UI tKAlUIII; UtI'!lIUm .

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON

QUARTERLY

(CONCLUDED)
Senior Division, Second Quarter, 1961
,UI1&£!flL!"LJa i 'i If Ii I ' I i i " i l il i I I Ii " 'i 'i" I I Ii I , II I i I I I ' ',.. I i i Ii I, I i ' II I " Ii Ii I I I I I I'" i Ii I i i i I

This quarter we conclude our lessons on Revival and Reformation. We

trust that those who finish these lessons will find a sure foundation for
their feet. Many winds of doctrine are blowing and many speculative
theories regarding God's plan for reformation are being spread among
those who believe in present truth. May the truths in these lessons show
God's method of working today. A study of past reformations and God's
past ways reveal to us His ways today.

"We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the
way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history." -Life
Sketches, p. 196.
"The work of God in the earth presents, from age to age, a striking
similarity in every great reformation or religious movement. The princi-
ples of God's dealing with men are ever the same. The important move-
ments of the present have their parallel in those of the past, and the
experience of the church in former ages has lessons of great value for
our own time.
"No truth is more clearly taught in the Bible than that God by His
Holy Spirit especially directs His servants on earth in the great move-
ments for the carrying forward of the work of salvation..." -Great Con-
troversy, p. 343.
"The leading Reformers were men from humble life-men who were
most free of any of their time from pride of rank and from the influence
of bigotry and priestcraft. It is God's plan to employ humble instruments
to accomplish great results. Then the glory will not be given to men, but
to Him who works through thmn to will and to do of His own good
pleasure." -Ibid., p. 171.

May eaeh one who studies these lessons be numbered among the
humble instruments God will employ in the closing work on earth.

THE GENERAL CONFERENCE CO!ylMITTEE

Sabbath School Lesson QuarterlY1 "Revival and Reformation (Concluded) ," for April to June,
1961, is published by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference and
printed. by the Reformation Herald Publishing Association (a corporation of the Seventh DaY
Adventist Reform Movement) at Sacramento, California, United States of America. Mailing
Address: P. O. Box 5234 Oak Park, Sacramento 17, California. PRINTED IN U. S. A.
Lesson No. 1 - Sabbath, April 1, 1961

THE TWO APOSTASIES OF THE LAST DAYS

Questions

1. apostasies found? What counsel does the

one in ~his respect? Revelation

2. Matthew 24: 24.

3.

ANSWER: "That which Satan has lead men to do in the past, he will
if possible lead them to do again. The early church was deceived by
the enemy of God and man, and apostasy was brought into the ranks of
those who professed to Jove God; and today, unless the people of God
awake out of sleep, they will be taken unawares by the devices of Satan.
Among those who claim to believe in the near coming of the Saviour,
how many are backslidden, how many have lost their first love, and come
under the description written to the Laodicean church, denominating
them as neither cold nor hot. Satan will do his utmost to keep them
in a state of indifference and stupor. ..." -Chl'ist OUT Righteousness,
p, 159.
4. What prophecy, primarily for the first Christian church, has a strik.
in hessal nians 2: 3, 6, 7.
,
NOT : " ... During the liNes of the aglifstles t e churc remained com-
paratively ure. But 'toward the latter end of the second century most ot
the churches assumed a new form; the first simplicity disappeared, and
insensibly, as the old disciples retired to their graves, their children,
along with new converb, ... came forward and new-modelled the cause.'''
-Great Controversy, p. 384.
"'The old standard-bearers knew what it was to wrestle with God in
prayer, and to enjoy the outpouring of His Spirit. But these are passing
off from the stage of action; and who are coming up to fill their places?
How is it with the rising generation? Are they converted to God? Are
we awake to the work that is going on in the heavenly sanctuary, or
are we waiting for some compelling power to come upon the church
before we shall arouse? Are we hoping to see the whole church revived?
That time will never come.' "-Christ Our Righteousness, p. 147.

5. Is organization a substitute for primitive godliness? Isaiah 8: 9·11.

~.. -3-
 6. When the church refuses to put away her sins and return to Christ,
at is the only course or the fa' hf to ake? II Timothy 3: 5.
NO E: "... T eJ'timfw come wl! n t ose w ~love God supremely
v
can no longer remain in connection ~ith such as are 'lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God; having a form of odliness, but denying the
power t r f.' "-Great Contra e sy, p. 39fl. tI.,
7. at es iption docs t e proph Jolin econd ~
apost sy? Revelation 13: 11-17 ~
j

NOTE: "The Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord there
will exist a state of religious declension similar to that in the first centu-
ries. 'In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers
of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient
to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers,
false laccusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.' 'Now the
Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from
the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils: Satan
will work 'with all power and signs and lying wonders and with all de-
ceivableness of unrighteousness.' And all that 'received not the love of
the truth, that they might be saved: will be left to accept 'strong delusion,
that they should believe a lie.' When this state of ungodliness shall be
reached, the same results will follow as in the first centuries." -Ibid., p. 444

8. What prepares the way for this universal apostasy in Christendom?

ANSWER: "It was apostasy that led the early church to seek the aid
of the civil government, and this prepared the way for the development
of the papacy,-the beast. Said Paul, 'There' shall 'come a falling away,
... and that man of sin be revealed.' So apostasy in the church will pre-
pare the way for the image to the beast."-Ibid., p. 443.
9. What is evident in the movements of the nominal churches of today?
ANSWER: "The world is a theater; the actors, its inhabitants, are pre-
paring to act their part in the last great drama. With the great masses
of mankind, there is no unity, except as men confederate to accomplish
their selfish purposes. God is looking on. His purposes in regard to His
rebellious subjects will be fulfilled ... ." -Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 27.
The present confederacy of the churches is sufficient evidence that
they are fulfilling prophecy. They may have good intentions, but Satan
has another purpose. He desires to bring the world into open rebellion
against God.
10. What steps toward unity with Protestantism have already been made
by Seventh-day Adventist leaders?
ANSWER: "As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed
-4-
faith in the third angel's message, but have not been sanctified through
obedience to the truth, abandon their position, and join the ranks of the
opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they
have corne to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is
brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side... ."-Great
Controversy, p. 608.
Facts prove that there has been a long-range plan to break down the
barriers that have separated Adventists from other more popular denom-
inations. The Public Relations Department of the church has been work-
ing overtime to establish better relations with the worldly churches, and
these efforts reached their climax in a series of interviews and conferences
between Seventh-day Adventist leaders and certain top leaders in funda-
mentalist circles. The results of these conferences have been widely pub-
licised. The following excerpts from the popular Protestant publication
ETERNITY, and the well-known weekly news magazine TIME, tell their
own story:
"In the past two years several evangelical leaders have come to a new
attitude toward the Seventh-day Adventist church. The change is a remark-
able one since it consists in moving the Seventh-day Adventists, in our
opinion, out of the list of anti-Christian and non-Christian cults into the
group of those who are brethren in Christ. .. ."-Eternity, September 6,
1956.
The readiness with which this gesture on the part of the Protestant
Fundamentalists was accepted by the Adventists was reported thus:
"As the result of his researches, (Mr. Martin) Fundamentalists have
stretched out a hand and the Seventh-day Adventists have accepted it
gladly."-Time, Canadian Edition, December 31, 1956.
11. What will be Satan's final effort to exercise supre e authority in
the ~ous world? Revelation 11: 12, 13. r,tiQ '..lAV ~
12. How does the propHet describe the last controversy between the

,
followers of the beast, and the faithful remnant of God? Who will
be v'ctorious? Revelation 11: 14. ~~ ,
~ .~ ~
J"
NOTE: The object of our study has been to clearly distinguish between
the apostasy within the church, and the universal apostasy of Christen-
dom. In order to cover the existing apostasy in the church, the spiritual
leaders direct the people's attention to apostasy of the world around
them.

