Vol. 54, No. 4

Peter's Ladder

Growing Up / Brotherly Kindness & Charity / The Church Victorious Volume 54, Number 4

In this issue

• Faith & Virtue: To Have the Mind of Christ Looking unto Jesus we obtain grace to live His life. 4 • Growing Up Adding to Knowledge Temperance . . . 7 Learning to let God control us instead of ourselves. 7 • Patience What does Scripture teach us about this vital trait? 11 • Inspiration and Clothing: An Object Lesson From One Aspect of Godliness One of the outward signs of God's peculiar people. 14 • Brotherly Kindness & Charity The call to manifest Christlikeness with everyone. 19 11 • The Church Victorious Christ is waiting with longing desire to see us truly reflect His image. 22 • Christ and the Sealing Preparing for the close of probation. 25 • Baptism at Eden Precious fruit won through the entering wedge. 28 • Photo News 30 • Children’s Corner 22 Someone to plead for us. 32

Official Church Publication of the THE REFORMATION HERALD® (ISSN 0482-0843) Subscription rates: Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement features articles on Bible doctrine that will enrich the United States U.S. $16.95 spiritual life of those who seek to know more about God. It is Foreign (air mail) U.S. $20.00 “The age in which we live calls for reformatory action.” published bimonthly by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Single issue U.S. $ 4.50 —Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 488. Movement General Conference, P. O. Box 7240, Roanoke, VA 24019-0240, U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Reformation Editor D. P. Silva Herald, P. O. Box 7240, ROANOKE, VA 24019. Assistant to the Editor B. Montrose Printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publish- Vol. 54, No. 4; Copyright © 2013 July–August Issue; Layout and Design D. Lee ing Association. Manuscripts, inquiries, address changes, Illustrations: 123RF on front cover and pp. 2, 7, 11, 16, subscriptions, payments, and donations should be mailed 32; Advent Digital Media on pp. 3, 27; Dreamstime on p. 8; Web: http://www.sdarm.org to the address below. Periodical postage paid at Roanoke, istock on pp. 11, 25; SermonView on pp. 2, 4, 12, 18, 22; e-mail: [email protected] Virginia 24022. PhotoDisc on pp. 14, 19–21. editorial The Double Ladder of

Christians are followers of Jesus cleansed of every defilement! Oh, that Christ—the Sinless One who forgives we might not offer to God a diseased, sins and cleanses us from them. anctificationbarren nor unfruitful in the knowledge defiled offering! An infinite price has What happens when you first come of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that been paid to bring us into connection to Christ for this wonderfulS cleansing? lacketh these things is blind, and with Christ. Self-indulgence must cease. You are drawn to Christ by His love. cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten We must come into right relations with His goodness leads you to repentance, that he was purged from his old sins” God, and we must be cleansed from all you confess your sins, and He cleanses (2 Peter 1:3–9, emphasis added). iniquity and walk worthy of the voca- you from all unrighteousness. If we are failing to succeed in the tion whereunto we are called. Then you’re baptized. Remember ascent of this ladder, we have lost our “When Jacob journeyed to the that wonderful day? You felt so clean as vision and forgotten the gospel! The house of Laban, he lay down to rest you came out of the water. Your fellow success of Peter’s ladder depends on in the wilderness, with a stone for a believers were so happy for you. You Jacob’s ladder. pillow. He was a discouraged, disap- were a newborn babe in the Lord! “When the converting power of God pointed man. It seemed to him that he Then, life went on. . . .. Trials, takes hold of the soul, it will work a was forsaken of friends and forgotten temptations, problems, frustrations— radical change. Those who have former- of God. His own brother was seek- just like those things that everyone ly abused their families and friends will ing him, that he might take his life. faces whether or not they’re Chris- begin to labor earnestly for their salva- While he slept, he had a vision. There tians. But perhaps, in the midst of all tion. Jesus came to save the lost, to take appeared before him a ladder, whose those clouds, your first love may have them out of their fallen condition, to base rested on the earth, and whose dwindled. make them more than conquerors, and top reached into the highest heavens. Did you forget the miracle that had to give them a seat upon His throne. God was above the ladder, and His taken place? Oh, that the soul temple might be glory shone through the open heaven, Did you lose your perspective on lighting up every round of the ladder; what really matters most in life? and angels were ascending and de- Did you forget that you had been scending upon it. When Jacob awoke, purged from your old sins? This is he said, ‘Surely the Lord is in this place; the condition of the one who fails and I knew it not. And he was afraid, to climb Peter’s ladder. We need to and said, How dreadful is this place! remember that Christ, “according as This is none other but the house of his divine power hath given unto us God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ See all things that pertain unto life and Genesis 28:10–17. godliness, through the knowledge of “The plan of salvation was opened him that hath called us to glory and to Jacob’s mind in this dream. Christ virtue: whereby are given unto us was the ladder that he saw. Christ is the exceeding great and precious promises: link that binds earth to heaven, and that by these ye might be partakers connects finite man with the infinite of the divine nature, having escaped God. This ladder reaches from the low- the corruption that is in the world est degradation of earth and human- through lust. And beside this, giving all ity to the highest heavens. We are to diligence, add to your faith virtue; and ascend the ladder that Jacob saw but to virtue knowledge; and to knowl- not by our own strength alone. It is the edge temperance; and to temperance goodness of God that leads to repen- patience; and to patience godliness; tance and reformation. We are not left and to godliness brotherly kindness; to struggle on alone.”1 R and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, 1 Pamphlet 105, There Is Help in God, pp. 5, 6. they make you that ye shall neither be [Emphasis supplied.]

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 3 Faith & To HaveVirtue: the Mind of Christ By A. Balbach

am a perfect man,” cutting off profuse, spreading branches, mind of Christ to be a winner, I would I heard someone that they may bear fruit to His glory and be led by the mind of Satan to be a say aloud one day, as I not produce leaves only. God prunes us loser at the end. Don’t deceive yourself walked into a barber shop. with sorrow, with disappointment and into thinking, as I once thought, “I For a moment, I did not know what to affliction, that the outgrowth of strong, will follow my own mind.” There is think of the speaker. Maybe he was just perverse traits of character may be no such thing. Each of us either have joking. Maybe not; I wasn’t sure. As he weakened and that the better traits may a positive mind for the truth or a walked away, I did not know in what have a chance to develop.”1 negative mind for error, falling under sense I should feel sorry for him. “Does God actually make me a the control of Satan, even if we do not ICan we identify those who actually conqueror? When I’m a failure at recognize it at first. have the mind of Christ as mentioned school, or at work, or in business, what As people become slaves of Satan, in 1 Corinthians 2:16? does that mean?” Experience teaches they may, little by little, experience “Those who will walk closely in that a person who walks in the counsel a great change. Their looks, mind, the footsteps of their self-sacrificing, of the Lord and is willing to be taught attitude, and voice may change until self-denying Redeemer will have the by Him shall be a winner. “Whatsoever everything about them is changed. mind of Christ reflected in their minds. he doeth shall prosper” (Psalm 1:3). Here is one example: Purity and the love of Christ will shine When we are punished for our mis- The story is told of a painter who forth in their daily lives and characters, takes, let us thank God for teaching us found a child playing in the street. The while meekness and truth will guide a new lesson and giving us an oppor- painter asked the child to pose for a their way. . . . Many misunderstand the tunity to try again with new courage, painting. For years the child’s picture object for which they were created. It increased effort, and with a mind hung in the studio with bright eyes, was to bless humanity and glorify God, enlightened with heavenly wisdom. golden hair, and the face of innocence rather than to enjoy and glorify self. It took me a long time to under- looking down on anyone who visited. God is constantly pruning His people, stand that, unless I am guided by the Over the years the painter kept looking

4 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 for someone to sit in his studio and kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 2. Works “as leaven that transforms pose for a contrasting picture. He was Christ” (2 Peter 1:8–11). the character.”11 looking for a face so terrible that the The seven graces listed by Peter— 3. Creates “desire to save souls at child’s face would become even more each grace serving as a stepping-stone home.”12 beautiful. At last he found the person for another grace—tend to a specific 4. “Destroys selfishness and pre- sitting in prison. Carefully he painted goal: the full knowledge of our Lord tense.”13 the face and hung it next to the child. Jesus Christ. In other words, we are to 5. Makes people “sober-minded.”14 Then it was that the painter learned that employ “all diligence,” by the help of 6. Leads to conformity to God’s this face of shame and the face of inno- God, to become mature in our Chris- Law.15 cence belonged to the same person. The tian experience—“unto a perfect man, 7. Manifests good works.16 two paintings demonstrated what years unto the measure of the stature of the 8. “Purifies the soul.”17 of hate and sin can do to a face. fulness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). 9. Relies wholly on Christ.18 If you have not yet been able to 10. Will not “fail under test and Do you wish to have the mind of show in your Christian life all the fruits trial.”19 Christ? of the Spirit mentioned by Peter and George F. Watts (1817–1904) was In his second epistle, the apostle Paul (2 Peter 1:5-7; Galatians 5:22, an English painter who painted ideas Peter addresses the believing Gentiles 23), do not be discouraged but do not rather than objects—ideas that were not who had obtained the same “precious deceive yourself by thinking: “I still at first sight apparent to the beholder. In faith with us,” the believing Jews. have time, plenty of time.” Decide right his picture of faith, for example, he put After praying that grace and peace be away to follow the example that Paul a powerful, resolute, and conquering multiplied to them through the knowl- left for you, for me, and for all of us. figure, determined to fight the evils of edge of God and of Jesus Christ, Peter He wrote: the world. He represented faith as being emphasizes the great promises that “I press toward the mark for the a woman holding a sword in her lap were extended to them—that by these prize of the high calling of God in while letting water wash her blood- promises they might become partakers Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). stained feet. This reminds us of Paul’s of the divine nature. And then, being Faith and virtue are the first two description of a Christian soldier, carry- assisted by divine power, they were ad- rungs in the spiritual ladder presented ing “the shield of faith” “to quench all monished to give all diligence to walk by Peter to us. the fiery darts of the wicked” (Ephesians in the Spirit, so that their faith would 6:16). In his first epistle, John says that not wither but would be fruitful and Faith “he who is born of God overcometh grow to a state of maturity, producing What is faith? the world” through faith. “This is the all the qualities that belong to a Chris- “Now faith is the substance of things victory that overcometh the world, even tian character. Compare 2 Peter 1:5–7 hoped for, the evidence of things not our faith” (5:4). Faith; “the sword of the with Galatians 5:22, 23. seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephe- Some readers may ask the ques- The eleventh chapter of Hebrews sians 6:17); and perseverance in prayer tion: Do I also have to meet the same shows how faith works and how many are powerful Christian weapons. requirement? Do I have to put forth all wonders have been accomplished by diligence, by the grace of God, to attain faith. The difference between faith and perfection of Christian character if I want In the writings of Sister White, presumption to be counted among the redeemed? genuine faith is defined as: “Without faith it is impossible to What will happen if I forget the divine 1. The arm for laying hold on please him: for he that cometh to God requirement explained by the apostle Pe- divine power.2 must believe that he is, and that he is ter, because I understood that I was saved 2. The hand that clasps Christ’s a rewarder of them that diligently seek the moment I accepted Christ? Listen to hand “in every emergency.”3 him” (Hebrews 11:6). the answer given by the apostle: 3. The hand that appropriates Christ’s “But faith is in no sense allied to pre- “For if these things be in you, and merits and remedies for sin.4 sumption. Only he who has true faith abound, they make you that ye shall 4. The hand that reaches upward is secure against presumption. For pre- neither be barren nor unfruitful in the to grasp God’s never failing sumption is Satan’s counterfeit of faith. knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. promises5; “the hand that takes Faith claims God’s promises and brings But he that lacketh these things is hold of infinite help”6; the hand forth fruit in obedience. Presumption blind, and cannot see afar off, and “that touches infinity.”7 also claims the promises but uses them hath forgotten that he was purged 5. A living power that “overrides all as Satan did, to excuse transgression. from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, obstacles.”8 Faith would have led our first parents brethren, give diligence to make your 6. The means of laying hold of to trust the love of God and to obey His calling and election sure: for if ye do Christ’s merits.9 commands. Presumption led them to these things, ye shall never fall: for so Genuine faith is also described as transgress His law, believing that His an entrance shall be ministered unto that which: great love would save them from the you abundantly into the everlasting 1. “Always works by love.”10 consequence of their sin. It is not faith

