BRANCH SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS

That everyone who thirsteth for the truth may obtain it, these publications are, as a Christian service, provided without charge. They levy but one exaction: the soul's obligation to itself to prove all things and hold fast to that which is good. The only strings attached to this free proffer are the golden strands of Eden and the crimson cords of Calvary – the ties that bind.

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CONTENTS

•   MOVING?   •

All emphases and parenthesis are ours unless otherwise stated throughout the Lessons

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Question 1

When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, what pattern did He give for them to follow? Matt. 6:9-13; Luke 11:1-4.

Question 2

What significance does the phrase "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven" have? Matt. 6:10.

Note – "The time has come for a thorough reformation to take place. When this

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reformation begins, the spirit of prayer will actuate every believer and will banish from the church the spirit of discord and strife. Those who have not been living in Christian fellowship will draw close to one another. One member working in right lines will lead other members to unite with him in making intercession for the revelation of the Holy Spirit. There will be no confusion, because all will be in harmony with the mind of the Spirit. The barriers separating believer from believer will be broken down, and God's servants will speak the same things. The Lord will co-operate with His servants. All will pray understandingly the prayer that Christ taught His servants: 'Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.' Matthew 6:10." – Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 251

“In the Lord's Prayer we have an example of a perfect petition. How simple, yet how comprehensive it is! This prayer should be taught to the children. Let all study carefully the principles contained in it. In response to the prayers of God's people, angels are sent with heavenly blessings. . . Through daily prayer and consecration all may so relate themselves to their heavenly Father that He can bestow upon them rich blessings. . .” – Review and Herald, Jan 3, 1907 (In Heavenly Places, p. 93).

"Those who seek to answer the prayer, 'Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,' will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven.” – Manuscript 11, 1901 (S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1102).

“. . . in heaven, service is not rendered in the spirit of legality . . . . There is perfect unity between them (the angels) and their Creator. Obedience is to them no drudgery. Love for God makes their service a joy.” – The Mount of Blessing, p. 109.

Question 3

In order to show how things are done in heaven, what did God do in the beginning? Gen. 1:1,26,27; 2:8,15.

Note – “The Creator chose for our first parents the surroundings best adapted for their health and happiness. He did not place them in a palace or surround them with the artificial adornments and luxuries that so many today are struggling to obtain. He placed them in close touch with nature and in close communion with the holy ones of heaven.” – The Ministry of Healing, p 261.

"Adam had themes for contemplation in the works of God in Eden, which was heaven in miniature." – Review and Herald, Feb. 24, 1874 (S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, p. 1082).

Question 4

Prior to his rebellion and expulsion from heaven, what exalted position had Lucifer held in the worship above? Eze. 28:11-17; Isa. 14:12-15.

Note – "The hour for joyful, happy songs of praise to God and His dear Son had come. Satan had led the heavenly choir. He had raised the first note; then all the angelic host had united with him, and glorious strains of music had resounded

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through heaven in honor of God and His dear Son. But now, instead of strains of sweetest music, discord and angry words fall upon the ear of the great rebel leader. Where is he? Is it not all a horrible dream? Is he shut out of heaven? Are the gates of heaven never more to open to admit him? The hour of worship draws nigh, when bright and holy angels bow before the Father. No more will he unite in heavenly song. No more will he bow in reverence and holy awe before the presence of the eternal God." – The Story of Redemption, p. 25.

Question 5

Did the worship in Eden follow the heavenly pattern? Gen. 3:8.

Note – "It was under the trees of Eden that the first dwellers on earth had chosen their sanctuary. There Christ had communed with the father of mankind." – The Desire of Ages, p. 290.

"He (Adam) stood in the strength of perfect manhood, possessing the full vigor of mind and body. He was surrounded with the glories of Eden, and was in daily communion with heavenly beings." – Ibid., p. 117.

"Adam and Eve, in their untainted purity, delighted in the sights and sounds of Eden . . . .Each day's labor brought them health and gladness, and the happy pair greeted with joy the visits of their Creator, as in the cool of the day He walked and talked with them. Daily God taught them His lessons." – The Ministry of Healing, p. 261.

Question 6

After the fall, what form did the worship of our first parents and their children take? Gen. 4:1-4.

Note – "The Garden of Eden remained upon the earth long after man had become an outcast from its pleasant paths. The fallen race were long permitted to gaze upon the home of innocence, their entrance barred only by the watching angels. At the cherubim-guarded gate of Paradise the divine glory was revealed. Hither came Adam and his sons to worship God. Here they renewed their vows of obedience to that law the transgression of which had banished them from Eden." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 62.

"The sacrificial offerings were ordained by God to be to man a perpetual reminder and a penitential acknowledgment of his sin and a confession of his faith in the promised Redeemer. They were intended to impress upon the fallen race the solemn truth that it was sin that caused death. To Adam, the offering of the first sacrifice was a most painful ceremony. His hand must be raised to take life, which only God could give. It was the first time he had ever witnessed death, and he knew that had he been obedient to God, there would have been no death of man or beast. As he slew the innocent victim, he trembled at the thought that his sin must shed the blood of the spotless Lamb of God." – Ibid., p. 68.

"Here (at the gate of Eden) their altars were reared, and their offerings presented. It was here that Cain and Abel had brought their sacrifices, and God had condescended to communicate with them." – Ibid., p. 84.

“With intense interest he (Satan) watched the sacrifices offered by Adam and his

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sons. In these ceremonies he discerned a symbol of communion between earth and heaven.” – The Desire of Ages, p. 115.

“. . . in the Child of Bethlehem was veiled the glory before which angels bow. This unconscious babe was the promised seed, to whom the first altar at the gate of Eden pointed.” – Ibid., p. 52

Question 7

How did Jesus fulfill both the daily sacrifices? Mark 15:25,33,34.

Note – “Christ was nailed to the cross between the third and sixth hour, that is, between nine and twelve o'clock. In the afternoon He died. This was the hour of the evening sacrifice. Then the veil of the temple, that which hid God's glory from the view of the congregation of Israel, was rent in twain from top to bottom.” – Letter 230, 1907 (S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, pp. 1108,1109).

“In the antitype, Christ fulfilled the Sanctuary law of both the morning and evening sacrifice. He was nailed to the cross at the third hour, 9 o'clock. . . He died at the ninth hour, 3 o'clock.” – The Daily, Part 1, p. 4.

Question 8

What should all this teach us today about the worship in heaven and our worship here on earth? Matt. 6:10.

Note – “We must now, by diligent, self-sacrificing effort, endeavor to walk in the love of Christ, in the unity of the Spirit, through sanctification of the truth. No halfway work will suffice to fulfill the representation given in the prayer of Christ. We are to practice the principles of heaven here below. In heaven there is one grand meeting place.” – Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 197.

“From every Christian home a holy light should shine forth. Love should be revealed in action. It should flow out in all home intercourse, showing itself in thoughtful kindness, in gentle, unselfish courtesy. There are homes where this principle is carried out – homes where God is worshiped and truest love reigns From these homes morning and evening prayer ascends to God as sweet incense, and His mercies and blessings descend upon the suppliants like the morning dew.” – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 144.

