Lesson 5 Obedience: The Fruit of Revival– July 27 to August 2, 3nd Quarter 2013 REVIVAL AND REFORMATION. The lesson in verses, with notes, comes after the outlines of important Bible passages in its context. 

Friends,

   Revival will happen this time, and this is the way: If we ask God to give us His Holy Spirit and pray for each other, even for people we're not comfortable with in the church. As simple as that...

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THIS VIDEO CAN BE SHOWN AT YOUR CHURCHES AS IT IS MORE THAN RELEVANT TO THE LESSONS. BE PATIENT AND WAIT TO UNDERSTAND ALL THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS AND ALL THE CONNECTIONS IN ORDER TO APPRECIATE THE POWER AND THE ATTENTION OF GOD, APART FROM THE EXTRAORDINARY IMAGES.

Click on the video at the bottom right for a totally enlarged screen, and connect the sound to powerful headphones and/or quality speakers. Find a Good Time, Be Amazed and Enjoy the Inspiration...PLEASE SHOW THIS VIDEO AT YOUR CHURCHES ON SABBATH AFTERNOON, BELIEVE ME IT WILL BE A HIT. SURELY IT WILL HAVE A BLESSED EFFECT ON THE SPIRITUALITY OF THE CHURCH.  MAY GOD BLESS YOU EVEN MORE AND KEEP YOU IN A FRUITFUL FAITH IN HIM.

Click on the following links and open another tab for these playlists. Listen to sacred music while studying the lesson.

Heritage Singers sing to give glory to God in order to comfort you and strengthen your faith: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgnbF8BcALg&list=PLA6FC3F51B3D3592A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13U7QmSfmcI&list=PL5362507232EC2F63
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQ8IRymyYVo&list=PL0B2EC328B1EBB04F

Wintley Phipps sings and gives glory to God in order to exhort you and encourage you:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8HffdyLd0c&list=PL1F72C26656C325A9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMF_24cQqT0&list=PLF6E0F80C111634BB
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVlAPL901Gk&list=PLA7473A1301242907


From http://www.ssnet.org/lessons/13c/less05.html
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Lesson& References Index 

Lesson 5 – July 27- August 2

Obedience: The Fruit of Revival

(All Bible texts are in the NKJV Bible unless otherwise indicated)

 

Sabbath Afternoon

Memory text: 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

In the Sabbath School lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

An illustration of the impact of revival on daily life can be seen in the Welsh Revival of 1904. Evan Roberts and some of his friends began earnestly praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They interceded, studied Scripture, and shared their faith.

The Spirit was poured out in response. Lives were changed. In six months there were one hundred thousand conversions in the small country of Wales. The results of this revival were seen throughout the country. Throughout the day people flocked to churches by the thousands for prayer. The rough cursing coal miners were transformed into kind, courteous gentlemen. Even the pit ponies in the coal mines had to learn new commands because the miners were not cursing at them anymore! Transformed, obedient lives sprang from converted hearts. This is irrefutable evidence of a true revival.

In www.cqbiblestudy.org

Introduction A Revived Heart

John 8:27–29

Sabbath JULY 27

“Jesus said to them, ‘When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father taught Me, I speak these things. And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him’ ” (John 8:28, 29, NKJV).

The longing that I once had has finally ended.

 

Sunday – The Transformed Life

Matthew 26:69-74

69 Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.”71 And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”72 But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!”73 And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are oneof them, for your speech betrays you.”74 Then he began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!”
Immediately a rooster crowed.

John 21:15-19

15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”
16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Tend My sheep.”
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”
And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”
Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. 18 Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” 19 This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me.”

Acts 5:28-32

28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!”
29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also isthe Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

In the Sabbath School lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

Revival does not simply result in some warm, fuzzy feeling of supposed closeness to Jesus. It results in a changed life. There were times when the Bible writers felt extremely close to Jesus, and at other times they felt distant. There were times when their spirits soared in ecstasy, and they delighted in the joy of His presence. At other times, they did not feel the nearness of His presence at all.

The results of revival are not necessarily positive feelings. They are a changed life. Our feelings are not the fruit of revival. Again, obedience is. This is evident in the lives of the disciples after Pentecost.

