Stewards After Eden

Blue Script= Double underline= Boxed= Biblical Text & GREEN SCRIPT: A Red Script = Directive Important to remember SDA Commentary Possible Answer Main Point Reference

Lesson 5: Stewards After Eden January 27- February 2/3

Memory Text: “On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts” (1 Thess. 2:4, NIV). Adam and Eve’s first job involved stewardship. The garden and all creation were given to them to care for, to enjoy, and to have dominion over (Gen. 2:15 ) , even though they owned none of it. Instead, they were stewards of what the Lord had entrusted to them. This week we will look more closely at the definition of a steward but after the Fall, after our first parents were driven from Eden. That is, we also are stewards, but we are stewards in an environment quite different from the one Adam and Eve first enjoyed. What is stewardship? Certain Bible characters reveal what a steward is by how they lived. Other scriptures define it more clearly. When we become God’s stewards, our focus on the world and its materialistic values changes to a focus on the Creator and His mission. As with Adam and Eve, God entrusts to us responsibilities of divine origin. Since the Fall in Eden, however, the task of stewardship has changed, because, along with the responsibilities of caring for the material world, we are also entrusted to be good stewards of spiritual truths.

Sunday Stewards in the Old Testament January 28

The word “steward” itself is translated only a few times in the Old Testament. In most cases it comes from the phrase regarding the one who is “upon the house,” the idea of being in charge of the running of a house; that is, a “steward” (Gen. 43:19; 44:1, 4; 1 Kings 16:9). Stewards had responsibilities to manage household affairs and their master’s possessions, doing whatever was asked of them. The definition of a steward in the Old Testament can be found by identifying the characteristics of a steward. Stewards cannot be separated from their stewardship, for it reveals their identity. Some characteristics of a steward are made clear in the Old Testament. First, the position of a steward was one of great responsibility (Gen. 39:4). Stewards were chosen because of their abilities, and they received respect and trust from their owners for getting the job done. Second, stewards knew that what had been entrusted to them belonged to their owner (Gen. 24:34-38). This is the supreme difference between a steward and an owner. Stewards understand their position. Third, when stewards took for their own use what had been entrusted to them, the

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 2 relationship of trust between them and the owner was broken, and the stewards were dismissed (Gen. 3:23, Hos. 6:7). Read Isaiah 22:14-18. During Hezekiah’s reign, Shebna was appointed steward, as well as treasurer, both very important positions of authority. What happened to him as a result of his abuse of his position?

Isaiah 22:14-18 14 Then it was revealed in my hearing by the Lord of hosts, “Surely for this iniquity there will be no atonement for you, Even to your death,” says the Lord God of hosts. (The Judgment on Shebna) 15 Thus says the Lord God of hosts: “Go, proceed to this steward, To Shebna, who is over the house, and say: 16 ‘What have you here, and whom have you here, That you have hewn a sepulcher here, As he who hews himself a sepulcher on high, Who carves a tomb for himself in a rock? 17 Indeed, the Lord will throw you away violently, O mighty man, And will surely seize you. 18 He will surely turn violently and toss you like a ball Into a large country; There you shall die, and there your glorious chariots Shall be the shame of your master’s house. 16. A sepulchre. Isaiah was roused to indignation by the arrogance of Shebna. He seems to have newly risen to power and affluence, and to have had no family tomb where his fathers would have been interred. Accordingly, he determined to construct a new and stately tomb to honor him in his position of importance and to ensure him a place in the memory of future generations. Instead of devoting his efforts to the saving of the nation in this time of peril, his chief aim was to promote his personal interests. Rock-hewn sepulchres of the type Shebna was constructing for himself are common in the environs of Jerusalem. 17. Carry thee away. Literally, the clause reads, “hurl you away with a great hurling.” Shebna would not occupy the tomb, but perish in a foreign land. 18. A large country. Probably Mesopotamia. The chariots. Ostentatious pride was the weakness of Shebna. He provided himself with a splendid chariot, which would, however, accompany him into captivity.1 A POSSIBLE ANSWER: i. He would die, but only after he was demoted, ii. Hurled away with a great hurling with his splendid chariot iii. Not permitted to occupy the tomb he had selfishly built and iv. Would perish in a foreign land. “A steward identifies himself with his master. He accepts the responsibilities of a steward, and he must act in his master’s stead, doing as his master would do were he presiding. His master’s interests become his. The position of a steward is one of dignity because his master trusts him. If in any wise he acts selfishly and turns the advantages gained by trading with his lord’s goods to his own advantage, he has perverted the trust reposed in him.” - Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church , vol. 9, p. 246 . How can we better learn the important concept that we are indeed stewards of what we possess in this life? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: A) By taking here Love all our processions in harmony with His explicit the will. B) By returning a faithful tithe and offerings to demonstrate God’s ownership. C) By keeping the concept of stewardship in mind and practicing it in all areas of our lives. D) By studying and praying to God asking Him to help us. How should this realization impact all that we do? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: it should impact... 1) How we view everything around us. It all belongs to God, He dictates the value attached to it and He demands accountability. 2) The type of care and concern we demonstrate for God’s creation. We need to maintain and preserve it. 3) The management of our bodies: how we treat it, what we put on it, what we put in it and what we permit others to do to it. 4) Our attitude: we would move from selfishness and entitlement to one of appreciation, thankfulness, praise and respect.