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Question 1

For what purpose did God call Abraham to leave Ur? Gen. 12:1-3.

Note – "The message of God came to Abraham, 'Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee.' In order that God might qualify him for his great work as the keeper of the sacred oracles, Abraham must be separated from the associations of his early life. The influence of kindred and friends would interfere with the training which the Lord purposed to give His servant. Now that Abraham was, in a special sense, connected with heaven, he must dwell among strangers. His character must be peculiar, differing from all the world. He could not even explain his course of action so as to be understood by his friends. Spiritual things are spiritually discerned, his motives and actions were not comprehended hy his idolatrous kindred.” – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 126.

"God selected Abraham as His messenger through whom to communicate light to the world." – Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 523.

“God called Abraham to be a teacher of His word, He chose him to be the father of a great nation, because He saw that Abraham would instruct his children and his household in the principles of God's law. And that which gave power to Abraham's teaching was the influence of his own life." – Education, p. 187.

Question 2

How does sacred history record Abraham’s response to the call? Gen. 12:4,5; Heb. 11:8.

Note – “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.' Hebrews 11:8. Abraham's unquestioning obedience is one of the most striking evidences of faith to be found in all the Bible. To him, faith was 'the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.' Verse 1. Relying upon the divine promise, without the least outward assurance of its fulfillment, he abandoned home and kindred and native land, and went forth, he knew not whither, to follow where God should lead. . . it was no light test that was thus brought upon Abraham, no small sacrifice that was required of him. There were strong ties to bind him to his country, his kindred, and his home. But he did not hesitate to obey the call. He had no question to ask concerning the land of promise – whether the soil was fertile and the climate healthful; whether the country afforded agreeable surroundings and would afford opportunities for amassing wealth. God had spoken, and His servant must obey; the happiest place on earth for him was the place where God would have him to be." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 126.

Question 3

By what method did Abraham teach God's law and the promise of a Redeemer to come, to the heathen? Gen. 12:6-8; 13:1-4.

Note – ". . . Abraham made his encampment . . . . But to the worshiper of Jehovah, a heavy shadow rested upon wooded hill and fruitful plain. 'The Canaanite was then in the land.' Abraham had reached the goal of his hopes to find a country occupied by an alien race and overspread with idolatry. In the groves were set up

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the altars of false gods, and human sacrifices were offered upon the neighboring heights. While he clung to the divine promise, it was not without distressful forebodings that he pitched his tent. Then 'the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land.' His faith was strengthened by this assurance that the divine presence was with him, that he was not left to the mercy of the wicked. 'And there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.' Still a wayfarer, he soon removed to a spot near Bethel, and again erected an altar, and called upon the name of the Lord." – Ibid., p. 128.

Question 4

At what special times did Abraham sacrifice on these altars? 1 Chron. 16:40.

Note – "The life of Abraham, the friend of God, was a life of prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was built an altar, upon which were offered the morning and evening sacrifice." – Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 44.

Question 5

Were the teachings and example of Abraham followed by his descendants? Gen. 33:18-20.

Note – ". . .Isaac had been trained from childhood to ready, trusting obedience, and as the purpose of God was opened before him, he yielded a willing submission. He was a sharer in Abraham's faith. . ." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 152.

"Crossing the Jordan, 'Jacob came in peace to the city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan.' Genesis 33:18, R.V. Thus the patriarch's prayer at Bethel, that God would bring him again in peace to his own land, had been granted. For a time he dwelt in the vale of Shechem. It was here that Abraham, more than a hundred years before, had made his first encampment and erected his first altar in the Land of Promise. Here Jacob 'bought the parcel of ground where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father, for a hundred pieces of money. And he erected there an altar, and called it El-elohe-Israel' (verses 19,20) – 'God, the God of Israel.' Like Abraham, Jacob set up beside his tent an altar unto the Lord, calling the members of his household to the morning and evening sacrifice." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 204.

Question 6

Did any of the heathen learn to worship the true God from Abraham's example? Gen. 13:14-18.

Note – "Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was set up his altar, calling all within his encampment to the morning and evening sacrifice. When his tent was removed, the altar remained. In following years, there were those among the roving Canaanites who received instruction from Abraham; and whenever one of these came to that altar, he knew who had been there before him; and when he had pitched his tent, he repaired the altar, and there worshiped the living God." – Ibid., p. 128.

". . .many a roving Canaanite, whose knowledge of God had been gained from the life of Abraham His servant, tarried at that altar to offer sacrifice to Jehovah." – Education, p. 187.

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Question 7

What are we to learn from this lesson? 1 Cor. 10:11.

Note – "The example of Abraham is recorded in sacred history for the benefit of his believing children." – Signs of the Times, April 1, 1875.

“Abraham, ‘the friend of God,’ set us a worthy example. His was a life of prayer.” – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 128.

Sweet Hour of Prayer

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer, That calls me from a world of care,

And bids me, at my Father's throne, Make all my wants and wishes known!

In seasons of distress and grief, My soul has often found relief,

And oft escaped the tempter's snare, By thy return, sweet hour of prayer.

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! Thy wings shall my petition bear

To Him whose truth and faithfulness Engage the waiting soul to bless.

And since He bids me seek His face, Believe His word, and trust His grace,

I'll cast on Him my every care, And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer.

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! May I thy consolation share

Till from Mount Pisgah's lofty height I view my home and take my flight.

In my immortal flesh I'll rise To seize the everlasting prize.

And shout while passing throught the air, "Farewell, farewell, sweet hour of prayer!”

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Question 1

To what heritage do all Christians lay claim? Gal. 3:6,7,26-29.

Note – ". . Abraham's seed was to be as the sand of the sea for multitude. It is, therefore, obvious that the few identified Jews of today are not the only descendants of Abraham's, but that many of the Gentiles must be of Abraham. Since this mixed up situation exists, hardly anyone can really say for sure that he is not one of Abraham's children. Perhaps many of the nations whom the world calls Gentiles are the children of Abraham. We do not know for sure who is who. God, however, has kept a perfect geneological record, for He says: 'I will make mention

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of Rahab and Babylon to them that know Me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there. And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the Highest Himself shall establish her. The Lord shall count when He writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah.' Psa. 87:4-6. Furthermore, though one be of Gentile blood, if he truly accepts Christ he by his spiritual birth becomes of the seed of Abraham for says Inspiration, 'If ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' Gal. 3:29. The children of Abraham here addressed, therefore, are not to be sought among the identified unbelieving Jews, but among the Christians." – Timely Greetings, Vol. 1, No. 37 (Revised), pp. 11,12.

“Whosoever has been converted to Christianity, accepting Christ as his personal Saviour, has had an experience which has completely overthrown and revolutionized his former plans and hopes, his entire way of life. He has renounced the world and all its 'pleasures of sin for a season' (Heb. 11:25), and has become a new creature in Christ, born again, heir of the kingdom according to the promise! This is what Jesus meant when He declared to Nicodemus: 'Ye must be born again.' And Paul, having this experience in mind, says: 'If ye be Christ's then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' Gal. 3:29. Regardless, therefore, whether one be Jew or Gentile, he can have no part in the kingdom of Christ, save through the second birth, by which he becomes one of the seed of Abraham. This spiritual transformation, nevertheless, does not fix anyone's racial identity and tribal lineage." – Mount Sion At The Eleventh Hour,' Tract No. 8, pp. 7,8. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 2

What counsel does Isaiah the Gospel prophet give us? Isa. 51:1,2.