"Let the Sabbath school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at

the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by a careful study for the
next week on Sabbath afternoon... ." -Education, p. 251.

-5-
Lesson No. 2 - Sabbath, April 8, 1961

THE DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMAX OF THE

FOURTH ANGEL'S MESSAGE

Questions
1. How many messages were entrust~d to the Advent believers in 1844?
Revelation 14: 6·12. ..;? ~t:a>::J ~,
NOTE: "The three angels of Revelation 14 are represented as flying in
the midst of heaven, symbolizing the work of those who proclaim the
first, second, and third angels' messages. All are linked together. ..."
-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 17.
2. What was the significance of the message Elders Jones and Wag-
go~ught to ~ G er COnfJ:lc~of 1888? .~ev~~tion..18..=}:..-
NOTE: ' 'The ~f ~u~ t~
test is' . st upon us, for
angel has already begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ,
the sin-pardoning Redeemer. This is the beginning of the light of the
angel whose glory shall fiU the \}'hoJe earth."-Christ Our Righteousness,
p. 76 (1937 Edition). /.L<:.o ~/
3. Did~. Advent leaders accept and proclaim this vital message?
ANSWER: "'The Lord has sent a message to arouse His people to re-
pent, and do their first works; but how has this message been received?
While some have heeded it, others have cast contempt and reproach
on the message and the messenger. Spirituality deadened, humility and
child-like simplicity gone, a mechanical, formal profession of faith has
taken the place of love and devotion. Is this mournful condition of things
to continue? Is the lamp of God's love to go out in darkness?' "-Ibid.,
p. 65.
4. What future application of Revelation 18: 1 was given by Sister
White and other Adventist pioneers?
ANSWER: " ... Furthermore in the eighteenth chapter of the Revelation,
in a message that is yet future the people of God are called upon to come
out of Babylon."-Great Controversy, p. 383 (1888 Edition).
"The voice coming from heaven denotes that it will be a message ef
power attended with heavenly glory. How marked becomes the inter-
position of Heaven, and how the agents for the accomplishment of God's
work multiply, as the grelit crisis approaches! This voice from heaven
is called 'another' voice, showing that a new agency is here introduced.
We now have five celestial messengers expressly mentioned as engaged
in this last religious reformation. These are the first, second, and third
angels of chapter 14; fourth, the angel of verse one of this chapter; and
fifth the agency indicated by the 'voice' of verse 4, now before us. Three
of these are already in operation. The second angel has joined the first,
-6-
and the third has joined them. The first and second have not ceased.
All three now have the field. The angel of verse 1 is entering upon his
mission, as the conditions which call for his work are supplied; and the
divine call from heaven must take place in connection with his work."
-Daniel and Revelation, p. 716 (1912 Edition).
"There is to be in the churches a wonderful manifestation of the power
of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves
before the Lord, and opened the door of their hearts by confession and
repentance. In the manifestation of that power which lightens the earth
with the glory of God they will see only something which in their blind-
ness they think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and
they will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work
according to their expectations and ideas they will oppose the work. 'WhyI'
they say, 'should we not know the Spirit of God, when we have been in
the work so many years?' Because they did not respond to the warnings,
the entreaties of the messages of God, but persistently/ said, 'I am rich
and increased with goods, and have need of nothing. "-Bible Training
School, May, 1907.
5. Why has the message of Revelation 18: 1-4 never been given free
course? Luke 11: 52. ~ ~ ~ ~
NOTE: "... What is the message to be given at this tirne?-It is the
third angel's message. But that light which is to fill the whole earth with
its glory, has been despised by some who claim to believe the present
truth. Be careful how you treat it... ."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 89.
6. In what other terms is this message described?
ANSWER: In the Bible and the Spirit of Pruphecy we find this message
called:
a. The Message of Elijah.
b. A great light coming down from heaven.
c. The Message to the Laodicean Church.
d. The message of Christ's Righteousness.
e. The light given through the Spirit of Prophecy.
f. The angel coming down from heaven having great power.
g. The third angel's message in verity.
h. The loud cry of the third angel.
7. What truth was discovered as the result of the crisis which came
to the church in 1914?
NOTE: The pioneers of the Reform Movement took their stand in de-
fense of the ten commandments and the third angel's message, but very
early in their experience they were convinced of a very definite relation-
ship between the prophecy of Revelation 18: 1 and the message of
Reformation which arose in the wake of the 1914-18 crisis. This was fully
-7-
confirmed when they obtained the writings of the Spirit of Prophecy and
the historical evidence concerning the Minneapolis General Conference
of 1888.
8. What portion of the work of this angel is still future? Revelation
18: 3.
NOTE: All nations have not yet come into the universal alliance of Prot-
estantism and Catholicism.

9. Can it be said that the declaration of the second angel, "Babylon

is fallen," met its complete fulfillment in 1844? Can we be certain
that it began at that time?
ANSWER: "The second angel's message of Revelation 14 was first
preached in the summer of 1844, and it then had a more direct application
to the churches of the United States, where the warning of the judg-
ment had been most widely proclaimed and most generally rejected, and
where the declension in the churches had been most rapid. But the mes-
sage of the second angel did not reach its complete fulfilment in 1844...."
-Great Controversy, p. 389.
10. When will the complete fall of Babylon take place?
ANSWER: In the Great Controversy, page 383, it is stated that the
Protestant churches are under the condemnation of the second angel's
message, but they have not yet openly rejected the three angels' messages.
Revelation 18 : 2-4 is a repetition of the second message, and its literal
fulfilment toward these churches is still future. When the mark of the
beast is set up and the confederacy among the churches throughout Christ-
endom is established, the fall of Babylon will be completed.
n. What final warning will he sounded? Revelation 18: 4.

NOTE: "Revelation 18 points to the time when, as the result of rejecting

the threefold warning of Rev. 14 : 6-12, the church will have fully reach-
ed the condition foretold by the second angel, and the people of God
still in 'Babylon will be called upon to separate from her communion.
This message is the last that will ever be given to the world; and it will
accomplish its work... ."-Great Controversy, p. 390.
"I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the Sabbath.
They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the commencement of
the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth
and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the churches and
nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And
at this time God's chosen all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they
came out and endured the persecution with us...." -Early W'litings, p. 33.
12. Before this final warning is sounded, what experience must have
taken place in the church itself?
-8-
ANSWER: "I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was
shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by
the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect
upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard
and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony.
They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking among
God's people."-Ibid. p. 270.
13. What is represented by the voice from heaven?
ANSWER: The voice of God from heaven represents the work of the
Holy Spirit. The second angel joined the first and the third joined with
them both, thus forming the three angel's messages. The angel of Rev-
elation 18: 1 joins with the third angel's message to bring about the
"Loud Cry" and finish the work. These four angels represent four dif-
ferent phases of ministry or movements, each brings a message to the
church and to the world. The "voice" in verse 4 is a heavenly voice. It
was heard at the baptism of Jesus and at the transfiguration. This same
voice, to be heard again in connection with the fourth angel, is God's call
to His invisible church scattered throughout apostate Christendom. It is
the final call that separates all God's faithful children from sinners.
14. What will happen to those who refuse to cooperate with these an-
gels?
ANSWER: "All who venture to have their own way, who do not join
the angels who are sent from heaven with a message to fill the whole
earth with their glory, will be passed by. The work will go forward to
victory without them and they will have no part in its triumph." Statement
by E. G.White, Oakland, California, August, 1891.
15. What will be the results of the loud cry in the time of the Latter
Rain?
ANSWER: "The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel's
message, is lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of world-wide
extent and unwonted power is here foretold. The Advent Movement of
1840··44 was a glorious manifestation of the power of God; the first angel's
message was carried to every missionary station in the world, and in some
countries there was the greatest religious interest which has been witnessed
in any land since the Reformation of the sixteenth century; but these are
to be exceeded by the mighty movement under the last warning of the
third angel."-G1·eat COl1trOVeI'sy, p. 611.
16. What final sign marks the approach of the close of probation?
ANSWER: "By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in
violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from
righteousness...."
"As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of
the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign
-9-
to us that the limit of God's forbearance is reached, that the measure
of our nation's iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to
take her Hight, never to return... ."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 451.