T...he outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost made a dramatic difference in Peter’s life. It transformed him from a weak, vacillating believer to a faith-filled, obedient disciple. Once full of brash words and empty promises, Peter now became filled with faith, courage, and zeal for witnessing. It is a powerful example of what the Holy Spirit can do for anyone surrendered in faith and obedience to our Lord.

Logos Who and What Are You?

2 Chron. 7:14

Sunday JULY 28

Who Are We? (2 Chron. 7:1, 3, 14)

In response to the dedication of the temple built by Solomon, God rained fire down from heaven to consume the offering made to Him. Those in attendance knelt and worshiped God, giving Him thanks. Later, after the people had returned to their homes, God appeared to Solomon during the night and said, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chron. 7:14, NIV). This verse tells us so much about ourselves and what life is meant to be: (1) We are God’s people. (2) We are called by His name. (3) If we humble ourselves, if we seek Him and obey Him, He will hear us and forgive our sins.

God knows the heart. A truly penitent heart will be forgiven and cleansed!

What Does God Expect of Us? (2 Chron. 7:14; Ps. 51:17)

God says we are to be humble and to have a broken and contrite heart. During Bible times, humility was connected with low socioeconomic status. During New Testament times, the Greco-Roman world regarded humility as a sign of weakness or even a character flaw.1 This is not so, however, when God applies the term to His people. It is a virtue to walk humbly with Him. David gives us an excellent description of what it means to be humble: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; / a broken and contrite heart, / O God, you will not despise” (Ps. 51:17, NIV). Such a heart is ready and willing to obey God.

In addition to being humble, God expects us to pray. Prayer is said to be communication with God that binds us to Him in an intimate, reciprocal relationship based on Christ’s merits.2 Therefore, we can boldly go to God through Christ, even to His throne, so “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb. 4:16, NIV). Without such prayer, it is impossible to obey Him.

Seeking God’s face is another activity that fosters obedience. The word seek points to a desire and a striving or driving force behind the act of seeking.3 Such seeking is our responsibility. It is our choice. Nothing will stop the person who earnestly seeks God’s presence. “ ‘You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart’ ” (Jer. 29:13, NIV).

A fourth thing expected of us in 2 Chronicles 7:14 is to turn from our wicked ways. Isaiah 55:7 says, “ ‘Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon’ ” (NIV). When we do this, we turn toward a life of obedience.

What Does God Promise In Return? (2 Chron. 7:14)

When we humble ourselves before God, seek His face, and turn from our sinful ways, God will hear us. Isaiah 59:1, 2 states that “surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, / nor his ear too dull to hear. / But your iniquities have separated / you from your God; / your sins have hidden his face from you, / so that he will not hear” (NIV). When we honestly seek to obey God, He will answer our prayers.

God will also forgive us our sins when we humble ourselves before Him. Daniel’s prayer is a perfect example of how we can do this. “ ‘O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act. For your sake, O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name’ ” (Dan. 9:19, NIV). In the New Testament, we read that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV). This formula has not changed. God knows the heart. A truly penitent heart will be forgiven and cleansed!

Yet another thing God promises us when we obey Him is that He will not forsake us. “It will no longer be said to you, ‘Forsaken,’ / Nor to your land will it any longer be said, ‘Desolate’; / But you will be called, ‘My delight is in her,’ / And your land, ‘Married’; / For the Lord delights in you, / And to Him your land will be married. / For as a young man marries a virgin, / So your sons will marry you; / And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, / So your God will rejoice over you” (Isa. 62:4, 5, NASB).

REACT
1. How would you describe your relationship with God?
2. In what ways can you start a revival in your own heart and church?
3. Take some time to consider your own relationship to God in terms of obedience. Ask Him to show you where you can do better, and ask Him for the help to do so.
1. T. J. Jenney, Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2000), p. 617.
2. Ibid., p. 1077.
3. G. Johannes Botterweck and Helmer Ringgren, Theological Dictionary of the Old Testament, vol. 2 (Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1979), pp. 229–241.

