Th e Pa r a b l e of the Tw o S o n s
6OLUME .UMBER *ANUARY 4HE 3EVENTH DAY 3ABBATH #HRIST /UR 2IGHTEOUSNESS 4HE )MMUTABLE ,AW OF 'OD
4HE .ON )MMORTALITY OF THE 3OUL 4HE 4HREE !NGELS -ESSAGES 4HE 3ANCTUARY EDITORIAL 2ON 3PEAR !N !CQUAINTANCE 7ITH 'OD
To acquaint ourselves with our deemed possible.” The Ministry of “But he that lacketh these things Almighty Creator and Redeemer is Healing, 514. is blind, and cannot see afar off, and the great secret in holy living—to Thousands of Seventh-day hath forgo en that he was purged be an overcomer under the Holy Adventists do not have Enoch’s from his old sins. Wherefore the Spirit’s power. experience today because they have rather, brethren, give diligence to “Acquaint now thyself with him, been blinded by Satan to believe a make your calling and election sure: and be at peace: thereby good shall counterfeit gospel—that we can be for if ye do these things, ye shall come unto thee. Receive, I pray saved in sinning. never fall:” 2 Peter 1:2–10. thee, the law from his mouth, and “In whom the god of this world The love of God is an anchor lay up his words in thine heart. If hath blinded the minds of them for a troubled soul in this confused thou return to the Almighty, thou which believe not, lest the light of world. Listen to our prophet extol shalt be built up, thou shalt put the glorious gospel of Christ, who His wonderful love and watchcare away iniquity far from thy taber- is the image of God, should shine over His people. nacles.” Job 22:21–23. unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4. “Our hope is to be constantly How do we go about seeking Peter tells of the victorious strengthened by the knowledge that such a relationship? experience that will be ours as we Christ is our righteousness. Let our “Study to shew thyself approved embrace the true gospel—the gos- faith rest upon this foundation, for unto God, a workman that needeth pel of Christ—and partake of His it will stand fast forever. Instead not to be ashamed, rightly dividing divine nature: of dwelling upon the darkness of the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15. “Grace and peace be multiplied Satan and fearing his power, we “Search the scriptures; for in unto you through the knowledge should open our hearts to receive them ye think ye have eternal life: of God, and of Jesus our Lord, ac- light from Christ and to let it shine and they are they which testify of cording as his divine power hath forth to the world, declaring that me.” John 5:39. given unto us all things that pertain He is above all the power of Satan, “And ye shall seek me, and find unto life and godliness, through the that His sustaining arm will sup- me, when ye shall search for me knowledge of him that hath called port all who trust in Him. . . . with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13. us to glory and virtue: whereby are “All the afflictions and trials that Enoch understood how to given unto us exceeding great and befall us here are permi ed, to work receive such a blessed relationship precious promises: that by these ye out His purposes of love toward us, with his God. He walked with God might be partakers of the divine na- ‘that we might be partakers of His and talked with Him daily until ture, having escaped the corruption holiness’ (Hebrews 12:10) and thus God took him to Himself. Elijah had that is in the world through lust. become participants in that fullness a very similar experience, and it is “And beside this, giving all of joy which is found in His pres- to be ours as well: diligence, add to your faith virtue; ence.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 742. “Walk continually in the light of and to virtue knowledge; and to God is looking for Enochs and God. Meditate day and night upon knowledge temperance; and to Elijahs in this final hour. The secret His character. Then you will see His temperance patience; and to pa- to this wonderful opportunity is in beauty and rejoice in His goodness. tience godliness; and to godliness the Word of God—the Scriptures Your heart will glow with a sense of brotherly kindness; and to brotherly and the Spirit of Prophecy. Let us His love. You will be upli ed as if kindness charity. For if these things now be diligent in our pursuit to borne by everlasting arms. With the be in you, and abound, they make acquaint ourselves with our loving power and light that God imparts, you that ye shall neither be barren Redeemer is my prayer. you can comprehend more and ac- nor unfruitful in the knowledge of complish more than you ever before our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Our Firm Foundation TABLE OF CONTENTS 6OLUME .UMBER *ANUARY
4HE 0ARABLE OF THE 4WO 3ONS Joe Crews 7ILL WE CARRY THROUGH WITH OUR PROMISE TO LOVE AND OBEY 'OD
It is the mission of Hope International and the editors of Our Firm Foundation to clearly present (ERESYS )NEVITABLE #ONSEQUENCE Christ and His truth. The days remaining for this world are few, and we must work quickly. Wallace Boddy We must boldly proclaim the historic truths of *UST WHAT THE $EVIL ORDERED Adventism that place us on so firm a foundation in the midst of this troubled world. –Editors Executive Editor: Ron Spear Executive Director: Joe Olson !BIDING IN #HRIST Director of Development: George Gomoll Ellen G. White Managing Editor: Harvey Steck Layout: KHPtech.com 4O ABIDE IN #HRIST THE WILL MUST BE SURRENDERED Our Firm Foundation is published monthly by:
(OPE )NTERNATIONAL 0/ "OX "ORN !GAIN AND ,IVING !NEW +NOXVILLE ), 53! Clarissa Fiedler 0HONE ,EARNING TO WALK WITH 'OD -ONDAYn4HURSDAY AMnPM &RIDAY AMnPM &AX %MAIL OFlCE HOPEINTORG *USTIlED BY &AITH 7EB HTTPWWWHOPEINTORG Ellen G. White 3UBSCRIPTION )NFORMATION 7HAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE JUSTIFIED 7HAT KIND OF We strive to keep our subscription prices as low FAITH DOES IT TAKE as possible. We want this material to be available to all. If your finances cannot meet the requested amount, please send whatever you can. Those desiring to assist in providing subscriptions for individuals with limited funds should send a gi 4YPES AND 3HADOWS marked “Subscription Assistance” to the address Ralph Larson above. Your donation is tax deductible. (OW MANY KINDS OF LAWS DID 'OD GIVE -OSES 5NITED 3TATES 53 PER YEAR ONE TWO THREE #ANADA AND -EXICO 53 PER YEAR &OREIGN 3URFACE -AIL 53 PER YEAR SHIPPED QUARTERLY &OREIGN !IR -AIL 53 PER YEAR 4HE ,AW OF 'OD ,ARGE 0RINT %DITION 53 PER YEAR !UDIO %DITION 53 PER YEAR Ellen G. White &OREIGN !UDIO AND ,ARGE 0RINT %DITIONS 4HE STATUTES AND JUDGMENTS GIVEN TO ANCIENT 0LEASE INQUIRE REGARDING POSTAGE )SRAEL ARE STILL RELEVANT TO (IS PEOPLE TODAY 3HIPPING )NFORMATION &OR ALL PRODUCTS ADVERTISED IN THIS PUBLICATION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED %DITORIAL s !DD SHIPPING PLUS 53 HANDLING PAGE s &OR DESTINATIONS OUTSIDE THE 53! ADD SHIPPING PLUS 53 HANDLING ,ETTERS TO THE %DITOR s )F ACTUAL SHIPPING CHARGES ARE GREATER YOU WILL PAGE BE BILLED THE DIFFERENCE 3ALES TAX )LLINOIS RESIDENTS PLEASE ADD 7ASHINGTON STATE RESIDENTS PLEASE ADD !LL MONEY RECEIVED MUST BE IN 53 FUNDS DRAWN Hope International does not solicit tithes, however we are a tithe-worthy ON 53 BANKS organization and accept tithes. We use the tithe only for the gospel ministry. Donations designated “Gospel Ministry” will be considered tithe. #OPYRIGHT ¹ (OPE )NTERNATIONAL #ONTENT CREDITED IN THIS PUBLICATION IS THE PROPERTY OF ITS RESPECTIVE OWNERS AND IS LICENSED OR USED WITH PERMISSION /THER ITEMS ARE THE PROPERTY OF (OPE )NTERNATIONAL VoVolumelume#OVER 0HOTO ELEMENTS ¹ 0HOTO$ISC 19, NumberNumber 1 3 Th e Pa r a b l e of the Tw o S o n s Joe Crews
he Pharisees came to Jesus, as said likewise. And he answered redemption, and at the end of the they had many times before, and said, I go, sir: and went not. day they make a final decision for Ta empting to entrap Him in Whether of them twain did the will obedience or disobedience upon the presence of the people. They of his father? They say unto him, which they are judged. asked Him upon whose author- The first. Jesus saith unto them, At the close of the day, the judg- ity He was come, hoping that He Verily I say unto you, That the ment rendered was based not upon would proclaim Himself sent of publicans and the harlots go into what the sons said, but upon what God so that they could denounce the kingdom of God before you. they did. In fact, we would not Him guilty of blasphemy. But they For John came unto you in the way learn much from their words, for found themselves in a dilemma of righteousness, and ye believed they both said something that was when Jesus turned to questioning him not: but the publicans and the not true. The first son said, “I will them: harlots believed him: and ye, when not go,” and later went. The second “The baptism of John, whence ye had seen it, repented not a er- son said, “I will go,” and in the end was it? from heaven, or of men? ward, that ye might believe him.” did not. And they reasoned with them- Ma hew 21:28–32. I do not believe that either of selves, saying, If we shall say, From these young men intended to tell heaven; he will say unto us, Why !N /BEDIENT AND A a lie at the beginning of the day. did ye not then believe him? But $ISOBEDIENT 3ON When the father said, “Go out and if we shall say, Of men; we fear Who do the characters in this work in my vineyard,” I believe the people; for all hold John as a parable represent? As with many the one who said, “I will go,” fully prophet.” Ma hew 21:25–26. of Jesus’ parables, the father repre- intended to obey. I can imagine Caught in the trap they had laid sents God, our Heavenly Father. He many things that happened to him for Jesus, the Pharisees decided it instructs His children in what He that kept him from carrying out would be best to say nothing, so would have them do. The son who his word. He had other work to do they told Jesus, “We cannot tell.” immediately said “I go,” represents first, friends stopped by or there Jesus said, “Neither tell I you by the professed people of God. He was a meeting to a end. He was what authority I do these things.” claimed to obey and follow the occupied with a lot of good things. Verse 27. Then He proceeded to commands of God. The son who Having no intention of disobeying give the parable of the two sons: said “I will not go,” represents his father, he found himself at the “But what think ye? A certain those who are on the outside—who end of the day having neglected to man had two sons; and he came have no interest in and make no obey his father’s command. to the first, and said, Son, go profession of following Christ. The Bible is full of examples of work today in my vineyard. He In this parable, Jesus condenses people who made sincere profes- answered and said, I will not: but the lives of these two groups of sions that they would follow God, a erward he repented, and went. people into one day. In this day but did not carry through. Think of And he came to the second, and they receive an opportunity for Lot and his wife, or of Uzzah who 0HOTO %LEMENTS ¹ 0HOTO$ISC