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 5 that claims the favor of Heaven without in the great work of saving souls who a hypocrite. I am afraid to present an complying with the conditions on are without Christ and without hope unfavorable image of Christianity and of which mercy is to be granted. Genuine in the world. Such a man the world Christians in general if I talk to him. But faith has its foundation in the promises cannot understand; for he is keeping in my conscience is bothering me. I have and provisions of the Scriptures. view eternal realities.”21 no peace of mind. I want to settle this “Often when Satan has failed of “The natural man receiveth not the problem, and I don’t know how to.” exciting distrust, he succeeds in leading things of the Spirit of God: for they are The pastor insisted that he must us to presumption. If he can cause us foolishness unto him: neither can he talk to his boss and make a confes- to place ourselves unnecessarily in the know them, because they are spiritu- sion. That was the beginning of a fierce way of temptation, he knows that the ally discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). mental struggle. Positive decision and victory is his. God will preserve all who And if the world can see that “we have cowardly hesitation kept circling in walk in the path of obedience; but to the mind of Christ” (verse 16), they may his mind in a seemingly endless war. depart from it is to venture on Satan’s understand why the things that are “wis- At the same time the Holy Spirit kept ground. There we are sure to fall. The dom” to them are “foolishness” to us. rebuking his conscience and building Saviour has bidden us, ‘Watch ye and up his courage to make a confession. pray, lest ye enter into temptation’ “Giving all diligence” After a few days the young man met (Mark 14:38). Meditation and prayer I repeat: We cannot change our- the pastor. would keep us from rushing unbidden selves. Only God, through the Holy “Pastor,” he said with an expression into the way of danger, and thus we Spirit, can change our heart with our of joy on his face, “the matter is settled. should be saved from many a defeat.”20 consent and cooperation. We must My conscience is clear, now.” “give all diligence.” The Holy Spirit is “Tell me more about it,” said the Virtue still active, leading men and women to pastor. What is virtue? find repentance and conversion as He “Well, I confessed to my boss. When Clarke’s Commentary, vol. 6, p. 880, did with a young man whose experi- I did that, there was a queer look in his gives the following definition: “Virtue ence is still fresh in my mind. eyes. Then he said to me: George, I must — Courage or fortitude, to enable you to After listening to a sermon on con- tell you the truth. I have always had an profess the faith before men, in these fession of sin, the young man turned unfavorable opinion about you. I have times of persecution.” to the pastor and asked for advice. I’m always thought you were just a hypocrite, How do faith and virtue walk hand- giving, in my own words, the gist of the like the rest. But now, after I have heard in-hand? “Faith comes by hearing, and conversation that followed. your confession, I have changed my hearing by the word of God” (Romans “Pastor, I’m in trouble. I have sinned opinion about you and your religion. 10:17, NKJV). And the word of God is a against another person, and I don’t Now I begin to see there is something powerful tool in the hands of the Holy know what to do. I would like to make positive in Christianity. It must be good Spirit. a confession and make amends, but to follow such a religion.” R “Man cannot transform himself by I cannot pluck up courage to do that. the exercise of his will. . . . The renew- I’m ashamed. I have built a boat for my References ing energy must come from God. The boss and, in my trade, I took advantage 1 Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 354. 2 change can be made only by the Holy of him. I have used common nails Gospel Workers, p. 259. 3 Ibid., p. 262. Spirit. All who would be saved . . . must which are relatively cheap instead of 4 The Desire of Ages, p. 175. submit to the working of this power. . . . copper nails which are expensive. I 5 The Sanctified Life, p. 47. “Received into the heart, [the truth know that copper nails are used in 6 Messages to Young People, p. 102. of the word of God] will regulate boat building, because they do not rust 7 Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 467. 8 the desires, purify the thoughts, and in the water. In this case I was tempted The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Com- ments], vol. 2, p. 995. sweeten the disposition. It quickens the to deceive my boss.” 9 Ibid., vol. 6, p. 1073. faculties of the mind and the energies The pastor said to the young man 10 Ibid., p. 1111; Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 219. of the soul. It enlarges the capacity for that he must go to his boss, make a 11 Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 53. feeling, for loving. confession, and put it right. 12 Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 427, 428. “The world regards as a mystery “I cannot,” said the young man. 13 The Desire of Ages, p. 409. 14 the man who is imbued with this “I cannot tell him that I have robbed Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 223. principle. The selfish, money-loving him. I cannot offer to compensate him 15 The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White man lives only to secure for himself for the wrong that I have done to him.” Comments], vol. 6, p. 1073. the riches, honors, and pleasures of “Why not?” asked the pastor. 16 Selected Messages, bk 1, p. 397. this world. He loses the eternal world “He is an unbeliever and a scoffer. 17 Sons and Daughters of God, p. 71; Testimonies, from his reckoning. But with the fol- I have often tried to talk to him about vol. 1, p. 705. 18 Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 73. lower of Christ these things will not be God and about salvation, but I only get 19 Selected Messages, bk 2, p. 375. all-absorbing. For Christ’s sake he will derisive answers. If I tell him what I have 20 The Desire of Ages, p. 126. labor and deny self, that he may aid done to him, he will say that I am just 21 Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 96–101.

6 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 GrowingAdding to Knowledge Up Temperance . . .

By T. Stockler

ired but directly. This experience helped me happy, I called my understand some Bible statements that parents to tell them I puzzled over for many years. that they were now The Bible provides us with some grandparents. After six passages that summarize the natural hours of watching my wife struggle and growth patterns of a Christian’s spiri- work hard, I now held our first child. tual experience. Studying those pas- Joy and satisfaction filled me. I never sages and mechanically trying to match anticipated how wonderful it is to have their description will not cause us to a child of your own. grow into spiritually mature people. TBut I was also humbled and uncer- Rather, these passages are meant to tain. I felt ignorant and insufficient, be used by those helping us judge the without experience. Like millions of healthfulness of our Christian growth. parents before me, I counted his fingers They are also to be used by us in our and toes to make sure they were all self-assessment, after we are mature there. But how would I know that this enough as Christians to be able to son was healthy and normal? examine ourselves. I came to cherish a book provided by “[2 Peter 1:5–7 quoted.] All these my mother that described the growth successive steps are not to be kept of a child. Every few months I would before the mind’s eye, and counted take out that book and check my son’s as you start; but fixing the eye upon height and weight against the num- Jesus, with an eye single to the glory bers given there. I would consider my of God, you will make advancement. son’s social, intellectual, and physical My son never seemed to care about You cannot reach the full measure development against what was de- that book. He didn’t need to read of the stature of Christ in a day, and scribed in that one book. Because that about a two-year-old’s expected weight you would sink in despair could you book provided a summary of healthy and then set it as a goal. It never behold all the difficulties that must be growth throughout childhood, I gained mattered to him what was considered met and overcome. You have Satan to increased confidence that I could raise normal—he just grew. The only value contend with, and he will seek by every my son intelligently. If he deviated from in that old book was to provide a possible device to attract your mind the common growth patterns of other template of what is normal for those from Christ. children, I could detect and address it. If observing and nurturing my son. The “But we must meet all obstacles he grew normally, I could rejoice in it. book never helped or guided him placed in our way, and overcome them

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 7 one at a time. If we overcome the Newly born Christians can be as ex- is frustrating, for new Christians can be first difficulty, we shall be stronger to cited as little children. Ideas fill them. the most bigoted people you will ever meet the next, and at every effort will It is as though light comes through meet. They are certain that their new become better able to make advance- the darkness of human confusion. understanding of the inspired writings ment. By looking to Jesus, we may be They begin to experience the growth is correct. They can become infatuated overcomers. It is by fastening our eyes in knowledge that Peter predicted. The with doctrines and how to present on the difficulties and shrinking from divine Spirit is guiding into truth (John them. In the process of championing earnest battle for the right, that we 14:16, 17, 26; 16:7–15). Growing in truth, they betray it, for their attitudes become weak and faithless.”1 knowledge is a sign of being a healthy are sometimes exactly the opposite of One of these passages that God Christian. And it is wonderful. It can the doctrines they brag about. With provided to help us assess our moral be more exciting than kindergarten. We the fanatical zeal of a demon, these and spiritual progress is given in the begin to grow in moral and spiritual misguided Christians go about to opening verses of Peter’s second letter. knowledge. And that spiritual knowl- advocate the truth of God. They seem Peter teaches that growth in Christian edge explains secular knowledge. almost unconscious of the damage to life comes from knowing and admiring This growing knowledge is one of God’s reputation they are causing all God (1:3). He adds that we are assisted the signs that we are following Jesus, around them. in that growth that comes from look- I know about this, painfully, because ing to Jesus by knowing and depending I was once one of God’s self-appointed on the promises that Jesus provided warriors. One of the important mo- (verse 4). ments in my own growth as a Christian Then Peter overviews what that was an argument I had early in my growth will look like in what has experience. I was visiting with a friend famously come to be called Peter’s who discredited one of God’s proph- ladder. This summary is not a descrip- ets. I spent almost a whole afternoon tion of human development generally. standing up for God as zealously as Peter is not talking of our growth I knew how. I argued passionately in knowledge or patience as carnal and with determination. I was certain humans, for a baby has to learn pa- that I was correct and my friend was tience before his or her head fills with incorrect. But when I went home and knowledge. And many of us gain years replayed the conversation, I had to of knowledge without any growth admit that my friend had less of an un- in faith or virtue. Peter’s ladder does christian attitude than I did. I puzzled not follow the order of childhood and prayed about what had happened. development outlined in my mother’s How was I so angry when I believed book. But it is exactly what occurs in I was so right? Why did I behave as spiritual development. though I had to do all the fighting for We are born spiritually when we first truth, and God wouldn’t do anything surrender our proud heart to God. It is to defend Himself? How could I claim a moment of faith. And immediately just as continual growth in virtue and to be right when my attitude suggested God forgives us and provides real in faith are signs of spiritual health. If I was wrong? I asked myself many hard virtue. This virtue is not that carnally we are not growing in spiritual knowl- questions that night that would take created thing that seems like virtue. It edge, then we are sick Christians. But years for me to answer. is real obedience to God. God Himself as the Christian matures, our knowl- I had to learn how to be temperate is the one that starts us up this ladder edge, virtue, and faith are tempered by with ideas. Knowledge should nurture, of growth, for He is the only one that temperance. not carelessly wound. can add virtue to our faith. Soon after, When temperance and moderation I had to learn that God was in we start discovering all sorts of spiritual do not govern our growth in knowl- charge of defending His own truth. I truths. edge, we become unpleasant or worse. had no responsibility to force anyone For those who appreciate spiritual We become spiritual know-it-alls. to believe what is true. things, seeing a new Christian born is Sometimes Christians become so I had to learn that it was the work as beautiful as seeing the birth of my excited with growing in knowledge of the Holy Spirit to change hearts. son. Hearing the testimonies of surren- that they lose sight of Jesus. They run Without that invisible power I cannot der to the love and to the demands of away from Him and start fighting change my own mind, never mind our beloved God is awe-inspiring. We with their fellow Christians over who anyone else’s. are filled with joy at the fresh evidence is more right (Matthew 24:48–51). I had to learn that my knowledge of the miracle that only God can do— Watching the cantankerous wars that was for my own personal growth and change the human mind. sometimes break out among Christians not a weapon with which to attack

