group of people who are classified as exercise addicts. Knowing moderate amounts of exercise will lead to weight loss and increased health, they reason that greater amounts of exercise will result in greater weight loss and better health. What they don’t realize is that excessive amounts are actually detrimental. In addition to advancing the effects of aging on one’s appearance, exercising too much can also lead to loss of coordination and appetite, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and loss of ability to ward off infection. The potential emotional effects of overexercising include irritability, apathy, depression, emotional sensitivity, and reduced self-esteem.2 Thus even healthful habits can become destructive if they are followed intemperately.

We tend to think of temperance primarily in terms of substances we should not consume, but it should apply to every aspect of our lives. Our heavenly Father has designed us to live balanced lives. When we allow any one part of our life to overshadow all of the other parts, we are being intemperate. Then, because our finely tuned body has been thrown off balance, we experience physical, mental, and even moral weakening.

World-class athletes know self-control is necessary if they expect to perform to the best of their ability. Each aspect of their lives is carefully monitored to ensure it will not interfere with the accomplishment of their ultimate goal. We should likewise practice self-control, ensuring that we live in such a way that nothing will weaken our ability to reach our eternal goal (1 Cor. 9:25–27).
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1. Debbie Mandel, “Hooked on the Pain: Exercise Addiction,” SelfGrowth.com, http://www.selfgrowth .com/articles/Mandel4.html (accessed February 15, 2009).
2. The American Council on Exercise, “Fit Facts,” http://www.acefitness.org/fitfacts/pdfs/fitfacts/itemid_6.pdf (accessed February 15, 2009).




Avoid What Is Bad—Use in Moderation What Is Good
Benedict Oli, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Sunday Logos
Gen. 9:20−27; Prov. 20:1; 23:31−35;
1 Cor. 6:19; 10:31; 2 Pet. 1:5−9



The Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19)
The culture of Corinth during the time of the apostles was similar to the modern-day obsession with materialism and self-gratification. Paul addressed many of the issues that the Christians in Corinth were struggling with. Conventional wisdom of the time claimed that whatever was done in the body had no impact on the spiritual and mental experience of a person. Therefore, many Corinthians indulged in intoxicating spirits, immoral activities, and gluttony with no thought of eternal consequences. Like many today, the Corinthians believed they were free to do with their bodies as they chose.

Hold on to Jesus Christ. Honor Him in all you do.

Paul pleads with us not to be fooled by popular belief. We are ultimately accountable to God for how we treat the bodies that He made and then purchased. Therefore, it is our duty to keep this temple in the best possible condition.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19 Paul compares the body to a temple. Most of us see the modern church as a place where people worship God. The understanding of the temple in biblical times included more than this. In addition to being a place where people went to worship, the temple was where God dwelled. For that reason, the entire building was holy. Likewise, it is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our hearts that hallows our body. Our bodies are not holy of themselves. They are sanctified by the holy God who abides in those people who have surrendered their lives to Him.


Temple Housekeeping (1 Cor. 10:31)
The broader application of 1 Corinthians 10:31 guides us as to how Christians are to conduct themselves in all situations. No matter what we are doing, we are to do it in a manner and spirit in which God can be glorified. In eating and drinking it is important for us to nourish our body temples in such a way that will promote the best possible health. In addition to the huge amount of information about healthful living available today, Seventh-day Adventists have been gifted with a health message through the writings of Ellen G. White. This message comprises clear guidelines on how to maintain our body temples. If we intentionally do something that we know is wrong, we have sinned (James 4:17).

A Lack of Self-Control = An Ineffective Christian (2 Pet. 1:5–9)
Self-control, the cornerstone of temperance, is mentioned in Peter’s list of
attributes necessary for a fruitful Christian life. During the time Peter wrote this list—also known as “Peter’s ladder”3—many similar lists existed. However, all of them had a temporal, philosophical focus, while Peter’s list is a product of divine inspiration.