Note – “Those who profess to be looking for the soon coming of our Saviour, should have Abrahamic faith, a faith that is valued because it has cost them something, a faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. The example of Abraham is left on record for us upon whom the ends of the world have come." – The Signs of the Times, April 1, 1875.

Question 3

In view of our claim, to be children of Abraham, what did Jesus say that we should do? John 8:39.

Note – "If you want the blessing of God, parents, do as did Abraham." – Letter 53, 1887. (Quoted in Bible Biographies, Old Testament by Mrs. E. G. White, Vol. 1, p. 57 – Compiled by Walter T. Rea.)

“When the method pursued by Abraham is followed, then, and then only, can any one of us be justified; there is no other way. 'And if ye be Christ's then are y Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' (Gal. 3:29.) 'If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham.' (John 8:39.) Let us take notice of Abraham's faith, experience, and justification. 'Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged. Look unto Abraham your father.' (Isa. 51:1,2.) . . . .By simply doing the things that God asked of him he obtained this record: 'Because that Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my

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charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.' 'In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.' (Gen. 26:5,4.) Having childlike faith in the Word, and doing all God has said, is the only sanctification and righteousness that is Christ's. Such are the children of Abraham, and to them is the promise. They openly declare that the blood of Christ has the power to save them from the bondage of sin, and from the condemnation of the law. They shall inherit the land for ever and ever. These are the Israel of God. There are no others, and this only is righteousness and sanctification by faith.” – The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, pp. 298,300. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

Question 4

What is one of the works of Abraham that we are admonished to do? Gen. 12:6-8; 13:1-4, 14-18.

Note – "Abraham, 'the friend of God,' set us a worthy example. His was a life of prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was set up his altar, calling all within his encampment to the morning and evening sacrifice." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 128.

"From every Christian home a holy light should shine forth Love should be revealed in action. It should flow out in all home intercourse, showing itself in thoughtful kindness, in gentle, unselfish courtesy. There are homes where this principle is carried out – homes where God is worshiped and truest love reigns. From these homes morning and evening prayer ascends to God as sweet incense, and His mercies and blessings descend upon the suppliants like the morning dew." – Ibid., p. 144.

Question 5

Wouldn't observing the sacred hours of prayer, as did Abraham, constitute trying to be saved by works instead of faith? James 2:14-26.

Note – "There are many who fail to understand the relation of faith and works. They say, 'Only believe in Christ, and you are safe. You have nothing to do with keeping the law.' But genuine faith will be manifest in obedience. Said Christ to the unbelieving Jews, 'if ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham.' John 8:39. And concerning the father of the faithful the Lord declares, 'Abraham obeyed My voice, and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws.' Genesis 26:5. Says the apostle James, 'Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.' James 2:17. And John, who dwells so fully upon love, tells us, 'This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments.' 1 John 5:3." – Ibid., pp. 153,154.

Question 6

What sad experience is recorded in sacred history, concerning one who left off worshiping with Abraham? Gen. 13:1-18; 19:1-26.

Note – "In how wide contrast to the life of Abraham was that of Lot! Once they had been companions, worshiping at one altar, dwelling side by side in their pilgrim tents; but how widely separated now! Lot had chosen Sodom for its pleasure and profit. Leaving Abraham's altar and its daily sacrifice to the living God, he had permitted his children to mingle with a corrupt and idolatrous

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people . . . .He was saved at last as 'a brand plucked out of the fire' (Zechariah 3:2), yet stripped of his possessions, bereaved of his wife and children, dwelling in caves, like the wild beasts, covered with infamy in his old age . . . .How terrible were the results that followed one unwise step." – Patriachs and Prophets, p. 168. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 7

What counsel, given by Paul, would be well to consider in the light of this story? Heb. 10:23-25.

Note – "The life of Abraham, the friend of God, was a life of prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was built an altar, upon which were offered the morning and the evening sacrifice. . . So the homes of Christians should be lights in the world. From them, morning and evening, prayer should ascend to God as sweet incense. And as the morning dew, His mercies and blessings will descend upon the suppliants. Fathers and mothers, each morning and evening gather your children around you, and in humble supplication lift the heart to God for help. Your dear ones are exposed to temptation. Daily annoyances beset the path of young and old. Those who would live patient, loving, cheerful lives must pray. Only by receiving constant help from God can we gain the victory over self. Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master." – Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 44.

"In every family there should be fixed time for morning and evening worship.” – Ibid., p. 43.

“The hour of prayer should not be neglected for any consideration. Do not talk and amuse yourselves till all are too weary to enjoy the season of devotion. To do this is to present to God a lame offering. At an early hour in the evening (3 o'clock), when we can pray unhurriedly and understandingly, we should present our supplications, and raise our voices in happy, grateful praise." – Messages to Young People, p. 342.

"God loves His obedient children. He has a kingdom prepared, not for disloyal subjects, but for His children whom He has tested and tried in a world marred and corrupted by sin. As obedient children, we have the privilege of relationship with God. 'If children,' He says, 'then heirs' to an immortal inheritance. . . Christ and His people are one (Letter 119, 1897)." – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1077.

“What if you personally and alone were called by His word, as was Abraham, to stand alone for Truth and righteousness, would you be a hero for God as was Abraham, or would you do as did backsliding Judas Iscariot?” – Timely Greetings, Vol. 1, No. 37 (Revised), p. 12.

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Question 1

While Israel was in the wilderness, what did God command Moses to do? Ex. 25:1-8; Heb. 9:1-5.

Note – "The sanctuary to which Paul here refers was the tabernacle built by Moses at the command of God as the earthly dwelling place of the Most High. 'Let them make Me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them' (Exodus 25:8), was the direction given to Moses while in the mount with God. The Israelites were journeying through the wilderness, and the tabernacle was so constructed that it could be removed from place to place." – The Great Controversy, pp. 411,412. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 2

What pattern did Moses use for the construction of the tabernacle? Ex. 25:9; Heb. 8:5 9:23,24.

Note – “In order that the earthly tabernacle might represent the heavenly, it must be perfect in all its parts, and it must be, in every smallest detail, like the pattern in the heavens." – Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 60.

"God Himself gave to Moses the plan of that structure, with particular directions as to its size and form, the materials to be employed, and every article of furniture which it was to contain. The holy places made with hands were to be 'figures of the true,' 'patterns of things in the heavens'. . . – a miniature representation of the heavenly temple where Christ, our great High Priest, after offering His life as sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner's behalf. God presented before Moses in the mount a view of the heavenly sanctuary, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 343.

“Moses made the earthly sanctuary, 'according to the fashion that he had seen.’ Paul declares that 'the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry,' when completed, were 'patterns of things in the heavens.' Acts 7:44; Hebrews 9:21,23. And John says that he saw the sanctuary in heaven. That sanctuary, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.” – Ibid., p. 357.