Lesson No. 3 - April 15, 1961

THE SEALING OF THE ONE HUNDRED AND

FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND

Questions
1. What special work is to take place just before the letting loose of
the winds of destruction? Revelation 7: 1·3.
2. What is the result of the sealing message? Revelation 7:4.
3. "'here did the apostle see this same company later and what did
they have on their foreheads? Revelation 14: 1.
4. What is said of the character of these sealed ones? Revelation 14: 5.
5. Are the twelve tribes of Revelation 7: 4·8 literal or symbolic? Gala-
tians 4: 25, 26; Revelation 21: 10·14.
6. Who only are classified as spiritual Israelites? Romans 2: 28, 29.
7. What other description is given of the work of this sealing angel?
When would this sealing work begin? Revelation 14: 9.
NOTE: "I then saw the third angel. Said my accompanying angel, 'Fear-
ful is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the
wheat from the tares, and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly garner.
These things should engross the whole mind, the whole attention:' -Early
Writings, p. 118.
"The enemies of the present truth have been trying to open the door
of the holy place, that Jesus has shut, and to close the door of the most
holy place, which He opened in 1844, where the ark is, containing the
two tables of stone on which are written the ten commandments by the
finger of Jehovah.
"Satan is now using every device in this sealing time to keep the minds
of God's people from a present truth, and to cause them to waver...."
-Ibid., p. 43. (written in 1849)
8. Are women included in the number who wiI! be sealed? Galatians
3: 28.
NOTE: "Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be
-10-
placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be
placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman.
It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false ton-
gues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot
before God-candidates for heaven... ."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216.

9. What are the three essential steps in the sealing of the 144,000?
ANSWER:
(a) The seal of the Holy Spirit upon the heart conversion (Eph. 1 : 13)
(b) The seal of the mind-knowledge and acceptance of Sabbath
truth. (Exod. 31 : 17)
(c) The final impress of the seal upon the character. (Rev. 14: 1)
"Not all who profess to keep the Sabbath will be sealed. There are
many even among those who teach the truth to others who will not re-
ceive the seal of God in their foreheads."-Ibid., pp. 213, 214.
10. To what old testament prophet was this work of sealing revealed?
Ezekiel 9: 1·4.
NOTE: "This sealing of the servants of God is the same that was shown
to Ezekiel in vision. John also had been witness of this most startling
revlation."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 445.
11. What is thc present·day application of the sanctuary as brought
to view in Ezekiel's vision?
ANSWER: "Here we sec that the church-the Lord's sanctuary-was the
first to feel the stroke oj' the wrath of God. The ancient men, those to
whom God had given great light, and who had stood as guardians of the
spiritual interests of the people, had betrayed their trust... ."-Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 211.
12. What report will be given by the third angel after the work of
sealing is over? Ezekiel 9: 11.
NOTE: ") saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven. An angel with a
writer's inkhorn by his side returned from the earth, and reported to
Jesus that his work was done, and the saints were numbered and sealed.
Then ) saw Jesus, who had been ministering before the ark containing
the ten commandments, throw down the censor. He raised His hands,
and with a loud voice said, It is done: .. ."-Early Writings, p. 279.
13. What follows after the verdict is pronounced in the heavenly sane·
tuary? Ezekiel 9: 5·7.
NOTE: "The class who do not feel grieved over their own spiritual de-
clensions, nor mourn over the sins of others, will be left without the seal
of God. The Lord commissions his messengers, the men with the slaughter-
ing weapons in their hands: 'Go ye after him through the city, and smite;
-11-
let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity; slay utterly old and young,
both maids and little children, and women; but come not near any man
upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began
at the ancient men which were before the house.' "-Testimonies, vol. 5,
p. 21l.
14. How many classes of people will there be upon the earth when
Christ comes?
ANSWER: "... Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which
gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000
in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought
it was thunder and an earthquake... ." -Early Wl'itings, p. 15.

Lesson No. 4 - Sabbath, April 22, 1961

THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT

Questions

1. What does Apostle Peter say about the Investigative Judgment?

Which class of people will be dealt with in the "Investigative Jurlg-
ment"? I Peter 4: 17.
2. According to prophecy, when was this work to begin? Daniel 8: 14.

3. What glorious scene was shown to Daniel in regard to the work

of judgment? Daniel 7: 9, 10.
4. How was the commencement of this judgment announced and
how many years in advance? Revlation 14: 7; Leviticus 23: 24-27.

NOTE: "At the time appointed for the judgment-the close of the 2300
days, in 1844-began the work of investigation and blotting out of sins.
All who have ever taken upon themselves the name of Christ must pass
its searching scrutiny. Both the living and the dead are to be judged
'out of those things which were written in the books, according to their
works.' "-Gl'eat Contl'Ovel'sy, p. 486.
The yearly day of atonement was announced ten days ahead, and if
tllis is considered as a type, it fittingly represents the ten years from the
time the judgment message was first preached until the expiration of
the 2300 day (year) prophecy.
5. What will be the basis of this investigation? Daniel 7: 10; Malachi
3: 16; Psalm 56: 8.
NOTE: "In the typical service, only those who had come before God
-12-
with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the
sin-offering, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service
of the day of atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and in-
vestigative judgment, the only cases considered are those of the professed
people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate
work, and takes place at a later period...."
"'A book of remembrance' is written before God, in which are record-
ed the good deeds of! 'them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon
His name.;, Their words of faith, their acts of love, are registered in
heaven....
"There is a record also of the sins of men. 'For God shall bring every
work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or
whether it be evil.' 'Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall
give account thereof in the day of judgment.' ..." -Ibid., pp. 480, 481.
6. Who from among the "just" will be considered first in this work
of judgment?
ANSWER: "As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the
lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. Be-
ginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents
the cases of each successive generation, and closes with the living... ."
-Ibid., p. 483.
7. In whom is the only hope of those who must stand before the
Judge? Matthew 10: 32.
NOTE: "Jesus will appear as their advocate, to plead in their behalf
before God. 'If any man sin we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus
Christ the righteous.' 'For Christ is not entered into the holy places made
with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now
to appear in the presence of God for us:' .. ."-Ibid., p. 482.
8. What sins will not be forgiven in this judgment? Proverbs 28: 13.
NOTE: "Sins that have not been repented of and forsaken will not be
pardoned, and blotted out of the books of record, but will stand to witness
against the sinner in the day of God."-Ibid., p. 486.
9. What precious promise is given the repentant sinner? I John 1: 7-9;
Hebrews 8: 11, 12.
10. When can the latter rain be expected to come? Acts 3: 19·21.
NOTE: "The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of
sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since
the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is
impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until the judgment
at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly
states that the sins of believers will be blotted out 'when the times of
refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send
-13-
Jesus Christ.' When the investigative judgment closes, Christ will come,
and His reward will be with Him to give to every man as his work shall
be." -Ibid., p. 485.

Lesson No. 5 - Sabbath, April 29, 1961

THE JUDGMENT OF THE LIVING

Questions
1. What should be the prayer and desire of those who are favored
with the knowledge of presen,t truth], P~alm 51: 7, 9~IQ. 71.' I
~ f?J4L 6J- tLtivw ~vt'; 0 ~ ~,~6iI.. ~
2. How does the Lord look uPOlItliose whd' hav~e this kn¥i£{,ledge Yi:det ~.
o tinue tqjive in1{s,~psalm 66: 18; 34:,16. ~ ..£- , I'<!'''