4 Our Firm Foundation walked beside the ark or of Saul wardly good people. They will the beloved disciple, who wrote as he went up to fight against the feel secure and satisfied, just as more than any other Bible author Amalekites. did the Jews in Jesus’ day. I see about love, defines it in these In the story of Saul recorded this principle in evangelism all the words, “For this is the love of God, in 1 Samuel 15, Saul professed to time. When I present the Sabbath that we keep his commandments.” obey God. At the command of God message, I o en see people who 1 John 5:3. he led the people to fight against are convinced and convicted of the It is impossible to truly love their enemies. Before the ba le, truth. They will tell me, “You know, Christ and not keep His com- God explicitly commanded that no I am really thinking about this.” But mandments, but you can keep His spoil was to be taken and that all of yet they do not take a stand. Some commandments without loving the wicked Amalekites were to be will get so excited about the truths Him. At least you can keep them killed. they have heard that they will talk outwardly, according to the le er When Saul triumphantly re- to their family, their friends or even of the law. Disobedience is always turned, he led a long procession their pastors about it. But again, proof of disloyalty, but obedience of captives, ca le, sheep and oxen. all too o en, they do not make the is not always proof of loyalty. The Samuel went out to meet the return- decision to follow the truth. Jews, about whom Christ’s parable ing company and Saul very piously Jesus will never welcome was given, kept the le er of the law said, “Blessed be thou of the Lord: I anyone into His kingdom with the in every detail, but they really were have performed the commandment words, “Well thought,” or “Well said, not obeying God. How accurately of the Lord.” Verse 13. thou good and faithful servant.” Ezekiel described their condition in Samuel interrupted him with the He is going to say, “Well done, good Ezekiel 33:30–32, and sadly it is also question, “What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?” Verse 14. Saul’s reply sounded most The Bible is full of examples of people who impressive. He claimed that “the people” had only brought back the made sincere professions that they would follow best of the flocks of the Amalekites to offer as a sacrifice to God. Verse God, but did not carry through. 15. Samuel was not impressed. He told Saul, “Behold, to obey is be er than sacrifice, and to hearken than and faithful servant; . . . enter thou a fi ing description of the church the fat of rams. For rebellion is as into the joy of thy lord.” Ma hew at large today. “Also, thou son of the sin of witchcra , and stubborn- 25:23. Again and again in the man, the children of thy people still ness is as iniquity and idolatry. teaching of Christ we find that true are talking against thee by the walls Because thou hast rejected the word disciples will be doers, not merely and in the doors of the houses, and of the Lord, he hath also rejected those who say wonderful things. speak one to another, every one to thee from being king.” Verses 22– See Ma hew 5:44–48; 7:21–24; his brother, saying, Come, I pray 23. And the Spirit of God walked Revelation 3:17; 22:14. you, and hear what is the word that away from Saul that day. If we truly love God our lives cometh forth from the Lord. And His words had sounded won- will demonstrate it. Love is always they come unto thee as the people derful, just like those of the second tested by actions. I have an idea cometh, and they sit before thee son. They spoke well and they that the son who said, “I am going,” as my people, and they hear thy meant well, but Jesus said, “Not also said to his father over and over words, but they will not do them: every one that saith unto me, Lord, again, “I love you, Dad.” Then and for with their mouth they shew Lord, shall enter into the kingdom now many have a distorted belief much love, but their heart goeth of heaven; but he that doeth the will about the nature of true love. Have a er their covetousness.” of my Father which is in heaven.” you ever seen a bumper sticker This is the weakness of the Ma hew 7:21. (All emphasis sup- that says, “Honk if you love Jesus,” remnant church today. We are far plied unless otherwise noted.) or “Smile if you love Jesus”? That from God’s ideal for His people and is not how Jesus said we should yet what excuse do we have? God $OERS .OT (EARERS /NLY evidence our love. He said, “If you has blessed us with every advan- At the end of time many of those love me, keep my commandments.” tage possible to learn the truth. We who are lost will be religious—out- John 14:15. That is real love. In fact, are just like the Jews in Jesus’ day
Volume 19, Number 1 5 to whom He said, “If the mighty How tragic that only a small choose the easy, popular side. Men works, which have been done in portion of those who have been of talent and pleasing address, who thee, had been done in Sodom, it given such great light will follow it once rejoiced in the truth, employ would have remained until this all the way and allow it to sanctify their powers to deceive and mislead day. But I say unto you, That it shall them! souls. They become the most bi er be more tolerable for the land of enemies of their former brethren. Sodom in the day of judgment, than ,OVE OF THE 7ORLD When Sabbathkeepers are brought for thee.” Ma hew 11:23, 24. If the Why will so many Seventh- before the courts to answer for evidence of our message does not day Adventists be lost? I believe their faith, these apostates are the persuade and fortify us for the last that love of the world will be the most efficient agents of Satan to days, what could? Jesus said to the primary reason. Notice how it is misrepresent and accuse them, and Pharisees that the publicans and the mentioned in each of these familiar by false reports and insinuations to harlots would go into the kingdom statements about the shaking in the stir up the rulers against them.” The of God before them. He would say church. Great Controversy, 608. You may be asking yourself, How could the majority of church members reject the Sabbath and become the most ardent enemies Why will so many Seventh-day Adventists be of the faithful? It will not happen all at once. But step-by-step as they lost? I believe that love of the world will be the yield to the inroads of the world and the flesh—to materialism and primary reason. secularism—they will become blinded so that they are unable to discern the truth when the ultimate test comes. to us, “the homosexuals of San “The time is not far distant when “The work which the church Francisco will go into the kingdom the test will come to every soul. The has failed to do in a time of peace before Seventh-day Adventists if observance of the false sabbath will and prosperity she will have to you do not believe this message.” be urged upon us. The contest will do in a terrible crisis under most be between the commandments discouraging, forbidding circum- 4HE -AJORITY OF 0ROFESSORS of God and the commandments of stances. The warnings that worldly 7ILL "E ,OST men. Those who have yielded step by conformity has silenced or withheld The main lesson in this parable step to worldly demands and conformed must be given under the fiercest is that the majority of those who to worldly customs will then yield opposition from enemies of the profess to be the people of God will to the powers that be, rather than faith. And at that time the super- be lost while many who are living subject themselves to derision, in- ficial, conservative class, whose in sin and denying Christ now will sult, threatened imprisonment, and influence has steadily retarded turn to Him and in the judgment be death. At that time the gold will be the progress of the work, will found standing with Christ. Again separated from the dross. True god- renounce the faith and take their and again we are warned in the liness will be clearly distinguished stand with its avowed enemies, to- inspired writings that the major- from the appearance and tinsel of it. ward whom their sympathies have ity of Seventh-day Adventists will Many a star that we have admired long been tending.” Testimonies, be lost. Prayerfully consider these for its brilliance will then go out in vol. 5, 463. statements: darkness.” Prophets and Kings, 188. “Those who are uniting with “The great proportion of those “As the storm approaches, a the world are receiving the worldly who now appear to be genuine and large class who have professed faith mold and preparing for the mark of true will prove to be base metal.” in the third angel’s message, but the beast.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 216. Testimonies, vol. 5, 136. have not been sanctified through What powerful influence world- “I would say that we are living obedience to the truth, abandon liness can have! Yet it has power to in a most solemn time. In the last their position and join the ranks of draw us only when we lack love vision given me, I was shown the the opposition. By uniting with the for God and no longer delight to do startling fact that but a small por- world and partaking of its spirit, they His will. When we neglect to study tion of those who now profess the have come to view ma ers in nearly His Word and to spend time in truth will be sanctified by it and be the same light; and when the test secret prayer we are easily a racted saved.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 608. is brought, they are prepared to by the snares of the enemy.
6 Our Firm Foundation 4HE $ISOBEDIENT 3ON 4URNS have spent hours studying God’s ment approaches, the big question !ROUND Word with them and answering is, Will we disappoint God again? Now let us turn our a ention to their questions. They are so thrilled The day is coming when God the first son described by Jesus in with the perfect message they have will act. He will use those who are the parable. To his father’s request learned. They have laid aside the ready and willing, and the others he said, “I will not go,” but late ornaments and habits of the world will be le behind. The majority of in the day he changed his mind and come in expecting to find a per- those who said, “we will go,”—the and obeyed the command. Jesus fect church. When they look around professed people of God—will be said that this son represented the and see that despite our beautiful shaken and si ed out. The church harlots and the publicans who had standards and exalted doctrines the will be purified, the la er rain will never made a profession of belief in church members are backslidden be poured out, the loud cry will be God. Through the bold, unreserved and have adopted the practices of given, and multitudes will come in preaching of John the Baptist they the world, they become discour- at the eleventh hour to join God’s were called to repentance. Today aged. Unless people love them and people. there are many in Babylon who have no interest in eternal things, but the day is coming when under the mighty influence of the loud We cannot stand through the terrible test cry the message will again be given with boldness and clarity, and mul- that is just before us unless everything is titudes will turn to the truth and join the ranks of the faithful. surrendered and our lives are laid on the altar The majority of those who will be saved in the end are still in for Him. Babylon today. Why is that true? They ought not to be there now. The la er rain should have fallen. help them, they will go back into Will you choose to take your The loud cry should have been the world. My heart aches, but I stand on God’s side? The door is given. God’s people should have pray and put them in God’s hands. open right now. You can choose been sealed by now and Christ Our leadership fears the world- to surrender your will to Him, should have come. Why are we loving laity too much to take a to accept the power He offers to still in this sin-sick world? We have stand on the Word of God, to strengthen you to overcome all sin institutions, schools and facilities uphold our standards. Only a few in your life. It is too late now to in abundance. The stage of world years ago there was no confusion even think about anything except events is set for the final drama. in our churches about issues like making a total surrender of your Every day we hear about sickness, jewelry, movies, dress, diet, etc. But life and your will to Christ. I appeal suffering and death in momentous we are afraid to stand for truth. to you, start se ing aside time for proportions. Jesus longs to return We have allowed the leaven of the God every day. and put an end to it all, yet His world to draw us from the plain We must spend time in prayer, people are not ready. He is waiting truths of the Word of God. pleading with God to purge, purify for a consecrated people, so that He God is waiting for a purified and sanctify us. We need it. We can send His Spirit without mea- church on which He can pour His must have it. We cannot stand sure and so that multitudes of new Spirit. Jesus could have come long through the terrible test that is just believers can join the ranks of the before this. There have been times in before us unless everything is sur- faithful. God is not bringing these the history of our church when the rendered and our lives are laid on people into the church right now world and political situation was the altar for Him. Will you make because the church is in a backslid- set for the final events to unfold and that commitment? God bless you. den condition. the church was experiencing revival My heart aches as I hold evan- and reformation, but each time The late Joe Crews was the founder of gelistic crusades. Our evangelistic God’s professed people have drawn Amazing Facts, a ministry now located in teams baptize hundreds of people back and fallen into worldliness. California. This article was adapted with every year as we hold reaping And now, once again, everything is permission from a sermon preached at a crusades across the United States. ready. I believe heaven is astir and Hartland camp meeting. You may order a But every time I have a baptism angels are watching with intense in- recording of this and other messages by Joe at the end of a crusade my heart terest and concern at the shaking up Crews from Hartland Publications by call- is so heavy. I know these people; I of events in this world. As this mo- ing 1–800–774–3566.