8 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 others. I could share how that knowl- and power to provide temperance. For under subjection to reason and the will edge helped me. I was never justified in temperance does not come from trying of God! Never must [the Christian] using it to trick or force anyone else. harder to be better. The solution is not allow his attention to be diverted by Jesus asked me to permit my life to more will power. amusements, luxuries, or ease. All his shine in this world of confusion. But Here is exactly where many Chris- habits and passions must be brought it was not my knowledge that was the tians lose their Christian experience. under the strictest discipline. Reason, source of the world’s light. It is my Growth in knowledge teaches them that enlightened by the teachings of God’s actions. “Let your light so shine before they should be temperate, for example, word and guided by His Spirit, must men, that they may see your good in their eating habits. So they exercise hold the reins of control.”3 works, and glorify your Father which is will power and change their diet. They In our age of antagonism to tem- in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, emphasis eat less sugar or less snacks or less of perance, this is harder to understand. added). I am not the light of the world. the harmful oils. But this change in be- Paul does not tell us to abandon our God’s success in me is the light of havior is not temperance. It is not from desires. His example of the athletes the world. I do not shine. He shines God. It is a carnal human struggling to demonstrates that he intended us to through me. God’s choice to use the obey God without God’s help. strengthen and discipline our passions church for a medium to communicate This is not adding temperance to to the highest possible point of success. with the world never gives me any jus- knowledge, virtue, and faith. It is add- We are not to destroy our desires. We tification for pushing my own opinions ing burdens so heavy they cannot be are to bring our strong feelings to God or beliefs on other people. I am God’s born. to have Him clean them of every taint servant. He is not my assistant. This is not to say that these Chris- of evil and return them to us for holy Just because some of us have tians should change their diet. They use. We are to govern those now sancti- become fanatical at times in our use need to change their desires. When El- fied impulses by our rational mind as it of knowledge does not mean that this len White decided to eat whole wheat is guided directly by the Holy Spirit. growth in knowledge is bad. On the bread, she hated it. She did not think contrary, it is good. God Himself is she could eat it. But she was deter- the one who adds it; just as He adds mined that her desires would change. temperance. She refused to eat anything until she Vol. 54, No.3 We need God’s grace to live temper- was willing to eat whole wheat bread.2 ately just as we need His wisdom to When we are willing to refuse to do use knowledge wisely. We live in an age what is wrong and pray for God to give that understands growing in secular us the desire to do what is right, He knowledge. Mandatory education changes what we want. This is a prayer forces every child to grow in knowledge He will always answer, if we are only at a certain pace every year until he or earnest and persistent. OD y AND OF G E RIGHT H she reaches adulthood. But we do not Many are losing their salvation by ChristNOW ATin TH His Sanctuar The Shekinah Aaron's Rod / Testament / The Pot of Manna / understand temperance. Temperance abandoning God’s grace and relying on The Ark of His is something that the western world their own efforts; but because it is the partially threw away in the 1960s and right thing to do, they move on oblivious 1970s with a campaign focused on that they are doing it the wrong way. Like What You See? personal pleasure. Temperance has Temperance is self-government. It now been relegated to the military, to is trusting God to change your ap- There’s more to come! With six professional athletes, and to “other” petites and passions, until you always issues a year, including the Week of people. The average person looks for want to do what is right. “‘Every man ways to skip it as much as possible. that striveth for the mastery,’ [Paul] Prayer magazine, an annual sub- Thousands long for the work week to declared, ‘is temperate in all things’ scription to The Reformation Herald finish so they can be intemperate. (1 Corinthians 9:4). The runners [in can bring, on a regular basis, rich Since society has less guidance in the ancient Olympic races] put aside spiritual food and deep insight to temperance, we need God’s guidance every indulgence that would tend your home or to that of a loved one. even more in this subject. For many to weaken the physical powers, and Why not subscribe today? Christians the transition from growing by severe and continuous discipline in knowledge to growing in temper- trained their muscles to strength and Please call Reformation Herald ance added to knowledge is difficult. endurance, that when the day of the We can use the skills from school to contest should arrive, they might put grow in spiritual knowledge. But how the heaviest tax upon their powers. 1-540-366-9400 do you add temperance to your life? How much more important that the or visit us online at The simple answer is that we can’t. Christian, whose eternal interests are www.sdarm.org/publications.html Sinful humanity needs God’s wisdom at stake, bring appetite and passion

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 9 When Americans used horses depends upon strictly temperate habits, height of Christ, so that He is made instead of horseless carriages for we would work to the point of strict unto us wisdom and righteousness and transportation, most of them knew a temperance in eating and drinking. sanctification and redemption. . . . lot about horses. Some horses have a By our example and personal effort “It is no easy matter to gain the lot more spirit or passion than others. we may be the means of saving many priceless treasure of eternal life. No one The spirited horses are harder to train. souls from the degradation of intem- can do this and drift with the current But once trained they accomplish a lot perance, crime, and death.”5 of the world. He must come out from more. If we do not demonstrate growth in the world and be separate and touch So it is with us humans. Some of us knowledge and temperance, then we not the unclean. No one can act like a have a lot more will power than others. need to consider whether we still trust worldling without being carried down We are all passionate about different God and are His children. Just because by the current of the world. No one things. But when all of our passions are we once gave ourselves to God does will make any upward progress without surrendered to God and guided by the not mean that we are always His chil- persevering effort. He who would overcome must hold fast to Christ. He must not look back, but keep the eye ever upward, gaining one grace When we are willing to refuse to do what is wrong and after another. Individual vigilance is the price of safety. Satan is playing the pray for God to give us the desire to do what is right, He game of life for your soul. Swerve not to his side a single inch, lest he gain changes what we want. This is a prayer He will always advantage over you. “If we ever reach heaven, it will be answer, if we are only earnest and persistent. by linking our souls to Christ, leaning upon Him, and cutting loose from the world, its follies and enchantments. directions of His word and the influ- dren. Peter went from being a mirror of There must be on our part a spiritual ence of His Spirit, those passions help God’s truth to a spokesperson of Satan cooperation with the heavenly intelli- us accomplish a lot more as individu- inside of twenty minutes (Matthew gences. We must believe and work and als, as a church, and as a society. 16:13–28). God does not reject us, but pray and watch and wait.”6 “In the family circle and in the we can reject Him. I was puzzled by Peter’s ladder since church we should place Christian Whenever we discover that we are I didn’t know how to climb it. I’ve temperance on an elevated platform. not growing according to the template learned that no human can. We do not It should be a living, working ele- laid out by Peter, the solution is the grow by trying; just as we do not grow ment, reforming habits, dispositions, same—growth in Christ that comes taller by trying. God adds each quality and characters. Intemperance lies at from looking to Him. All that pertains in our life; He carries us up this ladder. P the foundation of all the evil in our to life and godliness still comes from But God is kind to give us these world. . . . the knowledge of God Himself. This words so we can—under the guidance “Those who in ancient times ran is not merely a theoretical knowledge. of the Holy Spirit—reflect upon our for a prize realized the importance of The devil himself knows all about God, own Christian experience and observe temperate habits, and how much more and it does him no good. But knowing whether or not we are healthy, grow- should we, who are running a race for God through experience and letting ing Christians. He also gives us these a heavenly crown. We should put forth Him influence and guide us is the way words, so that we can recognize if we every effort to overcome evil. of life eternal. have fallen off Peter’s ladder and need “At all times and on all occasions it “Point the youth to Peter’s ladder of to pray earnestly that God will pick requires moral courage to adhere to eight rounds, and place their feet, not us back up and continue to add His the principles of strict temperance. on the highest round, but on the low- knowledge and temperance to the “Remember that you are daily weav- est, and with earnest solicitation urge virtue and faith He is already giving ing for yourself a web of habits. . . . The them to climb to the very top. each one of us. R better you observe the laws of health, “Christ, who connects earth with the more clearly can you discern heaven, is the ladder. The base is plant- References temptations, and resist them, and the ed firmly on the earth in His human- 1 Messages to Young People, pp. 45, 46. 2 See Counsels on Diet and Foods, pp. 483, 484. more clearly can you discern the value ity; the topmost round reaches to the 3 4 The Acts of the Apostles, p. 311. of eternal things.” throne of God in His divinity. . . . We 4 Sons and Daughters of God, p. 212. [Emphasis “If we could realize that the habits are saved by climbing round after round supplied.] we form in this life will affect our eter- of the ladder, looking to Christ, clinging 5 Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 489. nal interests, that our eternal destiny to Christ, mounting step by step to the 6 Ibid., vol. 6, p. 147.

10 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 As published in the Advent Review and PatienceSabbath Herald, October 24, 1854. By James White

atience is that It is a link in that chain of graces peculiar to the Christian—tribula- grace that upon which is suspended the Christian’s tions occasioned by following Christ. enables us to bear hope. Romans 5:3; 15:4; 2 Peter 1:6. It is 2 Corinthians 11:22–31. It cannot be calamities, afflictions, preceded by love. 1 Timothy 6:11. possessed without tribulation—it is and oppositions with It is as impossible to secure and retain wrought by it. So says the sure word, constancy and calmness of mind and the noble grace of Christian patience and we are unsafe without a kind of with a ready submission to the will of without “righteousness, godliness, faith patience thus wrought. God. and love,” as it is for the smith to attach An anxiety for the wealth and It is something to be “followed a fifth link to his chain, before he has honors of this world will destroy its ex- after” (1 Timothy 6:11). The teachings put on the fourth one; and the devil will ercise. 1 Timothy 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:24. Pof truth, as also the temptations of the never assail us with “great wrath,” until To gain eternal life, the exercise of pa- devil, constantly present before the this chain of graces is complete. tience must be continuous. Romans 2:7; 2 mind’s eye, a path and inducements to Almost all classes of community Timothy 2:9,10; 1 Corinthians 4:12–16. walk in it. The path of patience is pre- hold on to and admire some one of It is a duty enjoined in waiting for the sented by truth and is to be followed. the links in this chain. Thus we have coming of the Lord. James 5:7, 8; Psalm By Paul (2 Corinthians 6:3–12), it is the “Moral Reform Society,” for the 37:7; 40:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:5; etc. placed at the head of those graces that promotion of “virtue.” The “Temper- We want it to bear with each others’ commend us to God and good men, in ance Society,” for the promotion of infirmities and with a scoffing world. the midst of all the trials that have ever “temperance,” etc., etc. But alas! where 1 Thessalonians 5:14. All men like been the common lot of God’s chil- is the society for the promotion of ourselves are poor fallible beings, pos- dren, or that ever will be incident to Christian patience? For the want of this sessing the same liability to err; and we Christian life. See also 2 Thessalonians link in the chain, the Christian’s hope should ever bear in mind that their op- 1:3–6; 2 Timothy 3:8–13. While it is fallen in the dust, where it fails to position can affect our salvation in no preserves its possessor from offending attract the malicious eye of the enemy other way, than by trying our patience. by any departure from the path of duty of God and man. In such trials our eternal well-being is marked out by the Lord (2 Corinthians Patience is wrought in the “trial of endangered; for if we yield to impa- 6:3), it does not always prevent people our faith” (James 1:3). God has given tience, the chain is broken and our from becoming offended with us. Verse us a rule of faith—the Bible—contain- hope is lost; or become a mere creature 12. ing things to be believed, that when of imagination. Those followers of Its exercise is a condition of God’s fully believed and practiced, will bring Jesus, whose minds are naturally sensi- favor, and of being preserved by Him in the tribulation necessary to work tive and easily affected by tribulations the hour of temptation. Hebrews 6:12; patience in the soul. Christian patience arising from sarcasm, falsehood, and 10:36; James 1:3, 4; Revelation 3:10. supposes tribulations—such as are misrepresentations will ever be safe in

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 11 turning to the reasoning of the Apostle God, and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” Egypt” were slain; the host assembled; in Romans 8:31–39. “Behold,” says James, “the husband- the pillar of fire appeared; then meekly We should exercise patience toward man waiteth for the precious fruit of pursued his course through the Sea, our fellow men, because we are ever the earth, and hath long patience for it, and the wilderness, till the promised liable to be placed in circumstances until he receive the early and the latter land was stretched out before his view. where we may need it extended to us. rain. Be ye also patient, for the coming Joshua marshaled the “Sacred Hosts Matthew 18:26. of the Lord draweth nigh.” The hus- of God’s elect,” and, following His di- Another reason for the exercise of bandman prepares his ground, sows his rections, marched seven times around patience is that God has not authorized seed, fences his field, and watches the the city of Jericho, and on the seventh us to ask any more lenity from Him, first appearance of the blade, and never day, when the patience of many would than we extend to our fellows. Matthew once murmurs because the harvest is have failed, he accomplished as much 6:12; 18:21, 22, 33. not ready at midsummer; and even as in the whole previous six days, and True patience reaches to the end of though the harvest is a month later in through his patient and unwearied ap- the Christian’s pilgrimage (James 1:4; ripening, than usual, he patiently waits plication, possessed the land promised Revelation 13:10; 14:12), while the until it is ready, when he thrusts in his to his fathers. patience of the unstable and worldly- sickle and returns, “rejoicing, bringing Joseph, betrayed by his brethren, minded man wears out somewhere on his sheaves with him.” falsely and maliciously accused by his journey, but is more likely to be But we have a higher example in the Potiphar’s wife, patiently suffered the exhausted near the journey’s end. None patience of God toward our fallen race. privations of a prison, till God plead his tire at the beginning of a pilgrimage; After the world has slighted His grace, cause, elevated him to a seat above the few in the middle of it; but many give rejected His laws, and established laws, throne of Egypt, and finally signalized out near its end. systems, and governments of their him as another deliverer of His people. God has furnished us with an own; behold His patience, and mark Gideon, with his despised band excellent rule for testing our patience, well His tender love! “God so loved the of three hundred men, occupying a whether it be of the proper kind; for world, that he gave his only begotten station claimed by thirty thousand, there is seldom a true bill without its Son, that whosoever believeth in him that God rejected, patiently pursued his counterfeit. 1 Peter 2:20–23 is a com- might not perish, but have everlasting course, and waited at the Midianite’s plete counterfeit detector in this line life” (John 3:16). camp, with their simple armor of of graces. It must be a kind of patience James 5:10. Moses, the meek, was “pitchers and lamps,” till the swords wrought by tribulations, occasioned by also the patient servant of God. He of the enemies of the Lord were turned following Christ, or His word, which is exchanged the heirship of the Egyptian one against another, and he was left to a transcript of Himself. throne for a companionship with op- share the conqueror’s spoils. O how much has the Christian pressed slaves; and while he appealed David, “because God was with pilgrim to try his patience while passing again and again to the haughty tyrant him,” became an object of the wicked through this “vale of tears!” “Looking for the liberation of God’s people, he hatred of Saul, who bade his servants for the glorious appearing of the great patiently waited till the “firstborn of slay him. He slew the enemies of Saul “with a great slaughter;” yet, even this embittered his enemy, who again attempted to thrust him through with a dart. When the kingdom was within his reach, he fled away and sought seclusion in the society of Samuel. In vain did he appeal to his enemy, “what have I done?” he must be sacrificed to the demon of jealousy; and again he fled away—begged some bread, and the sword of Goliath, and took refuge in the cave of Adullam. This was the man of whom the damsels sung, “Saul hath slain his thousands, but David has slain his tens of thousands;” yet now, one heart alone could feel for him; “Jona- than fell upon his neck and wept.” When they that would destroy him wrongfully were “more in number than the hairs of his head,” then he “re- stored that which he took not away.”