1 Nichol, F. D. (Ed.). (1977). The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary (Vol. 4, p. 192). Review and Herald Publishing Association.

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Monday Stewards in the New Testament January 29

The two basic words for “steward” in the New Testament are epitropos, occurring three times, and oikonomos, occurring 10 times. Both these words describe positions that incorporate managerial responsibilities entrusted to the steward by the owner. In both the New and Old Testaments, stewards are defined by what they do. The New Testament specifically describes the steward in terms of accountability (Luke 12:48) and expectations (1 Cor. 4:2). The Old Testament, though, is more focused on declaring God’s ownership than directly defining us as His stewards. Thus, while the concept of a steward is very similar for both Testaments, the New Testament expands the concept beyond just household management. In the parable of the dishonest steward (Luke 16:1-15), Jesus expands the definition of steward. His lesson is about more than a steward escaping financial disaster. It is also applicable to those escaping spiritual disaster through a wise manifestation of faith. A wise steward will prepare for the future of Jesus’ return beyond the here and now (Matt. 25:21). Read 1 Corinthians 4:1, 2; Titus 1:7; and 1 Peter 4:10. What do they tell us about stewards and stewardship?

1 Corinthians 4:1, 2 (Stewards of the Mysteries of God) 1 Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 1. Account of us. Paul counsels the Corinthians to regard him and his fellow workers as ministers and stewards, not of men, but of God. Being called by God to their work in the ministry of the gospel, they were not to be considered as leaders of various factions in the church or as heads of conflicting parties. Christ has given to His workers the responsibility of dispensing His word to the world (see Matt. 28:19, 20). They are not permitted to preach and teach the opinions and beliefs of men, but are charged to present to men the pure message of salvation, unadulterated by worldly philosophy (see 1 Tim. 6:20, 21; 2 Tim. 4:1–3). Ministries. Gr. hupēretai, “servants,” “attendants,” “ministers.” The word was originally used for the rowers on the war galleys, and distinguished these rowers from the soldiers who stood on the deck and fought. Later it came to be used with reference to any subordinate who engaged in hard labor and, in military terminology, of orderlies who served their commander in chief. This use of hupēretai as the military servants whose duty it was to attend the highest officers in the army may be reflected in Paul’s use of it in this verse. Those who are entrusted with the work of the gospel ministry are, in a special sense, the attendants of the great heavenly Commander in Chief, Jesus. They are the official, human representatives of Christ, the royal officers of His spiritual kingdom (see John 18:36, where this word is translated “servants”). Stewards. Gr. oikonomoi, “managers,” “stewards.” The Greeks used this word in connection with the management of property, either of a household or of an estate, and applied it to the slaves or freedmen who were entrusted with the care and management of the house and land belonging to their master. The steward not only presided over the affairs of the household, but also made provision for it. This was an office of considerable responsibility. The application of this word to Christ’s ministers is singularly appropriate. The gospel minister is charged with caring for the church of God on earth and providing that which is necessary for its well-being (see John 21:15–17; 1 Peter 5:1–3). In stewardship, the matter of supreme importance is faithfulness. Man has absolute ownership of nothing at all in this world, not even his physical and mental strength, for “all the abilities which men possess belong to God” (5T 277). He is a created being, and as such he belongs to his Creator. He is also a redeemed being, purchased by the blood of Christ (see Acts 20:28); therefore in a double sense man is not his own. The earth and everything in it belong to God; He is the supreme owner. He has entrusted the care of His property to man, who thus becomes His steward, the one charged with the responsibility of using his Master’s goods in such a manner that benefit will accrue to God. Recognition of this relationship between man and his Creator should produce a determination to exercise great care in the use of everything entrusted to him during the period of his sojourn on this earth. The true believer in Christ will seek constantly to glorify God in his management of the things placed in his care, whether they be physical,