Ji tv pWJ1(.,
~ I~-mu-
4.. /.Who Qn1Y will stand in/the.
~ ~~ /i,.;A'-
~ ~
3. _~hat §hould be~i e sen~nt r6f our pr,1\Y€~r)?
~WOV ~,
M~ 1/" FUA
aIm 25: 4·10.
y of J6dgmen . PSi\lm 24: 3.~; .~PJ):;,l: ... _
1Jc,;~·_ ,IUH~I.-a-"""-~ ,1ut:.~. ~~~.
•

5. What kiAd ~f Iife~,i?, ?~v~d tl)' to 'veJllfter his. repen!.1.lpce'? PsaJIJl ... .L
~~ ~r~ -r~.~ IZ/...,~?U"(.
6. What is e standa~Very
Hower 0 Ch 'st must reach? Matthew
~'4 ~~ /.e~~'
-r«.· . 'v ,.d;-t'~1c.."
,
. V1-,.. ~.,." QO ".
NOTE: "Perfection, holiness, nothing short of this, woul give them
success in carrying out the principles he had given them."-Testimonies,
vol. 2, p. 445.
7. While waiting for the Lord to come inJ81~ what preparations did
~~~~~~~~~~
NOTE: "With diligent searching of heart and humble confessions, we
came praYllrfuIIy up to the time of expectation. Every morning we felt
that it was our first work to secure the evidence that our lives were right
before God. We realized that if we were not advancing in holiness, we
were sure to retrograde. Our interest for one another increased; we pray-
~ h wit~.for one another... ."-Life Sketches, p. 60. ~

Wh~are we to~ regardi.ng the jud~n~Iivin~p~es? ';~f.

8.
~ephania~ 1: 12. ~u::r;;;:,v~n;,~~.?
NOTE~e~ come when Jerusalem is being searched as with
lighted candles. God is at work investigating character, weighing moral
worth, and pronouncing decisions on individual cases."-Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 448.
9. In view of this solemn work in the heavenly sanctuary, what should
-14-
~, ." !>..e Jthe alL-absorbing intere~~~es? ~hiliP~i
OS 2: 12, 13.
wrUJ,~·~~ ~ ~£
NOTE: "... Now, when the great work of judging 'e living is about
to begin, shall we allow unsanctified ambition to take possession of the
heart, and lead us to neglect the education required to meet the needs
in this day of peril?"-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 130. ~~ •
10. Are we warranted to proclaim a definite time for the commencement
of the judgment upon the living? Can the theory be accepted that
the ark will be found prior to the close of probation and that this
will be the sign tha~ the judgmE~JI~J ~he,~vi2..~~gqIV D~'::lter-r
onomy 29: 29. :;;JA-c- ~ ~ ..,.,-....~' tJ ~ ~/
NOTE: "Let all our brethren and sisters beware of anyone who would
set a time for the Lord to fulfil His word in regard to His coming, or
in regard to any other promise He has made of special significance. 'It
is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath
put in His own power.' False teachers may appear to be very zealous
for the work of God, and may expend means to bring their theories before
the world and the church; but as they mingle error with truth, their
message is one of deception, and will lead souls into false paths... ."
- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 55.
"For many years this work has been in progress. Soon-none know
how soon-it will pass to the cases of the living."-Great Controversy,
p. 490 (1888 Edition).

11. What statements from the Spirit of Prophecy are claimed to prove
this ark theory?
ANSWER: "And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of
communing with Him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of stone, written
with the finger of God. There are abundant evidences of the immutability
of God's law. It was written with the finger of God, never to be oblit-
erated, never to he destroyed. The tables of stone are hidden by God,
to be produced in the great judgment day just as He wrote them."-E.
G. White, Review and Herald, March 26, 1908.
"When the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, and
every man shall be judged according to the things written in the books,
then tho tables of stone, hidden by God until that day will be presented
before the world as the standard of righteousness. Then men and women
will see that the prerequisite of their salvation is obedience to the per-
fect law of God. None will find an excuse for sin. By the righteous prin-
ciples of the law, men will receive their sentence of life or death."-E.
G. White, Review and Herald, January 28, 1909.
The first quotation above is a very important document to prove when
the tables of stone, hidden at the time of Nebuchadnezzar's invasion
of Judah, will be brought forth and presented before all the earth's in-
habitants. This is to be "in the Great Judgment Day" after the close of
-15-
probation and just prior to the glorious appearing of Christ in the clouds
of heaven.
The second quotation given in 1909 must refer to this same "judg-
ment," as probation has already closed and the cases of all the righteous
living have been decided. The wicked are now charged before the "bar
of justice" as rebels against the law and government of God. The inves-
tigation of their cases will take place during the thousand years.
12. What further inspired statement completely repudiates the claim
that the "judgment" here referred to is the judgment of the living?
ANSWER: "How many have read carefully Patriarchs and Prophets,
Great Controversy, and Desire of Ages? I wish all to understand that
my confidence in the light that God has given stands firm, because I
know that the Holy Spirit's power magnified the truth, and made it
honorable, saying, 'This is the way; walk ye in it.' In my books, the tlUth
is stated, barricaded by a 'Thus saith the Lord.' The Holy Spirit traced
these truths upon my htilart and mind as indelibly as the law was traced
by the finger of God, upon the tables of stone, which are now in the
ark, to be brought forth in that great day when sentence will be pro-
nounced against every evil, seducing science produced by the father of
lies."-E. G. White, letter 90, 1906.

Lesson No. 6 - Sabbath, May 6, 1961

THE ARK REMOVED FROM THE CHOSEN NATION

Questions
1. What was !;i~ en ~ j perpetua) c.oxena~ I)e)lteronomy
4: 12, 13. NU ~ ~'Y' ~ ,
2. W~o~e work was the making of ~~7)\Vo J;abJe~~e .:md the
wrItmg, !!tere~n?, Exodus 32: 16.....,./".fv~ Wv-t-4 • ZFti.>
..l/.Y<,,-<-V,,,,,,, ~
3. When Moses aw Israel in open apostasy, what did he do with
the tables of stone? What was~e commissioned to do again? Exodus
~4:.l.k '< ~.~~
4. was~ ost important article ~f f iture jn~e.~nctuary?
What
-~.i~c1Z~ialJ,IIo1'r:Ri~-~ it.u..e
NOTE: The ark of the covenant was' ~ e in the most holy place.
5. A~ter many years Q{ Jr.a~portat~o.n, ~hW'.e wj.s th~~~tt].ed? I
K:Jgsj:19·...J.,.v~r~~ ?
6. ~~~ing of Jeremiah was rejected and the Chaldeans
-16-
 were about to invade Jerusalem, what special directions were given
by the prophet concerning the ark?
ANSWER: "The prophet, being warned of God, commanded the taber-
nacle and the ark to go with him, as he went forth into the mountain,
where Moses climbed up and saw his heritage of God. And when Jeremy
came thither he found an hollow cave, wherein he laid the tabernacle,
and the ark, and the altar of incense, and so stopped the door. And some
of those that followed him, came to mark the way but they could not find
it. Which when Jeremy perceived, he blamed them, saying, 'as for the
place, it shall be unknown until the time that God gathers his people
again together, and receives them into mercy.' "-11 Maccabees 2: 4-7.
7. What is s.aid of the condition of Israel after the destruc»~~ of
~h:~m~~~4~nift~r;;::.::7~
8. What prophecy had a literal fulfilment in the removal f the ar
from the nation of Israel? Hosea :h...4, 5.;;;?'A.-L. ~ 1./--J, r.;'~~"""'o('
~ ~...{.b.~;z.;.;;o~~ ..",. :7( ~.....
9. What was missing in the femple erected by Ezra and Nehem ah -
after the return from captivity?
ANSWER: "The second temple did not equal the first in magnificence,
nor was itJ!allowed by those -visible tokens of the divine presence which
pertained to the first temple. --rhen'i Wlts no mamfestation of supem'atural
power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen to fill the newly
erected sanctuary. No fire from heaven descended to consume the sac-
rifice upon its altar. The shekinah no longer abode between the cheribim
in the most holy place; the ark, the mercy seat, and the tables of testimony
were not found there. No sign from heaven made known to the inquiring
priest the will of Jehovah."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 596, 597.
10. How was the second temple to be honored above the first, even
though ~ ark and the shekinah ,~missing? Hal:a~ 9; Malachi
3:1. ~ ~ ~ ' r ~ / ~
NOTE: "The second temple was honored, not with the clou of Jehovah's
glory, but with the presence of the One in whom dwelt 'all the fulness
of the Godhead bodily:-God Himself 'manifest in the flesh.' In being
honored with the personal presence of Christ during His earthly ministry,
and in this alone, did the second temple exceed the first in glory. The
'Desire of all nations' had indeed come to His temple, when the Man of
Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts." -Ibid., p. 597.
n. In giving Israel another opportunity for repentance, wfat ;"as,f2~'~ ./
_ Lpla~ for Lthe ~hosen nation? Jere iah 3: 12-18. t?~ ~. . .
~z.~~ ,
NOTE: "... Had Israel as a natio preserved her allegiance to Heaven,