Volume 19, Number 1 7 (ERESYS )NEVITABLE #ONSEQUENCE
Wallace Boddy
eartsick souls, which As prime examples, consider Then, inevitably, adherents must describes so many believ- two errors that are “new theology” believe that, for the first time in all Hers in our beloved church, heresies: 1) Christ had an unfallen of heaven’s history, Jesus will use observe heresy a er heresy from nature when He came to save us, His power to overrule our wills the old error of Babylon being intro- and 2) the atonement was finished and make us perfect, fit for heaven. duced into our religion by trusted at the cross. Both of these heresies Once again, we have spoiled and leaders and pastors who have, in have several variations, each of gu ed Adventism. For shame. one way or another, infiltrated into which, however, arrive at the same Cheap grace has always been positions of respectability in our dead end. Since we are making a Satan’s most appealing perversion communion. single point, we will follow only of truth. Satan knows that God, who one error path in each example. The sad saga of apostasy that drove out one-third of all the angels First, if Christ took an unfallen Robert Brinsmead, the Australian of heaven for the one sin of rebel- nature, He had a distinct advantage evangelist, has le for us is con- lion, Who perfected and is carrying over us because we inherently pos- structive as we look back at the suc- out His marvelous plan of salva- sess a sinful nature. The heresy insists cess of the evil one in the arena of tion, Whose law, righteousness and that Christ needed a sinless nature in error. Brinsmead wrote this excel- kingdom will at last be vindicated order to overcome which means that lent analysis before he apostatized: throughout the far reaches of His Jesus was not our example, only our “Those who teach that Christ universe, will never, ever permit the substitute. Therefore, we need only to took a superior human nature draw curse of sin to again raise its ugly try to do the best we can and repeat- the logical conclusion that it is im- head. edly confess until Jesus comes. So, for possible for the rest of mankind to So, let’s try a li le search and these “cheap grace” advocates, their perfectly obey the law of Jehovah in study drill. Carefully examine any belief inevitably scu les the Sabbath, this life. Those who accept this new and every heresy that makes up the the Atonement, the Sanctuary, The view of the incarnation logically ugly mass of error in our church Plan of salvation and The Spirit of take the side of Satan in the great that we call Apostasy. Assuming the Prophecy, among others. Of these controversy over the law, claiming obvious steps, one by one, that one people Christ said, “I never knew that God has not made provision would take in accepting the error you: depart from me, ye that work for us to perfectly obey it. until the last, final step is reached iniquity.” Ma hew 7:23. “If God’s people accept this and almost like the bloodless hand If Christ’s Atonement for sin delusion, then there will be no third at Belshazzar’s feast in his rebellion covered, by his death on the cross, angel’s message, no sealing of the against God, the consequence will all of our past, present and future saints, no finishing of the mystery become crystal clear. If believed, each sins, obviously we can live in sin of God, no cleansing of the sanctu- heresy allows you to think that you can until Jesus comes, and sin is not ary, no community of the saints pre- sin until Jesus comes! How Satan and as hateful to God as the Scriptures pared to live without a mediator, his evil angels must exult! and the Spirit of Prophecy say it is. CONTINUED ON PAGE !RTWORK %DDIE (ERNANDEZ
8 Our Firm Foundation !BIDING IN #HRIST
Ellen G. White
hrist says: “I am the true we must ever be searching a er rest unto your souls: for my yoke vine, and my Father is the truth as for hidden treasures, in or- is easy, and my burden is light.” Chusbandman. Every branch der that our apprehensions of truth Ma hew 11:28–30. When we come in me that beareth not fruit he may be quick and comprehensive. to Jesus as humble learners, seek- taketh away: and every branch that We shall not then be pu ing on ing to know the mind of Christ, we beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that the garments of resistance, and be shall have no disagreeable surpris- it may bring forth more fruit. . . . prepared to be prejudiced against es. That which we received from Abide in me, and I in you. As the the very things which we need Him will be to us light, and life, branch cannot bear fruit of itself, in our time. Christ is continually and salvation. We shall walk in the except it abide in the vine; no more unfolding old truths in a new light. light of the Sun of Righteousness, can ye, except ye abide in me. I am The only way in which we will be advancing from light to a greater the vine, ye are the branches. He prepared to have a more perfect ap- light, and at every step our hearts that abideth in me, and I in him, prehension of truth, is by keeping will well up with gratitude for the the same bringeth forth much fruit: the heart tender and subdued by precious revelations of His love. We for without me ye can do nothing.” the Spirit of Christ. We cannot af- shall not walk in darkness, we shall John 15:1–5. ford to cultivate hardness of heart; behold Him who is our only help, It is not enough that we believe for if we are students in the school Him who only has the words of a portion of truth, we must grasp of Christ, we shall be continually eternal life. truth a er truth, and by both pre- growing in knowledge. We are never to feel that there cept and example we must teach Jesus gives the invitation: is no more truth to be unfolded to the truth as it is in Jesus. When “Come unto me, all ye that labour us. The history of the past few years sorrow comes, we may see the love and are heavy laden, and I will give has taught us that the words which of Christ in it all, and the fullness you rest. Take my yoke upon you, Jesus spoke to His disciples are ap- of divine love may keep the soul in and learn of me; for I am meek and propriate to us. He said: “I have yet perfect peace. If we abide in Christ lowly in heart: and ye shall find many things to say unto you; but 0HOTO ¹0HOTO$ISC
Volume 19, Number 1 9 ye cannot bear them now.” John 16: Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves When the power of Satan over souls 12. But I trust that we shall not have your servants for Jesus’ sake. For is broken, we see men binding their the experience of those disciples God, who commanded the light to will to the cross, and crucifying the who, when new truth was revealed shine out of darkness, hath shined flesh with the affections and lusts. to them, walked no more with Him, in our hearts, to give the light of It is indeed a crucifixion of self; for but “because of the word” they the knowledge of the glory of the will is surrendered to Christ. were offended. Ma hew 13:21. Will God in the face of Jesus Christ.” The will of man is none too strong the experience of these disciples 2 Corinthians 4:1–6. when it is sanctified and put on the be repeated that called forth from Could our eyes be opened, side of Christ. The will is a power, Christ these words: “There are and could each see the conflict of and as many triumphs are to be some of you that believe not. For angelic agencies with the satanic won in spiritual warfare, and many Jesus knew from the beginning who confederacy, who are combined points of progress to be made in the they were that believed not, and with evil human agencies, what spiritual journey, and many lessons who should betray him. . . . From astonishment would come upon the to be learned from Christ, the great that time many of his disciples soul. The holy angels are working Teacher, it is necessary that the will went back, and walked no more with terrible intensity for the salva- should be sanctified. In surrender- with him. Then said Jesus unto the tion of men, because the destroyer ing the will, the root of the ma er twelve, Will ye also go away? Then of souls is seeking to make of no is reached. When the will is surren- Simon Peter answered him, Lord, effect the salvation which has been dered, the streams that flow from to whom shall we go? thou hast the purchased at infinite cost. Could the fountain will not be bi er, but will be as pure as crystal. The flow- ers and fruit of Christian life will bloom and ripen to perfection. When the will is surrendered, the streams Jesus Christ is our example in all things. He began life, passed that flow from the fountain will not be bi er, through its experiences, and ended its record, with a sanctified human but will be as pure as crystal. The flowers and will. He was tempted in all points like as we are, and yet because fruit of Christian life will bloom and ripen to He kept His will surrendered and sanctified, He never bent in the perfection. slightest degree toward the doing of evil, or toward manifesting rebellion against God. Have men and women words of eternal life. And we be- our spiritual vision be opened, we who profess to be followers of lieve and are sure that thou art that should see that which would never Christ, been simply gratifying their Christ, the Son of the living God.” be effaced from the memory as long own tastes, been confirming them- John 6:64–69. as life should last. We should see selves in selfishness, in obstinacy, “Therefore seeing we have souls bowed down under oppres- simply living to gratify their carnal this ministry, as we have received sion, loaded with grief and pressed propensities? Those who persist mercy, we faint not; but have down as a cart beneath the sheaves, in living in this way will at some renounced the hidden things of and ready to die in discourage- time in their experience become dishonesty, not walking in cra i- ment. We should see angels flying offended by the truth presented ness, nor handling the word of God swi ly to aid the tempted ones who from the word of God. They can- deceitfully; but, by manifestation of stand as on the brink of a precipice. not be one with Christ or abide in the truth, commending ourselves to These tempted souls are unable to Him, because they refuse the terms every man’s conscience in the sight help themselves, and avoid the ruin upon which salvation is provided. of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is which threatens them; but the an- They do not wear Christ’s yoke or hid to them that are lost: in whom gels of God are forcing back the evil li Christ’s burden; for they will not the god of this world hath blinded angels, and guiding the souls away learn of Him meekness and lowli- the minds of them which believe from the dangerous places, to plant ness of heart. Those who have a not, lest the light of the glorious their feet on a sure foundation. We sanctified will, that is in unison with gospel of Christ, who is the image should see ba les going on between the will of Christ, will day by day of God, should shine unto them. the two armies, as real as those have their wills bound to the will For we preach not ourselves; but fought by opposing forces on earth. of Christ, which will act in blessing
10 Our Firm Foundation others, and react upon themselves CONTINUED FROM PAGE ness.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible with divine power. Many cultivate no first-fruits of the harvest and no Commentary, vol. 7, 907. those things which war against the people ready for translation. Ellen soul; for their desires and their will G. White saw that God had three Note: are set against God, and employed steps down from the platform. 1 1 In Early Writings, 258–259, we read, “I in the service of Satan. The first step is the teaching that saw a company who stood well guarded and firm, giving no countenance to those Let us no longer gratify the en- Christ took the human nature as who would unse le the established faith emy by complaining of the strength it was before the fall. This leads to of the body. God looked upon them with of our evil will; for in so doing we the second step to the teaching that approbation. I was shown three steps—the are feeding and encouraging our man cannot find grace to perfectly first, second, and third angels’ messages. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Woe to him wills against God, and pleasing obey the law of God in this life. who shall move a block or stir a pin of the evil one. Let us remember that This will inevitably lead to the third these messages. The true understanding of we are children of God, pledged to step—giving up the Sabbath.” these messages is of vital importance. The cherish a holy will which cometh to Incredibly, ten years later, destiny of souls hangs upon the manner in which they are received.’ I was again us from God. “As many as received Brother Brinsmead himself took brought down through these messages, him, to them gave he power to be- all three steps downward, one by and saw how dearly the people of God had come the sons of God, even to them one, and is now completely out of purchased their experience. It had been that believe on his name: which the Remnant Church. Such a heart obtained through much suffering and se- vere conflict. God had led them along step were born, not of blood, nor of the sickening inevitability! by step, until He had placed them upon a will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12–13. When we resist the devil, he will flee from us, and we will rise above “As we near the end of time, falsehood will be the human weakness in a way that will be a mystery even to ourselves. so mingled with truth, that only those who The judgment day is not that which will decide our eternal interests; have the guidance of the Holy Spirit will be but it is the yielding to influences that either subject our character to able to distinguish truth from error.” the moulding of Christ, or oppose our will to the will of God. The one absorbing aim of the life of Christ Dear friends, how we need to solid, immovable platform. I saw individu- was to do the will of His heavenly pray for power and wisdom for our als approach the platform and examine the Father. He did not become offended beloved church and all of God’s foundation. Some with rejoicing immedi- with God; for He lived not to please people everywhere! ately stepped upon it. Others commenced to find fault with the foundation. They Himself. The human will of Christ “As we near the end of time, wished improvements made, and then the would not have led Him to the falsehood will be so mingled with platform would be more perfect, and the wilderness of temptation, to fast, truth, that only those who have the people much happier. Some stepped off and to be tempted of the devil. It guidance of the Holy Spirit will be the platform to examine it and declared it to be laid wrong. But I saw that nearly all would not have led Him to en- able to distinguish truth from error. stood firm upon the platform and exhorted dure humiliation, scorn, reproach, We need to make every effort to those who had stepped off to cease their suffering, and death. His human keep the way of the Lord. We must complaints; for God was the Master nature shrank from all these things in no case turn from His guidance Builder, and they were fighting against Him. They recounted the wonderful work as decidedly as ours shrinks from to put our trust in man. The Lord’s of God, which had led them to the firm them. He endured the contradiction angels are appointed to keep strict platform, and in union raised their eyes of sinners against Himself. The con- watch over those who put their faith to heaven and with a loud voice glorified trast between the life and character in the Lord, and those angels are to God. This affected some of those who had complained and le the platform, and they of Christ and our life and character be our special help in time of need. with humble look again stepped upon it.” is painful to contemplate. What did Every day we are to come to the As the reader can see, Brinsmead differs Christ live to do? It was the will of Lord with full assurance of faith, with Sister White’s identification of the His heavenly Father. Christ le us and to look to Him for wisdom. three steps as the three angels’ messages. However, as we have stated, the steps an example, that we should follow . . . Those who are guided by the he listed turned out to describe his own in His steps. Are we doing it? Word of the Lord will discern with downward path. certainty between falsehood and Signs of the Times, October 29, 1894. truth, between sin and righteous-
Volume 19, Number 1 11 "ORN !GAIN AND ,IVING !NEW
Clarissa Fiedler