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 4 mental, or spiritual. He will recognize that he is not free to use his goods or his talents for the satisfaction of the natural desires and ambitions of his own heart. He is under obligation at all times to place God’s interest first in all the activities of life. This truth is illustrated by the parable of the Talents (see on Matt. 25:14–30; COL 328, 329). Mysteries. Gr. mustēria (see on Rom. 11:25; 1 Cor. 2:7). The plans of God for the restoration of man to harmony with Himself were formerly but dimly understood, but now they are revealed through Jesus Christ (see Eph. 3:9–11; Col. 1:25–27; 1 Tim. 3:16). Christ’s workers are commissioned to make plain the sublime truths of the gospel to all men (Matt. 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15). They are so to labor that the wants of every soul who is seeking for righteousness are met. This responsibility of dispensing the good news of salvation rests upon every believer, for all are stewards, entrusted with the bread of life for a hungry and starving world (see 9T 246; Ed 139). 2. Faithful. Gr. pistos, “trusty,” “dependable,” “that can be relied upon.” The quality of dependability is one of the most valuable assets a man can have. It is highly esteemed by God. Failure in this respect means failure to qualify for eternal life (see Luke 16:10–12; COL 356). Only those will receive an inheritance in the new earth who can be relied upon by God under all circumstances. We prove ourselves faithful stewards by continually seeking to glorify God in all the details of our lives. A POSSIBLE ANSWER: In this verse, a steward is one who is over the ‘mysteries’ (the plan & message of salvation which was hidden but now revealed) of God and is expected to be faithful. Those who are entrusted with the work of the gospel ministry are, in a special sense, the attendants of the great heavenly Commander in Chief, Jesus. They are the official, human representatives of Christ, the royal officers of His spiritual kingdom given the task of declaring the message of salvation to a darkened world.

Titus 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 7. Bishop. Gr. episkopos, “overseer” (see Acts 11:30; 20:28; 1 Tim. 3:1). Not soon angry. Or, “not quick-tempered.” In any organization, secular or ecclesiastical, there are moments when ideas clash and misunderstandings develop. The efficiency of a church under the strain of divergent opinions depends upon the stabilizing influence of a self-possessed leader, whose self-discipline inspires patience and a spirit of understanding. A POSSIBLE ANSWER: In Titus, the overseer as a steward lives in such a manner that upon investigation, he/she is unreproveable... signifying that which cannot be called to account or blamelessness. This includes not being arrogant, quick-tempered, addicted to wine, pugnacious/quarrelsome and predisposed to a “fondness for dishonest gain.” Stewards do not perform services with “filthy lucre” as their objective.

1 Peter 4:10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 10. Every man. No Christian is too poor to extend a helping hand to others. The spirit of hospitality invests the most humble facilities with priceless value. Each person has some capacity for serving his fellow men. Sharing what we have with others is a Christian privilege and responsibility. Gift. Gr. charisma, a “gift” freely and generously given, a “favor” bestowed. Peter does not refer to the miraculous gifts that the Holy Spirit dispenses, but rather to the natural endowments and sustaining blessings every child of God receives continually. “Freely ye have received, freely give” (see on Matt. 10:8). Minister the same. What God has so graciously bestowed on us we are to share with others, “especially” with “the household of faith” (see on Gal. 6:10). Good. Gr. kaloi, “excellent,” “efficient.” Manifold. See on James 1:2. God’s gifts are granted cheerfully and abundantly. His stewards are to distribute these blessings in the same spirit as that in which He gave them. A POSSIBLE ANSWER: A good steward is one who uses the particular gifts that God has given them cheerfully and abundantly for the efficient good of the body or church.