Self-control, or lack of it, impacts one’s destiny. Self-control is listed as a fruit of the spirit (Gal. 5:23). If the Holy Spirit dwells within a person, the fruit of self-control will be evident in that person. Without self-control, our knowledge of Christ means nothing.

Results of Disobedience (Gen. 9:20–27; Prov. 20:1; 23:31–35)
The Bible records the results of drinking alcohol. Despite his wisdom, Solomon gave in to every tempting lust that assailed him, including alcohol (Eccles. 2:3). In hindsight, he warned against the folly of its use. He points out that consuming it leads to shame and violence, and that people under its influence easily disregard what is right and become scornful of godly matters.4
One of the saddest accounts in the Bible is found in Genesis 9:20–27. Following is a summary of the story and its corresponding lessons for us:

Noah became drunk and lay naked in his tent. How shameful for this mighty preacher of God, the man who found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Our lesson? No matter what great things God has done for you and through you—do not take your salvation for granted.

Ham saw his father, and with much laughter told his brothers. Ham, a believer in what Noah preached, was now behaving like those who had scoffed at Noah as he built the ark. Our lesson? Once saved does not mean always saved. Do not let down your guard against sin.

Shem and Japheth maintained their uprightness of character. Our lesson? It does not matter if the people who gave you the good news are slipping and falling, don’t slip and fall with them. Furthermore, if members whom you came in with start to falter, do not be discouraged. Hold on to Jesus Christ. Honor Him in all you do.

It seems easier to give in to the lust of the flesh rather than be temperate, for what our human nature wants is opposite from what the Spirit wants (Gal. 5:17). To live a life that honors God means that we need to deny ourselves perceived pleasures. God never said that the road to salvation would be easy, but He did promise to help us overcome every trial (Ps. 50:15).

REACT
1. Why is it unsafe to indulge in harmful substances even in small amounts?
2. Does being temperate mean abstaining from evils only? What about the prospects of having too much of a good thing?
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1. Robert H. Gundry, A Survey of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2003), p. 376.
2. H. D. M. Spence and Joseph S. Exell, The Pulpit Commentary, vol. 19 (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 1978), p. 222.
3. The SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, p. 597.
4. Ibid., vol. 3, p. 1014.




The Will to Glorify God
Joy Josephine Torato, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Monday Testimony
1 Cor. 10:31

“God calls for a living sacrifice, not a dead or dying one. When we realize the requirements of God, we shall see that He requires us to be temperate in all things. The end of our creation is to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, which are His. How can we do this when we indulge the appetite to the injury of the physical and moral powers? God requires that we present our bodies a living sacrifice. Then the duty is enjoined on us to preserve that body in the very best condition of health, that we may comply with His requirements. ‘Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.’ ”1

“God requires that His people be temperate in all things.”

“Satan is no novice in the business of destroying souls. He well knows that he can lead men and women into wrong habits of eating and drinking, he has gained, in a great degree, the control of their minds and baser passions. In the beginning man ate of fruits of the earth, but sin brought into use the flesh of dead animals as food. This diet works directly against the spirit of true refinement and moral purity.

“God requires that His people be temperate in all things. The example of Christ, during that long fast in the wilderness, should teach His followers to repulse Satan when he comes under the guise of appetite. Then may they have influence to reform those who have been led astray by indulgence, and have lost moral power to overcome the weakness and sin that has taken possession of them. Thus may Christians secure health and happiness, in a pure, well-ordered life and a mind clear and untainted before God.”2

“Physical inaction lessens not only mental but moral power. The brain nerves that connect with the whole system are the medium through which heaven communicates with man and affects the inmost life. Whatever hinders the circulation of the electric current in the nervous system, thus weakening the vital powers and lessening mental susceptibility, makes it more difficult to arouse the moral nature.”3


REACT
1. Identify and list the things that hinder you from obtaining both physical and spiritual health.
2. What does Paul imply in 1 Corinthians 9:27? What is he saying about the mind’s relation to the body?