Jerusalem would have stood for ever, the elect of God. But the history of
that favored people was a record of backsliding and rebellion. They had
resisted Heaven's grace, abused their privileges, and slighted their op-
portunities." -Great Controversy, p. 19.
-17-
 "If the leaders and teachers at Jerusalem had received the truth Christ
brought, what a missionary center their city would have been. Backslid-
den Israel would have been converted. A vast army would have been gath-
ered for the Lord...." -Christ's Object I,essons, p. 202.
12. When they rejected Christ as the Messiah, what final pronouncement
d'Jf~~d~c;~se~~hew23:~
NOT~he Jewish people chenshed the ide:Y~h~ they were the favor-
ites of heaven, and that they were always to be exalted as the church of
God. They were the children of Abraham, they declared, and so firm
did the foundation of their prosperity seem to them that they defied earth
and heaven to dispossess them of their rights. But by lives of unfaithful-
ness they were preparing for the condemnation of heaven and for sep-
aration from God." -Ibid., p. 294.
13. With what words did Christ declare the withdrawal of God's recog-
,~..r.!j~n 0 ISJael a~ ~e~owe? Matjhew ,21: 43. _ ,.. _ ••
14.~was illV}lsted~with. th:s.,,,':'~~In- Matthew
16: 19. .;;7.M.- ~r'-"''-L. ~

Lesson No. 7 - Sabbath, May 13, 1961

THE ARK RESTORED TO THE 144,000

Questions
1. What special light was given in 1844 to the faithful remnant from
the disappointed Advent company?
ANSWER: "It was presented to me that the remnant followed Jesus into
the most holy place, and beheld the ark and the mercy-seat, and were
captivated with their glory. Jesus then raised the cover of the ark, and
lo! the tables of stone with the ten commandments written upon them.
They trace down the lively oracles, but start back with trembling when
they see the fourth commandment among the ten holy precepts, with a
brighter light shining upon it than upon the other nine, and a halo of
glory all around it... ."-Early Writings, p. 255.
2. What was God's purpose in the choosing of the Advent people?
Isaiah 42: 21. AX.)
IV ) fJUA <_f~ ""
NOTE: " ... He will not close up the period of probation until the mes-
sage shall be more distinctly proclaimed. The law of God is to be mag-
4
nified; its claims must be presented in their true sacred character, that
~he p~ople may be bronght to decide fo/ror against the truth... ~'-T~st-
fmomes, vol. 6, p. 16. M"''''' ,~r j;;.
J '..p ~ 104' • _ 1/_
 "That which God purposed to do for the world through Israel, the
chosen nation, He will finally accomplish through His church on the earth
to-day."-Prophets and Kings, p. 713.
3. In an endeavor to preserve His people, what message of warning
did God give them?
ANSWER: "There is to be no change in the general features of our work.
It is to stand as clear and distinct as prophecy has made it. We are to
enter into no confederacy with the world, supposing that by so doing we
could accomplish more. If any stand in the way, to hinder the advance-
ment of the work in the lines that God has appointed, they will displease
God. No line of truth that has made the Seventh-day Adventist people
what they are, is to be weakened. e have the old landmarks of truth,.
_experience nd...-dl!!:Yl._ and we are to~ stand firmly in defense of our prin-
ciples, in full view oi the world."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 17.

4. How has modern Israel followed in the footsteps of ancient Israel?

ANSWER: "I have been shown that the spirit of the world is fast leav-
ening the church. You are following the same path as did ancient Israel.
There is the same falling away from your holy calling as God's peculiar
people. You are having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.
Your concord with the unbelievers has provoked the Lord's displeasure.
You know not the things that belong to your peace, and they are fast
being hid from your eyes. Your neglect to follow the light will place you
in a more unfavorable position than the Jews upon whom Christ pronounc-
ed a woe."-Ibid., vol. 5, pp. 75, 76.
"Satan's snares are laid for us as verily as they were laid for the child-
ren of Israel just prior to their entrance into the land of Canaan. We are
repeating the history of that people. Lightness, vanity, love of ease and
pleasure, selfishness, and impurity are increasing among us. ~s-,
_ need now of men who are firm and fearless in declaring the whole coun-
sel of Go ;men who will not sleep as do others, but watch and be so-
ber...." -Ibid., p. 160.
5. Should it be our burden to find the hidden ark of God in Palestine
in order to know we are God's people~ What i {the pu pose of
the new covenant? Hebrews 8: 8·12. ~ uJ A J I"f-

6~How does "'Ithe Spirit of Prophecy verify the statement from the
Book of Maccabees in regard to the secreting of the ark?
ANSWER: "Among the righteous still in Jerusalem, to whom had been
made plain the divine purpose, were some who determined to place be-
yond the reach of ruthless hands the sacred ark containing the tables
of stone on which had been traced the precepts of the Decalogue. This
they did. With mourning and sadness they secreted the ark in a cave,
where it was to be hidden from the people of Israel and Judah because
of their sins, and was to be no more restored to them. That sacred ark
-19-
is yet hidden. It has never been disturbed since it was secreted." -Proph-
ets and Kings, p. 453.
7. At what time will the hidden ark be brought forth and the ever-
lasting covenant made with the 144,000? Is this before or after
the close of probation?
ANSWER: "The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day
,.an hour of Jesus' coming, and-Slelivering the everlasting cove n -to
~p~~e. Like peals of loudest thunder, His words roll through the
earth. The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward.
Their countenances are lighted up with His glory, and shine as did the
face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked cannot look
upon them. And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have
honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of
victory."-Great Controversy, p. 640.
8. Just before the wicked are destroyed by the brightness of His
coming, what supernatural revel tion of God's la~:iII be made
to all the earth's inhabitants? .J); l~
ANSWER: "... Then there appears against the sky a hand holding two
tables of stone folded together. Says the prophet. 'The heavens shall de-
clare His righteousness: for God is judge Himself.' That holy law, God's
righteousness, that mid thunder and flame was proclaimed from Sinai
as the guide of life, is now revealed to men as the rule of judgment. The
hand opens the tables, and there are seen the precepts of the decalogue,
traced as with a pen of fire. The words are so plain that all can read
them. Memory is aroused, the darkness of superstition and heresy is
swept from the mind, and God's ten words, brief, comprehensive, and
authoritative, are presented to the view of all the inhabitants of the earth."
-Ibid p. 639.
"God will not break His covenant, nor alter the thing that has gone
out of His lips. His word will stand fast forever, as unalterable as His
throne. At the judgment, this covenant will be brought forth, lainly
written with the finger of God; and the world will be arraigned before
the bar of Infinite Justice to receive sentence."-Prophets and Kings,
p. 187.
9. Who has invested the earthly governments with au hority to rule
over the nations? Daniel 2: 21; Romans 13: 1.
10. When will this earthly rule come to its end? Daniel 7: 26.

11. W.hen the saints receive the everlasting covena~nt what authority
's then invested on them? Daniel 7: 2 . ::::J. J-.R.. ~
" J x . ' : f ) v . , p.») .
1 hen is t e king om of glor~~ set up? I Corinthians 15: 50. <J
; "L ~, .A- l·oA. r:;;{ .
NOTE: ' ... ' hen the Son a man shall come in His glory, and all the
holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory:
-20-
and before Him shall be gathered all nations: This kingdom is yet future.
It is not set up until the second advent of Christ."-Great Controversy,
p.347. - - - -- -
As the kingdom of glory is forever established, man in his mortal state
(flesh and blood) cannot inherit it, but at the second advent of Christ
both the resurrected saints and those living upon the earth who will be
changed from mortality to immortality, receive the kingdom as their
heritage.

Lesson No. 8 - Sabbath, May 20, 1961

NEW LIGHT OR STRONG DELUSION

Questions
1. What should be the prayer of every earnest believer? Psalm 43: 3.

2. What provision has the Lord made for those who are seeking His
will in all things? Psalm 97: 11; John 7: 17.
3. What is one of the most important missions of the Holy Spirit?
John 16: 13.
4. What figure is used to represent progressive light? Proverbs 4: 18.
NOTE: "Our religion must be intelligent. The wisdom from above must
strengthen, establish, and settle us. We must go on and on, forward and
upward, from light to still greater light, and God will still reveal his