 

Monday –  The High Cost of Obedience

Acts 6:3-10

3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; 4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, 6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.
7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.9 Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen. 10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.

Acts 7:55

55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God,

Read Acts 7

Acts 7:51-52

51 “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers,

Acts 7:54-60

54 When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him withtheir teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, 56 and said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”
57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord;58 and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

In the Sabbath School lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

The infilling of the Holy Spirit led the disciples to live unselfish, godly lives. Their faith led them to obedience. At times the spiritual warfare was fierce, but Jesus, their Savior and Lord, was by their side to strengthen their faith. They were stoned, imprisoned, burned at the stake, and shipwrecked. Their obedience also often came with an unusually high price. Many of the disciples suffered a martyr’s death.

In Acts 7, Stephen preached a magnificent sermon outlining the history of Israel. He described the experience of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and Solomon. Throughout his appeal, Stephen describes God’s faithfulness in the light of Israel’s unfaithfulness. Stephen concludes his sermon by charging that the religious leaders of Israel violated God’s covenant and resisted the influence of the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:51-52).

Stephen was obedient to the call of God and faithful to the mission of God, even to the point of death. Though we might not all be called to die for our faith, we need to be so committed to our Lord that, if we were called to that, we would not back off but, like Stephen, remain faithful to the end. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that someone reading these words right now will one day have to give up his or her life in the cause of the Lord.

What would happen were you to face a life-threatening situation because of your powerful witness? Though you might not be able now to predict what you would do, how have your past actions revealed the way in which you might react if one day you were brought into such a situation?

Testimony Obedience in Action

John 8:27–29; Phil. 2:5–8

Monday JULY 29

“God justly claims the love and obedience of all His creatures.”1
“If we will but listen, God’s created works will teach us precious lessons of obedience and trust. From the stars that in their trackless course through space, follow from age to age their appointed path, down to the minutest atom, the things of nature obey the Creator’s will. And God cares for everything and sustains everything that he has created.”2

We can be sure that His leading will always be in our best interest.

“God has made known His will, and it is folly for man to question that which has gone out of His lips. After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there can be no doubtful questions for man to settle, no wavering possibilities for him to adjust. All that is required of him is a frank, earnest concurrence in the expressed will of God. Obedience is the highest dictate of reason as well as of conscience.”3
Submission to our Creator’s will is a clear sign that we have come to the realization that only He knows what is in our best interest, even when we are unable to comprehend His reasoning. We can be sure that His leading will always be in our best interest.

“So the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Saviour, pervades the soul, renews the motives and affections, and brings even the thoughts into obedience to the will of God, enabling the receiver to bear the precious fruit of holy deeds.”4

A miraculous work takes place when we submit our lives to God. But the impact of a life yielded to Christ is not limited to the individual. Such an impact can be seen throughout a person’s entire sphere of influence.

REACT
1. How does Jesus’ obedience inspire you to be obedient to God’s Word?
2. In what areas of your life have you questioned God’s leading?
3. What specific decisions can you make today that would put God back in control of your life?
1. Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, p. 425.
2. White, Christian Education, p. 54.
3. White, The Acts of the Apostles, p. 506.
4. Ibid., p. 284.

 

 

Tuesday - When the Spirit Surprises

Acts 9:1-9

9 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”
Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 119-122.

During the long hours when Saul was shut in with God alone, he recalled many of the passages of Scripture referring to the first advent of Christ. Carefully he traced down the prophecies, with a memory sharpened by the conviction that had taken possession of his mind. As he reflected on the meaning of these prophecies he was astonished at his former blindness of understanding and at the blindness of the Jews in general, which had led to the rejection of Jesus as the promised Messiah. To his enlightened vision all now seemed plain. He knew that his former prejudice and unbelief had clouded his spiritual perception and had prevented him from discerning in Jesus of Nazareth the Messiah of prophecy.

As Saul yielded himself fully to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, he saw the mistakes of his life and recognized the far-reaching claims of the law of God. He who had been a proud Pharisee, confident that he was justified by his good works, now bowed before God with the humility and simplicity of a little child, confessing his own unworthiness and pleading the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. Saul longed to come into full harmony and communion with the Father and the Son; and in the intensity of his desire for pardon and acceptance he offered up fervent supplications to the throne of grace.