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1. Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 65.
2. Temperance, p. 162.
3. Education, p. 209.

AND JUST LEAVE YOUR CURSOR ON THE VERSES SO YOU MAY READ THEM



Works and Salvation
Roboam Kakap, Kokopo, Papua New Guinea
Tuesday Evidence
Eph. 2:8–10

In the Old Testament, the word grace is translated from the Hebrew word chen. Chen usually describes the action of a superior person or being who is showing undeserved favor to an inferior.1 In Ephesians, Paul used charis to describe God’s grace. His letter is most likely a circular letter addressed to Ephesian believers in all the churches of Ephesus.2 In it, he focuses on two themes: the church’s spiritual privileges and the church’s responsibilities. Among the privileges, Paul talks about the privilege of receiving God’s grace.

Good works are the result of salvation, not the cause of it.

In Ephesians 2:8, 9, Paul points out that we are saved by grace through faith. It is God’s unmerited favor toward us that forgives our sins and gifts us with salvation. It is our faith that believes this is so and enables us to accept God’s grace. Paul makes it clear that it is also God’s unmerited favor toward us that enables us to break sinful habits and to live in a way that honors God.

However, it is not enough to acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Messiah. Even the demons believe that, but this knowledge does not save them (James 2:19). Having access to the grace of God requires faith on the part of the sinner. This faith is not merely an abstract belief. It also involves obedience.

We are saved by God’s grace through the faith we have in Him. And it is the grace of God that motivates us to do good works. We must remember that good works are the result of salvation, not the cause of it. Belief that accepts God’s grace without any corresponding good deeds is worthless (James 2:26). Faith and actions work together so that our faith is made complete by our actions.
Practicing a diligent temperate life will not save anyone. The basis of our salvation is the grace of God. It is the strength of His love for His sin-fallen creatures that bridges the gap between the Creator and His lost children. It is the grace of God that also strengthens us to do good works. The only kind of faith that saves is the faith that responds in obedience and bears much good fruit. Jesus makes it clear that those who fail to produce good fruit will not be saved (Matt. 7:19).

REACT
1. What kind of fruit are you producing (see Galatians 5:16–26)?
2. Is there ever a proverbial fence to sit on when it comes to temperance?
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1. J. D. Douglas, New Bible Dictionary, 3rd ed. (Leicester: InterVarsity Press, 1996), p. 433.
2. Robert H. Gundry, A Survey of the New Testament, 4th ed. (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2003), p. 423.




Temperance
Vanessa Geita, Madang, Papua New Guinea
How-to
Wednesday
1 Cor. 10:31; 2 Pet. 1:5–9

God is interested in all aspects of our lives, including our health. Our responsibility is to take care of our bodies so that whatever we do brings glory to Him. Most people think of what they eat and drink when they think of temperance. To many people, temperance is controlling the urge to eat or drink more than what is enough. However, temperance should also be applied to other aspects of life, such as watching television or movies, listening to music, surfing the Internet, spending money, selecting one’s wardrobe, sleeping, talking, and even controlling one’s imagination.

No one can force any one else to be temperate.

So how can we be temperate in all that we do, think, and say? Here are a few tips:

Prioritize. Start each day with prayer and Bible study, asking God to lead you through each step of the way as He desires, so that you will do what you need to do and not waste your time on things that are insignificant. Too many activities, even good activities, tend to complicate life and consume time so that we spend less time with God. Give your first and best attention to the things that matter most—the things of eternal value.

Know your limits. Ignorance is a lame excuse in this day and age when information is literally at our fingertips. Take time to learn about the dangers of excessiveness in anything and everything you do. We will be accountable on judgment day for knowing what is right but not doing it.

Draft a timetable or schedule. You do not have to strictly follow it, but a timetable can be a guide regarding how to spend your time doing the things you need to do for the day, the week, the month, and the year.