12 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 His companions were the “discontent- your wall, he will break it down.” But and night for the slain of the daughter ed, and every one that was in debt.” as the work was patiently prosecuted, of my people!” Rewards of honor, fields, and vineyards they changed their tune, first to flattery, Ezekiel patiently submitted to eat were offered for his life, yet in no then to threats. The dignified, patient the “bitter roll,” and speak the words instance would he take revenge upon reply to their crafty efforts was, “I am that God had given him, and “briers one that bore the name of an Israelite, doing a great work, and why should it and thorns were with him.” At the end but suffered in patience. cease for me to come down to you?” of his patient, and as usual with God’s His forbearance caused even his Esther, raised from obscurity to the servants, unpopular labors, he was proud enemy to weep with a loud throne of Media and Persia, in patient presented with a view of the glorious voice and say, “Thou art more righ- silence wept and prayed, awaiting City, and river of life. teous than I;” when David held up the deliverance from the hand of God, for Daniel and his brethren patiently “skirt of his robe,” that he had cut off herself and people, against the deep suffered the privations of captivity while he slept, and exclaimed, “The laid and crafty designs of wicked Ha- from their Canaan home, and without Lord judge between me and thee,” and man, and witnessed his overthrow. a murmur submitted to the exactions again he fled into the wilderness of Job. Ye have heard of the patience of an unrighteous decree, and thus Engedi. When Saul had fallen upon the of Job. James 5:11. In the midst of “stopped the mouths of lions, and plains of Gilboa, David stood by his affluence tribulations came. His “oxen quenched the violence of fire.” side, and with unaffected grief, cried, were ploughing,” and his asses quietly The minor prophets all suffered “How are the mighty fallen!” “feeding beside them,” when the privations in their turn, leaving their Again, an aspirant for human hon- Sabeans fell upon them, carried them cause to God. ors, his own son (!) sat in the gate, and away, and slew his servants, and the And what of all these? Why, if you with fair speeches and enticing words fire from heaven consumed his flocks. will obey God, and be His, take them stole away the hearts of the people His houses were rent by winds, and for an example of “suffering, affliction, from following after David. Meekly he his children perished. His body was and patience.” yields the throne to the usurper, and smitten with boils till he sat down in The Jewish dispensation, with its when a just reward was visited upon the dust and cried aloud with pain. scenes of suffering, passed away at that the head of the rebel, in the room He mourned alone; even his wife point of time when professed servants of joining the song of triumph, he upbraided him for his constancy. of God were conspiring the death of clothed himself in sackcloth, and cried, His friends conspired against him, creation’s acknowledged Lord. “My son, Absalom, my son, my son!! taking peculiar pains to prove him a And now opens a fresh scene of would God I had died for thee.” bad man; yet “in all this he sinned tribulation, that loudly calls forth the On no occasion does he trouble not, nor charged God foolishly,” but exercise of this manly—this God- himself with a defense of his course or looked forward to the day of retribu- like grace. I say, manly, because it is character; yet God raised him to honor, tion, and exclaimed, “I know that my completely divested of that want of and turned the counsel of Ahithophel Redeemer liveth, and that he shall principle—that impatience, which against him, into foolishness. Look at stand at the latter day upon the earth: seeks the destruction of its victim—a his last word, 2 Samuel 23:1-7. and though after my skin worms work the child of God never can, and Elijah is another example of pa- destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall never will attempt to do. tience. Seven times in prayer he bowed I see God.” First on the list of patient sufferers himself and patiently waited for rain Jeremiah went down to the pot- under the gospel dispensation is, Who! upon the thirsty land, till he saw the ter’s house and foretold the evils to Ah, Who!? Its Leader! No less than “little cloud” arise. He preferred to come upon Israel and Judah; then they He that is now soon to appear, wear- lie down in the wilderness alone and conspired against him and said, “Come ing the insignia of King of kings, and receive his food from the wild ravens’ and let us smite him with the tongue.” Lord of lords. See him in the midst of claws, rather than yield to the claims God sent him again to prophesy a mob [Matthew 26:50–56], betrayed of wicked Ahab for a prophecy of against Israel and Judah, charging him by a professed disciple, yet no unkind peace, and prosperity for his corrupted to “diminish not a word.” Then they word. They all abandoned Him to His kingdom, and tyrannical reign, when conspired against him, saying, “he is enemies, yet no reproaches. “He was God had not spoken peace. As a reward worthy to die.” He patiently submit- led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as of his patient sufferings, God sent his ted himself to them, was shut up in a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so chariots, and bore him forever away the court of the prison, afterwards was he opened not his mouth.” They spit in from the scene of his trial. cast into a dungeon where he nearly His face, and insulted Him on the cross, Nehemiah and Ezra were special perished with hunger; and in all this, yet on the cross He prayed, “forgive.” objects of hatred, when they had cour- not one bitter complaint for himself; “Consider him that endured such age to rebuild the fallen walls of Jeru- but for his people he cried, “O that contradiction of sinners against him- salem. Sanballat and Tobiah sneeringly my head were waters, and mine eyes a self, lest ye become wearied and faint said, “If so much as a fox go up on fountain of tears, that I might weep day in your minds.” R

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 13 Inspiration and

: An ObjectClothing Lesson From One Aspect of Godliness A Bible and Spirit of Prophecy less the Lord, O my What did happen with the covering soul. O Lord my God, compilation, with comments of light when the sinless pair disobeyed thou art very great; thou by D. P. Silva the divine instruction? art clothed with honour “And the eyes of them both were and majesty. Who coverest Perhaps in your mind you may be opened, and they knew that they thyself with light as with a garment” questioning, “This text does not speak were naked; and they sewed fig leaves (Psalm 104:1, 2, emphasis added). about clothing but about nudity!” together, and made themselves aprons” “Godliness—godlikeness—is the Just a moment! What type of clothing (Genesis 3:7, emphasis added). Now, goal to be reached. Before the student catered the first couple before sin? yes, they were really naked! there is opened a path of continual “The sinless pair wore no artificial “After his transgression Adam at Bprogress. He has an object to achieve, a garments; they were clothed with a first imagined himself entering upon standard to attain, that includes every- covering of light and glory, such as the a higher state of existence. But soon thing good, and pure, and noble.”1 angels wear. So long as they lived in the thought of his sin filled him with This purity is symbolized by the obedience to God, this robe of light terror. The air, which had hitherto been white raiment of the righteousness of continued to enshroud them.”2 of a mild and uniform temperature, Christ—which, of course, encompasses It is sad to see that almost all seemed to chill the guilty pair. The love much. In summary, it is distinguished illustrations of Adam and Eve in and peace which had been theirs was by innocence before God through the paradise leave the impression that gone, and in its place they felt a sense merits of our Redeemer’s sacrifice. they were naked, when in reality they of sin, a dread of the future, a naked- were fully covered with the divine ness of soul. The robe of light which In Eden glory, as it occurs with the angels had enshrouded them, now disap- The first reference to clothing in the that have never sinned. Note the last peared, and to supply its place they word of God is recorded in Genesis 2:25: sentence of the previous paragraph: endeavored to fashion for themselves “And [Adam and his wife] were both “So long as they lived in obedience to a covering; for they could not, while naked, the man and his wife, and were God, this robe of light continued to unclothed, meet the eye of God and not ashamed.” enshroud them.” holy angels.”3

14 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 There are several points worth high- “let him deny himself, and take up his soon as seen, for God through simple lighting in this inspired declaration by cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). means distinguished him as His. Ellen G. White: “No man can cover his soul with “The order given by God to the After sinning, the first pair lost their the garments of Christ’s righteousness children of Israel to place a ribbon of peace with God and a sense of guilt while practicing known sins or neglect- blue in their garments was to have no overcame them. They felt a nakedness ing known duties. God requires the direct influence on their health, only as of soul. That inward nudity—in the entire surrender of the heart, before God would bless them by obedience, heart—found an echo in the removal justification can take place; and in and the ribbon would keep in their of the covering light that enshrouded order for man to retain justification, memory the high claims of Jehovah them. Physically, they were also naked. there must be continual obedience, and prevent them from mingling They struggled to cover themselves through active, living faith that works with other nations, uniting in their with “fig leaves.” I can imagine that by love and purifies the soul.”5 drunken feasts, and eating swine’s their new dress, made of leaves, must flesh and luxurious food detrimental have been quite precarious and proved The ribbon of blue to health. God would now have His to be totally ineffective before the God gave specific instructions to people adopt the reform dress not only divine presence. As God searched for ancient Israel regarding their clothing: to distinguish them from the world them, they sought to escape from their “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, as His ‘peculiar people,’ but because a Creator. When God called Adam, he Speak unto the children of Israel, and reform in dress is essential to physical answered: “I heard thy voice in the bid them that they make them fringes in and mental health. God’s people have, garden, and I was afraid, because I was the borders of their garments through- to a great extent, lost their peculiarity, naked; and I hid myself” (verse 3:10). out their generations, and that they put and have been gradually patterning What an embarrassment Adam and Eve upon the fringe of the borders a ribband after the world, and mingling with must have felt, being in the presence of blue: and it shall be unto you for a them, until they have in many respects of God with such kind of covering! fringe, that ye may look upon it, and become like them. This is displeasing Nakedness of the soul follows physical remember all the commandments of to God. He directs them, as He directed nakedness, since the inward righteous- the Lord, and do them; and that ye seek the children of Israel anciently, to ness is revealed outwardly. The soul not after your own heart and your own come out from the world and forsake that is covered with the righteousness eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring: their idolatrous practices, not following of Christ covers the body with some- that ye may remember, and do all my their own hearts (for their hearts are thing that represents righteousness commandments, and be holy unto your unsanctified) or their own eyes, which within. Physical nakedness as a general God” (Numbers 15:37–40). have led them to depart from God and rule is the result of spiritual nakedness. Ellen G. White draws a parallel to unite with the world. After Adam and Eve were convinced between the ribbon of blue given to “Something must arise to lessen the of their grievous sin, God did not the Israelites and the dress reform that hold of God’s people upon the world. abandon them but presented the plan should characterize the people of God The reform dress is simple and health- of redemption (Genesis 3:15), and today: ful, yet there is a cross in it. I thank provided them with a dignified and “I was referred to Numbers 15:38–41 God for the cross and cheerfully bow appropriate covering. “Unto Adam also [cited above]: Here God expressly com- to lift it. We have been so united with and to his wife did the Lord God make manded a very simple arrangement of the world that we have lost sight of the coats of skins, and clothed them” (Verse dress for the children of Israel for the cross and do not suffer for Christ’s sake. 21). Through the gospel, God provides purpose of distinguishing them from “We should not wish to invent us with spiritual robes of Christ’s righ- the idolatrous nations around them. As something to make a cross; but if teousness, so that human beings can they looked upon their peculiarity of God presents to us a cross, we should come again before His presence, and dress, they were to remember that they cheerfully bear it. In the acceptance of He also provides us with decent and were God’s commandment-keeping the cross we are distinguished from the appropriate clothing that reflects the people, and that He had wrought in a world, who love us not and ridicule righteousness of Christ in the heart. miraculous manner to bring them from our peculiarity. Christ was hated by the “Righteousness within is testified to Egyptian bondage to serve Him, to be world because He was not of the world. by righteousness without.”4 a holy people unto Him. They were Can His followers expect to fare better Before we can dress as Christians, we not to serve their own desires, or to than their Master? If we pass along must become Christians. The reversal of imitate the idolatrous nations around without receiving censure or frowns these factors can be fatal to the soul. A them, but to remain a distinct, separate from the world we may be alarmed, for Christian is someone similar to Christ, people, that all who looked upon them it is our conformity to the world which and the true Christian is willing to might say: These are they whom God makes us so much like them that there sacrifice all desires and practices that brought out of the land of Egypt, who is nothing to arouse their envy or are contrary to the will of Christ. “If any keep the law of Ten Commandments. malice; there is no collision of spirits. man will come after me,” Christ said, An Israelite was known to be such as The world despises the cross.”6