ow can I be like Christ? good resolutions become as water, leaves and fruits will keep appear- Jesus says in Ma hew 5:48, and you don’t understand why? ing. To try to change our conduct H“Be ye therefore perfect, Ellen White ways, “Man cannot without having our hearts convert- even as your Father which is in transform himself by the exercise ed and changed is like the leopard heaven is perfect,” and in 1 John of his will. He possesses no power trying to change his spots, or the 3:9, that “Whosoever is born of God by which this change can be ef- Ethiopian his skin. See Jeremiah doth not commit sin.” I have read fected. . . . There are many who try 13:23. that “When the character of Christ is to reform by correcting this or that What does “being converted” perfectly reproduced in His people, bad habit, and they hope in this mean? Most people think they are then He will come to claim them as way to become Christians, but they converted when they decide to ac- His own” (Christ’s Object Lessons, are beginning in the wrong place. cept Jesus as their Saviour, and we 69), for nothing impure or unholy Our first work is with the heart. A certainly must make this decision. will be permi ed to enter heaven. profession of faith and the posses- But there is more to having a con- But I still sin, and I don’t perfectly sion of truth in the soul are two dif- verted heart, a new heart: “When reflect the character of Christ by ferent things. The mere knowledge Jesus speaks of the new heart, He any means. I’ve tried and still try of truth is not enough. We may means the mind, the life, the whole to do what is right, but I o en fall possess this, but the tenor of our being. To have a change of heart and sometimes wonder if I will ever thoughts may not be changed. The is to withdraw the affections from be ready for Jesus to come. Have heart must be converted and sancti- the world, and fasten them upon you ever felt this way? Have you fied.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 96–97. Christ. To have a new heart is to determined to please God and obey To begin to follow Jesus by have a new mind, new purposes, His word—and failed? resolved to trying to correct our bad habits is new motives. What is the sign of a be patient with your family—and not the right way to start. Picking new heart?—A changed life. There failed? decided once again that you off the evil leaves or fruits does is a daily, hourly dying to selfish- will not snack between meals—and not change the tree or its roots. ness and pride.” Messages to Young failed? Have circumstances seemed The work must begin in the heart; People, 72. to foul up your best-laid plans to it must be converted—completely How can we have this change have a successful day and all your changed and sanctified—or those performed in us—to have our affec- 0HOTO ¹ 0HOTO$ISC
12 Our Firm Foundation tions centered on Christ, rather than will He appear to you. He will “God makes no compromise on the things of the world, and to become as One near you, in close with sin. A genuine conversion have new motives and purposes in companionship with you; your af- changes hereditary and cultivated our lives? “Who can bring a clean fections will go out a er Him. . . . tendencies to wrong. . . . Christ’s thing out of an unclean? not one.” Job To think of Jesus, to talk of Him, plan is the only safe one. He de- 14:4. “The heart is deceitful above all will enable you to become like Him clares, ‘Behold, I make all things things, and desperately wicked: who in Spirit and character.” Review and new.’ ‘If any man be in Christ, he is can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9. Our Herald, August 26, 1890. a new creature.’ Christ gives man hearts’ desires are naturally worldly How precious to have Jesus as no encouragement to think that He and downward. We cannot change One near you, in close companion- will accept a patchwork character, them and make them clean. How ship, to have your heart’s affections made up mostly of self, with a li le then can they be changed? going out a er Him, rather than to of Christ. This is the condition of “ ‘Faith cometh by hearing, the fleeting pleasures or cares of the Laodicean church. At first there and hearing by the word of God.’ this world! It is heart-work, heart- seems to be some of self and some Romans 10:17. The Scriptures are the change, that we must have, and of Christ. But soon it is all of self great agency in the transformation it comes by beholding Jesus and and none of Christ. The root of self- of character. Christ prayed, ‘Sanctify yielding to the love we see dis- ishness is revealed.” The Seventh-day them through thy truth: thy word played in Him. Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 6, is truth.’ John 17:17. If studied and “The true believer chooses 1101. obeyed, the Word of God works in Christ as first and last and best in We must realize and say with the heart, subduing every unholy everything. But this union costs the apostle Paul, “I know that in me a ribute. The Holy Spirit comes to convict of sin, and the faith that springs up in the heart works by love to Christ, conforming us in body, soul, and spirit to His own im- It is heart-work, heart-change, that we must age. Then God can use us to do His will.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 100. have, and it comes by beholding Jesus and We must spend time with the Scriptures, not just read a text or the yielding to the love we see displayed in Him. Morning Watch, but we must take time, quality time. See Testimonies, vol. 5, 161–162. The Scriptures are the power of God unto salvation us something. It is a union of u er (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no if we come to their study with a dependence, to be entered into by good thing.” Romans 7:18. humble spirit, desiring to be led a proud being. All who form this “Conversion is a work that to and by the Lord. “As they feed union must feel their need of the most do not appreciate. It is not upon His Word, they find that it is atoning blood of Christ. They must a small ma er to transform an spirit and life. The Word destroys have a change of heart. They must earthly, sin-loving mind and bring the natural, earthly nature, and submit their own will to the will of it to understand the unspeakable imparts a new life in Christ Jesus.” God. There will be a struggle with love of Christ, the charms of His The Desire of Ages, 391. Do you want outward and internal obstacles. grace, and the excellency of God, your natural, earthly nature to die? There must be a painful work of so that the soul shall be imbued Feed upon the Word of God. detachment, as well as a work of at- with divine love and captivated “The leaven of truth works se- tachment. Pride, selfishness, vanity, with the heavenly mysteries. When cretly, silently, steadily, to transform worldliness—sin in all its forms— he understands these things, his the soul. The natural inclinations must be overcome if we would former life appears disgusting and are so ened and subdued. New enter into a union with Christ. The hateful. He hates sin, and, breaking thoughts, new feelings, new mo- reason why many find the Christian his heart before God, he embraces tives, are implanted. A new stan- life so deplorably hard, why they Christ as the life and joy of the soul. dard of character is set up—the life are so fickle, so variable, is that they He renounces his former pleasures. of Christ.” Christ’s Object Lessons, try to a ach themselves to Christ He has a new mind, new affections, 98. without first detaching them- new interest, new will; his sorrows, “The more you study the char- selves from these cherished idols.” and desires, and love are all new. acter of Christ, the more a ractive Testimonies, vol. 5, 231. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the
Volume 19, Number 1 13 eye, and the pride of life, which put away, evil deeds are renounced; vancement in understanding self.” have heretofore been preferred love, humility, and peace take the Ibid., 332–333. before Christ, are now turned from, place of anger, envy, and strife. Joy “As ye have therefore received and Christ is the charm of his life, takes the place of sadness, and the Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in the crown of his rejoicing. . . . countenance reflects the light of Him.” Colossians 2:6. How did we “The works of holiness, which heaven. No one sees the hand that receive Christ? By spending time appeared wearisome, are now his li s the burden, or beholds the light in His Word so that our heart was delight.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 294–295. descend from the courts above. The drawn to Him, leading us to choose We must spend time with Jesus blessing comes when by faith the to have His controlling power in so that we can begin to realize the soul surrenders itself to God. Then our life, rather than Satan’s. In this terribleness of sin and the un- that power which no human eye same way we are to walk in Him, or speakable love of Christ in giving can see creates a new being in the abide in Him. so much to make our redemption image of God.” The Desire of Ages, Some may stumble over 1 John possible. He has given all that it 173. 3:9, “Whosoever is born of God is possible to give to try to bring “A er the union with Christ doth not commit sin; for his seed us back to allegiance to Him. He has been formed, it can be pre- remaineth in him: and he cannot says to us, ‘Yield yourself up to served only by earnest prayer and sin, because he is born of God.” Me; give Me that will; take it from untiring effort. We must resist, We may think that once we are the control of Satan, and I will take we must deny, we must conquer born again we cannot sin. But we possession of it; then I can work in self. Through the grace of Christ, forget the message of 1 John 5:18, that fills in the rest of the picture: “We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is Jesus would not have exhorted us throughout bego en of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him John 15 to abide in Him, if there were no not.” We must “keep ourselves” daily in the love and truth of God, danger of our ceasing to abide in Him a er we so that the evil one cannot touch or contaminate our souls. Jesus would have once chosen Him. not have exhorted us throughout John 15 to abide in Him, if there were no danger of our ceasing to you to will and to do of My good by courage, by faith, by watchful- abide in Him a er we have once pleasure.’ When He gives you the ness, we may gain the victory.” chosen Him. “Ministers and people, mind of Christ, your will becomes Testimonies, vol. 5, 231. if saved at all, must be saved day by as His will, and your character is “We must search the Scriptures day, hour by hour.” Fundamentals of transformed to be like Christ’s char- with humble hearts, trembling at Christian Education, 240. acter.” Ibid., vol. 5, 515. the Word of the Lord, if we would “Never can we safely put con- “To whom ye yield yourselves not be in any way deceived in fidence in self or feel, this side of servants to obey, his servants ye are regard to our true character. There heaven, that we are secure against to whom ye obey; whether of sin must be persevering effort to temptation. Those who accept the unto death, or of obedience unto overcome selfishness and self-con- Saviour, however sincere their righteousness.” Romans 6:16. fidence. Self-examination must be conversion, should never be taught When we yield ourselves to thorough, that there be no danger to say or to feel that they are saved. God, choosing to have Christ reign of self-deception. . . . Daily examine This is misleading. Everyone over us and be first and last and the foundation of your hope, and should be taught to cherish hope best in everything, God performs a see whether you are indeed in the and faith; but even when we give wonderful miracle. He grants our love of Christ. . . . Study the Pa ern; ourselves to Christ and know that heart’s desire and takes possession look to Jesus, and be like Him. Your He accepts us, we are not beyond of our will and renews our mind to peace of mind, your hope of eternal the reach of temptation. . . . Only he be in harmony with His. In this way salvation, depend on faithfulness in who endures the trial will receive He transforms our life. this work. As Christians we are less the crown of life.” Christ’s Object “When the Spirit of God takes thorough in self-examination than Lessons, 155. possession of the heart, it trans- in anything else; it is no wonder, “Satan will constantly present forms the life. Sinful thoughts are then, that we make such slow ad- allurements to induce us to break
14 Our Firm Foundation this tie—to choose to separate our- hold upon us.” Thoughts From the our privilege to know Him, our life selves from Christ. Here is where Mount of Blessing, 61. “Everything will be a life of continual obedience. we need to watch, to strive, to pray, depends on the right action of the Through an appreciation of the that nothing may entice us to choose will. The power of choice God has character of Christ, through com- another master; for we are always given to men; it is theirs to exercise. munion with God, sin will become free to do this.” Steps to Christ, 72; You cannot change your heart, you hateful to us.” Ibid., 668. see The Seventh-day Adventist Bible cannot of yourself give to God its Praise God for His promises! Commentary, vol. 6, 1114–1115. affections; but you can choose to When He says, “A new heart also “None are living Christians un- serve Him. You can give Him your will I give you, and a new spirit less they have a daily experience in will; He will then work in you to will I put within you: . . . and I will the things of God and daily practice will and to do according to His put my spirit within you, and cause self-denial, cheerfully bearing the good pleasure.” Steps to Christ, 47. you to walk in my statues, . . . and cross and following Christ. Every We can choose again, at every ye shall be my people, and I will living Christian will advance daily crossroads, at every test brought be your God” (Ezekiel 36:26–28), in the divine life. As he advances to us, to serve God. Then He will He means it, and He means it for toward perfection, he experiences a work in us to enable us to fulfill you as well as for me. He says that conversion to God every day; and our heart’s desire, and to continue “his divine power hath given unto this conversion is not completed to walk with Him in obedience. “In us all things that pertain unto life until he a ains to perfection of the work of heart-keeping we must and godliness, through the knowl- Christian character, a full prepara- tion for the finishing touch of im- mortality.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 505. How is it that we can have this daily experience with God, practice “When we know God as it is our privilege to self-denial and bear the cross? In The Ministry of Healing, 452–453, know Him, our life will be a life of continual Ellen White gives the answer to these questions in the life of Paul: obedience.” “The life of the apostle Paul was a constant conflict with self. He said, ‘I die daily.’ 1 Corinthians 15:31. His will and his desires every be instant in prayer, unwearied in edge of him that hath called us to day conflicted with duty and the petitioning the throne of grace for glory and virtue,” and that by these will of God. Instead of follow- assistance.” Sons and Daughters of “exceeding great and precious ing inclination, he did God’s will, God, 99. promises” we “might be partak- however crucifying to his nature. “The means by which we can ers of the divine nature, having . . . It is by unceasing endeavor that overcome the wicked one is that by escaped the corruption that is in the we maintain the victory over the which Christ overcame—the power world.” 2 Peter 1:3–4. Let us li up temptations of Satan. Christian in- of the Word. God does not control our heads and follow on to know tegrity must be sought with resist- our minds without our consent; the Lord, trusting that “he which less energy, and maintained with a but if we desire to know and to do hath begun a good work in you will resolute fixedness of purpose.” His will, His promises are ours. . . . perform it until the day of Jesus When our desires conflict with Through faith in these promises, Christ.” Philippians 1:6. For He is the call of duty and with the will of every man may be delivered from “able to keep you from falling, and God, what should we do? We are the snares of error and the control to present you faultless before the told that duty is the voice of God. of sin.” The Desire of Ages, 258. presence of his glory with exceed- What then should we do when “If we consent, He will so ing joy.” Jude 24. Thanks be to God! our desires conflict with God’s identify Himself with our thoughts desires? First of all, remember and aims, so blend our hearts and that “to whom ye yield yourselves minds into conformity to His will, This article was originally pub- servants to obey, his servants ye that when obeying Him we shall be lished in the January 1990 issue of are.” Romans 6:15. Whom have but carrying out our own impulses. Our Firm Foundation. At that time we chosen to serve? Will we turn The will, refined and sanctified, will Clarissa Fiedler was serving Hope away from that choice now? “It is find its highest delight in doing His International as the editorial secre- through the will that sin retains its service. When we know God as it is tary.