Question 3

What ordinance, observed since Adam, was incorporated into the services of the sanctuary? Num. 4:16; 1 Chron. 16:40; 2 Chron. 2:4; Ezra 3:3.

Note – "The ministration of the earthly sanctuary consisted of two divisions; the priests ministered daily in the holy place, while once a year the high priest performed a special work of atonement in the most holy, for the cleansing of the sanctuary. Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle and, placing his hand upon the victim's head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice . . . .The blood, representing the forfeited life of the sinner, whose guilt the victim bore, was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed." – The Great Controversy, p. 418.

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Question 4

What was done at 9 and 3 each day? Ex. 29:38-46; Lev. 6:8-13; Num. 28:3,4.

Note – "Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar, With its appropriate meat offering, thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to Jehovah, and their constant dependence upon the atoning blood of Christ. God expressly directed that every offering presented for the service of the sanctuary should be 'without blemish.' Exodus 12:5. The priests were to examine all animals brought as a sacrifice, and were to reject every one in which a defect was discovered. Only an offering 'without blemish' could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as 'a lamb without blemish and without spot.' 1 Peter 1:19." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 352.

Question 5

What was offered to God, morning and evening, besides the two lambs? Ex. 30:1,7,8.

Note – "In the offering of incense the priest was brought more directly into the presence of God than in any other act of the daily ministration. As the inner veil of the sanctuary did not extend to the top of the building, the glory of God, which was manifested above the mercy seat, was partially visible from the first apartment. When the priest offered incense before the Lord, he looked toward the ark; and as the cloud of incense arose, the divine glory descended upon the mercy seat and filled the most holy place, and often so filled both apartments that the priest was obliged to retire to the door of the tabernacle." – Ibid., p. 353.

Question 6

Did the offering of the incense have any significance? Ps. 141:2; Eph. 5:1,2; Rev. 8:3-5.

Note – "The incense, ascending with the prayers of Israel, represents the merits and intercession of Christ, His perfect righteousness, which through faith is imputed to His people, and which can alone make the worship of sinful beings acceptable to God. Before the veil of the most holy place was an altar of perpetual intercession, before the holy, an altar of continual atonement . . . .As the priests morning and evening entered the holy place at the time of incense, the daily sacrifice was ready to be offered upon the altar in the court without. This was a time of intense interest to the worshipers who assembled at the tabernacle. Before entering into the presence of God through the ministration of the priest, they were to engage in earnest searching of heart and confession of sin. They united in silent prayer, with their faces toward the holy place. Thus their petitions ascended with the cloud of incense, while faith laid hold upon the merits of the promised Saviour prefigured by the atoning sacrifice." – Ibid.

Question 7

What have we learned about the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary, besides Christ offering His blood? Rom. 8:26; Eph. 6:18.

Note – "By blood and by incense God was to be approached – symbols pointing to the great Mediator, through whom sinners may approach Jehovah, and through whom alone mercy and salvation can be granted to the repentant, believing soul." – Ibid.

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"Christ, our Mediator, and the Holy Spirit are constantly interceding in man's behalf . . .(MS 50, 1900)" – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1077.

Question 8

How important was the time involved in the morning and evening services?

Note – "The hour and place of prayer are sacred, because God is there." – Prophets and Kings, pp. 48,49.

"The hours appointed for the morning and evening sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed as the set time for worship throughout the Jewish nation. And when in later times the Jews were scattered as captives in distant lands, they still at the appointed hour turned their faces toward Jerusalem and offered up their petitions to the God of Israel. In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. While God condemns a mere round of ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening to seek pardon for sins committed and to present their requests for needed blessings." – Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 353,354.

"Children should be taught to respect and reverence the hour of prayer. . . It is the duty of Christian parents, morning and evening, by earnest prayer and persevering faith, to make a hedge about their children." – Testimonies, Vol. 1, pp. 397,398.

"Every week God is robbed by some infringement upon the borders of His holy time; and the hours that should be devoted to prayer and meditation are given to worldly employments." – Ibid., Vol. 4, p. 247.

"Morning and evening your earnest prayers should ascend to God for His blessing and guidance." – Ibid., pp. 615,616.

"Let the families, the individual Christians, and the churches bear in mind that they are closely allied to heaven. The Lord has a special interest in His church militant here below. The angels who offer the smoke of the fragrant incense are for the praying saints. . . Morning and evening the heavenly universe behold every household that prays, and the angel with the incense (the Holy Spirit), representing the blood of the atonement, finds access to God (MS 15, 1897).” – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 971.

“Without a knowledge of the Holy Spirit as our Intercessor to make efficaceous the precious blood of Christ, our Intercessor. . .we cannot approach God. . .” – The Daily, Part 2, p. 8.

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Question 1

At what special times do we find David devoting himself to prayer? Ps. 5:1-3; 55:16,17; 141:2.

Note – "Prayer means very much to the children of God, and thank offerings should come up before God morning and evening. Says the Psalmist, 'O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.' (MS 12, 1898)" – My Life Today, p. 29.

Question 2

After the division of the kingdom of Israel, how did Jeroboam wean the people away from the true system of worship? 1 Kings 12:20,26-31.

Note – “Placed on the throne by the ten tribes of Israel who had rebelled against the house of David, Jeroboam, the former servant of Solomon, was in a position to bring about wise reforms in both civil and religious affairs . . . But Jeroboam failed to make God his trust. Jeroboam's greatest fear was that at some future time the hearts of his subjects might be won over by the ruler occupying the throne of David. He reasoned that if the ten tribes should be permitted to visit often the ancient seat of the Jewish monarchy, where the services of the temple were still conducted as in the years of Solomon's reign, many might feel inclined to renew their allegiance to the government centering at Jerusalem. Taking counsel with his advisers, Jeroboam determined by one bold stroke to lessen, so far as possible, the probability of a revolt from his rule. He would bring this about by creating within the borders of his newly formed kingdom two centers of worship, one at Bethel and the other at Dan. In these places the ten tribes should be invited to assemble, instead of at Jerusalem, to worship God. . . Accordingly he caused to be made two calves of gold. . . So strong was Jeroboam's desire to keep the ten tribes away from Jerusalem that he lost sight of the fundamental weakness of his plan. He failed to take into consideration the great peril to which he was exposing the Israelites by setting before them the idolatrous symbol of the deity with which their ancestors had been so familiar during the centuries of Egyptian bondage . . . .But his set purpose of inducing the northern tribes to discontinue their annual visits to the Holy City led him to adopt the most imprudent of measures . . . . Thus they were invited to bow down before the golden images and adopt strange forms of worship." – Prophets and Kings, pp. 99-101.

Question 3

During the years, how did God endeavour to lead His people back from their idolatry? Hos. 4:1-14.

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Note – “Through faithful messengers the Lord sent repeated warnings to the apostate king and the people, but in vain were these words of reproof. In vain did the inspired messengers assert Jehovah’s right to be the only God in Israel; in vain did they exalt the laws that He had entrusted to them.” – Prophets and Kings, p. 116.

Question 4

What outstanding demonstration was enacted by Elijah in order to win the people’s allegiance back to Jehovah? 1 Kings 18:17-40.