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 15 When the subject of dress was receiving its greatest attention, a vi- sion was given to Ellen G. White of three groups wearing different style of dresses. “Three companies of females passed before me, with their dresses as follows with respect to length: “The first were of fashionable length, worshipper in a sa- burdening the limbs, impeding the cred temple, and step, and sweeping the street and gath- there he or she ering its filth; the evil results of which sees someone I have fully stated. This class, who were just partially slaves to fashion, appeared feeble and naked, enough languid. to draw his or “The dress of the second class her mind away which passed before me was in many from God. The respects as it should be. The limbs attention that were well clad. They were free from should be directed the burdens which the tyrant, Fashion, exclusively to worship had imposed upon the first class; but would be diverted because of had gone to that extreme in the short exposure to partial nakedness. dress as to disgust and prejudice good Someone may say: “We cannot ap- people, and destroy in a great measure Clothing and ply the rules referring to the priests to their own influence. . . . It does not worship the people in general.” Let’s not forget reach to the knee. I need not say that God that the people of God in the Christian this style of dress was shown me to be clearly dispensation are known as “a chosen too short.”7 instructed generation, a royal priesthood, an holy Let’s consider some important de- His people nation, a peculiar people” (1 Peter tails about this second class. This group about the 2:9). What is the purpose of God for was, shall we say, more than 50% well appropriate His people? “That ye should shew forth dressed, and parts of the body were clothing and the praises of him who hath called you well covered. Which parts? Not the practices when out of darkness into his marvellous legs, because the deficient aspect in this worshipping in the light.” The apostle Peter adds: “Which style was exactly the shortness of the sanctuary. See the in time past were not a people, but are dress. We conclude that the arms were instruc- now the people of God: which had well covered, correct? If the dress did tions not obtained mercy, but now have not reach to the knees, and the body given in obtained mercy” (verses 9, 10). was well covered, that means that the Exodus In the popular churches, in some arms were well protected, and not the 20:26 and 28:42, 43. special cases, those in charge take legs. The reason for these directives necessary steps to ensure that when Let’s consider the third group: were that “that thy nakedness be not a sister goes to the podium, that she “A third class passed before me discovered.” Considering the verses be properly protected by something with cheerful countenances, and free, already mentioned in chapter 28, that will not expose an inappropriate elastic step. Their dress was the length verses 42 and 43, where it says that the apparel that would serve to distract a I have described as proper, modest, linen breeches should cover “from the worshipper from proper worship. and healthful. It cleared the filth of the loins even unto the thighs,” what kind street and sidewalk a few inches under of nakedness is mentioned in Exodus The vision of three patterns for all circumstances, such as ascending 20:26? The part of the thigh down. In women’s clothing and descending steps, et cetera.”8 other words, that partial nudity was In the nineteenth century, when the Highlights of the third group: condemned by the Lord. Therefore, “goddess of fashion” enslaved especial- 1. “Cheerful countenances.” when the word of God speaks of ly women with a style of dress that was 2. Free, elastic steps as their dresses nakedness, it does not always refers only causing problems in every sense did not sweep the streets. to a total absence of clothes. Partial of the word—physically, morally, and 3. Appropriate length. We will arrive nudity is also condemned by the Lord, financially—God sent special light to to the ideal length, according to the both for men and women. Imagine a His people about the need of a reform. instructions of the servant of the Lord.

16 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 “As I have before stated, the length was not given me in inches.”9 Relationship of the vision in writ- “In the acceptance of the cross we are distin- ing and in practice guished from the world, who love us not and “As I wrote upon the subject of dress the view of those three companies ridicule our peculiarity.” revived in my mind as plain as when I was viewing them in vision; but I was left to describe the length of the proper dress in my own language the best I anyone who does this” (Ibid., NIV, jah, for example, as revealed in 2 Kings could, which I have done by stating emphasis added). 1:7, 8, and John the Baptist, in Mat- that the bottom of the dress should What is the purpose of Satan in thew 3:4. reach near the top of a lady’s boot, making the clothes of women and men “In the time of John the Baptist, which would be necessary in order to so similar? greed for riches, and the love of luxury clear the filth of the streets under the In today’s society we often confuse a and display had become widespread. circumstances before named. person by his/her appearance. We see Sensuous pleasures, feasting and drink- “I put on the dress, in length as near men with long hair and women with ing, were causing physical disease and as I had seen and described as I could short hair. “Men” with female gestures degeneracy, benumbing the spiritual judge. My sisters in Northern Michigan and mannerisms, and “women” with perceptions, and lessening the sen- also adopted it. And when the subject behaviors appropriate for men. Their sibility to sin. John was to stand as of inches came up in order to secure clothes have also created many identity a reformer. By his abstemious life uniformity as to length everywhere, problems. Satan wants to make men and plain dress he was to rebuke the a rule was brought and it was found and women so similar that it would excesses of his time.”12 that the length of our dresses ranged eliminate the characteristics which Dress reform is an essential part of from eight to ten inches from the floor. identify them, creating a similarity that the message of the Reform Movement Some of these were a little longer than leads to sinful promiscuity. as it was for the prophetic ministry of the sample shown me, while others “There is still another style of dress Elijah and John the Baptist; however, were a little shorter.”10 which will be adopted by a class of this reform must come from the inside Please note an important detail: so-called dress reformers. They will of a heart where Jesus reigns. This “Our dresses ranged from eight to ten imitate the opposite sex, as nearly as will be evident in the outside prac- inches from the floor.” possible. . . . In this style of dress God’s tices of our daily life. The inch is the standard measure- order has been reversed and His special Jesus affirmed, “Elias truly shall first ment used in the United States, equiva- directions disregarded. Deuteronomy come, and restore all things” (Matthew lent to 2.54 centimeters. Eight inches, 22:5. ‘The woman shall not wear that 17:11). therefore, result in 20.32 centimeters, which pertaineth unto a man, neither and ten inches equals 25.4 centimeters, shall a man put on a woman’s garment A solemn warning correct? for all that do so are abomination unto “There is a terrible sin upon us as The length of the recommended the Lord thy God.’ This style of dress, a people, that we have permitted our dress ranged between these two mea- God would not have His people adopt. church members to dress in a manner surements, depending on the height of It is not modest apparel and is not at all inconsistent with their faith. We must the person. fitting for modest, humble females who arise at once and close the door against profess to be Christ’s followers. God’s the allurements of fashion. Unless Understanding Deuteronomy 22:5 prohibitions are lightly regarded by all we do this, our churches will become Another issue that has affected some who would advocate the doing away of demoralized.”13 sisters in some places is the temptation the distinction of dress between males “All exhibitions of pride in dress, to wear long pants or trousers. What and females. . . . which is forbidden in the word of God, does Inspiration say about this? “God designed there should be a should be sufficient reason for church “The woman shall not wear that plain distinction between male and discipline. If there is a continuance, which pertaineth unto a man, neither female dress and has considered the in face of warnings and appeals and shall a man put on a woman’s gar- matter of sufficient importance to entreaties, to still follow the perverse ment: for all that do so are abomina- give explicit directions in regard to will, it may be regarded as proof that tion unto the Lord thy God” (Deuter- it; for the same dress worn by both the heart is in no way assimilated to onomy 22:5). sexes would cause confusion and great Christ. Self, and only self, is the object “A woman must not wear men’s increase of crime.”11 of adoration, and one such professed clothing, nor a man wear women’s Many servants of God in the past Christian will lead many away from clothing, for the Lord your God detests were identified by their clothing—Eli- God.”14

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 17 “Talk of Christ, and when the heart work, by confession, humiliation, “Wherefore seeing we also are com- is converted, everything that is out of repentance, and earnest prayer, to passed about with so great a cloud of harmony with the word of God will fulfill the conditions upon which witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, drop off. It is only labor in vain to pick God has promised to grant us His and the sin which doth so easily beset leaves off a living tree. The leaves will blessing.”18 us, and let us run with patience the race reappear. The ax must be laid at the “God calls for a spiritual revival that is set before us, looking unto Jesus root of the tree, and then the leaves and a spiritual reformation. Un- the author and finisher of our faith; will fall off, never to return. In order to less this takes place, those who are who for the joy that was set before him teach men and women the worthless- lukewarm will continue to grow more endured the cross, despising the shame, ness of earthly things, you must lead abhorrent to the Lord, until He will and is set down at the right hand of the them to the living Fountain and get refuse to acknowledge them as His throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1, 2). them to drink of Christ, until their children. Are we willing to accept the cross and hearts are filled with the love of God, “A revival and a reformation must its various facets before we can receive and Christ is in them a well of water take place, under the ministration of the crown? There is no other way. May springing up into everlasting life.”15 the Holy Spirit. Revival and reforma- God give us His marvelous grace to “Cleanse the fountain, and the tion are two different things. Revival fulfill the conditions of discipleship! R streams will be pure. If the heart is signifies a renewal of spiritual life, a right, your words, your dress, your acts quickening of the powers of mind and References will all be right.”16 heart, a resurrection from spiritual 1 Education, p. 18. 2 death. Reformation signifies a reorgani- Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 45. Revival and reformation 3 Ibid., p. 57. [Emphasis supplied.] zation, a change in ideas and theories, 4 Messages to Young People, p. 35. We need to understand the purpose habits and practices. Reformation will 5 Faith and Works, p. 100. of a true revival of the primitive piety not bring forth the good fruit of righ- 6 Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 524, 525. among God’s people and the connec- teousness unless it is connected with 7 Selected Messages, bk. 3, p. 278. [Emphasis tion that this revival brings with its the revival of the Spirit. Revival and supplied.] 8 Ibid. effects in our daily life. reformation are to do their appointed 9 Ibid. Revival without reformation leads work, and in doing this work they 10 Ibid. to a mere emotional religion. Reforma- must blend.”19 11 Selected Messages, bk. 2, pp. 477, 478. [Em- tion without a revival leads to a cold A legitimate revival precedes a true phasis supplied.] 12 and critical legalism. Therefore, both reformation, and a true reformation is The Desire of Ages, pp. 100, 101. [Emphasis supplied.] must be united and complement each the result of a real revival. These two 13 Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 648. other. elements must be intimately con- 14 Ibid., pp. 647, 648. “A revival of true godliness among nected, or we will fall into an extreme 15 The Signs of the Times, July 1, 1889. us is the greatest and most urgent of liberalism or into an extreme fanati- 16 Messages to Young People, p. 131. 17 all our needs. To seek this should be cism. This balance is only possible if Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 121. [Emphasis 17 supplied.] our first work.” we look to Jesus and accept Him as 18 Ibid. Please note some key expressions our all-sufficient Saviour and Lord of 19 The Review and Herald, February 25, 1902. in this paragraph: “But it is our our life.