Volume 19, Number 1 15 the first steps in the work of salvation. Repentance is thought to be a work the *USTIlED BY sinner must do for himself in order that he may come to Christ. They think that the sinner must procure for himself a fitness in order to obtain the blessing of &AITH God’s grace. But while it is true that repentance must precede forgiveness, for it is only the broken and contrite heart that is acceptable to God, yet the sinner cannot bring himself to repentance, or prepare himself to come to Christ. Except the sinner Ellen G. White repent, he cannot be forgiven; but the question to be decided is as to whether repentance is hen God pardons the but at the same time they hold the work of the sinner or the sinner, remits the punish- themselves away from Him, gi of Christ. Must the sinner Wment he deserves, and and fail to repent of their wait until he is filled with treats him as though he had not sins, fail to accept of Jesus as remorse for his sin before he sinned, He receives him into divine their personal Saviour. Their can come to Christ? The very favor, and justifies him through the faith is simply the assent of first step to Christ is taken merits of Christ’s righteousness. the mind and judgment to through the drawing of the The sinner can be justified only the truth; but the truth is not Spirit of God; as man responds through faith in the atonement brought into the heart, that it to this drawing, he advances made through God’s dear Son, who might sanctify the soul and toward Christ in order that he became a sacrifice for the sins of the transform the character. “For may repent. guilty world. No one can be justi- whom he did foreknow, he The sinner is represented as fied by any works of his own. He also did predestinate to be a lost sheep, and a lost sheep can be delivered from the guilt of conformed to the image of never returns to the fold unless sin, from the condemnation of the his Son, that he might be he is sought a er and brought law, from the penalty of transgres- the firstborn among many back to the fold by the shepherd. sion, only by virtue of the suffering, brethren. Moreover whom No man of himself can repent, death, and resurrection of Christ. he did predestinate, them and make himself worthy of Faith is the only condition upon he also called: and whom he the blessing of justification. The which justification can be obtained, called, them he also justi- Lord Jesus is constantly seeking and faith includes not only belief fied: and whom he justified, to impress the sinner’s mind and but trust. them he also glorified.” a ract him to behold Himself, the Many have a nominal faith in Romans 8:29–30. Calling Lamb of God, which taketh away Christ, but they know nothing of and justification are not the sins of the world. We can- that vital dependence upon Him one and the same thing. not take a step toward spiritual which appropriates the merits Calling is the drawing of life save as Jesus draws and of a crucified and risen Saviour. the sinner to Christ, and strengthens the soul, and Of this nominal faith James says: it is a work wrought by leads us to experience that “Thou believest that there is one the Holy Spirit upon repentance which needeth God; thou doest well: the devils the heart, convicting not to be repented of. also believe, and tremble. But wilt of sin, and inviting When before the high thou know, O vain man, that faith to repentance. priests and Sadducees, Peter without works is dead?” James Many are clearly presented the fact 2:19–20. Many concede that Jesus confused as to that repentance is the gi of Christ is the Saviour of the world, what constitutes God. Speaking of Christ, he 0HOTO ¹ $IGITAL 6ISION
16 Our Firm Foundation said, “Him hath God exalted with and to become assimilated to the with the heart unto righteousness, his right hand to be a Prince and a divine character. and with the mouth make confes- Saviour, for to give repentance to “For this commandment which sion unto salvation. Those who are Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” Acts I command thee this day, it is not justified by faith will make confes- 5:31. Repentance is no less the gi hidden from thee, neither is it far sion of Christ. “He that heareth of God than are pardon and justifi- off. It is not in heaven, that thou my word, and believeth on him cation, and it cannot be experienced shouldest say, Who shall go up that sent me, hath everlasting life, except as it is given to the soul by for us to heaven, and bring it unto and shall not come into condemna- Christ. If we are drawn to Christ, us, that we may hear it, and do it? tion; but is passed from death unto it is through His power and vir- Neither is it beyond the sea, that life.” John 5:24. The great work that tue. The grace of contrition comes thou shouldest say, Who shall go is wrought for the sinner who is through Him, and from Him comes over the sea for us, and bring it spo ed and stained by evil is the justification. unto us, that we may hear it, and work of justification. By Him who do it? But the word is very nigh speaketh truth he is declared right- 4HE -EANING OF &AITH unto thee, in thy mouth, and in eous. The Lord imputes unto the Paul writes: “But the righteous- thy heart, that thou mayest do it.” believer the righteousness of Christ ness which is of faith speaketh on Deuteronomy 30:11–14. and pronounces him righteous this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ Christ made satisfaction for the guilt of the again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even whole world, and all who will come to God in in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we faith, will receive the righteousness of Christ preach; that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou “And the Lord thy God will cir- before the universe. He transfers his shalt be saved. For with the heart cumcise thine heart, and the heart sins to Jesus, the sinner’s represen- man believeth unto righteousness; of thy seed, to love the Lord thy tative, substitute, and surety. Upon and with the mouth confession God with all thine heart, and with Christ He lays the iniquity of every is made unto salvation.” Romans all thy soul, that thou mayest live.” soul that believeth. “He hath made 10:6–10. Verse 6. him to be sin for us, who knew The faith that is unto salvation is It is God that circumcises the no sin; that we might be made not a casual faith, it is not the mere heart. The whole work is the Lord’s the righteousness of God in him.” consent of the intellect, it is belief from the beginning to the end. The 2 Corinthians 5:21. rooted in the heart, that embraces perishing sinner may say: “I am a Christ made satisfaction for the Christ as a personal Saviour, as- lost sinner; but Christ came to seek guilt of the whole world, and all sured that He can save unto the ut- and to save that which was lost. He who will come to God in faith, will termost all that come unto God by says, ‘I came not to call the right- receive the righteousness of Christ, Him. To believe that He will save eous, but sinners to repentance.’ “who his own self bare our sins in others, but will not save you is not Mark 2:17. I am a sinner, and He his own body on the tree, that we, genuine faith; but when the soul died upon Calvary’s cross to save being dead to sins, should live unto lays hold upon Christ as the only me. I need not remain a moment righteousness: by whose stripes ye hope of salvation, then genuine longer unsaved. He died and rose were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24. Our sin faith is manifested. This faith leads again for my justification, and He has been expiated, put away, cast its possessor to place all the affec- will save me now. I accept the for- into the depths of the sea. Through tions of the soul upon Christ; his giveness He has promised.” repentance and faith we are rid of understanding is under the control sin, and look unto the Lord our of the Holy Spirit, and his character )MPUTED 2IGHTEOUSNESS righteousness. Jesus suffered, the is molded a er the divine likeness. Christ is a risen Saviour; for, just for the unjust. His faith is not a dead faith, but a though He was dead, He has risen Although as sinners we are faith that works by love, and leads again, and ever liveth to make in- under the condemnation of the him to behold the beauty of Christ, tercession for us. We are to believe law, yet Christ by His obedience
Volume 19, Number 1 17 rendered to the law, claims for the less than the atonement of Christ. into this grace wherein we stand, repentant soul the merit of His own Assured of this the sinner must put and rejoice in hope of the glory of righteousness. In order to obtain the forth an effort in harmony with God.” Romans 5:1–2. righteousness of Christ, it is neces- the work done for him, and with “Being justified freely by his sary for the sinner to know what unwearied entreaty he must sup- grace through the redemption that repentance is which works a plicate the throne of grace, that the that is in Christ Jesus: whom God radical change of mind and spirit renovating power of God may come hath set forth to be a propitia- and action. The work of transforma- into his soul. Christ pardons none tion through faith in his blood, to tion must begin in the heart, and but the penitent, but whom He par- declare his righteousness for the manifest its power through every dons He first makes penitent. The remission of sins that are past, faculty of the being; but man is provision made is complete, and through the forbearance of God; to not capable of originating such a the eternal righteousness of Christ declare, I say, at this time his right- repentance as this, and can experi- is placed to the account of every eousness: that he might be just, and ence it alone through Christ, who believing soul. The costly, spotless the justifier of him which believeth ascended up on high, led captivity robe, woven in the loom of heaven, in Jesus.” Romans 3:24–26. “For by captive, and gave gi s unto men. has been provided for the repent- grace are ye saved through faith; Who is desirous of becoming ing, believing sinner, and he may and that not of yourselves: it is the truly repentant? What must he say: “I will greatly rejoice in the gi of God.” Ephesians 2:8. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the To those that ask Him, Jesus imparts the Holy only bego en of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John bare witness Spirit; for it is necessary that every believer of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh should be delivered from pollution, as well as a er me is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his ful- from the curse and condemnation of the law. ness have all we received, and grace for grace.” John 1:14–16. do?—He must come to Jesus, just Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my 4HE 0ROMISE OF THE 3PIRIT as he is, without delay. He must God; for he hath clothed me with The Lord would have His believe that the word of Christ is the garments of salvation, he hath people sound in the faith—not true, and, believing the promise, covered me with the robe of right- ignorant of the great salvation so ask, that he may receive. When eousness.” Isaiah 61:10. abundantly provided for them. sincere desire prompts men to pray, Abundant grace has been They are not to look forward, they will not pray in vain. The Lord provided that the believing soul thinking that at some future time a will fulfill His word, and will give may be kept free from sin; for all great work is to be done for them; the Holy Spirit to lead to repen- heaven, with its limitless resources, for the work is now complete. The tance toward God and faith toward has been placed at our command. believer is not called upon to make our Lord Jesus Christ. He will pray We are to draw from the well of his peace with God; he never has and watch, and put away his sins, salvation. Christ is the end of law nor ever can do this. He is to accept making manifest his sincerity by for righteousness to everyone who Christ as his peace, for with Christ the vigor of his endeavor to obey believeth. In ourselves we are sin- is God and peace. Christ made an the commandments of God. With ners; but in Christ we are righteous. end of sin, bearing its heavy curse prayer he will mingle faith, and not Having made us righteous through in His own body on the tree, and only believe in but obey the pre- the imputed righteousness of He hath taken away the curse from cepts of the law. He will announce Christ, God pronounces us just, and all those who believe in Him as a himself as on Christ’s side of the treats us as just. He looks upon us personal Saviour. He makes an end question. He will renounce all as His dear children. Christ works of the controlling power of sin in habits and associations that tend to against the power of sin, and where the heart, and the life and character draw the heart from God. sin abounded, grace much more of the believer testify to the genuine He who would become a child abounds. “Therefore being justified character of the grace of Christ. To of God must receive the truth that by faith, we have peace with God those that ask Him, Jesus imparts repentance and forgiveness are through our Lord Jesus Christ: by the Holy Spirit; for it is necessary to be obtained through nothing whom also we have access by faith that every believer should be deliv-
18 Our Firm Foundation ered from pollution, as well as from of God to the heart of the sinner. righteousness.” Romans 10:10. No the curse and condemnation of the “He is faithful and just to forgive us one can believe with the heart unto law. Through the work of the Holy our sins, and to cleanse us from all righteousness, and obtain justifi- Spirit, the sanctification of the truth, unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9. cation by faith, while continuing the believer becomes fi ed for the In the prophecy of Daniel it was the practice of those things which courts of heaven; for Christ works recorded of Christ that He shall the Word of God forbids, or while within us, and His righteousness is “make reconciliation for iniquity, neglecting any known duty. upon us. Without this no soul will and . . . bring in everlasting right- be entitled to heaven. We would not eousness.” Daniel 9:24. Every soul 'OOD 7ORKS THE &RUIT OF &AITH enjoy heaven unless qualified for its may say: “By His perfect obedience Genuine faith will be mani- holy atmosphere by the influence of He has satisfied the claims of the fested in good works; for good the Spirit and the righteousness of law, and my only hope is found in works are the fruits of faith. As Christ. looking to Him as my substitute God works in the heart, and man In order to be candidates for and surety, who obeyed the law surrenders his will to God, and co- heaven we must meet the require- perfectly for me. By faith in His operates with God, he works out in ment of the law: “Thou shalt love merits I am free from the condem- the life what God works in by the the Lord thy God with all thy heart, nation of the law. He clothes me Holy Spirit, and there is harmony and with all thy soul, and with all with His righteousness, which between the purpose of the heart thy strength, and with all thy mind; answers all the demands of the law. and the practice of the life. Every and thy neighbour as thyself.” Luke I am complete in Him who brings sin must be renounced as the hate- 10:27. We can do this only as we grasp by faith the righteousness of Christ. By beholding Jesus we re- ceive a living, expanding principle Every soul may say: “By His perfect obedience in the heart, and the Holy Spirit car- ries on the work, and the believer He has satisfied the claims of the law, and my advances from grace to grace, from strength to strength, from character only hope is found in looking to Him as my to character. He conforms to the image of Christ, until in spiritual substitute and surety, who obeyed the law growth he a ains unto the measure of the full stature in Christ Jesus. perfectly for me. Thus Christ makes an end of the curse of sin, and sets the believing soul free from its action and effect. in everlasting righteousness. He ful thing that crucified the Lord Christ alone is able to do this, presents me to God in the spotless of life and glory, and the believer for “in all things it behoved him to garment of which no thread was must have a progressive experience be made like unto his brethren, that woven by any human agent. All is by continually doing the works of he might be a merciful and faithful of Christ, and all the glory, honor, Christ. It is by continual surrender high priest in things pertaining to and majesty are to be given to the of the will, by continual obedience, God, to make reconciliation for the Lamb of God, which taketh away that the blessing of justification is sins of the people. For in that he the sins of the world.” retained. himself hath suffered being tempt- Many think that they must wait Those who are justified by faith ed, he is able to succour them that for a special impulse in order that must have a heart to keep the way are tempted.” Hebrews 2:17–18. they may come to Christ; but it is of the Lord. It is an evidence that a Reconciliation means that every necessary only to come in sincerity man is not justified by faith when barrier between the soul and God is of purpose, deciding to accept the his works do not correspond to his removed, and that the sinner realiz- offers of mercy and grace that have profession. James says, “Seest thou es what the pardoning love of God been extended to us. We are to say: how faith wrought with his works, means. By reason of the sacrifice “Christ died to save me. The Lord’s and by works was his faith made made by Christ for fallen men, God desire is that I should be saved, perfect?” James 2:22. can justly pardon the transgressor and I will come to Jesus just as I am The faith that does not pro- who accepts the merits of Christ. without delay. I will venture upon duce good works does not justify Christ was the channel through the promise. As Christ draws me, the soul. “Ye see then how that by which the mercy, love, and right- I will respond.” The apostle says, works a man is justified, and not eousness might flow from the heart “With the heart man believeth unto CONTINUED ON PAGE