“Shall I open my heart to the Holy Spirit, that every faculty and energy may be aroused, which God has given me in trust? I am Christ’s property, and am employed in His service. I am a steward of His grace.” - Ellen G. White, Fundamentals of Christian Education , p. 301 . In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus also uses the term “steward” metaphorically. He tells of the wise

[Type text] 5 steward being ready for the Son of man’s return, and describes the unfaithful steward as one who has given up caring because the master has delayed His return. The unfaithful steward has turned into a tyrant and has become abusive to those around him. He is no longer a pattern of good works or a manager of grace. When we accept Christ, we are stewards, called to manage God’s resources. But more important, we are to manage the spiritual realities of the Christian life in preparation for heaven. Read Luke 12:45. Why must we as Seventh-day Adventists, who often struggle with a sense of “delay,” be especially careful about falling into this deception? Luke 12:45 But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, (reference to Matt. 24:48 Delayeth his coming. He is not one of the scoffers, who deny the reality of Christ’s return (2 Peter 3:4). He pretends to believe; in fact, he has accepted the responsibility of giving the members of the “household of faith” spiritual food that will help them to prepare for their Lord’s return (see on Matt. 24:45). But his words lack conviction. He is not in dead earnest. His life and labors proclaim that he does not really believe his Lord is coming soon. In a time of crisis he does not stand “between the dead and the living” (Num. 16:48). He does not minister “in season, out of season”; nor does he “reprove, rebuke, exhort” (2 Tim. 4:2), rather he adapts his message to the “itching ears” of his parishioners (v. 3). He forgets that “the message of Christ’s soon coming is designed to arouse men from their absorption in worldly things” (COL 228). A POSSIBLE ANSWER: We need to be especially careful because the negative nature of a delay tends to lure us into lethargy or complacency and further, a lack of conviction that would normally propel the steward to be a watchful, accountable and a faithful overseer who manages that which is within and his/her sphere of responsibility. This deception blinds us to the fact that there is coming a day of reckoning when we shall have to give strict account of the total stewardship of our time, talent, treasure and temple.

Tuesday Stewards of the Mysteries of God January 30

Read Colossians 2:2, 3 and 1 Timothy 3:16. What do these texts identify as a “mystery”?

Colossians 2:2, 3 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 2. Hearts. Here meaning the seat of the emotions and of the intellect. Paul wished the whole personality to be satisfied with abiding peace and assurance (cf. on Eph. 6:22). Comforted. Gr. parakaleō, “to comfort,” “to exhort,” “to cheer,” “to encourage.” Knit together. Gr. sumbibazō, “to bring together,” “to unite.” Paul desired them to maintain their unity and stability in affectionate regard one for the other, and for God. Compare Eph. 4:16; Col. 2:19. Riches of the full assurance. Or, “wealth of the firm persuasion.” Compare 1 Thess. 1:5; Heb. 6:11; 10:22. As believers learn the deeper truths of God’s teaching, their assurance becomes firmer. When Christians truly know the Lord’s ways, they cannot but trust. And this trust is based on understanding. Acknowledgement. Gr. epignōsis, “precise knowledge,” “full knowledge.” Compare Eph. 1:17. Mystery. Gr. mustērion (see on Rom. 11:25). And of the Father. Textual evidence is divided (cf. p. 10) among a number of variant readings for the remainder of this verse, but favors the view that “Christ” is in apposition with “the mystery of God” (cf. ch. 1:26, 27), thus reading “mystery of God, even Christ.” This mystery concerning Christ embraces His incarnation and personal ministry (1 Tim. 3:16). It also includes the further purpose of the incarnation in making it possible for all who believe, including Gentiles, to become members of the mystic body of Christ, His church (Rom. 11:25; Eph. 3:4–6). The proclamation of this good news to the world—that all have an opportunity of salvation through the exercise of personal faith in a Saviour who died for all—is a necessary part of making known this mystery (Eph. 6:19). 3. Are hid. Or, “are stored away.” In Christ, in His office and function, in His person and ministry, in the fact that He is both Son of God and Son of man, are embedded the details of the mystery of God. He is the source as He is the treasure house of the