Be responsible. Temperance is a choice each of us has to make on his or her own. No one can force any one else to be temperate. Be diligent in all you do, think, and say for your own good, but even more so, for the glory of God.

REACT
1. In what areas of your life do you need to be more temperate?
2. As you review 2 Peter 1:5–9, ask yourself how you can apply the principles found there in your efforts to practice temperance.
3. What good activities are currently taking too much of your time at the expense of spending time with God?
4. How does a life lived temperately glorify God?



“Forbidden Pleasures”
Gina Renee Wahlen, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.A.
Thursday Opinion
Prov. 23:31, 32

“Laura Catagena swore off air conditioning, careerism, and sex . . . but her comfortable suburban upbringing only made it that much harder to try to live as Jesus would,” stated the Washington Post Magazine on its front cover of January 25, 2009. In her cover article, “The Trouble With Saintliness,” Darragh Johnson chronicles Laura’s struggles between living a temperate lifestyle and resisting the temptation of forbidden pleasures.

Prisons are filled with intemperate people who could not control themselves.

For many, the word temperance means a long list of dos and don’ts. It often conjures up images of early twentieth century temperance societies with their posters and laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol. Living a life of temperance is often portrayed as a boring existence in which one is deprived of the pleasures of life. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

It means choosing what is best, regardless of immediate circumstances and temptations. When it comes to living a life of success or of failure, it is often temperance that draws the line between the two. Prisons are filled with intemperate people who could not control themselves. On the other hand, people who are successful have learned that self-control—temperance—is the path that led them to success.

Thomas Yellich, a philanthropy professional, says, “Our society is based on consumption. . . More food, more drugs, more sex, just more of all things seems to be what will make us all happy eventually. Only it is not true.” “Learn self-control, discipline, limits, [and] responsibility and not only will you become a better person, you will become happy.”*

The irony of forbidden “pleasures” is that while the initial moment may be gratifying, the lasting results are often devastating. Rather than delivering freedom and happiness, intemperance delivers just the opposite—chains and misery. Read Proverbs 23:31, 32.

To be temperate is to use the mind that God has given you, recognizing that forbidden momentary pleasures do not bring lasting happiness, and choosing a better way.
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*Thomas Yellich, response to Bill Gates, “A New Approach to Cap[italism in the 21st Century,”
http://creativecapitalism.typepad.com/creative_capitalism/2008/06/bill-gates-crea.html#comment
-12-633912 (accessed May 5, 2009).



Under Control
Sandra Araújo-Delgado, Apison, Tennessee, U.S.A.
Friday Exploration
Prov. 25:28; 1 Cor. 10:31;
Gal. 5:22, 23; 2 Pet. 1:5


CONCLUDE
Our fallen nature constantly drives us to satisfy our cravings without restraint. Often the results are regrettable. Our society is plagued with obesity, alcoholism, and drug addiction, showing clearly that we are reaping what we sowed. As Christians, we are not immune to self-gratification. We can be self-indulgent with our time, our bodies, and with other resources such as talents and money. We may even embrace excess in the name of a “good cause.” God’s model for us is one of balance in everything we do. Only in living a balanced life can we glorify God and find true contentment.

CONSIDER
Designing a logo for a temperance fair. Consider changing the negative image the word temperance often has.
Charting your daily activities for one week. Analyze your results to find out if any area of your life is overshadowing another.
Rephrasing Luke 9:23. E-mail your paraphrase to some friends and ask what it means to them.
Taking a walk in a nearby park. Document any instances in nature where you can observe temperance or balance.
Writing an article on temperance for your school newspaper or church newsletter. Use 1 Corinthians 10:31 as your basis.
Making a collage of things in your life that may require self-control, such as watching TV, reading, talking on the phone, surfing the Internet, listening to music, and any others you might think of.
Writing the statement “By God’s power, I will choose what is best regardless of the circumstances.” Place it where you can see it every day.

CONNECT
Prophets and Kings, chapter 39.