Note – “It is the hour of the evening sacrifice, and Elijah bids the people, ‘Come near unto me.’ As they tremblingly draw near, he turns to the broken-down altar where once men worshipped the God of heaven, and repairs it. To him this heap of ruins is more precious than al the magnificent altars of heathendom. In the reconstruction of this ancient altar, Elijah revealed his respect for the covenant that the Lord made with Israel when they crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land.” – Ibid., p. 151.

“Elijah at the hour of evening sacrifice repairs the altar of God which the apostasy of Israel has allowed the priests of Baal to tear down. He does not call upon one of the people to aid him in his laborious work. The altars of Baal are all prepared; but he turns to the broken-down altar of God, which is more sacred and precious to him in its unsightly ruins than all the magnificent altars of Baal. . . .With calmness and solemnity he repairs the broken-down altar with twelve stones, according to the number of the twelve tribes of Israel. . . .After the victim is laid upon the altar, he commands the people to flood the sacrifice and the altar with water, and to fill the trench round about the altar. He then reverentially bows before the unseen God, raises his hands toward heaven, and offers a calm and simple prayer, unattended with violent gestures or contortions of the body. . . .No shrieks. . . .no extravagant expressions. . . Elijah’s prayer is very short, earnest, reverential, and sincere.” – Testimonies, Vol. 3, pp. 284,285.

“ ‘Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel,’ the prophet pleads, ‘let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel, and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that Thou art the Lord God, and that Thou hast turned their heart back again.’ . . .No sooner is the prayer of Elijah ended than flames of fire, like brilliant flashes of lightning, descend from heaven upon the upreared altar, consuming the sacrifice, licking up the water in the trench, an dconsuming even the stones of the altar. . . It resembles the pillar of fire which at the Red Sea separated the children of Israel from the Egyptian host. The people on the mount. . . .convicted of their duty to acknowledge the God of Elijah as the God of their fathers, to whom they owe allegiance, they cry out together as with one voice, ‘The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God.’ “ – Prophets and Kings, pp. 152,153.

Question 5

Even though the two tribes still had the temple, how had they responded to God’s messengers? 2 Chron. 24:19; 36:15,16.

Note – “ ‘The Lord brought Judah low’ because of continued transgression. In this time of chastisement Ahaz, instead of repenting, trespassed ‘yet more against the Lord:. . .for he sacrificed unto the Gods of Damascus.’ ‘Because the gods of the kings of Syria help them,’ he said, ‘therefore will I sacrifice to them, that they may help me.’ 2 Chronicles 28:19,22,23. As the apostate king neared the end of his reign, he caused the doors of the temple to be closed. The sacred services were interrupted. No longer were the candlesticks kept burning before the altar. No longer were offerings made for the sins of the people. No longer did sweet incense ascend on high at the time of the morning and the evening sacrifice. Deserting the courts of the house of God and locking fast the doors, the inhabitants of the godless city boldly set up altars for the worship of heathen deities on the street corners throughout Jerusalem.” – Prophets and Kings, p. 330.

Question 6

During the captivity, were there any who remained true to God, worshipping at the sacred hours? Dan. 6:1-28.

Note – “And when in later times the Jews were scattered as captives in distant lands, they still at the appointed hour turned their faces toward Jerusalem and offered up their petitions to the God of Israel. In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer.” – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 354.

“The honors bestowed upon Daniel excited the jealousy of the leading men of the kingdom, and they sought for occasion of complaint against him. But they could find none. . . .Thereupon the presidents and princes, counseling together, devised a scheme whereby they hoped to accomplish the prophet’s destruction. They determined to ask the king to sign a decree which they should prepare, forbidding any person in the realm to ask anything of God or man, except of Darius the king, for the space of thirty days. . . .The prophet’s enemies counted on Daniel’s firm adherence to principle for the success of their plan. And they were not mistaken in their estimate of his character. He quickly read their malignant purpose in framing the decree, but he did not change his course in a single particular. Why should he cease to pray now, when he most needed to pray? . . .With calmness he performed his duties as chief of the princes; and at the hour of prayer he went to his chamber, and with his windows open toward Jerusalem, in accordance with his usual custom, he offered his petition to the God of heaven. He did not try to conceal his act. Although he knew full well the consequences of his fidelity to God. . . .Surrounded by idolaters, he was a faithful witness to this truth.” – Prophets and Kings, pp. 539-542.

Question 7

Years later, what did Ezra discover, and what did He do? Ezra 9:1-15.

Note – “In his study of the causes leading to the Babylonish captivity, Ezra had learned that Israel’s apostasy was largely traceable to their mingling with heathen nations. . . .He thought of God’s goodness in again giving His people a foothold in their native land, and he was overwhelmed with righteous indignation and with

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grief at their ingratitude. 'When I heard this thing,' he says, 'I rent my garment and my mantle, and plucked off the hair of my head and of my beard, and sat down astonied. Then were assembled unto me everyone that trembled at the words of the God of Israel. . . and I sat astonied until the evening sacrifice.' Verses 3,4. At the time of the evening sacrifice Ezra rose, and, once more rending his garment and his mantle, he fell upon his knees and unburdened his soul in supplication to Heaven. . . . This was the beginning of a wonderful reformation. . . More than two thousand years have passed since Ezra 'prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it' (Ezra 7:10), yet the lapse of time has not lessened the influence of his pious example." – Prophets and Kings, pp. 620-623. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 8

At what special time was the announcement of the forerunner of the Great Sacrifice, the Lamb of God, made to Zacharias? Luke 1:5-23,57-64.

Note – "Zacharias dwelt in 'the hill country of Judea,' but he had gone up to Jerusalem to minister for one week in the temple, a service required twice a year from the priests of each course. 'And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, according to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord ('It was the duty of the priest in this service [morning and evening sacrifice] to pray for the pardon of public and national sins, and for the coming of the Messiah. . .' – The Desire of Ages, p. 99).' He was standing before the golden altar in the holy place of the sanctuary. The cloud of incense with the prayers of Israel was ascending before God. Suddenly he became conscious of a divine presence. An angel of the Lord was 'standing on the right side of the altar.' The position of the angel was an indication of favor, but Zacharias took no note of this. For many years he had prayed for the coming of the Redeemer; now heaven had sent its messenger to announce that these prayers were about to be answered . . . . He was filled with fear and self-condemnation. But he was greeted with the joyful assurance: 'Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. . . and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost. . . And he shall. . .make ready a people prepared for the Lord. . .' " – The Desire of Ages, pp. 97,98.

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Question 1

What did we learn was offered morning and evening in the sanctuary? Ex. 29:38-46.

Note – “The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering,

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the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offerings for individual sins. And there were also offerings for sabbaths, new moons, and special feasts. Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar, with its appropriate meat offering, thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to Jehovah. . ." – Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 352.

Question 2

To Whom had these lambs pointed forward for centuries? John 1:29,35,36; Isa. 53:4-7.

Note – "The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the 'lamb without blemish and without spot.' 1 Peter 1:19." – The Desire of Ages, p. 50.

"Christ was standing at the point of transition between two economies and their two great festivals. He, the spotless Lamb of God, was about to present Himself as a sin offering, that He would thus bring to an end the system of types and ceremonies that for four thousand years had pointed to His death." – Ibid., p. 652.