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Story of Daniel the Prophet &EATURED )TEMS Stephen Haskell’s simple narrative on the book of Daniel opens up the precious Illinois Convocation, Fall 2003 veins of ore deep within the Bible. Written Our convocation in October 2003 was the in a way that both young and old can first of its kind for two reasons: It was the understand, with margin references that first at our new location in Illinois, and the facilitate deeper study. speakers were Hope International’s board 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE members. Everyone who came received a special BEHS-SODP $10.49 blessing from the heart-stirring messages, Story of the Seer of Patmos and we would like to share it with you! The book of Revelation pronounces a Dave Westbrook: Keeping the Conscience blessing upon all who read it. The author Clean of the Story of the Seer of Patmos removes the Clark Floyd: A Special People “mystery” and makes it understood! Ron Spear: Preparing for Eternity 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE J.C. Perozo: Our God-given Identity BEHS-SOSO $13.99 Lee Forbes: How to Study the Bible Wallace Boddy: Sacrifice and Suffering (AYNES #ARLYLE " Joe Olson: The Question Jesus Asked From Sabbath to Sunday Videos are $4.95 each. Audios are $1.95 each. This fascinating study on the attempt to Purchase a complete set and save more! change God’s holy day from Sabbath to 3ET 6IDEO #ASSETTES PER 3ET 6(3 .43# &ORMAT Sunday uncovers the source, motivation, VEHI-ICF3 Price: $29.95 and truth of these attempts throughout 3ET !UDIO #ASSETTES PER 3ET history. AEHI-ICF3 Price: $12.95 0APERBACK PAGES BEHC-FSTS $6.49
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Volume 19, Number 1 21 the church today. “Indifference and neutrality ,OUGHBOROUGH * . in a religious crisis is regarded of God as a grievous crime and equal to the very worst Great Second Advent Movement, The type of hostility against God.” Testimonies, vol. Learn about the spiritual roots of the 3, 281. Seventh-day Adventist Church, its prophetic 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE origin, and destiny. BEKS-MWBS $17.49 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE Patience in the Midst of Trials and BELJ-GSAM $9.99 Afflictions -AXWELL 3TANLEY Patience in the Midst of Trials and Afflictions insightfully explains the nature of patience, Man Who Couldn’t Be Killed, The why God permits trials and afflictions, and The Man Who Couldn’t Be Killed is an how you can benefit from them. unforgettable story of faith and miraculous 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE deliverance in Communist China at BEKS-PIMO $7.99 the height of the Cultural Revolution. Unflinching courage for the Saviour, and Receiving the Word the miracles that saved one man’s life, will When liberal, historical-critical approaches inspire you to believe in a God who is greater to Inspiration are being widely taught and than any problem or circumstance. accepted, faithful students of God’s Word 0APERBACK 2EGULAR PRICE must be prepared to defend its authority. BEMS-MWCB $9.99 Discover what it means to be a Bible- believing Adventist. Man Who Lived Twice, The 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE From a reeducation camp in Communist Vietnam, where torture often challenges BEKS-RWOR $8.99 faith, comes a compelling story of one man’s Searching the Scriptures conviction and miraculous deliverance. It is a story of witness through trial that will In dealing with the controversial topic of inspire you to treasure your freedoms and to women’s ordination, the author has first stand up for your faith. searched the Scriptures to see what the Bible might have to say, finding not only passages 0APERBACK 2EGULAR PRICE that deal explicitly with the topic but others BEMS-MWLT $9.99 that establish underlying principles. 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE 0AULSON +EVIN BEKS-SSCR $4.49 Beyond Belief Reviewed This book examines Jack Sequeira’s book ,ARSON 2ALPH Beyond Belief in the light of the Bible and the Tell of His Power Spirit of Prophecy. Updated with an even more thorough discussion of the issues involved— This book is a gold mine of rich and inspiring exposure of error and the presentation of truth promises of God’s power. You will gain new is more fully documented from the Bible and insights as you study Christ’s victory over the Spirit of Prophecy. sin, and how we might receive His power for victory ourselves. 0APERBACK ND %D PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE BEPK-BBRE $2.49 0APERBACK PAGES BELR-TOHP $9.99 Those Who Do Not Remember the Past Word Was Made Flesh, The As falsehoods and errors are multiplying around us, and even being advanced within One hundred years of Seventh-day our own church, we are called to look once Adventist Christology, from 1852 to 1952. again at what God has shown us in the past A comprehensive survey of the historical through Ellen White and the Bible, both by evidence of the human nature of Christ. inspired writers. In this book, false New 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE Theology teachings of Jack Sequiera are met BELR-WWMF $6.99 with both of these sources. 0APERBACK PAGES 2EGULAR PRICE BEPK-TWDN $2.49
22 Our Firm Foundation 0ERSONNEL .EEDS We are looking for a couple! We need a maintenance man to take care of our buildings, grounds, vehicles, and equipment, and we would like his wife to be knowledgeable in computers, have a good command of the English language, and be able to help with other editorial or desktop pub- lishing work. There are no doubt many couples with just such capabilities and we would like to have just one of them. We are looking for solid Christians, people who love the Lord and those for whom He died, and believe in the work that Hope International is do- ing. If you feel you qualify, please give us a call at 309-343-1844, write us at P.O. Box 220, Knoxville, IL 61448, or e-mail Joe Olson at executivedirector@ hopeint.org.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE Grace is unmerited favor, and Christ is the great depositary of jus- by faith only.” Verse 24. “Abraham the believer is justified without tifying righteousness and sanctify- believed God, and it was counted any merit of his own, without any ing grace. unto him for righteousness.” claim to offer to God. He is justi- All may come to Him, and Romans 4:3. fied through the redemption that receive of His fullness. He says, Imputation of the righteousness is in Christ Jesus, who stands in “Come unto me, all ye that labour of Christ comes through justify- the courts of heaven as the sinner’s and are heavy laden, and I will give ing faith, and is the justification for substitute and surety. But while he you rest.” Ma hew 11:28. Then which Paul so earnestly contends. is justified because of the merit of why not cast aside all unbelief He says: “Therefore by the deeds of Christ, he is not free to work un- and heed the words of Jesus? You the law there shall no flesh be justi- righteousness. Faith works by love want rest; you long for peace. Then fied in his sight: for by the law is the and purifies the soul. Faith buds say from the heart, “Lord Jesus, knowledge of sin. But now the right- and blossoms and bears a harvest of I come, because Thou hast given eousness of God without the law is precious fruit. Where faith is, good me this invitation.” Believe in Him manifested, being witnessed by the works appear. The sick are visited, with steadfast faith, and He will law and the prophets; even the right- the poor are cared for, the fatherless save you. Have you been looking eousness of God which is by faith and the widows are not neglected, unto Jesus, who is the author and of Jesus Christ unto all and upon the naked are clothed, the destitute finisher of your faith? Have you all them that believe: for there is no are fed. Christ went about doing been beholding Him who is full of difference: for all have sinned, and good, and when men are united truth and grace? Have you accepted come short of the glory of God; being with Him, they love the children of the peace which Christ alone can justified freely by his grace through God, and meekness and truth guide give? If you have not, then yield to the redemption that is in Christ their footsteps. The expression of Him, and through His grace seek Jesus: whom God hath set forth to the countenance reveals their ex- for a character that will be noble be a propitiation through faith in his perience, and men take knowledge and elevated. Seek for a constant, blood, to declare his righteousness of them that they have been with resolute, cheerful spirit. Feed on for the remission of sins that are past, Jesus and learned of Him. Christ Christ, who is the bread of life, and through the forbearance of God. and the believer become one, and you will manifest His loveliness of . . . Do we then make void the law His beauty of character is revealed character and spirit. through faith? God forbid: yea, we in those who are vitally connected establish the law.” Romans 3:20–31. with the Source of power and love. Selected Messages, book 1, 389–398.
Volume 19, Number 1 23 ticle and makes several comments on it later. 4HE -ORAL ,AW Pu ing these comments to- gether, we can make a list of ten characteristics which she ascribes to the moral law:
1. It dates back to creation. 2. It points back to creation. 3. It was worded to meet the case of fallen intelligences. 4. It was repeated at Sinai, where it was spoken and wri en by God Himself. 5. It is as unchangeable as God Himself. 6. It is based on love to God and love to man. 7. It is binding upon all men in every dispensation. 8. It will exist through time and eternity. 9. It is not a shadow. 10. It is as enduring as the throne of Jehovah. Ralph This agrees with all that we have Larson understood about the moral law, the Ten Commandments, and so we move on. n May 6, 1875, Ellen White in the wilderness, conducting the published in the Review and Israelites in their travels to the land 4HE #EREMONIAL ,AW OHerald an article entitled of Canaan. Christ gave Moses His Next she introduces the ceremo- “The Law of God.” It immediately special directions to be given to nial law and points out that it is follows this article, beginning on Israel.” “clear and distinct” from the moral page 28. In this article she gave at- She quotes 1 Corinthians 10:1–4. law. From her various comments tention to all of the rules and regu- Later on she says: on the ceremonial law, we can also lations that God (or Christ) gave to “Christ, the Angel whom God gather a list of its characteristics as Israel through Moses. She divided had appointed to go before His she saw them: these rules and regulations into chosen people, gave to Moses stat- three classes or categories rather utes and requirements necessary to 1. It was given by Christ in than two as we might have expect- a living religion and to govern the counsel with God. ed. She emphasized that although people of God. . . . 2. It was glorious. some are commonly called the Law “Christ, who went before Moses 3. It was given because of man’s of Moses, in fact “Moses himself in the wilderness, made the prin- transgression of the moral law framed no law,” and that they ciples of morality and religion more and did not exist from eternity were all actually given by God (or clear by particular precepts.” as did the moral law. Christ). She uses the terms “God” What are the three kinds of 4. It “consisted in sacrifices and and “Christ” interchangeably, but laws, according to her arrangement offerings, pointing to the emphasizes that Christ was deeply of them? Two, as we might expect, future redemption.” involved in the law-giving experi- are the moral law and the ceremo- 5. The sacrifices and offerings ence at Sinai: nial law. She introduces the moral typified Christ. “Christ was the Angel ap- law, the Ten Commandments, in 6. She calls it a law of types. pointed of God to go before Moses the first two paragraphs of her ar- 7. She calls it the law of Moses. )LLUSTRATION *OE -ANISCALCO
24 Our Firm Foundation 8. She calls it the Jewish law. 8. They specify the duty of man cating the verse where each section 9. She calls it “shadowy types” to God and to his fellowman. begins): and “shadowy ceremonies of 9. They clearly and definitely types.” explained the moral law and Exodus Chapter 21: 10. She emphasizes strongly that were enforced by it. 1. Laws for men servants it lasted only to the sacrifice of 10. They define and simplify the 7. For women servants Christ; thus, unlike the moral principles of the moral law. 12. For manslaughter law, it had an earthly beginning 11. They increase religious 16. For stealers of men and an earthly ending. knowledge. 17. For cursers of parents 12. They applied to marriage. 18. For smiters This, again, agrees with what 13. They applied to inheritances. 28. For an ox that goreth we have understood. There would 14. They applied to strict justice in 33. For him that is an occasion of probably be no disagreement business affairs. harm among Seventh-day Adventists 15. They were to keep the people about these descriptions of the from following the customs of Exodus Chapter 22: moral law and the ceremonial law. other nations. 1. Of the Agreement would probably be 16. They were to be binding upon 5. Of damage without exception. all men in all ages as long as 7. Of trespasses time should last. 14. Of borrowing 4HE 3TATUTES AND *UDGMENTS But what of the third kind of law that she describes? Here, unfortu- nately, our agreement is not full and complete, without exceptions. These statutes and judgments are not shadowy What is the third kind of category that she describes? She calls the laws types, to end at the cross, but will retain their in this category “statutes and judg- ments,” and she sometimes includes validity as long as time shall last. them in the more general term, “precepts.” Let us make a list of the characteristics of these statutes and judgments as she describes them: These are the statutes and judg- 16. Of fornication ments. She tells us that they are not 18. Of witchcra 1. Christ gave them to Moses. part of the moral law nor yet part 19. Of bestiality 2. They were not the Ten of the ceremonial law. They have an 20. Of idolatry Commandments, the moral explaining, applying, and enforc- 21. Of strangers, widows, orphans law, but were given to guard it. ing relationship to the moral law, 25. Of usury “These statutes were explicitly but apparently no relationship at 26. Of pledges given to guard the Ten all with the ceremonial law. These 28. Of reverence to magistrates Commandments. . . .” (They statutes and judgments are not 29. Of first fruits could not be part of the moral shadowy types, to end at the cross, 30. Of meats law if they were given to guard but will retain their validity as long it.) as time shall last. Exodus Chapter 23: 3. They were not part of the Where did she find these stat- 1. Of slander and false witness ceremonial law. “They were utes and judgments? In Exodus 3. Of justice not shadowy types to pass 21:1 and on to 23:11, right a er the 4. Of charitableness away with the death of Christ.” Ten Commandments in chapter 12. (Returns to the sabbaths, 4. They were to govern the 20. feasts, etc.) people of God. “Now these are the judg- 5. They were to govern the ments which thou shalt set before The laws in Exodus 21:1 through everyday life. them.” Exodus 21:1 (Compare 23:11 do not typify anything. They 6. They were for the purpose of Deuteronomy 4:1, 5–6, “statutes are not types and shadows. These protecting life. and judgments.”) statutes sometimes fall short of 7. They made the principles of Consider the many facets of New Testament ideals, but they morality and religion more these statutes and judgments (the were far in advance of the other na- clear. numbers under each chapter indi- tions of that time.