The prayers of the penitent Pharisee were not in vain. The inmost thoughts and emotions of his heart were transformed by divine grave; and his nobler faculties were brought into harmony with the eternal purposes of God. Christ and His righteousness became to Saul more than the whole world.
The conversion of Saul is a striking evidence of the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit to convict men of sin. He had verily believed that Jesus of Nazareth had disregarded the law of God and had taught His disciples that it was of no effect. But after his conversion, Saul recognized Jesus as the one who had come into the world for the express purpose of vindicating His Father's law. He was convinced that Jesus was the originator of the entire Jewish system of sacrifices. He saw that at the crucifixion type had met antitype, that Jesus had fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Redeemer of Israel.

In the record of the conversion of Saul important principles are given us, which we should ever bear in mind. Saul was brought directly into the presence of Christ. He was one whom Christ intended for a most important work, one who was to be a "chosen vessel" unto Him; yet the Lord did not at once tell him of the work that had been assigned him. He arrested him in his course and convicted him of sin; but when Saul asked, "What wilt Thou have me to do?" the Saviour placed the inquiring Jew in connection with His church, there to obtain a knowledge of God's will concerning him.  The marvelous light that illumined the darkness of Saul was the work of the Lord; but there was also a work that was to be done for him by the disciples. Christ had performed the work of revelation and conviction; and now the penitent was in a condition to learn from those whom God had ordained to teach His truth.

While Saul in solitude at the house of Judas continued in prayer and supplication, the Lord appeared in vision to "a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias," telling him that Saul of Tarsus was praying and in need of help. "Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight," the heavenly messenger said, "and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight."

Ananias could scarcely credit the words of the angel; for the reports of Saul's bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem had spread far and wide. He presumed to expostulate: "Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Thy name." But the command was imperative: "Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel."

Obedient to the direction of the angel, Ananias sought out the man who had but recently breathed out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Jesus; and putting his hands on the head of the penitent sufferer, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
"And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized."

Thus Jesus gave sanction to the authority of His organized church and placed Saul in connection with His appointed agencies on earth. Christ had now a church as His representative on earth, and to it belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life.

Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of His recognized followers on earth. Jesus is the friend of sinners, and His heart is touched with their woe. He has all power, both in heaven and on earth; but He respects the means that He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men; He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of light to the world.

When, in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Saul was given a revelation of the Christ whom he was persecuting, he was placed in direct communication with the church, which is the light of the world. In this case Ananias represents Christ, and also represents Christ's ministers upon the earth, who are appointed to act in His stead. In Christ's stead Ananias touches the eyes of Saul, that they may receive sight. In Christ's stead he places his hands upon him, and, as he prays in Christ's name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All is done in the name and by the authority of Christ. Christ is the fountain; the church is the channel of communication.

Acts 9:10-16

10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”
And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”
13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”
15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”


In the Sabbath School lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

...Saul’s Damascus Road experience changed not only his life, but it changed the world, as well.

...“Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of His recognized followers on earth. Jesus is the friend of sinners, and His heart is touched with their woe. He has all power, both in heaven and on earth; but He respects the means that He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men; He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of light to the world.

“When, in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Saul was given a revelation of the Christ whom he was persecuting, he was placed in direct communication with the church, which is the light of the world.”-Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, p. 122.


In www.cqbiblestudy.org

Evidence Revival, the Holy Spirit, and the Great Controversy

Acts 1; 2:41; 7–9

Tuesday JULY 30

The book of Acts is considered to be a sequel to Luke’s Gospel. The central theme of Acts is found in chapter 1:4–8. During His final moments on earth, Christ meets with His disciples. He tells them to wait for the gift God promised them—the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

“ ‘You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth’ ” (Acts 1:8, NIV). Before becoming witnesses to the entire world, the disciples were instructed to wait for a revival of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Only by experiencing the infilling of the Spirit would they be able to reach the world with the gospel. Genuine revival depends on the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. After the completion of Christ’s earthly ministry, He promised the coming of the Holy Spirit. Immediately after this we read about Christ’s ascension to heaven (verses 9–11).