18 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 Brotherly Kindness &

CharityCompiled from the writings of Ellen G. White.

hrist says you may be His character, we shall not reflect His known by all men if ye character in our practical life. He was have love one for another. meek and lowly in heart. He never did Now in order to have this a rude action, never spoke a discourte- love in the heart one for ous word. The Lord is not pleased with another it must be cultivated, and if our blunt, hard, unsympathetic ways this grace is attained then you will be a toward others. All this selfishness must spectacle unto the world and to angels.1 be purged away from our characters, If we are not better men and and we must wear the yoke of Christ.2 women, if we are not more kind- Chearted, more pitiful, more courteous, Warning: A condition worse than more full of tenderness and love, if we Achan’s do not manifest to others the love that There are those who cherish a spirit led Jesus to the world on His mission of envy and hatred against their breth- of mercy, we are not witnesses to the ren, calling it the Spirit of God. There world of the power of Jesus Christ. are those who go up and down as Jesus lived not to please Himself. talebearers, accusing and condemning, He gave Himself as a living, consum- blackening character, inspiring hearts ing sacrifice for the good of others. He with maliciousness. They carry false came to elevate, to ennoble, to make reports to the doors of their neighbors, happy all with whom He came in con- who, as they listen to the slander, lose tact. Those who receive Christ will drop the Spirit of God. Not even the mes- out all that is uncourteous, harsh, and senger of God, who bears to the people rough, and will reveal the pleasant- His truth, is spared. ness, the kindness, that dwelt in Jesus, This sin is worse than the sin of because Christ abides in the heart by Achan. Its influence is not confined to faith. Christ was the light that shineth those who cherish it. It is a root of bit- in darkness, and His followers are also terness, whereby many are defiled. God to be the light of the world. They are to cannot bless the church till it is purged kindle their taper from the divine altar. of this evil that corrupts minds and spir- The character that is sanctified through its, the souls of those who do not repent the truth adds the perfect polish. and change their course of action. Christ is our model, but unless we He who is renewed after the Spirit of behold Him, unless we contemplate Christ will not only love God, he will

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 19 love his brethren also. Those who make of sin. He suffered more than any of us souls from God. Such believers are a mistakes are to be dealt with according will be called to suffer. He gave His all source of weakness to the Lord’s work, to the directions given in the Word of for you. What have you given Him? for they are not abiding in Christ. . . . God. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken The knowledge of God’s truth has Go to the erring one, and pray with in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore been committed to you, not for you to him. Draw him to Jesus. Press together, such an one in the spirit of meekness, quarrel over, but to fit you to be light heart bound to heart in the love of considering thyself, lest thou also be bearers to the world. According to the Christ. Then will be seen in the church tempted” (Galatians 6:1). ability given you will be the returns the mighty power of God. Then many Plainly and faithfully evil is to be required by the Master. What have souls will be brought to the truth.3 reproved. But let the one who takes you done to persuade men to accept After the family, then comes the up this work first be sure that he is not the precious truth? All around you are church. The influence of the family is himself separated from Christ by evil those for whom Christ has died, that to be such that it will be a help and works. He must be able to restore the they might be pure, holy, sinless. Has a blessing in the church. Never speak erring in the spirit of meekness. Unless your life been filled with good works? a word of complaint or faultfinding. he can do this, he should not attempt Have you in meekness and faith sowed There are churches in which the spiri- to correct or reprove his brethren, for in the hearts of those with whom you tuality has been almost killed, because he will make two evils in the place of are brought in contact, seeds that will the spirit of backbiting has been al- curing one. bring forth fruit unto righteousness? lowed to enter. Why do we speak words Let men be careful how they treat How much more strength the Lord’s of blame and censure? To be silent is the purchase of the blood of Christ. people would have if they loved Him the strongest rebuke that you can give Let them not forget the prayer offered supremely and their neighbor as them- to one who is speaking harsh, discour- by the Saviour just before He left His selves! On how much higher ground teous words to you. Keep perfectly disciples for the long struggle in the they would stand if they followed on silent. Often silence is eloquence. My Garden of Gethsemane. Let them not to know the Lord! They have many brethren, you will never enter heaven forget the high estimate He has placed lessons to learn in the school of Christ with a spirit of faultfinding.4 on human beings by purchasing them before they will be prepared to enter Ministers and lay members of the at the sacrifice of His life. heaven. Many are through practice church displease God when they allow There are many who seem willing educating themselves to be oppres- individuals to tell them of the errors to wound and bruise the hearts of sive where they should be kind. Their and faults of their brethren. They their brethren. Are they following the sharpness makes them unskillful in should not open their ears to these re- example Christ has left them? Where dealing with human minds. ports. They should inquire, “Have you in the record of His dealing with men Christ’s life on earth was an expres- strictly followed the injunction of your do they find themselves sustained sion of pure religion. He is the Way, the Saviour? Have you told him his faults in showing so little forbearance and Truth, and the Life. Those who believe between you and him alone? And then patience in dealing with their brethren? in Him receive power to become the if he refused to hear, have you carefully Have they forgotten the words, “A new sons of God. They are no more of the and prayerfully taken two or three oth- commandment I give unto you, That ye world; they have come out from the ers and labored with him in tender- love one another; as I have loved you, world. The world knows them not, ness, in humility, in meekness, your that ye also love one another. By this because it knew not their Master. heart throbbing in love for his soul?” shall all men know that ye are My dis- By blameless lives they show that If you failed here, there was only one ciples, if ye have love one to another” they are sons of God. They are living more step you could take—tell it to the (John 13:34, 35)? That which distin- examples of Christlikeness. They are church, and let action be taken in the guishes Christians from worldlings is Christians, because they are like Christ, case according to the Scriptures. Then the manifestation of Christlikeness, because they abide in Him. They are it is that heaven will ratify the decision which by its pure influence cleanses the light bearers to the world. Because they made by the church in cutting off the heart from selfishness. are willing and obedient, they are led offending member. Christ hates sin. From Him evil met into all truth. If these steps have not been taken, with stern rebuke. But while He hates Our words and works are to be do not listen to a word, close the sin, He loves the sinner. Laying aside channels through which the principles ears, and refuse to take up a reproach His riches and glory, He came to this of truth are conveyed to the world. against your neighbor; listening to the earth to seek after us, sinful, erring, Those who do not cultivate personal reports of evil is lifting or taking up the unhappy, that He might lead us to piety cannot be lights in the world but reproach. If there were no brethren and heed His words, and, through obedi- bodies of darkness. Those who allow sisters to take up the reproach against ence, heaven. He humbled Himself, themselves to be dictatorial, who ac- their neighbors, evil tongues would and took upon Him our nature, that cuse and judge their brethren, seeking not find so fruitful a field in which to He might make us like Himself, pure with unsanctified heart and unholy labor, backbiting and devouring one and upright, free from the defilement temper to mend their wrongs, drive another. 5

20 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 The value of genuine kindness Understanding charity but if one in responsible position True courtesy is not learned by the “You must have charity,” is the cry is found whose morals are tainted mere practice of rules of etiquette. Pro- everywhere, especially from those who with dishonesty or impurity, be on priety of deportment is at all times to profess sanctification. But charity is too your guard that his godless spirit and be observed; wherever principle is not pure to cover an unconfessed sin. The example do not contaminate your compromised, consideration of others apostle [John] teaches that while we soul, and so the contagion of evil will lead to compliance with accepted should manifest Christian courtesy, we spread. The moral tone of piety among customs; but true courtesy requires no are authorized to call sin and sinners us must be raised, and in order that sacrifice of principle to conventionality. by their right names, and that this is it may be, we must take time for the It ignores caste. It teaches self-respect, consistent with true charity. While we personal culture of heart religion. Let respect for the dignity of man as man, are to love souls for whom Christ died, each one feel, I must be an example a regard for every member of the great and labor for their salvation, we should in patience. I must do good, whether human brotherhood. not make a compromise with sin. We are others appreciate my motives or not. There is danger of placing too high not to unite with those who are rebelling I must not stand allied with evil, or a value upon mere manner and form, against divine authority, and call this cover it with a mantle of false charity. and devoting too much time to educa- charity.7 Bible charity is not sentimentalism, but tion in these lines. The life of strenu- True charity never covers up unre- love in active exercise. To heal the hurt ous effort demanded of every youth, pented and unconfessed sins. She only of the daughter of My people, slightly, the hard, often uncongenial work drops her mantle over the faults that saying, “Peace, peace; when there is no required even for life’s ordinary duties, are confessed and renounced. True peace” (Jeremiah 6:14; 8:11), is called and much more for lightening the charity is a very delicate personage, charity. To confederate together, to call world’s heavy burden of ignorance and never setting her pure foot outside of sin holiness and truth, is called charity; wretchedness—these give little place Bible truth.8 but it is the counterfeit article. The false for conventionalities. and the spurious are in the world, and Many who lay great stress upon eti- A pledge for every believer we should closely examine our hearts quette show little respect for anything, “I am a Christian,” must be re- that we may know whether or not we however excellent, that fails of meeting peated, “and I must love my neighbor possess the genuine charity. Genuine their artificial standard. This is false as myself. I must do unto others as I charity will not create distrust and evil education. It fosters critical pride and would that they should do to me. I work. It will not blunt the sword of narrow exclusiveness. must not exalt myself as a privileged the spirit so that it does no execution. The essence of true politeness is con- character and look down upon others Those who would cover evil under false sideration for others. The essential, en- as of no value. I am a Christian and charity, say to the sinner, “It shall be during education is that which broad- must esteem others better than myself. well with thee.” Thank God there is a ens the sympathies and encourages I am a Christian and must not join charity that will not be corrupted; there universal kindliness. That so-called any ring or party which would connive is a wisdom that cometh from above, culture which does not make a youth at evil, no matter how trivial might that is (mark it) first pure, then peace- deferential toward his parents, appre- seem the transgression.” It was a small able, and without hypocrisy, and the ciative of their excellences, forbearing transgression that opened upon our fruits of righteousness is sown of them toward their defects, and helpful to world the floodgates of woe. The act of that make peace. This is a description their necessities; which does not make sin may be one that is called common, of heaven-born, heaven-bred charity. him considerate and tender, generous and the eternal ruin will be common. Charity loves the sinner but hates the and helpful toward the young, the old, We need not seek to excuse ourselves sin, and will warn him faithfully of his and the unfortunate, and courteous because men in high esteem are guilty danger, pointing him to the Lamb of toward all, is a failure. of strange misdemeanors and place sin God who taketh away the sin of the Real refinement of thought and in wrong light before the world. The world. Sin is not to be cloaked, but to manner is better learned in the school uprightness of all who make high pro- be taken away.9 R of the divine Teacher than by any fessions and practice iniquity is known References observance of set rules. His love per- a pretense before that God whose eye 1 vading the heart gives to the character reads the hearts of men. So few are Manuscript Releases, vol. 3, p. 235. 2 That I May Know Him, p. 306. those refining touches that fashion it in found who act upon the principles of 3 Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, pp. 147–150. the semblance of His own. This educa- the Bible, that we can say indeed that 4 The General Conference Bulletin, April 6, tion imparts a heaven-born dignity and many shall seek to enter in and shall 1903. sense of propriety. It gives a sweetness not be able. Christ’s followers are a 5 Manuscript Releases, vol. 12, pp. 280, 281. 6 of disposition and a gentleness of little flock. Education, pp. 240, 241. 7 The Signs of the Times, January 29, 1885. manner that can never be equaled by Those who have not lost their first 8 Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G. the superficial polish of fashionable love will have a care for the souls of White (1880), pp. 208, 209. society.6 those with whom they are associated; 9 Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, pp. 216, 217.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 21 The Church

Abridged from a study by P. D. Lausevic. “WhoVi is she that looketh c forth t oas the ri morning, o fair u as the s moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?” (Song of Solomon 6:10).