Volume 19, Number 1 25 For example, the “man-servant” antitype.” But what about the days in His death. The other is the law (or slave) in other nations had no upon which these sacrifices and of Jehovah, and is as abiding and rights. He could be killed by his offerings were celebrated? They are changeless as His eternal throne.” master. Under Hebrew law a “man- called “sabbaths.” Should we still Signs of the Times, July 29, 1886. servant” (or slave) . . . honor and observe them as holy “The Jewish ceremonial law 1. Could not serve longer than days, sabbath days, even though we has passed away. . . . Types and six years—then he was free; do not make sacrifices? shadows, offerings and sacrifices, 2. Was still “thy brother” (see Perhaps we can find the an- had no virtue a er Christ’s death Deuteronomy 15:12); swer in two ways. According to on the cross. . . .” Review and Herald, 3. Was not to go away empty Colossians 2:14–17, which Ellen October 10, 1899. (see Deuteronomy 15:13–14); and White refers to in her discus- “If Adam had not transgressed 4. In the year of Jubilee went free sions, the ceremonial Sabbaths are the law of God, the ceremonial law regardless of term of service. shadows, just as the sacrifices are would never have been instituted.” We must look for the principles shadows: Selected Messages, book 1, 230. of these statutes. We could make “Blo ing out the handwriting “While the Saviour’s death some modern comparisons. For of ordinances that was against us, brought to an end the law of types example, Ellen White recommends which was contrary to us, and took and shadows, it did not in the least that young girls should be taught it out of the way, nailing it to his detract from the obligation of the how to harness horses. (Child cross; and having spoiled principal- moral law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, Guidance, 351.) In our time she ities and powers, he made a shew 365. would say, no doubt, they should of them openly, triumphing over “When Jesus at His ascension entered by His own blood into the heavenly sanctuary to shed upon His disciples the blessings of His “The Jewish ceremonial law mediation, the Jews were le in total darkness to continue their has passed away. . . . Types and shadows, useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows offerings and sacrifices, had no virtue a er had ceased.” The Great Controversy, 430. Christ’s death on the cross. . . .” “His lessons to His disciples are received by all who would become His disciples, to the end of time. be taught how to change a tire on them in it. Let no man therefore These lessons discharge His fol- a car. Most readers do not have an judge you in meat, or in drink, or in lowers from the bondage of the ox to gore someone, but what about respect of an holy day, or of the new ceremonial law, and leave them the a dog, horse, or car? The principle moon, or of the sabbath days: which ordinance of baptism to be received of not le ing them do damage to are a shadow of things to come; but by repentance and faith in Jesus someone else still applies. the body is of Christ.” (All em- Christ as the only one who can take These types of laws, of course, phasis supplied unless otherwise away sin.” Review and Herald, June are not found in the ceremonial law. noted.) 21, 1898. Ellen White writes that these are Clearly then, according to Paul, “When type met antitype in the not “shadowy types.” As we look the days are shadows. Second, we death of Christ, the sacrificial of- them over, we recognize that she remember that the same law that ferings ceased. The ceremonial law is correct. There is nothing about establishes the sacrifices also estab- was done away.”Ibid., June 26, 1900. them that points forward to the lishes the days, and that law, the “Peter here [in Acts 15:8–10] sacrifice of Christ, as the types and ceremonial law, is done away. This referred to the law of ceremonies, shadows do. is the message of Colossians 2:14–17 which was made null and void by and of Ephesians 2:11–15. It is also the crucifixion of Christ.” The Acts 7HAT !BOUT THE h3ABBATHSv the message of many references in of the Apostles, 194. Now we come to a crucial ques- Ellen White’s writings. “A er Christ died on the cross tion. We will soon examine several “There are two distinct laws as a sin offering, the ceremonial law statements that define the types and brought to view. One is the law could have no force. . . . shadows as sacrifices and offerings of types and shadows, which “Many in the Christian world and affirm that they ended at the reached to the time of Christ, and also have a veil before their eyes cross of Christ, when “type met ceased when type met antitype and heart. They do not see to the
26 Our Firm Foundation end of that which was done away. yet remain. Such a position would these statutes are not “shadowy They do not see that it was only the need to be sustained by very strong types to pass away with the death ceremonial law which was abrogat- evidence, since it would contradict of Christ”? Third, why should we ed at the death of Christ.” Selected Paul’s statement that these sabbaths ignore her own definitions and Messages, book 1, 238–239. are “a shadow” (Colossians 2:17). descriptions of the statutes and “This ritual law, with its sac- And those who advance this propo- judgments? rifices and ordinances, was to be sition should also present a clear ex- If you have not already read the performed by the Hebrews until planation as to why Ellen White did entire article on “The Law of God,” type met antitype in the death of not lead the church to observe the please pause at this point and read Christ, the Lamb of God that taketh feast days while she was alive. at least the six statements that are away the sin of the world. Then But no such strong evidence is underlined. all the sacrificial offerings were to offered. Instead, we are o en led to In this article, a relationship cease. It is this law that Christ ‘took Ellen White’s May 6, 1875 article on between the statutes and judgments . . . out of the way, nailing it to His “The Law of God,” and in particu- and the moral law is stated at least cross.’ Colossians 2:14.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 365. “There is a law which was abolished, which Christ ‘took . . . We are forced to the conclusion that these out of the way, nailing it to his cross.’ Colossians 2:14. Paul calls it feast days are definitely part of the “shadowy ‘the law of commandments con- tained in ordinances.’ Ephesians ceremonies of types” to which Ellen White is 2:15. This ceremonial law, given by God through Moses, with its referring. sacrifices and ordinances, was to be binding upon the Hebrews until type met antitype in the death of Christ as the Lamb of God to take lar to this paragraph: eight times. No relationship to the away the sin of the world. Then all “In consequence of continual ceremonial law is suggested. the sacrificial offerings and services transgression, the moral law was All the way through this discus- were to be abolished. Paul and the repeated in awful grandeur from sion she relates the statutes and other apostles labored to show this, Sinai. Christ gave to Moses reli- judgments to the moral law and and resolutely withstood those gious precepts which were to gov- never to the ceremonial law. Their Judaizing teachers who declared ern the everyday life. These statutes purpose is made so clear as to re- that Christians should observe the were explicitly given to guard the ten quire no comment. And let us note ceremonial law.” Signs of the Times, commandments. They were not shad- in her last paragraph a reference to September 4, 1884. owy types to pass away with the death the mistaken practices of the Jewish There would seem to be no rea- of Christ. They were to be binding people: “They a ach as much son for doubt that the ceremonial upon man in every age as long as importance to shadowy ceremonies law is passed away, according to time should last. These commands of types which have met their anti- Ellen White. If we put together the were enforced by the power of the type as they do to the law of the Ten various expressions that she used moral law, and they clearly and Commandments. . . .” to describe its passing, we are not definitely explained that law.” When we remember that the le with any doubts. She writes that Some have stated that the words Jewish people honor the feast days the ceremonial law of types and “these statutes” in this paragraph but make no sacrifices, we are shadows is ended, ceased, useless, are a reference to the feast days forced to the conclusion that these has no force, has passed away, is of the ceremonial law. This would feast days are definitely part of the null and void, is abrogated, was seem to be a grievous misunder- “shadowy ceremonies of types” to nailed to the cross, and has been standing of the intention of the which Ellen White is referring. abolished. writer. Let us heed the appeal of It would seem strange to be- Our first question would be, Paul in Galatians 5:1: “Stand fast lieve that although she argued so How could these words enforce the therefore in the liberty wherewith forcefully that the ceremonial law feast days of the ceremonial law Christ hath made us free, and be had passed away, nevertheless the without enforcing the sacrifices of not entangled again with the yoke feast days, the ceremonial sabbaths, the ceremonial law? Second, Why of bondage.” that were established by that law should we ignore her statement that
Volume 19, Number 1 27 4HE ,AW OF 'OD
Ellen G. White
We have marked and numbered the six such fearful consequences, what from the penalty of the transgres- passages in this article in which Ellen will be the punishment of those who sion, required this wonderful White discusses the “statutes and judg- not only break its most important sacrifice on the part of Christ, gives ments.” Please see the preceding article precepts, as clearly defined as is the unmistakable proof of the unchang- by Ralph Larson for a discussion of fourth commandment, but also teach ing nature of the law of God. these passages. others to transgress? God gave a clear and definite —Editors. All will yet understand, as did knowledge of His will to Israel Adam and Eve, that God means by especial precepts, showing the he fact that the holy pair in what He says. Men who pass on in- duty of man to God and to his disregarding the prohibition differently in regard to the especial fellow men. The worship due to Tof God in one particular, thus claims of God’s holy law, and who God was clearly defined. A special transgressed His law, and as the re- turn from and reject the light given system of rites and ceremonies was sult suffered the consequences of the upon the Sabbath of the fourth com- established, which would secure Fall, should impress all with a just mandment, and seek to ease their the remembrance of God among sense of the sacred character of the consciences by following traditions His people, and thereby serve as a law of God. If the experience of our and customs, will be held responsi- hedge to guard and protect the Ten first parents in the transgression of ble by God, and in a greater degree, Commandments from violation. what many who profess to fear God than if Christ had not come to the God’s people, whom He calls would call the lesser requirements of earth and suffered on Calvary. The His peculiar treasure, were privi- the law of God, was a ended with fact that the redemption of man leged with a twofold system of law; 0HOTO ¹ 0HOTO$ISC
28 Our Firm Foundation the moral and the ceremonial. The tions, and were designed of God saying, If any man thirst, let him one, pointing back to Creation to to keep His people separate from come unto me, and drink.” John keep in remembrance the living other nations. The necessity of this 7:37. These words were called out God who made the world, whose to preserve the people of God from by witnessing a representation by claims are binding upon all men in becoming like the nations who had the Jews of water flowing from the every dispensation, and which will not the love and fear of God, is the flinty rock. This commemoration of exist through all time and eternity. same in this corrupt age, when the bringing water from the rock in the The other, given because of man’s transgression of God’s law prevails wilderness moves the heart of the transgression of the moral law, the and idolatry exists to a fearful Son of God to tenderest compas- obedience to which consisted in extent. If ancient Israel needed such sion and pity for their darkened sacrifices and offerings pointing to security, we need it more, to keep understanding; for they will not see the future redemption. Each is clear us from being u erly confounded the light which He has brought to and distinct from the other. From with the transgressors of God’s law. them. Christ tells them that He is the Creation the moral law was an The hearts of men are so prone to that Rock. I am that Living Water. essential part of God’s divine plan, depart from God that there is a ne- Your fathers drank of that Spiritual and was as unchangeable as Himself. cessity for restraint and discipline. Rock that followed them. That The ceremonial law was to answer a The love that God bore to man Rock was Myself. It was through particular purpose of Christ’s plan for whom He had created in His own Christ alone that the Hebrews were the salvation of the race. The typical image, led Him to give His Son to favored with the especial blessings system of sacrifices and offerings die for man’s transgression, and lest which they were continually receiv- was established that through these services the sinner might discern the Great Offering—Christ. But the Jews were so blinded by