Our victory is sure if we remain faithful to our Savior.
When the Holy Spirit came, a powerful revival took place. Peter delivered a sermon that stirred the hearts of many. In one day, about three thousand people were baptized (Acts 2:41). True revival leads to heartfelt conversion. As the early church grew, persecution increased. In Acts, chapters 7–9, we witness the great controversy occurring in terrible ways. Satan attacks God’s people, and Stephen dies a martyr. Meanwhile, Saul persecutes the church in Jerusalem. Christ, however, is ultimately victorious. Saul becomes Paul and one of Christ’s greatest spokespersons. The gospel grew rapidly through his preaching, despite the persecution he faced.

Such is the case in the life of any faithful believer. When true conversion takes place, Satan will think of many clever ways to tempt us. We are in the midst of the great controversy between him and Christ. Our victory is sure if we remain faithful to our Savior.

Wednesday - Sensitivity to the Spirit’s Call

Acts 26:18

18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’

Acts 26:19-32

19 “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. 21 For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.22 Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come— 23 that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.”
24 Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!”
25 But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason.26 For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner.27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.”
28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”
29 And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.”
30 When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; 31 and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.”
32 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

John 12:35-36

35 Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. 36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.”These things Jesus spoke, and departed, and was hidden from them.


In the Sabbath School lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

Throughout his ministry, Paul was guided by the Spirit, convicted by the Spirit, instructed by the Spirit, and empowered by the Spirit. In his defense before King Agrippa, he described the heavenly vision on the Damascus Road. He then testified that the purpose of his ministry to both the Jews and Gentiles was “‘“to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me”’” (Acts 26:18, NKJV).

In direct contrast to Paul, King Agrippa did not yield to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. His own self-inflated importance and egotistical desires were in conflict with the Spirit’s prompting for a new life in Christ.

Jesus stated it clearly: “‘A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.’” (John 12:35, 36, NKJV).
As we obediently follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit and walk in the light of God’s truth, He will continually reveal more light and truth. At the same time, too, the more that we push away the prompting of the Holy Spirit, the more that we resist Him, the harder our hearts will become.

 

“Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28). Those are some of the most poignant, powerful, and sad words in all the Bible. In what ways can we be in danger of harboring a similar attitude? For instance, how does compromise in our walk with the Lord reveal the same principle that is seen in Agrippa’s words?

How-to Obedience to God’s Will

Matt. 1:18–24; 3:17; Luke 1:26–56

Wednesday JULY 31

The only way to experience revival and reformation through Spirit-led obedience is to trust God implicitly and recognize that we don’t have all the answers. Following are examples of people who did just that:

1. Joseph and Mary. Imagine your wife coming to you just before the wedding to tell you that she’s pregnant. You both think, Wait a minute! This isn’t possible! We don’t have a sexual relationship! Joseph thinks the child isn’t his and that Mary has betrayed him. Later, an angel appears to him to instruct him not to worry about taking Mary as his wife because the Child has been conceived by the Holy Spirit. Now Joseph must have felt really confused. Imagine if Joseph had permitted his doubts to get the best of him. However, he remained faithful to God by obeying His commands.

Despite all of this opposition, He remained faithful to God.

When the angel first appeared to Mary to share with her God’s plan, she couldn’t help but wonder how it was possible. Yet, even despite her questions, she accepted God’s plan. “ ‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said’ ” (Luke 1:38, NIV).
What about you? Are you being obedient to God’s will? Dare to be like Joseph and Mary, even when God asks you to do the seemingly impossible. As a result of your obedience, He will grow His fruit of revival in your heart.

2. Jesus. The life of Jesus was one of hardship and pain. People questioned His divinity, Satan tried to derail His mission, and the Pharisees hated Him. Despite all of this opposition, He remained faithful to God. He was always looking to please His heavenly Father. No wonder that in Matthew 3:17 we read these words spoken by God: “ ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased’ ” (NIV). God was pleased that Jesus’ only purpose in life was to do His Father’s will, and, as a result of Jesus’ obedience, God opened the heavens and allowed His Holy Spirit to descend upon Jesus. What a blessing and a privilege. You, too, can experience the same revival Christ received. You, too, can regain your first love.