Speaking of triumph Rome throw Christians to the gladia- When people gather together to tors, feed them to the lions and other speak of experiences involving conflict, wild beasts, and cause them to endure they rarely mention defeat. every other means of persecution Memorials such as the Arc de imaginable? Triomphe in Paris and (after over 2,200 To understand this, let us look at the years) the Arch of Septimius Severus final victory—a victory that will not in Rome—both stand to testify of how leave behind a lifeless monument in humanity relishes the taste of victory. memory of a long-forgotten people. In the case of the Arch of Titus, the It will be a conquest to be tasted by memorial remains, yet the empire that the victors forever. built it has vanished away. John the Revelator describes: “I People like to memorialize their saw as it were a sea of glass mingled victories and forget their defeats. with fire: and them that had gotten Consider the Flavian Amphithe- the victory over the beast, and over his ater—also known as the Coliseum— image, and over his mark, and over the where the blood of faithful Christian number of his name, stand on the sea martyrs comes to memory. The vast of glass, having the harps of God. And empire that persecuted the martyrs is they sing the song of Moses the servant no longer, but the heritage of God’s of God, and the song of the Lamb, chosen people lives on. saying, Great and marvellous are thy “Who is she that looketh forth as works, Lord God Almighty; just and the morning, fair as the moon, clear as true are thy ways, thou King of saints” the sun, and terrible as an army with (Revelation 15:2, 3). banners?” Of what experience is this a record? “In holy vision the prophet saw the The triumph of the remnant church ultimate triumph of God’s remnant Yes, the Roman army with its ban- church.”1 ners waving in the sky terrified the What did the prophet see? The world for nearly seven centuries. But ultimate triumph of the remnant the very church which that power tried church—the 144,000. to extinguish is still here today and will With regard to the 144,000, we are soon be the church victorious. told, “None but the hundred and forty- Why was the battle so intense? Why four thousand can learn that song; for did imperial Rome and later papal it is the song of their experience—an

22 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 experience such as no other company Lord’s people reach this mark, they This must be our experience if we have ever had.”2 will be sealed in their foreheads. Filled intend to be translated as part of the Since their experience is so unique, with the Spirit, they will be complete 144,000 and be part of that victorious what are we advised to do? “Let us in Christ, and the recording angel will remnant church. strive with all the power that God has declare, ‘It is finished.’ ”8 given us to be among the hundred and This is first as individuals and then The righteousness of Christ forty-four thousand.”3 as a people (church). “ ‘When the When we say that we must have Why is the seal placed upon the fruit is brought forth, immediately Christ’s righteousness as our own, we foreheads of the 144,000 so impor- he putteth in the sickle, because the need to understand what His righ- tant? harvest is come’ (Mark 4:29). Christ teousness is all about: “Only those who receive the seal of is waiting with longing desire for “Ye were not redeemed with corrupt- the living God will have the passport the manifestation of Himself in His ible things, as silver and gold, from through the gates of the Holy City.”4 church. When the character of Christ your vain conversation received by tra- This is not simply like a tourist or shall be perfectly reproduced in His dition from your fathers; but with the visitor’s visa—this is a permanent visa, people, then He will come to claim precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb as when one is moving to a new coun- them as His own.”9 without blemish and without spot” (1 try. In the governments on earth, to We must be perfected because we Peter 1:18, 19, emphasis added). immigrate to a new country and be ac- will see Jesus as He is. “Beloved, now What must happen to this type of cepted as a permanent citizen involves are we the sons of God, and it doth not righteousness? “For even hereunto police clearance, medical clearance, yet appear what we shall be: but we were ye called: because Christ also mental clearance, credit clearance, tax know that, when he shall appear, we suffered for us, leaving us an example, clearance, and so forth. shall be like him; for we shall see him that ye should follow his steps: who For that reason, a person “is not as he is. And every man that hath this did no sin, neither was guile found in saved until the seal of God is placed hope in him purifieth himself, even as his mouth” (1 Peter 2:21, 22). upon him.”5 he is pure” (1 John 3:2, 3). The Bible also speaks of “the righ- This was the experience of faithful teousness of saints” (Revelation 19:8). What experience must I have in Enoch, who walked with God. (See “The palm branch in [the over- order to be sealed? Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5.) comers’] hands is a symbol of their “The angel with the writer’s inkhorn Let us keep in mind: “Enoch pleased triumph, the white robe an emblem of is to place a mark upon the foreheads [God] though living in a degenerate the spotless righteousness of Christ of all who are separated from sin and age.”10 which now is theirs.”12 “We can keep sinners, and the destroying angel fol- “In the midst of a world by its in- the law only through making the lows this angel.”6 iquity doomed to destruction, Enoch righteousness of Christ our own.”13 “And in their mouth was found no lived a life of such close communion Christ’s perfect righteousness must guile: for they are without fault before with God that he was not permit- become mine. the throne of God” (Revelation 14:5). ted to fall under the power of death. We have heard how in times past, “All who receive the seal must be The godly character of this prophet royalty not only provided wedding without spot before God—candidates represents the state of holiness which guests with an invitation, but it also for heaven. Go forward, my brethren must be attained by those who shall provided a special garment to be worn and sisters. I can only write briefly be ‘redeemed from the earth’ (Rev- at the wedding. This is why Jesus used upon these points at this time, merely elation 14:3) at the time of Christ’s this as an illustration in Matthew 22. calling your attention to the necessity second advent. Then, as in the world But it is not enough to have the wed- of preparation. Search the Scriptures before the Flood, iniquity will prevail. ding garment. It has to be put on. for yourselves, that you may under- Following the promptings of their “The greatest deception of the stand the fearful solemnity of the corrupt hearts and the teachings of a human mind in Christ’s day was that present hour.”7 deceptive philosophy, men will rebel a mere assent to the truth constitutes We must obtain perfection of against the authority of Heaven. But righteousness.”14 character. like Enoch, God’s people will seek for For this reason, Pharisaical righ- “We may talk of the blessings of the purity of heart and conformity to His teousness is insufficient to enter the Holy Spirit, but unless we prepare our- will, until they shall reflect the like- kingdom of God. (See Matthew 5:20.) selves for its reception, of what avail ness of Christ. Like Enoch, they will The 144,000 will be trophies (trium- are our works? Are we striving with warn the world of the Lord’s second phal arches) of this experience. all our power to attain to the statue coming and of the judgments to be of men and women in Christ? Are we visited upon transgression, and by How can we have this experience? seeking for His fullness, ever pressing their holy conversation and example “It came to pass, that, while Apol- toward the mark set before us—the they will condemn the sins of the los was at Corinth, Paul having passed perfection of His character? When the ungodly.”11 through the upper coasts came to

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 23 When we shall practice “the principles of the Why is it important to have and to teach pure truth? “Every unconverted law in [our] daily life; when [our] every act bears man is fascinated, bewildered, by the bewitching power of the great deceiver. witness that [we] love God supremely and [our] Paul wrote to the Galatians, ‘Who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey neighbor as [ourselves,] then will the church have the truth?’ (Galatians 3:1). Every person who cherishes a known error, in faith or power to move the world.” practice, is under the power of sorcery and is practicing sorcery upon others. Satan Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, The believers at Ephesus were hold- employs him to mislead other souls.”19 he said unto them, Have ye received ing serious errors. the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And Why is it important to have pure Conclusion they said unto him, We have not so doctrine? This purity of the truth in God’s much as heard whether there be any “Well would it be for the church church will give them power to move Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, and the world if the principles that the world. Unto what then were ye baptized? And actuated those steadfast souls [in the What will it take for us to obtain they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then first centuries] were revived in the that same power, so that we can finish said Paul, John verily baptized with hearts of God’s professed people. the work and go home—to our real the baptism of repentance, saying unto There is an alarming indifference home—as we are only strangers and the people, that they should believe on in regard to the doctrines which are pilgrims here in this old sinful world? him which should come after him, that the pillars of the Christian faith. The “When those who profess to serve God is, on Christ Jesus” (Acts 19:1–4). opinion is gaining ground, that, after follow Christ’s example, practicing the Were these souls baptized? Who all, these are not of vital importance. principles of the law in their daily life; baptized them? Was John a man of This degeneracy is strengthening the when every act bears witness that they God? Were they baptized into the right hands of the agents of Satan, so that love God supremely and their neighbor church? false theories and fatal delusions as themselves, then will the church have After they had the old truth put in a which the faithful in ages past imper- power to move the world.”20 new setting and though it revealed old iled their lives to resist and expose, are [For the complete study, see the errors, what happened? “When they now regarded with favor by thousands author's study guide, The People of the heard this, they were baptized in the who claim to be followers of Christ. Ark.] R name of the Lord Jesus” (Verse 5). “The early Christians were indeed Why was rebaptism necessary? a peculiar people. Their blameless References “There is still another lesson for us in deportment and unswerving faith were 1 The Acts of the Apostles, p. 590. the experience of those Jewish con- a continual reproof that disturbed the 2 The Great Controversy, p. 649. 3 verts. When they received baptism at sinner’s peace. Though few in numbers, The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White the hand of John, they were holding without wealth, position, or honorary Comments], vol. 7 p. 970. 4 Ibid. serious errors. But with clearer light titles, they were a terror to evildoers 5 Ibid., p. 969. they gladly accepted Christ as their wherever their character and doctrines 6 Ibid., vol. 4, p. 1161. Redeemer; and with this advance step were known. Therefore they were hated 7 Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216. came a change in their obligations. As by the wicked, even as Abel was hated 8 The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White they received a purer faith, there was a by the ungodly Cain.”17 Comments], vol. 6, p. 1118. corresponding change in their life and The battle was intense in the field 9 Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 69. character. In token of this change, and of the Coliseum in Rome, because 10 Ibid., p. 332. as an acknowledgment of their faith pure truth in the lives of God’s people 11 Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 88, 89. in Christ, they were rebaptized in the causes terror to evildoers. 12 The Great Controversy, p. 665. [Emphasis sup- name of Jesus.”15 How is this achieved? plied.] 13 Why was there a change? Because “Whatever phase of the subject is Reflecting Christ, p. 103. [Emphasis supplied.] 14 The Desire of Ages, p. 309. they received a pure truth. presented, uplift Jesus as the center of 15 Sketches From the Life of Paul, p. 132. What is truth? Jesus explains, “I am all hope, ‘the Root and the Offspring 16 The Signs of the Times, September 27, 1899. the way, the truth, and the life” (John of David, and the bright and morning [Emphasis supplied.] 18 14:6). Star’ (Revelation 22:16).” 17 The Great Controversy, p. 46. What does that mean? Too many Doctrine without Christ EQUALS 18 Testimonies to Ministers, p. 118. “are not willing to exchange their own FALSE DOCTRINE. 19 The Signs of the Times, May 18, 1882. [Em- righteousness (which is unrighteous- Christ without pure doctrine (un- phasis supplied.] ness) for the righteousness of Christ, adulterated truth) equals falsehood as 20 Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 340. [Emphasis which is pure, unadulterated truth.”16 well. supplied.]

24 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 Christand the PartSealing 3 (Conclusion)

The close of probation still; for all their sins will then be blot- ted out, and they will be sealed with In Revelation 22:11–15, we find the the seal of the living God. But those most solemn declaration ever given that are unjust and filthy will be unjust by Jesus in the most holy place of the and filthy still; for then there will be heavenly sanctuary: no Priest in the sanctuary to offer their “He that is unjust, let him be unjust sacrifices, their confessions, and their still: and he which is filthy, let him be prayers before the Father's throne. filthy still: and he that is righteous, Therefore what is done to rescue let him be righteous still: and souls from the coming storm of he that is holy, let him be holy wrath must be done before Jesus still. And, behold, I come leaves the most holy place of quickly; and my reward is the heavenly sanctuary.”1 with me, to give every man “Every individual soul, if according as his work shall he would receive the seal of be. I am Alpha and Ome- the living God, must hear A Bible and Spirit of Prophecy compilation, ga, the beginning and the the Word of the Lord and end, the first and the last. with commentary by D. P. Silva do it with exactitude. There Blessed are they that do must be no such thing as his commandments, that haphazard religion if men they may have right to would have a place in the the tree of life, and may family of God.”2 enter in through the gates “As [John] looked with into the city. For without intense interest he beheld are dogs, and sorcerers, the company of God's com- and whoremongers, and mandment-keeping people. murderers, and idolaters, and They had upon their foreheads whosoever loveth and maketh the seal of the living God, and a lie.” he said: ‘Here is the patience of “When Jesus leaves the sanctu- the saints: here are they that keep ary, then they who are holy and the commandments of God, and the righteous will be holy and righteous faith of Jesus.’ (Revelation 14:12).”3