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 6 blessings of God. Paul desired to lift the minds of the Colossian Christians above and beyond mere human ideas to God’s Son and the eternal virtues and verities revealed in Him. In Christ may be discovered all that God purposes to reveal in blessing for humanity. Why, then, should the Colossians give ear to human speculations (see on v. 4)? All the treasures. Jesus is the mine from which all true riches come. To those who receive Him, He gives truth in its fullness. Other teachers have given partial and obscure glimmerings of knowledge, but in Christ, the living Word, resides the essential knowledge. See COL 104–114. Wisdom and knowledge. Christ is the treasure house of divine wisdom and knowledge (see 1 Cor. 1:22, 24; Eph. 3:9–11). Those who receive Jesus have come to the source of all they need for this life and for the hereafter.

1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory. 16. Without controversy. Literally, “by common consent.” Many commentators believe this verse refers to a well-known hymm of the earth church. Mystery. See 1 Tim. 3:9; see on Rom. 11:25. “The mystery of godliness” (1 Tim. 3:15) is the basis for every hope and the source of all comfort. Godliness. See on ch. 2:2. The triumph of God’s grace over the forces of evil in a man’s life will always be cause for wonder and gratitude. God. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “he who.” The reference is clearly to Jesus, in and through whom the divine secret has been revealed. Manifest. See on John 1:14. In the flesh. Jesus Christ, though possessing “all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” (see on Col. 2:9), divested Himself of His heavenly prerogatives (see on Phil. 2:5–8) and lived in the sphere of men, even to the possession of a human body (see on 1 Tim. 2:5). For a discussion of Christ’s human nature see Vol. V, p. 917. Justified. Gr. dikaioō, “to be declared righteous.” For a discussion of Christ as the “Just One” see on Acts 7:52. Christ was declared righteous because He was sinless (see on John 8:46). Men are declared righteous when they seek His imputed righteousness (see on Rom. 4:25). In the Spirit. Or, “in spirit,” that is, with respect to spiritual things. The Saviour faced life with a spirit of complete dedication to the will of God, and it was this attitude that kept Him from sin. Christ came to be man’s substitute, and it was His record as a human being that proved God altogether just in His requirements and in His judgements. See on angels. That is, every phase of Christ’s earthly life, from birth to resurrection and ascension, was viewed by the angels. They were witnesses to His perfection of character and utter selflessness (see Matt. 4:11; Luke 2:9–15; 22:43; Heb. 1:6). Gentiles. That is, the nations, to whom the Lord Himself had commanded the apostles to go (see Matt. 28:18–20; Acts 1:8). Believed. Paul here chronologically traces the success of Christ’s mission from the incarnation to His favorable reception in the hearts of sincere men. Paul thus attests the rapid progress of the gospel into all the known world (see on Col. 1:23). Received up. Gr. analambanō. The same word is used in the ascension narrative (Mark 16:19; Acts 1:2, 11, 22). Into glory. Literally, “in glory,” that is, the reception that welcomed Jesus when He ascended to heaven was glorious. A POSSIBLE ANSWER: This mystery concerning Christ embraces His incarnation and personal ministry (1 Tim. 3:16). It also includes the further purpose of the incarnation in making it possible for all who believe, including Gentiles, to become members of the mystic body of Christ, His church (Rom. 11:25; Eph. 3:4–6). (Ibid, above) What does the fact that it is a “mystery” say to us about the limits of what we can know about it? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: It says that... 1) Help outside of ourselves as in the Divine help is needed. 2) We are limited within our humanity to know that which God has full understanding of. 3) The limits relate to our human comprehension, personal acumen, individual growth and experiential development. 4) There may be a time when one may come to an increased knowledge... as well as we may never achieve that since God is God and that which is a result of His creative works and thoughts may always be outside of our reach.

Zophar the Naamathite says to Job, “Can you fathom the mysteries of God?” (Job 11:7, NIV). The word “mystery” means puzzling, obscure, unknown, unexplained, or incomprehensible. The mysteries of God have been recorded in Scripture, even though understanding them fully is still beyond our comprehension. That’s why they are mysteries. It is like each of us is a nearsighted person looking into the heavens, hoping to see the smallest detail. We can’t see that far unless God reveals it to us.

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What does Deuteronomy 29:29 say about what is revealed to us?