"The typical system of sacrifices and offerings was established that through these services the sinner might discern the great offering, Christ. But the Jews were so blinded by pride and sin that but few of them could see farther than the death of beasts as an atonement for sin; and when Christ, whom these offerings prefigured, came, they could not discern Him. The ceremonial law was glorious; it was the provision made by Jesus Christ in counsel with His Father, to aid in the salvation of the race. The whole arrangement of the typical system was founded on Christ. Adam saw Christ prefigured in the innocent beast suffering the penalty of his transgression of Jehovah's law (RH May 6, 1875)." – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, pp. 1094,1095. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 3

During His life on earth, did Jesus observe the daily hours of the morning and evening sacrifice? John 8:46, last part; 1 Peter 2:21, 22.

Note – ". . .Christ must conform to the law in every particular." – The Desire of Ages, p. 50.

"In His life on earth, Christ developed a perfect character, He rendered perfect obedience to His Father's commandments . . . .Before the Pharisees He could say, 'Which of you convinceth me of sin?' Not one stain of sin was found upon Him. He stood before the world the spotless Lamb of God (YI Dec. 29, 1898)." Sons and Daughters of God, p. 25.

"For thirty years He lived the life of a perfect man, meeting the highest standard of perfection (Letter 69, 1897)." – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 1086. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 4

During His crucifixion how did Jesus fulfill the types of the morning and evening sacrifice? Num. 28:4; Mark 15:24,25; Num. 28:8; Mark 15:34-38.

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Note – "In the antitype, Christ fulfilled the Sanctuary law of both the morning and the evening sacrifice. He was nailed to the cross at the third hour, 9 o'clock (Num. 28:4). 'And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.' Mark 15:24,25. He died at the ninth hour, 3 o’clock. . .” – The Daily, Part 1, p. 4. (Parenthesis belong to quotation.)

“When the loud cry, ‘It is finished,’ came from the lips of Christ, the priests were officiating in the temple. It was the hour of the evening sacrifice." – The Desire of Ages, p. 756.

Question 5

At Jesus death, what took place in the temple that was very significant? Matt. 27:50,51.

Note – “But the earth trembles and quakes; for the Lord (Holy Spirit). . .draws near. With a rending noise the inner veil of the temple is torn from top to bottom by an unseen hand, throwing open to the gaze of the multitude a place once filled with the presence of God . . . . All is terror and confusion. The priest is about to slay the victim; but the knife drops from his nerveless hand, and the lamb escapes. Type has met antitype in the death of God's Son. The great sacrifice has been made." – Ibid., pp. 756,757.

“As the high priest was ready to stay the lamb, the ‘Daily’ typical evening service, at the ninth hour, 3:00 p.m., which pointed to Jesus, the antitypical Lamb, the veil of the temple between the holy and the most holy place, where the high priest was forbidden to enter except once a year on the occasion of the day of Atonement, was rent by the hand of Omnipotence, and the typical sacrifice escaped. Here was shown the transferral of the 'Daily' from earth to heaven." – The Daily, Part 2, p. 8.

Question 6


How could the services of the earthly sanctuary be transferred to the heavenly, at this time – Friday, if Jesus did not ascend till Sunday morning? Heb. 9:14: Rom. 8:26.

Note – ". . what was done in type in the ministration of the earthly sanctuary (bringing the fresh warm blood of the lamb into the holy place and offering it before the veil) is done in reality (on Friday at 3:00 p.m.) in the ministration of the heavenly sanctuary." – The Great Controversy, p. 420.

How? "The Holy Spirit left Jesus and ascended to the Heavenly sanctuary to mediate His precious blood in the holy place to atone for Israel that day." – The Daily, Part 2, p. 8.

“Why did Jesus cry out twice to God, and why did He ask, why they had forsaken Him? In the first place, there are two members of the Godhead besides Jesus, and He called to them both, God the Father, and God the Holy Spirit. When they left Him Jesus knew that He was dying. Why did the Father and the Holy Spirit both leave Jesus? Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit from the day John baptized Him (Mark 1:9,10). He, the Son of Gods, had given His life to redeem man and it was

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necessary to fulfill the sanctuary law, for His blood to be mediated in the heavenly sanctuary at the time of the evening sacrifice, when the blood of the sacrifice must be offered as the seventh-day Sabbath drew on. Therefore, it was mandatory the Messiah's Father sit on His throne as the Holy Spirit, acting in the capacity of High Priest, Melchizedek, mediated the blood of the Son, the Sacrifice, in the heavenly sanctuary. Consequently, we see not only the Son involved in the sacrifice of His life to redeem man, but also, all heaven and the Triune Godhead, the whole Heavenly Family were involved . . . . The transfer of the temple service from the earthly sanctuary, offering of the blood of animals, which was a pattern of the Heavenly, was accomplished by offering the blood of the Son of Gods in the heavenly sanctuary by the Eternal Spirit, Melchizedek (Heb. 9:14)." – The Daily, Part 2, pp. 7,8. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

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Question 1

What special appoiniment did Jesus have in heaven, after His resurrection? John 20:1-18; Lev. 23:10,11.

Note – "Since the One to whom all the animal sacrifices pointed forward, in the type, had come, the plan of redemption and recreation had met its fulfillment. On the morrow after the seventh-day Sabbath the antitypical wave-sheaf was offered in the tabernacle not made with hands, signifying the beginning of the harvest for the dead and the transformation of the temple service from earth to heaven.” – Seven Letters to Florence Houteff and the Executive Council of the Davidian Seventh-Day Adventist Association, pp. 95,96.

"He arose in time, early the first day of the week, to present the wave-sheaf at the third hour (9 o'clock in the morning) in the Heavenly Sanctuary. . ." – The Daily, Part 1, p. 4. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

"He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave-sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father . . . .Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. . . The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied.” – The Desire of Ages, p. 834.

“Christ’s crucifixion on the cross, the rending of the veil on Friday, and His resting in the grave on the seventh-day Sabbath, signified the ending of the typical earthly temple ceremonies. At that time, the Mosaic dispensation with the presence of the Holy Shekinah, the offering of animal sacrifices, and the Levitical priesthood officially ended. The Messiah's resurrection on the first day of the week, the offering of the wave-sheaf at Passover time in the heavenly courts, on the morrow after the Sabbath (Lev. 23:11) before the Eternal Father, signalized the beginning of the heavenly Sanctuary 'daily,' morning and evening, temple service in the holy place." – Seven Letters to Florence Houteff and the Executive Council of the Davidian Seventh-Day Adventist Association, p. 96. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

“. . .then (He), returned to earth the same morning with those who ascended with Him, and labored forty days to gather the 120. . ." – The Daily, Part 1, p. 4.

Question 2

Fifty days later, what special ceremony took place in heaven? Heb. 8:1-7; 9:11,12.

Note – "Christ's ascension to heaven was the signal that His followers were to receive the promised blessing. For this they were to wait before they entered upon their work. When Christ passed within the heavenly gates, He was enthroned amidst the adoration of the angels. As soon as this ceremony was completed, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in rich currents, and Christ was indeed glorified, even with the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring was Heaven’s communication that the Redeemer's

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inauguration was accomplished.” – The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 38,39.