glory to us as he doth not unto the world."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 650.
5. What warning is given against false teachers? Matthew 7: 15.
NOTE: "... If men do not feel the weight of the moral law; if they
make light of God's precepts; if they break one of the least of His com-
mandments, and teach men so, they shall be of no esteem in the sight of
heaven. We may know that their claims are without foundation. They
are doing the very work that originated with the prince of darkness, the
enemy of God."-MoUllt of Blessing, p. 208.
6. How may the believer distinguish between the voice of the true
shepherd and that of the false teachers? I John 4: 1; Isaiah 8: 20.

7. What is the holy duty of those who have charge of the flock of God?
I Thessalonians 5: 21.
NOTE: We should not understa:1d by this that every believer is oblig-
ated to study all the false doctrines of the present day.
-21-
 "Our brethren should be willing to investigate in a candid way every
point of controversy. If a brother is teaching error, those who are in
responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they
ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being
taught among us; for if it is truth, we need it. We are all under obligation
to God to know what He sends us.... "-Gospel Workers, pp. 300,301.
The instruction given by the apostles to "prove all things" has reference
to those who are well grounded in present truth, and especially those
who are intrusted with the flock. Those who are but babes in the faith
could be easily led astray if they were subject to the poisonous doctrines
so subtly presented by the teachers of error.
8. How only can we be fortified to withstand the many false doctrines
present today? John 8: 31, 32.
9. Because of the dangers of false teachings, should we come to the
conclusion that there is no more light to be revealed to us?
ANSWER: "We must not for a moment think that there is no more light,
no more truth, to be given to us. We are in danger of becoming care-
less, by our indifference losing the sanctifying power of the truth, and
composing ourselves with the thought, '1 am rich and increased with
goods, and have need of nothing.' While we must hold fast to the truths
which we have already received, we must not look with suspicion upon
any new light that God may send."-Gospel Workers, p. 310.
10. What special counsel is given in regard to new light? What pre-
caution should be taken before presenting new theories to the be-
lievers?
ANSWER: "There are a thousand temptations in disguise prepared for
those who have the light of truth; and the only safety for any of us is
in receiving no new doctrine, no new interpretation of the Scriptures,
without first submitting it to brethren of experience. Lay it before them
in a humble, teachable spirit, with earnest prayer; and if tlley see no light
in it, yield to their judgment; for 'in the multitude of counselors there is
safety,'..'-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 293.
"Introduce nothing that will cause dissension, without clear evidence
that in it God is giving a special message for this time."-Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 106.
n. Does God give light to one individual in His organized church
while the body is left in darkness?
ANSWER: "... God has not passed His people by, and chosen one sol-
itary man here and another there as the only ones worthy to be intrusted
with His truth. He does not give one man new light contrary to the
established faith of the body. In every reform men have arisen making
this claim. Paul warned the church in his day: 'Of your own selves
shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after
-22-
them.' The greatest harm to God's people comes through those who go
out from among them speaking perverse things. Through them the way
of truth is evil spoken of.
"Let none be self-confident, as though God had given them special
light above their brethren. Christ is represented as dwelling in his people;
and believers, as 'built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets,
Jesus Christ himself being the chief comer-stone in whom all the building,
fitly framed together, groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord; in whom
ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the
Spirit.' ... ." -Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 291, 292.

Lesson No.9 - Sabbath, May 27, 1961

THE PRESENT TRUTH

Questions
1. By what means are men sanctified? John 17: 17.
2. What is God's purpose for all mankind? I Timothy 2: 4.
3. Is a theoretical knowledge of the truth sufficient for salvation?
II Thessalonians 2: 13; I Peter 1: 2.
4. What effect will obedience to the truth have on the life? I Peter
1: 22.
5. What high estimate should be placed upon the truth? How s'hould
we cherish the light that God gives us? Matthew 13: 44; Proverbs
23: 23.
6. Does the Bible make provision for what we call "present truth"?
II Peter 1: 12.
NOTE: "Opposition is the lot of all whom God employs to present truths
specially applicable to their time. There was a present truth in the days
of Luther,-a truth at that time of special importance; there is a present
truth for the church today. Be who does all things according to the
counsel of His will, has been pleased to place men under various cir-
cumstances, and to enjoin upon them duties peculiar to the times in
which they live, and the conditions under which they are placed. If they
would prize the light given them, broader views of truth would be opened
before them...." -Great Contl'Oversy, pp. 143, 144.
7. What constituted present tmth at the time of Christ's first advent?
John 1: 41; 14: 6.
-23-
 8. How blind were the Jewish leaders in opposing the message brought
by Christ? Luke 11: 52.
NOTE: "The Jews were looking for the Messiah; but he did not come as
they had predicted that he would, and if he were accepted as the Prom-
ised One, their learned teachers would be forced to acknowledge that
they had erred. These leaders had separated themselves from God, and
Satan worked upon their minds to lead them to reject the Saviour. Rather
than yield their pride of opinion, they closed their eyes to all the evidences
of his Messiahship, and they not only rejected the message of salvation
themselves, but they steeled the hearts of the people against Jes11s...."
-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 728.
9. What was the present truth proclaimed by William Miller and his
associates? Did Miller see at first the need of separation? Revelation
14: 6, 7.
NOTE: "In preaching the doctrine of the second advent, William Miller
and his associates had labored with the sole purpose of arousing men to
a preparation for the judgment. They had sought to awaken professors
of religion to the true hope of the church, and to their need of a deeper
Christian experience; and they labored also to awaken the unconverted
to the duty of immediate repentance and conversion to God...."
"I did not conceive there would ever be any necessity for separate
meetings." -Great Controversy, p. 375.
10. What finally brought about a separation of the believers from their
churches?
ANSWER: "... Thus the believers found themselves in a position of
great trial and perplexity. They loved their churches, and were loath to
separate from them; but as they saw the testimony of God's word sup-
pressed, and their right to investigate the prophecies denied, they felt
that loyalty to God forbade them to submit. Those who sought to shut
out the testimony of God's word, they would not regard as constituting
the church of Christ, 'the pillar and ground of the truth.' Hence they
felt themselves justified in separating from their former connection. In
the summer of 1844 about fifty thousand withdrew from the churches."
-Ibid., p. 376.
11. After the great disappointment in 1844, what message was revealed
to the little group who refused to deny the leading of the Lord in
their past experience? Revelation 11: 19.
NOTE: "After Jesus opened the door of the most holy, the light of the
Sabbath was seen, and the people of God were tested, as the children
of Israel were tested anciently, to see if they would keep God's law."-Early
Writings, p. 254.
12. What constitutes present truth now in the closing days of the Lao-
dicean period? Revelation 14: 12; 18: 1; 3: 19.
-24-
NOTE: "This distinctive banner, described in the words, 'Here is the
patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God,
and the faith of Jesus,' is to be borne through the world to the close
of probltion.': -Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 144.
"I saw that the testimony of the True Witness has not been haH
heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church
hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded. This testimony
must work deep repentance; all who truly receive it will obey it, and be
purified." -Early Writings, p. 270.
"God's people will not endure the test unless there is a revival and
a reformation. The Lord will not admit into the mansions He is pre-
paring for the righteous, one soul who is self-sufficient." -Testimonies,