Deuteronomy 29:29 “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. 29. The secret things. Many commentators, including Jewish, have applied these words to secret sins, known only to God, as in Ps. 19:12. The parallel expression, however, “those things which are revealed,” that is, “unto us,” implies that the “secret things” are things God has not seen fit to reveal. Man cannot fathom the inner counsels of the Almighty. They are His. The things He has revealed, of law and life, are ours to contemplate. In the Scriptures we have the revealed will of God; it is all ours. A POSSIBLE ANSWER: It says that what is revealed is for our contemplation and by inference, for our enlightenment and betterment... yes salvation.

We are stewards of things that we do not fully understand. We know only as much as revelation and Scripture reveal. Our greatest stewardship is to live “as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1, NKJV). God wants us, as His stewards, to preserve, teach, protect, and care for divine truth that He has revealed. How we do this is the ultimate stewardship, and it means we are “holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience” (1 Tim. 3:9, NKJV). The greatest of all mysteries is that we all can experience Christ, the “hope of glory.” The plan of salvation is supernatural and impossible for us to understand fully. That the Creator of all that was made (John 1:1-3) would come down to this earth and be “manifested in the flesh” (Ellen G. White, Manuscript Releases, vol. 6, p. 112 ) only to offer Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, entails mysteries that will probably never be fully comprehended by any of the creation. Even angels study to understand the mystery of why Jesus came to earth (1 Pet. 1:12). Nevertheless, what they do know causes us all to praise the Lord for His glory and goodness (see Rev. 5:13).

You have been called to be a steward of the gospel. What responsibilities does that automatically mean you have? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Responsibilities as in... Knowing what is truth, carrying out the will of God within our sphere of operation and giftedness and lastly, preserving, maintaining and sharing that which God has entrusted to us.

Wednesday Stewards of Spiritual Truth January 31

When we think of stewardship, we think of tangibles and rightly so. But as we have now seen, stewardship goes beyond that. Like tangible possessions, intangible gifts come from God as well. These intangibles are spiritual possessions that God gives to us (1 Pet. 4:10 ) so that we can, in Christ, develop Christian characters and become the people we can be in Him. Thus, we must manage intangible gifts even more carefully than tangible ones, because they are infinitely more valuable. Read Ephesians 6:13-17. What have we been given by God that we are to be stewards of?