pride and sin that These statutes were explicitly given to guard but few of them could see farther than the death of beasts as an atone- the Ten Commandments. They were not ment for sin; and when Christ, whom these offerings prefigured, came, shadowy types to pass away with the death of they could not discern Him. The ceremonial law was glorious; it was Christ. the provision made by Jesus Christ in counsel with His Father, to aid in the salvation of the race. The whole ar- the increase of sin should lead him ing, notwithstanding their sinful rangement of the typical system was to forget God and the promised re- murmurings and rebellion. founded on Christ. Adam saw Christ demption, the system of sacrificial of- p In consequence of continual prefigured in the innocent beast suf- ferings was established to typify the transgression, the moral law was fering the penalty of his transgression perfect offering of the Son of God. repeated in awful grandeur from of Jehovah’s law. Christ was the Angel appointed Sinai. Christ gave to Moses re- n The law of types reached of God to go before Moses in the ligious precepts which were to forward to Christ. All hope and wilderness, conducting the Israelites govern the everyday life. These faith centered in Christ until type in their travels to the land of Canaan. statutes were explicitly given to reached its antitype in His death. Christ gave Moses His special direc- guard the Ten Commandments. The statutes and judgments speci- tions to be given to Israel. “Moreover, They were not shadowy types to fying the duty of man to his fellow brethren, I would not that ye should pass away with the death of Christ. men, were full of important instruc- be ignorant, how that all our fathers They were to be binding upon tion, defining and simplifying the were under the cloud, and all passed men in every age as long as time principles of the moral law, for the through the sea; and were all bap- should last. These commands were purpose of increasing religious tized unto Moses in the cloud and enforced by the power of the moral knowledge, and of preserving in the sea; and did all eat the same law, and they clearly and definitely God’s chosen people distinct and spiritual meat; and did all drink the explained that law. separate from idolatrous nations. same spiritual drink: for they drank Christ became sin for the fallen o The statutes concerning of that spiritual Rock that followed race, in taking upon Himself the marriage, inheritance, and strict them: and that Rock was Christ.” condemnation resting upon the justice in dealing with one another, 1 Corinthians 10:1–4. sinner for his transgression of the were peculiar and contrary to the “In the last day, that great day law of God. Christ stood at the customs and manners of other na- of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, head of the human family as their
Volume 19, Number 1 29 Representative. He had taken upon love the Lord thy God with all thy Only Beloved of the Father coming Himself the sins of the world. heart, and with all thy soul, and to this world and enduring grief, In the likeness of sinful flesh He with all thy mind, and with all privation, and the shameful death condemned sin in the flesh. He thy strength: this is the first com- of the cross? Ministers preach that recognized the claims of the Jewish mandment. And the second is like, the atonement gave men liberty to law until His death, when type met namely this, Thou shalt love thy break the law of God, and to com- antitype. In the miracle He per- neighbour as thyself. There is none mit sin, and then praise the free formed for the leper, He bade him other commandment greater than grace and mercy revealed through Christ under the gospel, while they despise the law of God. They cast aside the restraint of The Jews . . . a ach as much importance to the law, and give loose rein to the corrupt passions and the prompt- shadowy ceremonies of types which have met ings of the natural heart, and then triumph in the mercy and grace of their antitype, as they do to the law of the Ten the gospel. Christ speaks to such: “Not every one that saith unto me, Commandments, which was not a shadow. Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which go to the priests with an offering in these.” Mark 12:30–31. These two is in heaven.” Ma hew 7:21. What accordance with the law of Moses. great principles embrace the first is the will of the Father?—That we Thus He sanctioned the law requir- four commandments, showing the keep His commandments. s Christ, ing offerings. duty of man to God, and the last to enforce the will of His Father, Christians who profess to be six, showing the duty of man to his became the Author of the statutes Bible students can appreciate more fellow man. The principles were and precepts given through Moses fully than ancient Israel did the more explicitly stated to man a er to the people of God. Christians full signification of the ceremonial the Fall, and worded to meet the who extol Christ, but array them- ordinances that they were required case of fallen intelligences. This selves against the law governing the to observe. If they are indeed was necessary in consequence of Jewish church, array Christ against Christians, they are prepared to ac- the minds of men being blinded by Christ. knowledge the sacredness and im- transgression. The death of Jesus Christ for the portance of the shadowy types, as r God graciously spoke His law redemption of man li s the veil and they see the accomplishment of the and wrote it with His own finger reflects a flood of light back hun- events which they represent. The on stone, making a solemn cov- dreds of years, upon the whole in- death of Christ gives the Christian enant with His people at Sinai. God stitution of the Jewish system of re- a correct knowledge of the system acknowledged them as His peculiar ligion. Without the death of Christ of ceremonies and explains prophe- treasure above all people upon all this system was meaningless. cies which still remain obscure to the earth. Christ, who went before The Jews reject Christ, and there- the Jews. Moses of himself framed Moses in the wilderness, made the fore their whole system of religion no law. q Christ, the Angel whom principles of morality and religion is to them indefinite, unexplainable, God had appointed to go before His more clear by particular precepts, and uncertain. They a ach as much chosen people, gave to Moses stat- specifying the duty of man to God importance to shadowy ceremo- utes and requirements necessary to and his fellow men, for the purpose nies of types which have met their a living religion and to govern the of protecting life, and guarding the antitype, as they do to the law of people of God. Christians commit sacred law of God, that it should the Ten Commandments, which a terrible mistake in calling this not be entirely forgo en in the was not a shadow, but a reality as law severe and arbitrary, and then midst of an apostate world. enduring as the throne of Jehovah. contrasting it with the gospel and Professed Christians now cry, The death of Christ elevates the mission of Christ in His ministry on Christ! Christ is our righteousness, Jewish system of types and ordi- earth, as though He were in opposi- but away with the law. They talk nances, showing that they were of tion to the just precepts which they and act as though Christ’s mission divine appointment, and for the call the law of Moses. to a fallen world was for the express purpose of keeping faith alive in the The law of Jehovah, dating back purpose of nullifying His Father’s hearts of His people. to Creation, was comprised in the law. Could not that work have been two great principles, “Thou shalt just as well executed without the Review and Herald, May 6, 1875.
30 Our Firm Foundation LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Wow! I just finished the ar- Thank you so much for such My daughter and I are truly ticle “Beyond the Tithe.” My Lord a helpful inspirational magazine blessed with the articles in Our Firm is awesome. I just finished two as Firm Foundation. It has come to Foundation. May God continue to weeks of family worships about our home for many years now and bless you with your work in spread- giving because I wanted my wife is always “straight as an arrow.” It ing the truth to the world. Please to be prepared when I start giving is so good to know that somebody pray for my family. a second tithe. I just felt impressed somewhere is still holding to the VR, Canada that I needed to do it to ensure that “old paths.” there was no covetousness in my RP, California Thank you for taking the three heart. Now I find that the Lord has angels’ messages to a fallen world. I given me a wonderful obligation to I am writing to first thank you continue to pray for you all. give even more than that. I know I for your wonderful magazine, Our DW, Florida cannot outgive Him. Thank you for Firm Foundation. I recently received such a practical and powerful maga- my first issue. I want to commend How did I first hear about Hope zine this month. I do give the glory you for your work in compiling International? It was through a to Jesus. and distributing this truth-filled friend seven years ago. Since then I You also don’t know what the ar- literature. Thank God for the Hope have enjoyed your tapes and maga- ticle on rebaptism has done for me ei- International family, and may His zines. It is a blessing to read and ther. I have since done more research blessings always be yours. hear the truth, since it is hard now to on rebaptism and I realize it is very LM, Texas hear these things from our churches serious. The reasons for rebaptism here in California. Thanks again for run very deep—even “if you have lost We received the Spirit-filled printing the truth. your Christlikeness,” she says. Wow! literature that you sent, and we are AG, California I pray many people understand what very appreciative of your input to they are reading this month. help feed, strengthen, warn, and en- Thank you for Our Firm EE, Virginia courage the members to share and Foundation. I really enjoy it. I do strengthen each other to grow to the share it. Our God is coming soon. I pray that God would grant you stature of the fulness of Christ. FS, North Carolina prosperity in these difficult times. We may not know how much The perilous time is soon to come, this literature has done to help has- I have been subscribing to “Our and I am praying that each one of us ten the soon return of Christ—but Firm Foundation” for many years in the Adventist faith will be able to we will one day, if we are found true now. It had a great impact on me, and stand during Jacob’s time of trouble. and faithful, for we will witness the solidified my faith in the teachings of Protection and security from God is great result of the harvest. the Seventh-day Adventist church. what we need. We can only have it if We keep you always in our O en, when I’m appointed to preach we are sealed and cannot be destroyed prayers and wish you Godspeed. I use your articles to base my sermons in our faith that God is our king. I pray We ask that you do the same for us. on. They are well received. My wife that in the life I am pursuing the way Many thanks from the brethren here enjoys reading it also. is toward our Lord Jesus Christ. in the Solomon Islands. I have introduced the magazine MA (email) KH, Solomon Islands to some of our brothers and sisters at a different church, and it was well Thank you ever so much for the I would like to thank you for the received by them. I believe some of books you have sent to me. I have wonderful gi you sent us. The tapes them even ordered the magazine. now shared this heavenly manna and books you sent us will go a long By God’s grace, please con- with my church members. May God way in educating the people of God, tinue to print and publish Our Firm richly bless you for the work you do. especially during these last days. Foundation, we need it very much. EM, South Africa DC, Zimbabwe MD, Illinois
Volume 19, Number 1 31 "ACKGROUND 0HOTO ¹ 0HOTO$ISC or forthegloryofGod?” given meansindoingthosethingsthatarenotforhisbestgood can anyone a the greatwork tobedone,how Lord formanyyears. Inviewof has beencomingtousfromthe autumn. Thisisthemessagethat distributed liketheleaves of message. Publicationsaretobe saving truthsofthethirdangel’s for communicatingtoothersthe are many, manyopportunities the shadowsofourdoorsthere in foreignlands;andeven within ing inamostmarvelous manner to besaved. Thework isadvanc- most solemnduties. A world is International, besure tocallustoday: look forward toservicingyour needsin2004. about whattheLordwould have you todo—andactuponit!We God’s work inyour family, church,andcommunity. Thenpray catalog, markalloftheitemsyou canuserightnowtohelp day Adventists. Getoutyour pen,andasyou lookthroughthis in bringingaboutrevival andreformationinthe lives ofSeventh- for excellentreadingmaterials—particularly thosethatwillaid the leaves ofautumn”tofamily, friends,andneighbors. items foryourself, but—be pamphlets tothelowest possibleprices.Nowyou canbuythese matic changes! many peopleaspossible. We arecommi 0RODUCT #ATALOG (OPE )NTERNATIONAL (EARD !BOUT THE “We mustprepareourselves for If youhavenotalready receiveda2004catalogfromHope Hope Internationalwants tobecomeyour “onestopsource” We atHopeInternational taketheabove words very seriously. be suretovisit ourwebsite at ff To check forupdatesornewproductsatanytime, ord towaste precioustimeandGod- We have discountedalmostallofourbooksand ed toge ing ourmostpreciousmessagetoas Publishing Ministry You willseeinthiscatalogsomedra- er yet—you cansca h Ĵ p://www.hopeint.org , 368. er them“like . fi nish
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