vol. 7, p. 285.
The straight testimony of the True Witness to the Laodiceans is a
testing message which could not have its fulfillment in any previous
generation. This message finds the professed people of God in a sad
deception. They boast of their material and spiritual riches as sure
evidences of God's approval and blessing. Yet the True Witnss makes
the astounding declaration that they are "wretched, miserable, poor,
blind and naked."

Lesson No. 10 - Sabbath, June 3, 1961

A FIRM FOUNDATION

Questions

1. What illustration did Christ use to impress His hearers with the
importance of obedience to sound doctrine? Matthew 7: 24.

2. In establishing a church of God, what must be given first considera-

tion? Isaiah 28: 16.
3. What constitutes the sure foundation? I Corinthians 3: 11.
NOTE: "Christ is the foundation of every true church. We have His
unalterable promise that His presence and protection will be given to
His faithful ones who walk in His counsel. To the end of time Christ is
to be first. He is the source of life and strength, of righteousness and
holiness. And He is all this to those who wear His yoke and learn of Him
how to be meek and lowly."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 147.

4. Is it possible for this foundation to be moved or changed? II Timo-

thy 2: 19.
-25-
 5. How may we identify the true church of God? Ephesians 2: 20·22;
I Timothy 3: 15.
6. Because the foundation is immovable and unchangeable, can we
conclude that church organization cannot apostatize from the truth?
Romans 11: 20, 21; II John 8, 9.

NOTE: "... Soon God's people will be tested by fiery trials, and the
great proportion of those who now appear to be genuine and true will
prove to be base metal. Instead of being strengthened and confirmed by
opposition, threats, and abuse, they will cowardly take the side of the
opposers. The promise is, 'Them that honor me I will honor.' Shall we
be less firmly attached to God's law because the world at large have at-
tempted to make it void?"
"... To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the maj-
ority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few.
-this will be our test. At this time we must gather warmth from the cold-
ness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty from their treas-
on... ." -Ibid., vol. 5, p. 136.
7. Can we accept the popular claim that if members or leaders should
apostatize yet the church as a body will go through to the kingdom?
ANSWER: "In the balances of the sanctuary the Seventh-day Advent-
ist church is to be weighed. She will be judged by tlle privileges and ad-
vantages that she has had. If her spiritual experience doe9 not correspond
to the advantages that Christ, at infinite cost, has bestowed on her, if
the blessings conferred have not qualified her to do the work entrusted
to her, on her will be pronounced the sentence, 'Found wanting.' By the
light bestowed, the opportunities given, will she be judged."
"Unless the church, which is now being leavened with her own back-
slidding, shall repent and be converted, she will eat of the fruit of her
own doing, until she shall abhor herself."-Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 247,
250.
8. When can it be said that a once faithful church has betrayed its
sacred trust?
ANSWER: "... His authority should be kept distinct and plain before
the world; and no laws are to be acknowledged that come in collision
with the laws of Jehovah. If in defiance of God's arrangements the
world be allowed to influence our decisions or our actions, the purpose
of God is defeated. However specious the pretext, if the church waver
here, there is written against her in the books of heaven a betrayal of
the most sacred trusts, and treachery to the kingdom of Christ... ."
-Testimonies to Ministm's, pp. 16, 17.
9. What will be the fate of those who put their confidence in the
church rather than the truth? Ezekiel 9: 5, 6.
-26-
NOTE: "Here we see that the church-the Lord's sanctuary-was the
first to feel the stroke of the wrath of God. The ancient men, those to
whom God had given great light, and who had stood as guardians of the
spiritual interests of the people, had betrayed their tmst. .. ."-Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 211.
10. Will the Laodicean church as a body become the church triumphant?
Revelation 3: 16.
NOTE: "... Thank God, all will not be rocked to sleep in the cradle
of carnal security. There will be faithful ones who will discern the signs
of the times. While a large number professing present tmth will deny
their faith by their works, there will be some who will endure unto the
end."
"... None but divine power can stay the arrogance of Satan, united
with evil men, but in the hour of the church's greatest danger, most fer-
vent prayer will be offered in her behalf by the faithful remnant, and
God will hear and answer at the very time when the guilt of the trans-
gressor has reached its height .. ."-Ibid., pp. 10, 524.

Lesson No. 11 - Sabbath, June 10, 1961

PURIFICATION OF THE CHURCH OF GOD

Questions
1. What important work of purification must be done among God's
people? Zephaniah 1: 12; James 1: 2·4.
2. What means does God use for the perfecting of Christian character?
I Peter 1: 7.
NOTE: "The trials of life are God's workmen, to remove the impurities
and roughness from our character. Their hewing, squaring, and chiseling,
their burnishing and polishing, is a painful process, it is hard to be press-
ed down to the grinding wheel. But the stone is brought forth prepared
to fill its place in the heavenly temple. Upon no useless material does the
Master bestow such careful, tllorough work. Only His precious stones
are polished after the similitude of a palace."-Mount of Blessings, pp.
23,24.
3. What will be the inevitable experience of the church if it preaches
the gospel in its purity? Philippians 1: 29; II Timothy 3: 12.

4. What policy has the church adopted in order to receive popular

favor and to avoid reproach and persecution? Romans 12: 21;
James 4: 4.
-27-
NOTE: "... Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree
to slumber? The only reason is, that the church has conformed to the
world's standard, and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion
which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that
marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is
only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the truths
of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so
little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so pop-
ular with the world. Let their be a revival of the faith and power of the
early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires
of persecution will be rekindled."-Great Controversy, p. 48.

5. What danger does material prosperity bring to the church?

ANSWER: "... Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity
purges them out of the church. As a class, their spirits are not steadfast
with God. They go out from us because they are not of us; for when
tribulation or persecntion arises because of the word, many are offended."
-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 89.
6. Who conducts the purifying process in the church of God? Malachi
3: 2.
NOTE: '... The Lord is willing to help us, to strengthen and bless us;
but we must pass through the refining process until all the impurities
in our character are burned away. Every member of the church will be
subjected to the furnace, not to consume, but to purify." -Ibid., vol. 5,
p.485.
7. 'Vhen the church refuses to heed the rebukes and warnings given
by the Lord, what other means will He use for purification?
AN~\i\'ER: "God will arouse His people; if other means fail, heresies
will come in among them, which will sift them, separating the chaff from
the wheat."-Gospel Workel's, p. 299.
8. From what unexpected source can danger come to the church?
II Peter 2: 1, 2.
NOTE: "Many will stand in our pulpits with the torch of false prophecy
in their hands, kindled from the hellish torch of Satan. If doubts and
unbelief are cherished, the faithful ministers will be removed from the
people who think they know so much. 'If thou hadst known,' said Christ,
'even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy
peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.' "-Testimonies to Ministers,
pp. 409, 410.
9. How extensive will be the purification process?
ANSWFR: "The purging and cleansing will surely pass through every
church iH our land that has had great opportunities and privileges, and has
passed them by unheeded. More evidence is not what they want. They
-28-
need pure and sanctified hearts to gather up and retain all the light that
God has given, and then they will walk in that light."-Ibid., p. 414.
10. How did the prophet Ezekiel symbolize the drastic means used by
the Lord for the purifying of Israel? Ezekiel 22: 19·22.
NOTE: "God's love for His church is infinite. His care over His herit-
age is unceasing. He suffers no affiiction to come upon the church but
such as is essential for her purification, her present and eternal good.