“. . .after Christ’s ascension His enthronement in His mediatorial kingdom was signalized by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.” – Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 120.

“Jesus offered the antitypical wave-sheaf of the dead at the time pointed out in the symbolic service and He received His mediatorial crown on the day of Pentecost, the day the Theocratic kings of Israel were crowned, in harmony with the ceremonial law (at the third hour).” – Seven Letters to Florence Houteff and the Executive Council of the Davidian Seventh-Day Adventist Association, p. 98. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 3

Into what order of priesthood was Jesus inaugurated on that day? Heb. 5:5-10; 7:11-22.

Note – “The high priest was designed in an especial manner to represent Christ, who was to become a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec. This order of priesthood was not to pass to another, or be superceded by another (Redemption: The First Advent of Christ, p. 14).” – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 930. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

“Christ glorified not Himself in being made High Priest. God gave Him His appointment to the priesthood. He was to be an example to all the human family. He qualified Himself to be, not only the representative of the race, but their Advocate, so that every soul if he will may say, I have a Friend at court. He is a High Priest that can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities (MS 101, 1897).” – Ibid. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 4

Who was the Priest, Melchizedek, that Jesus joined? Heb. 5:10,11; 7:15.

Note – “God has never left Himself without witness on the earth. At one time Melchisedek represented the Lord Jesus Christ in person, to reveal the truth of heaven, and perpetuate the law of God (Letter 190, 1905).” – Ibid., Vol. 1, pp. 1092,1093. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

“Melchisedek was not Christ, but he was the voice of God in the world, the representative of the Father. . . (RH Feb. 18, 1890).” – Ibid., p. 1093.

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“The Holy Spirit is Christ’s representative, but divested of the personality of humanity, and independent thereof.” – The Desire of Ages, p. 669.

“Christ tells us that the Spirit is the Comforter, ‘the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father.’ “ – The Acts of the Apostles, p. 51.

“ ‘At a Council meeting in Avondale School in Australia about the year 1893 there were present Elders Haskell, F. L. H. Baker, G. B. Starr, and wives, and Sr. E. G. White, also W. A. Colcord, Editor of Australian Signs of the Times. Elder Colcord was addressed by Sr. White, when he asked, ‘Who then is Melchizedek?’ She replied, ‘I will tell you who Melchizedek was. He was the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead, who took the form of humanity and represented the Lord Jesus to that generation.’ Heb. 7:3. . . .Elder Haskell published the above in his paper, South Lancaster, Mass.’ – Signed G. B. Starr. The foregoing statement was taken from The Liberator, Vol. 17, No. 7, and although not generally accepted as an authentic statement from Sister White, it carries the same thought that Melchizedek is the Holy Spirit.” – Christ and the Holy Spirit “Two Turtle Doves,” p. 12.

Question 5

How did the disciples show their faith in Jesus’ ministry above? Heb. 10:19-25.

Note – “. . .our Advocate is standing before the Father, pleading as our intercessor. In place of wrapping about us the garments of self-righteousness, we should be found daily humbling ourselves before God, confessing our own individual sins, seeking pardon of our transgressions, and cooperating with Christ in the work of preparing our souls to reflect the divine image. Unless we enter the sanctuary above, and unite with Christ in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, we shall be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary, and shall be pronounced wanting (MS 168, 1898).” – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, pp. 933,934. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 6

How was their faith, in keeping the sacred hours of prayer, rewarded? Acts 2:1-4,14,15; 3:1-8.

Note – “Let us read and receive and present to others the second chapter of the book of Acts. We need a deeper piety and the sincere meekness of the Great Teacher. I am instructed. . .that the whole book of Acts is our lesson book. All of us need to humble our own individual hearts, and be converted daily (Letter 32, 1910).” – Ibid., Vol. 6, p. 1055. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

“The time has now come. The Spirit had been waiting for the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. For ten days the disciples offered their petitions for the outpouring of the Spirit, and Christ in heaven added His intercession. This was the occasion of His ascension and inauguration, a jubilee in heaven. He had ascended on high, leading captivity captive, and He now claimed the gift of the Spirit, that He might pour it out upon His disciples (SW Nov. 28, 1905).” – Ibid. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

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"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 Acts of the Apostles, p. 48.

"Remember, the one hundred and twenty received the outpouring of power on the day the first-fruits were offered, Pentecost, fifty days after Jesus was raised from the dead; conclusive proof that these ceremonial offerings were not nailed to the cross, but were observed by Jesus and the disciples after the crucifixion." – The Daily, Part 1, pp. 4,5.

Question 7

As the church grew, what do we find the believers doing? Acts 1:46,47.

Note – "While our High Priest was offering 'Daily' in heaven, the Apostles were offering daily in the temple on earth (Acts 3:1) the emblems of His broken body and spilt blood, the bread and the wine (Acts 2:46) from house to house." – Seven Letters to Florence Houteff and the Executive Council of the Davidian Seventh-Day Adventist Association, p. 97. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

"Under the new covenant, the conditions by which eternal life may be gained are the same as under the old – perfect obedience. Under the old covenant, there were many offenses of a daring, presumptuous character, for which there was no atonement specified by law. In the new and better covenant, Christ has fulfilled the law for the transgressors of law, if they receive Him by faith as a personal Saviour. 'As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.' Mercy and forgiveness are the reward of all who come to Christ trusting in His merits to take away their sins. In the better covenant we are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ (Letter 276, 1904)." – S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 931. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

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Question 1

While Daniel was in captivity in Babylon, what did God choose to show him in vision? Dan. 8:1-14.

Question 2

Who was sent to enlighten Daniel as to the meaning of this vision? Dan. 8:15.19.

Note – "The words of the angel, 'I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God,' show that he holds a position of high honor in the heavenly courts. When he came with a message to Daniel, he said, 'There is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael [Christ] your Prince.' Dan. 10:21. Of Gabriel the Saviour speaks in the Revelation, saying that 'He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John.' Rev. 1:1. And to John the angel declared, 'I am a fellow servant with thee and with thy brethren the prophets.' Rev. 22:9, R.V. Wonderful thought – that the angel who stands next in honor to the Son of God is the one chosen to open the purposes of God to sinful men." – The Desire of Ages, p. 99. (Brackets belong to quotation.)

". . the angel Gabriel, though commanded to make Daniel understand the vision, gave him only a partial explanation. As the terrible persecution to befall the church was unfolded to the prophet's vision, physical strength gave way. He could endure no more, and the angel left him for a time. Daniel 'fainted, and was sick certain days.' 'And I was astonished at the vision,' he says, 'but none understood it.' Yet God had bidden His messenger: 'Make this man to understand the vision.' That commission must be fulfilled. In obedience to it, the angel, some time afterward, returned to Daniel, saying: 'I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding;' 'therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.' Daniel 8:27,16; 9:22,23,25-27." – The Great Controversy, p. 325.

Question 3

What did Daniel learn was represented by the ram and the he goat? Dan. 8:3-7.