Thursday – Spirit-Led Obedience

Matthew 1:20

20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 3:16-17

16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

Acts 10:34-38

34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality.35 But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him.36 The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all— 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.

John 8:29

29 And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.”

Hebrews 10:7

7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—
In the volume of the book it is written of Me—
To do Your will, O God.’”

Philippians 2:8

8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

Romans 1:5

5 Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name,

Romans 2:8

8 but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath,

Romans 6:15-23

15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not!16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? 17 But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. 18 And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. 19 I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves of uncleanness, and of lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves of righteousness for holiness.
20 For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21 What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those thingsis death. 22 But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:12-17

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.


In the Sabbath school lesson by Mark Finley, www.ssnet.org

The Holy Spirit played a major role in every aspect of Jesus’ life. He was “conceived of the Holy Spirit” (NKJV) at birth and “anointed . . . with the Holy Spirit and with power” (NKJV) at baptism-the birth of His ministry (Matt. 1:20; 3:16-17; Acts 10:34-38). Throughout Christ’s life, He was obedient to the Father’s will (John 8:29, Heb. 10:7).


...He who was “in the form,” or the very essence of God, “made Himself” (or as the original Greek text of the New Testament says) “emptied Himself” of His privileges and prerogatives as God’s equal and, instead, became “a servant.”

Jesus was a servant to the Father’s will. He “humbled Himself” and became, “obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Phil. 2:8). Jesus provides an example of what a life filled with the Holy Spirit is like. It is a life of willing obedience and humble submission to the Father’s will. It is a prayerful life devoted to service and ministry, a life consumed with the passionate desire to see others saved in the Father’s kingdom.

The apostle Paul declares that Spirit-filled, New Testament believers have “received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name” (Rom. 1:5, NKJV). The heathen, on the other hand, “are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness-indignation and wrath” (Rom. 2:8, NKJV).

 

In Romans 6:15-23, Paul uses two contrasting expressions, “slaves of sin” (NKJV) and “slaves of righteousness” (NKJV). In Romans 8:12-17, he describes the “spirit of bondage” and the “Spirit of adoption.” What does your own experience with the Lord, with faith, with the struggle against sin, and for acceptance with God tell you about the meaning of these terms?

Opinion A Revival From the Spirit

2 Cor. 10:2–5

Thursday AUGUST 1

Many social movements have made a difference in the world. Some have had negative effects, while others began with great intentions, but eventually became imbalanced. True revival and reformation, however, is not a social movement, and its benefits surpass any other attempts at change. Such is the work of the Holy Spirit, who moves us to obey out of love for God. It is not just that we obey. It is why we obey. People who follow Christ out of a love that flows from the sanctification of the Holy Spirit will live in harmony with God’s Word. Their focus will be on Christ because He is the ultimate example of love. His love for humanity led Him to obedience and to suffer death on the cross. Love leads to obedience. This is why the Bible teaches that love for God is seen in our obedience to Him.

Spirit-led obedience occurs when we focus on Christ and His sacrifice.

Many Christians, however, have become imbalanced. They do not love God as they should, and they depend on their own power to obey Him. They concentrate on the law rather than on the Law-Giver. Yet the only way we can experience true revival and reformation is not by focusing on what we do, but on Christ and His sacrifice.

As the Holy Spirit enters into our lives as He did Christ’s, and as we continually allow the Spirit to work within us, we will be revived and transformed. But we must decide that we want the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Spirit-led obedience occurs when we focus on Christ and His sacrifice. It is having faith in His transforming power to revive and reform us. The first thing we need to do is to invite God into our hearts so that He can revive and transform us. Are you ready to invite Him to do so? He is waiting to hear from you!

REACT
1. What does revival and reformation look like in your life? Are you allowing God to do all the work, or just some of it? Is there anything in your walk with Him that you do out of habit or fear of being lost? Pray that God will give you the right motive to obey Him.
2. Do you have enough faith in the power of Christ and His sacrifice to trust Him with the transformation process? If not, pray to Him for the faith. He will help you to believe.