He will purify His church even as He purified the temple at the begin-
ning and close of His ministry on earth... ."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 288.
11. How is God's church pictured after the final purging has completed
its work? Song of Solomon 6: 10.
NOTE: "... My attention was then turned to the company 1 had seen,
who were mightily shaken. 1 was shown those whom 1 had before seen
weeping and praying in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels
around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor
from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company
of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they
had endured, the agonizing stmggle they had passed through. Yet their
features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light
and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth
from them the deepest gratitude, and holy, sacred joy." -Early Writings,
p. 271.

Lesson No. 12 - Sabbath, June 17, 1961

THE STRAIGHT TESTIMONY TO LAODICEA

AND THE SHAKING
Questions
1. What challenging message did the prophet Elijah bring to apostate
Israel? How was this message applied at the first advent of Christ?
I Kings 18: 21; Matthew 3: 1, 2, 7·10.
2. What prophecy could be applied to the spiritual state of the pro·
fessed people of God at the present time? II Timothy 4: 3, 4; Rev-
elaton 3: 15·17.
NOTE: "I saw many traveling in this broad road who had the words
written upon them, 'Dead to the world. The end of all things is at hand.
Be ye also ready.' They looked just like all the vain ones around them,
except a shade of sadness which 1 noticed upon their countenances.
Their conversation was just like that of the gay, thoughtless ones around
them; but they would occasionally point with great satisfaction to the
-29-
letters on their garments, calling for the others to have the same upon
theirs. They were in the broad way, yet they professed to be of the num-
ber who were traveling the narrow way. Those around them would say,
'There is no distinction between us. We are alike; we dress, and talk,
and act alike.''' -Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 128.
3. What is the only hope for those in the Laodicean condition? Rev-
elation 3: 18, 19.
NOTE: "Unless the church, which is now being leavened with her own
backsliding, shall repent and be converted, she will eat of the fruit of
her own doing, until she shall abhor herself. When she resists the evil
and chooses the good, when she seeks God with all humility, and reaches
her high calling in Christ, standing on the platform of eternal truth, and
by faith laying hold upon the attainments prepared for her, she will be
healed. She will appear in her God-given simplicity and purity, separate
from earthly entanglements, showing that the truth has made her free
indeed. Then her members will indeed be the chosen of God, His rep-
resentatives." -Ibid., vol. 8, pp. 250, 251.
4. What solemn duty is sadly neglected among God's professed people?
Leviticus 19: 17 (last part).
NOTE: " ... As a people professing to be reformers, treasuring the most
solemn, purifying truths of God's word, we must elevate the standard
far higher than it is at the present time. Sin and sinners in the church
must be promptly dealt with, that others may not be contaminated.
Truth and purity require that we make more thorough work to cleanse
the camp from Achans. Let those in responsible positions not suffer sin in
a brother. Show him that he must either put away his sins or be separ-
ated from the church."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 147.
5. What responsibility rests upon the servants of God and the church
when it fails to deal with open sin? Matthew 18: 15-18; I Corin-
thians 5: 6, 7, 11.
NOTE: "... The plain, straight testimony must live in the church, or
the cur~e of God will rest upon his people as surely as it did upon an-
cient Israel because of their ·sins. God holds his people, as a body, respon-
sible for the sins existing in individuals among them. If the leaders of the
church neglect to diligently search out the sins which bring the dis-
pleasure of God upon the body, they become responsible for these sins,
.. ."-Ibid., vol. 3, p. 269.
6. What will be the experience of everyone who accepts the earnest
appeal of the True Witness to the Laodiceans? Revelation 3: 20.
NOTE: "I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown
that it would be caused by Ilhe straight testimony called forth by the
counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect
upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard
and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testi-
-30-
mony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking
among God's people."-Early Writings, p. 270.
7. Why has the church not been benefited by the special messages
God has sent to her?
ANSWER: "I saw that the reason why visions have not been more
frequent of late, is because they have not been appreciated by the church.
The church have nearly lost their spirituality and faith, and the reproofs
and warnings have had but little effect upon them. Many of those who
have professed faith in them, have not heeded them."-Testimonies, vol.
1, p. 119.
8. What manifestation of God's power will be seen in the lives of those
who accept the strait testimony? II Corinthians 3: 1·3.
NOTE: "The knowledge of God that works transformation of character
is our great need. If we fulfil His purpose, there must be in our lives a
revelation of God that shall correspond to the teaching of His word."
-Ibid., vol. 8, p. 329.

Remember! Plan your offering next week for Foreign Missions

Lesson No. 13 - Sabbath, June 24, 1961

TRUE REFOHMATION-A RETURN TO

FIRST PRINCIPLES

Questions
1. What promise does the Lord make to those who are willing to
follow the light and do His will in all things? Psalm 25: 10.
2. What situation among the professed people of God brings the great·
est concern to the "righteous"? Psalm 11: 3.
3. How are God's people to regard the fundamental principles of
present truth? Proverbs 22: 28.
NOTE: "I have been shown that the principles that were given us in the
early days of the message are as important and should be regarded just
as conscientiously today as they were then."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 158.
4. What added counsel has been given concernng loyalty to the orig·
inal principles?
ANSWER: "We must firmly refuse to be drawn away from the platform
of eternal truth which since 1844 has stood the test. ... The way-marks
-31-
which have made us what we are, are to be preserved, and they will
be preserved, as God has signified through His word and the Testimony
of His Spirit."-Testimonies, Series B, No.2, pp. 50, 59.

5. What disclosure was given years ago in regard to the departure

of many from the old landmarks?
ANSWER: "For your soul's sake my brethren, have an eye single to
the glory of God.... I know you nced to be alarmed; you are departing
from the old landmarks."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 97.
6. Was this merely a local situation or was it a general condition
among the churches of the denomination?
ANSWER: "My heart aches day after day and night after night for our
churches. Many are progressing, but in the back track. ... They need
divine illumination. They must face square about." -Ibid., p. 93.

7. What kind of reformation has the Lord's servant pointed out as

being needed?
ANSWER: "I have been hoping that there would be a thorough refonna-
tion, and that the principles for which we fought in the early days, and
which were brought out in the power of the Holy Spirit, would be main-
tained." -Testimonies, Series B, No.2, p. 56.
8. What appeal does God make to those who have forsaken His paths
or principles? Jeremiah 6: 16.
9. What instruction was given to preserve God's people from the
cunning devices and delusions of the enemy?
ANSWER: "I am instructed to say to our people. Let us follow Christ.
Do not forget that He is to be our pattern in all things. We may safely
discard those ideas that are not found in His teaching."
"... The enemy is on our track. We must be wide awake, on our guard
against him. We must put on the whole armor of God. Vve must follow
the directions given through the Spirit of Prophecy. We must love and
obey the truth for this time. This will save us from accepting strong de-
lusions. God has spoken to us through His word. He has spoken to us
through the testimonies to the church, and through the books that have
helped to make plain our present duty and the position that we should
now occupy. The warnings that have been given, line upon line, precept
upon precept, should be heeded. If we disregard them, what excuse can
we offer?
"I beseech those who are laboring for God not to accept the spurious
for the genuine. Let not human reason be placed where divine, sanctify-
ing truth should be.... God calls upon us to hold firmly to the funda-
mental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority." -Testi-
monies, vol. 8, pp. 296, 298.