Note – "The entire conflict between the nations is symbolized by the ram and the goat, with various horns coming up and breaking off. Why a ram and a goat? Why not some other species of animals? Jesus gives the answer: 'And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.' (Matt. 25:32,33.) By these domestic beasts inspiration conveys the thought that the inhabitants of earth are but sheep and goats – true and false religion. It also signifies that wars are a strife between good and evil. But why Medo-Persia by a ram, and Grecia by a goat? Why not the reverse? The kings of the Medo-Persian empire became believers in the true God. . . thus having principles contrary to those of Grecia. For that reason Medo-Persia was represented by a ram, and Grecia by a goat. Wonderful it is to note how perfect and thoughtful was the great wisdom and care of the Infinite One, as exercised to devise these symbols. Only omnipotence can invent such perfect prophetic art, foretelling historical events." – The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 53. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

Question 4

What happened to the notable horn on the he goat after he destroyed the ram? Dan. 8:8,9,22,23.

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Note – “ ' . . .the great horn that is between his eyes,' explained the angel, 'is the first king' – Alexander.” – The Judgment and the Harvest, Tract No. 3, p. 28.

". . .Daniel saw that the goat in its first phase (that of the 'great horn' – the king of 'Grecia'), trampled down the ram ('Media and Persia'), and that after the great horn broke off (Alexander's passing away), four horns came up in its stead (the kingdom divided into four parts), and that finally from one of the four, came a fifth, the 'exceeding great horn' (Rome).” – The World, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Tract No. 12, p. 11. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

“. . . no sooner had Alexander conquered the empire, than he engaged in a drunken debauch and passed away while yet in his youth. Thus the horn of the 'he goat' was broken off from between his eyes, 'And for it came up four notable ones towards the four winds of heaven.' Alexander not having a successor to inherit the throne, the kingdom was divided between his four generals; namely, Cassander, Lysimachus, Ptolemy, and Seleucus." – The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, pp. 50,53.

Question 5

Who was represented by the little horn which arose from one of the four? Dan. 8:9-12,23-26; 7:8,25.

Note – “Some think the 'exceeding great horn' – the fifth – symbolizes Antiochus, who ruled one of the four divisions, but this cannot be, because the exceeding great horn's coming out of one of the four, symbolizes a fifth kingdom not one of the four expanded. Moreover, the term, 'exceeding great,' in contrast to the term, 'great,' denotes a greater kingdom than Alexander's. And as Antiochus' kingdom in its greatness was not half so great as Alexander's, the theory is discredited. The Roman Empire is the one that was much greater than Alexander's, and therefore it alone answers to the symbolism. In going south, then east, then on toward the pleasant land, the west (Palestine), it necessarily went toward the four corners of the compass, which is just what Rome did. Daniel 8:9 says that the 'exceeding great horn' came out of one of the four horns of the goat, but does not tell out of which one. Daniel 11:5, however, explains that 'one of the princes' of the kingdom of the south was to have a great dominion. This prince, therefore, is symbolized by the exceeding great horn, and shows that it came from the horn which symbolized the Ptolemaic Dynasty – the southern division. Here is shown what history fails to chronicle concerning the origin of Pagan Rome." – The World, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Tract No. 12, pp. 11-13. (Parenthesis belongs to quotation.)

" 'And in the latter time of their kingdom [the four Grecian divisions], a king of fierce countenance. . .shall stand up.' This Scripture is applicable to the Roman monarchy, for this king must stand at the end of the reign of the kings of Grecia. The Ptolemy's was the last of the four Grecian divisions to fall under the ascendancy of Rome. With the defeat of Anthony, and the death of Cleopatra about 27 B.C., the noted dynasty of the Ptolemy's came to its end, and Egypt became province of the Roman state. He was to stand up 'when the transgressors are come to the full.' The Grecians have never been anything but transgressors; therefor the reference can be applied only to the Jewish nation, at which time the

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once favored people of God would have exceeded any previous record of both moral and Spiritual corruption. The Jewish nation reached that condition at the time of the ascendency of Rome, and the first advent of Christ. Therefore, this king of 'fierce countenance' is the Roman monarchy, after the 'transgressors' (Jews) had come to their 'full.' " – The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, pp. 126,127. (Brackets and parenthesis belong to quotation.)

Question 6

As the horn grew, what other traits began to reveal themselves? Dan. 8:11,23,24.

Note – "'He shall understand dark sentences,' and 'his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power.' His prosperity is accomplished by peace; then, if by peace, the Scripture can have no reference to ambitious conquests of territory. His power was to be directed against the holy people (the Christians). 'He shall also stand against the Prince of princes' (Christ). In order that a human being may understand dark sentences, he must use supernatural power, and that power cannot be his own. The question arises as to where he was to obtain his mighty power. If his attack is to be against Christ and His people, it would not be hard to recognize the kind of power that he would use. . . Therefore, the power that Rome used in her cruelty against the 'holy people and the Prince of princes' 'was the old dragon power, and thereby the Roman emperors 'understand dark sentences' through which he, the devil, was determined to destroy Christ and His followers." – Ibid., Vol. 2, pp. 127,129. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

Question 7

What does the prophecy show would be one of his main points of attack? Dan. 8:11,12,26; 11:31; 7:25.

Note – "Though the fourth beast of Daniel 7 shows that this desolating power is descended from Rome, the symbolism of the he goat goes further back to show that this world power originally descended from one of the Grecian divisions (Dan. 11:5), and later put on the garb of Christianity – the religion of 'a god whom his fathers knew not.' Verse 38. Gradually assuming the ornaments of the sanctuary, he before long magnified himself against the Prince (Christ) of the host (the Christians). And disregarding 'the god of his fathers,' he ostensibly became Christianized, but at what cost to Christianity! – Not only was the 'daily' 'taken away,' but also 'the place of His sanctuary was cast down.' In other words, he 'cast down' the Lord's 'place' and there set up his own – elevated himself to Christ's place." – The Judgment and the Harvest, Tract No. 3, pp. 30,31. (Parentheses belong to quotation.)

". . a vision was given regarding the text, making it evident that a vital truth is involved in the words 'daily,' and 'sanctuary.' Whatever the 'daily' may be, it was taken away by the 'Great Horn.' In Daniel 11:31, reference is made to the same incident: 'And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily, . . and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.' The verse just quoted makes clear the idea that both the 'daily' and the 'sanctuary' must be a part of God's truth. This thought cannot be misconstrued without doing injury to the Scripture. Note the language used: 'And they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength and shall take away the 'daily.' After

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polluting the sanctuary and taking away the 'daily,' then it says: 'They shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.' That is to say: The 'sanctuary' and the 'daily' were replaced by the abomination. The abomination must be some Pagan religious institution, and that Pagan doctrine ('Abomination') was to make desolate. That is to say, it laid waste the 'sanctuary,' the 'daily,' and the 'truth'; or as it is expressed in Daniel 8:13, 'Trodden under foot.' 'And it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practiced, and prospered.' (Verse 12.) Jesus, speaking of the same incident, says: 'When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand.') (Matt. 24:15.) Jesus calls the 'daily' and the 'sanctuary,' 'holy place.' No Pagan sanctuary would the Master call 'holy place'; neither can it b polluted, for it