Friday – Futher Study

Exploration It’s a Necessity

Deut. 4:30, 31

friday AUGUST 2

CONCLUDE
So much about our lives becomes clear when we seek Jesus’ face. Our own attempts at obedience will fail. However, God forgives us and receives us with delight. Our relationship with Christ makes it possible for the Holy Spirit to empower us to live and act as God designed. The results extend into our lives and on to the lives of others.

Ellen G. White, In Heavenly Places, p. 183.

Growing Up in Christ, June 25

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God. Hebrews 6:1.
At the entrance gate of the path that leads to everlasting life God places faith, and He lines the whole way with the light and peace and joy of willing obedience. The traveler in this way keeps ever before him the mark of his high calling in Christ. The prize is ever in sight. To him God’s commands are righteousness and joy and peace in the Holy Spirit. The things that first appeared to be crosses are found by experience to be crowns.

“Learn of me,” is the Saviour’s command. Yes, learn of Him how to live the Christ life—a life pure and holy, free from any taint of sin....

Progression, not stagnation, is the law of heaven. Progression is the law of every faculty of mind and body. The things of nature obey this law. In the field there is seen first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. In the spiritual life, as in the physical life, there is to be growth. Step by step we are to advance, ever receiving and imparting, ever gaining a more complete knowledge of Christ, daily approaching more closely the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

The Christian is first a babe in Christ. Then he becomes a child. Constantly he is to make advancement proportionate to the opportunities and privileges granted him. Ever he is to remember that he is not his own, that he has been bought with a price, and that he must make the best possible use of the talents entrusted to him. Even in the infancy of his spiritual understanding, the Christian is to do his best, making steady advancement toward the higher, holier life. He is to realize that he is a laborer together with God....

He is never to become self-sufficient, but is to count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus his Lord. He is to walk and work in the Saviour’s companionship. As he does this, his faith will increase. Constantly beholding Christ, he will be changed into the same image from character to character.

Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 48-50.

What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost parts of the inhabited world. As the disciples proclaimed the message of redeeming grace, hearts yielded to the power of this message. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners united with believers in seeking the pearl of great price. Some who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions. The prophecy was fulfilled, "He that is feeble. . . shall be as David; and the house of David . . . as the angel of the Lord." Zechariah 12:8. Every Christian saw in his brother a revelation of divine love and benevolence. One interest prevailed; one subject of emulation swallowed up all others. The ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ's character and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom.

"With great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all." Acts 4:33. Under their labors were added to the church chosen men, who, receiving the word of truth, consecrated their lives to the work of giving to others the hope that filled their hearts with peace and joy. They could not be restrained or intimidated by threatenings. The Lord spoke through them, and as they went from place to place, the poor had the gospel preached to them, and miracles of divine grace were wrought.

So mightily can God work when men give themselves up to the control of His Spirit.

The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. Christ declared that the divine influence of His Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. From the Day of Pentecost to the present time, the Comforter has been sent to all who have yielded themselves fully to the Lord and to His service. To all who have accepted Christ as a personal Saviour, the Holy Spirit has come as a counselor, sanctifier, guide, and witness. The more closely believers have walked with God, the more clearly and powerfully have they testified of their Redeemer's love and of His saving grace. The men and women who through the long centuries of persecution and trial enjoyed a large measure of the presence of the Spirit in their lives, have stood as signs and wonders in the world. Before angels and men they have revealed the transforming power of redeeming love.

Those who at Pentecost were endued with power from on high, were not thereby freed from further temptation and trial. As they witnessed for truth and righteousness they were repeatedly assailed by the enemy of all truth, who sought to rob them of their Christian experience. They were compelled to strive with all their God-given powers to reach the measure of the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Daily they prayed for fresh supplies of grace, that they might reach higher and still higher toward perfection. Under the Holy Spirit's working even the weakest, by exercising faith in God, learned to improve their entrusted powers and to become sanctified, refined, and ennobled. As in humility they submitted to the molding influence of the Holy Spirit, they received of the fullness of the Godhead and were fashioned in the likeness of the divine.