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 25 “When the third angel's message the living God. Then I saw the four an- ment, will be recognized and marked closes, mercy no longer pleads for the gels cease to hold the four winds. And as worthy of God's protection. The guilty inhabitants of the earth. The I saw famine, pestilence and sword, na- names of those who are steadfastly people of God have accomplished their tion rose against nation, and the whole looking and waiting and watching for work. They have received ‘the latter rain,’ world was in confusion.”9 the appearing of their Saviour—more ‘the refreshing from the presence of “Just as soon as the people of God earnestly and wishfully than they who the Lord,’ and they are prepared for the are sealed in their foreheads--it is not wait for the morning—will be num- trying hour before them. Angels are has- any seal or mark that can be seen, but a bered with those who are sealed. Those tening to and fro in heaven. An angel settling into the truth, both intellectu- who, while having all the light of truth returning from the earth announces that ally and spiritually, so they cannot be flashing upon their souls, should have his work is done; the final test has been moved—just as soon as God's people works corresponding to their avowed brought upon the world, and all who are sealed and prepared for the shak- faith, but are allured by sin, setting up have proved themselves loyal to the ing, it will come. Indeed, it has begun idols in their hearts, corrupting their divine precepts have received ‘the seal already; the judgments of God are now souls before God, and polluting those of the living God.’ Then Jesus ceases His upon the land, to give us warning, that who unite with them in sin, will have intercession in the sanctuary above. He we may know what is coming.”10 their names blotted out of the book of lifts His hands, and with a loud voice “Only those who receive the seal of life, and be left in midnight darkness, says, ‘It is done;’ and all the angelic host the living God will have the passport having no oil in their vessels with their lay off their crowns as He makes the sol- through the gates of the Holy City. lamps. ‘Unto you that fear My name emn announcement: ‘He that is unjust, But there are many who take upon shall the Sun of Righteousness arise let him be unjust still; and he which is themselves responsibilities in connec- with healing in His wings’ (Malachi filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that tion with the work of God who are not 4:2).”13 is righteous, let him be righteous still; wholehearted believers, and while they and he that is holy, let him be holy still’ remain thus cannot receive the seal of Escape for your life (Revelation 22:11). Every case has been the living God. They trust in their own When God and His angels were decided for life or death. Christ has righteousness, which the Lord accounts rescuing Lot and the remnant of his made the atonement for His people and as foolishness.”11 family from the imminent destruction blotted out their sins. The number of “As wax takes the impression of the of Sodomah and Gomorrah, He urged His subjects is made up; ‘the kingdom seal, so the soul is to take the impres- them: and dominion, and the greatness of the sion of the Spirit of God and retain the “Escape for thy life; look not behind kingdom under the whole heaven,’ is image of Christ. thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; about to be given to the heirs of salva- “Many will not receive the seal of escape to the mountain, lest thou be tion, and Jesus is to reign as King of God because they do not keep His consumed” (Genesis 19:17). kings, and Lord of lords.”4 commandments or bear the fruits of “The same angel who visited Sodom “There can be only two classes. Each righteousness. is sounding the note of warning, party is distinctly stamped, either with “The great mass of professing Chris- ‘Escape for thy life.’ The bottles of the seal of the living God, or with the tians will meet with bitter disappoint- God's wrath cannot be poured out to mark of the beast or his image.”5 ment in the day of God. They have not destroy the wicked and their works “The seal of the living God is placed upon their foreheads the seal of the until all the people of God have been upon those who conscientiously keep living God. Lukewarm and halfhearted, judged, and the cases of the living as the Sabbath of the Lord.”6 they dishonor God far more than the well as the dead are decided. And even “Those who receive the seal of the avowed unbeliever. They grope in dark- after the saints are sealed with the seal living God and are protected in the ness, when they might be walking in of the living God, His elect will have time of trouble must reflect the image the noonday light of the Word, under trials individually. Personal afflictions of Jesus fully.”7 the guidance of One who never errs.”12 will come; but the furnace is closely “The seal of God will never be “Those that overcome the world, the watched by an eye that will not suffer placed upon the forehead of an impure flesh, and the devil, will be the favored the gold to be consumed. The indelible man or woman. It will never be placed ones who shall receive the seal of the mark of God is upon them. God can upon the forehead of the ambitious, living God. Those whose hands are plead that His own name is written world-loving man or woman. It will not clean, whose hearts are not pure, there. The Lord has shut them in. Their never be placed upon the forehead will not have the seal of the living destination is inscribed—‘God, New of men or women of false tongues God. Those who are planning sin and Jerusalem.’ They are God's property, or deceitful hearts. All who receive acting it will be passed by. Only those His possession.”14 the seal must be without spot before who, in their attitude before God, are “Many hear the invitation of mercy, God—candidates for heaven.”8 filling the position of those who are are tested and proved; but few are “Just before we entered it [the time repenting and confessing their sins sealed with the seal of the living God. of trouble], we all received the seal of in the great antitypical day of atone- Few will humble themselves as a little

26 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 "There can be only two classes. Each party is distinctly stamped, either with the seal of the living God, or with the mark of the beast or his image."

child, that they may enter the kingdom “As many as I love, I rebuke and “Thanks be to God, which giveth of heaven.”15 chasten: be zealous therefore, and us the victory through our Lord Jesus “What is the seal of the living God, repent. Behold, I stand at the door, Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). R which is placed in the foreheads of and knock: if any man hear my voice, His people? It is a mark which angels, and open the door, I will come in to References but not human eyes, can read; for the him, and will sup with him, and he 1 Early Writings, p. 48. destroying angel must see this mark of with me. To him that overcometh will I 2 The Faith I Live By, p. 288. redemption. The intelligent mind has grant to sit with me in my throne, even 3 Ibid., p. 307. seen the sign of the cross of Calvary in as I also overcame, and am set down 4 The Great Controversy, pp. 613, 614. the Lord's adopted sons and daughters. with my Father in his throne” (Revela- 5 The Review and Herald, January 30, 1900. The sin of the transgression of the law tion 3:19–21). 6 The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White of God is taken away. They have on the The following beautiful words are Comments], vol. 7, p. 980. 7 wedding garment, and are obedient given by divine Inspiration through Early Writings, p. 71. 8 Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216. and faithful to all God's commands.”16 the apostle Paul: “We are more than 9 The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White “The enemies of God's law, from the conquerors through him that loved us. Comments], vol. 7, p. 968. ministers down to the least among them, For I am persuaded, that neither death, 10 Ibid., vol. 4, p. 1161. have a new conception of truth and duty nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, 11 Ibid., vol. 7, p. 970. [when God’s holy law is revealed as the nor powers, nor things present, nor 12 Ibid. rule of judgment]. Too late they see that things to come, nor height, nor depth, 13 Testimonies to Ministers, p. 445. the Sabbath of the fourth command- nor any other creature, shall be able 14 Ibid., p. 446. ment is the seal of the living God.”17 to separate us from the love of God, 15 Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 50. To His people in this last period of which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” 16 Manuscript Releases, vol. 21, p. 52. 17 the Christian era, Christ declares: (Romans 8:37–39). The Great Controversy, pp. 640.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 27 By Herea-Buzatu Constanta

unday, September I had heard of the Eden Clinic from Beginning in the year 2000, I was 22, 2013, was a day of a friend whose daughter had had seri- the coordinator of the European joy, both for the brethren ous health problems. No doctor had “ERASMUS-SOCRATES” exchange and sisters that work in the expected the daughter to live much program for university teachers and Eden Clinic, as well as for longer until finally her father appealed students of the Technical Construc- the believers belonging to the to the Eden Clinic. (The girl is now a tion Engineering Department at the Odai local group in the district of student.) University of Bucharest—where I was Prahova, Romania. Sister Florica from Odai learned about our faith from a neighbor of hers, a member of our church. She at- tended our meetings in that place and Sdecided to make a covenant with the Lord through baptism (despite the op- position of her family). May the Lord bless her choice and give her strength to be an example in the family, in the church, and in society. Sister Constanta Herea learned the truth in the Eden Clinic and in the following testimony you will have the opportunity to read her experience. We are very glad for the decision she has made, and we ask the Lord to continue guiding her feet in the right way.

28 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 in charge of Ph.D. theses for the faculty of the department for Technological Tools. My Ph.D. thesis was in Ecology, given at various universities of Portugal and France. In 2008, there came to Romania a university professor from Portugal who had been diagnosed with leuke- mia. While she was here, together we decided to visit the Eden Clinic and talk to Dr. Doru Laza, since Dr. Laza is fluent in Portuguese. That was in the month of May, and the lady decided to come for treatments in October of that year. The next year, in 2009, she returned for treatments, and since I was her roommate in order to translate for her during the entire treatment session, I also received treatments. With this opportunity I attended the morning and evening worship programs (at 8:30–9:00 a.m. and p.m). That was when I began to become acquainted with the Bible. As a result, I started to ask questions and to read the scriptures for myself. Before, I had been a nonpracticing Orthodox who went to church only on Easter, Christ- mas, weddings, and baptisms—and that was all. I returned to the Eden Clinic an average of 3 times each year. I came with another university teacher twice, with my mother three times, with my mother-in-law twice, with my cousin once, with a friend, and so on—all in the truth more deeply. I undertook For two years I continued my all, more than 10 times. And hear- changes in my dress and I quit dyeing baptism preparation. I feared only ing about the General Conference my hair. . . . one thing: That the end is near and spiritual meetings to be held in Sibiu Although the refusal of my bap- I would not have enough time to get with the theme of “He Is Coming,” tism in 2011 was like “a cold shower” baptized so that I can be saved. The I attended those meetings, knowing for me, I understood that the stan- promise of Jesus, “I am coming soon,” that, at the end of the conference, dards are“high” for those who want and the signs showing us that we live there would be a baptism where many to join the SDARM. This was contra- in the time of the end were troubling people would be baptized. Full of dicting my colleagues' idea that “Ad- me, but, to my gladness, after 2 years enthusiasm, I expressed my desire to ventists had brainwashed me,” that of waiting after I had first expressed be baptized in Porumbacu. they “wanted to draw me into their my desire to be baptized, on Septem- To my surprise, I was apparently church as a valuable member since I ber 22, my dream finally became a refused! I was told that I was not yet was a university teacher.” The refusal reality! prepared. was a very strong argument to prove I am so glad that I made this deci- True, there were still many things to to them that they had been mistaken. sion, and I pray that God may be close be changed in my life. There needed I, on the other hand, consider that to me, that He may grant me strength to be evidence of a converted life. I have been very loved by God in to walk in the narrow way, having During the following months, learn- coming to Breaza, to the Eden Clinic, Jesus Christ as my example in my ing more closely the way of living that without having any particular disease, daily life. R people have when they serve the Lord and that I got to learn the word of wholeheartedly, I began to understand God and His will.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 29 Australia Western Australian Field camp meeting, September 2013. Rwanda Delegation session in Kigali, August 2013 (middle). Zambia Spiritual conference, October 2013 (bottom).

30 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 U.S.A. Los Angeles, CA youth baptism, September 2013.

Las Vegas, NV baptism, May 2013 (middle).

Ukraine Missionary school, August 2013 (bottom).

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 54, No. 4 31 Periodical Postage PAID Roanoke, VA 24022

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Children's Corner

he new school year was start- ing and the children were talking. “I want to be in the 10th grade!” little Susie pro- Tclaimed. “Oh, Susie. Don’t be silly. How can you go to the 10th grade class, when you are just learning to read?” chided her older sister, Molly. “I don’t care. I want to be there anyway!” “Do you realize that in 10th grade you By B. Montrose will need to study geometry? Before that, you will need to know some algebra, too. Maybe you’ll have biology or even chemistry to study! How would “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue Then, as our character becomes you know the answers to all the ques- knowledge; and to knowledge temper- more like the way God is, we will not tions in those big, thick textbooks with ance; and to temperance patience; and be so selfish and self-centered. We will all that small print?” to patience godliness; and to godliness better appreciate others around us—our It was true. Susie was still quite brotherly kindness; and to brotherly family and friends. We will be kinder to young. Yet sooner or later, little Susie kindness charity” (2 Peter 1:5–7). them. would achieve her goal. It would even You have faith in God, right? Well, Then, as we grow in brotherly kind- be okay for her to start working toward since you believe in Him, you are ness, soon we will also start to be kind it right away: She could learn about inspired to be good. But it’s hard to to other people. Sometimes they are geometry by examining her toy blocks become better and better, unless we not people that we would naturally like. and measuring them with a ruler. know what is better in God’s sight—so They may be unfriendly or even rude. She could study biology by looking that means we need to learn more But we will be kind to them anyway and closely at plants and small creatures knowledge about Him and His ways will try to find ways to help them. This and noticing things about them that from the Bible. loving of the unlovable is called charity. were interesting. She could do little Once we know more, that should We cannot climb this ladder by chemical experiments with baking soda give us more self-control. ourselves. It’s hard to go uphill—es- or vinegar. Her learning would all be a When we control ourselves, we pecially when you’re little. But Jesus is step-by-step process. become more patient when we have willing to take us by the hand and give In the Bible, the apostle Peter teaches problems. us strength. When we invite Him into about a step-by-step process toward the As we have this patience, we become our heart day by day and ask for Him kingdom of heaven. We often call it less whiny and babyish and more to be with us, He is there at our side. Peter’s ladder: mature like God. Step-by-step. R