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 8 Ephesians 6:13-17 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 13. Wherefore. That is, because of the nature of the conflict described in v. 12. Take unto you. The whole armor of God is available for use, and the Christian is urged to put it on. As an army must be fully equipped before it enters the field, so the Christian must be prepared with every spiritual defense before doing battle with the devil; otherwise he will suffer certain defeat. Whole armour. See on v. 11. A half-armed soldier may well pay for his rashness. He goes out with a false sense of security, and the enemy is sure to seek out his unprotected parts. The Christian is vulnerable at many spots, and often that characteristic he thinks is his strongest turns out, under temptation, to be his weakest. As a chain is no stronger than its weakest link, so the Christian is no stronger than his weakest element of character. In view of the variety of foes that must be met and the various weaknesses of the flesh, nothing less than the entire armor will suffice. Evil day. Some have applied this to the last great conflict of the church with the forces of evil. The definite article lends support to this idea. Others apply the term “evil day” more generally to any day when the battle is especially fierce. Having done all. This probably refers to having done all things by way of preparation for the conflict. Some apply it to the Christian’s having done his best during the struggle. Trust in God never deprives one of the privilege of exerting his own God-given powers to the utmost. Although it is true that the battle will never be won without God’s armor and power, neither will it be won without the cooperation of the human with the divine (see MB 142). To stand. The Christian can rest in assurance if he has done his best, by the grace of God. 14. Stand therefore. The order in which the pieces of armor are given is probably the order in which a Roman soldier would put them on; thus there is a logical sequence of ideas. The metaphor is a magnificent climax to one of the most profound writings ever penned. Girt about. The girdle about the loins held together the soldier’s garments that might otherwise hamper his movements. Truth. That is, truth in the abstract, as indicated by the absence of the article in the Greek. The truth spoken of here is more than personal honesty; it is the truth of God as it is lodged in the heart, appropriated, and acted upon. ... Breastplate. Compare Isa. 59:17; 1 Thess. 5:8. As the breastplate covers the heart of the soldier, righteousness preserves the life of the believer, and protects the “vital organs” of spiritual life. Righteousness. Some apply this to the righteousness of Christ that covers the child of God; others, to the Christian’s personal loyalty to principle. Both are essential for successful warfare, and Paul probably had both in mind. For a definition of righteousness see on Rom. 1:17. 15. Feet shod. The legs of the Roman soldier were covered by greaves, with sandals on the feet. This was necessary in order that his movements over rough ground should not be impeded. If he was to be able to stand the assault, he must have a sure footing. Preparation. Or, “preparedness.” In Paul’s figure the sandals apparently served to enable the wearer to stand firm rather than to run. The picture is therefore not parallel with that in Isa. 52:7. Gospel of peace. In Isa. 52:7 and Rom. 10:15 the “feet” and the proclamation of the “gospel of peace” are closely linked, suggesting action, the bearing of the message of good news. In this verse, however, the idea seems to be that of steadfastness in the Christian warfare. Hence the gospel, in this instance, is not so much the gospel to be proclaimed, but the gospel that has found lodgment in the heart of the Christian. It is a beautiful and encouraging thought that the warrior in the midst of spiritual conflict can stand firm in peace. He has peace with God (Rom. 5:1). Essentially, the gospel is the good news that men need not die, and that is a welcome word to the warrior facing relentless foes. He stands firm on the knowledge of Christ incarnate, crucified, risen, ascended—the heart of the gospel, and the reason for peace. 16. Above all. Rather, “in addition to all.” Important textual evidence is divided (cf. p. 10) between this and the reading “in all.” The shield. The Roman shield was a large oblong shield made of wood covered with leather. It measured about four feet by two and a half, large enough to cover the body. Faith. “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). This faith is active, like the shield that is raised to catch the fiery darts; it is also passive in that it trusts in God for deliverance. Under the impact of temptation of any kind it is faith that restores confidence and enables one to carry on the battle. Moreover, “without faith it is impossible to please him” (Heb. 11:6). Quench. Faith stops the arrows of temptation before they become sin in the soul. Temptations and all assaults of the enemy are to be encountered before they reach the vulnerable parts of the spiritual body. Fiery darts. Ancient arrows sometimes had combustible materials, such as tow and pitch, ignited on the head of the shaft so as to set fire to whatever they hit. This is an appropriate image for the fiery temptations that come to the child of God. They may take the form of fear, discouragement, impatience, unholy thoughts, envy, anger, or any other vice. But faith in God, held aloft like a shield, catches them, snuffs out the flame, and makes them fall harmless to the ground. The wicked. That is, the wicked one, or the evil one, the devil, who is the leader of the assaulting armies. 17. Helmet. The head needs special protection as being a most vital part, the seat of the will and the intelligence. Salvation. In

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1 Thess. 5:8 the helmet is called the hope of salvation. Salvation is past, present, and future (see on Rom. 8:24). Sword of the Spirit. The other parts of the armor are defensive only, whereas this is both defensive and offensive. Word. Gr. rhēma, indicating something uttered or spoken (see on ch. 5:26). The phrase, “word of God,” must not be limited to the words of Scripture that then existed. When this epistle was written, the NT Scriptures were being produced. It is with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, that the Christian cuts his way through all circumstances. 18. Praying always. Literally, “praying in every season,” or “on every occasion.” Compare the injunction to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). Prayer is not another weapon; rather, it is the spirit, the manner, in which the whole armor is to be worn and the battle fought. Paul is here urging it as a perpetual state of mind, a continuous attitude of communion with God (see Luke 18:1; Phil. 4:6; Heb. 4:16). All prayer and supplication. These two words also occur together in Phil. 4:6; 1 Tim. 2:1; 5:5 In Phil. 4:6, thanksgiving as well as supplication is added to prayer. Gratitude and intercession are two most important elements in prevailing prayer. In the Spirit. See on Rom. 8:26, 27. Even though we have the best of intentions, our prayers often reveal our poor judgment, hidden prejudices, and sheer ignorance of what is best for us. There are few who cannot look back and thank God that the Holy Spirit revised their prayers, as it were; noted the intention, and presented them to God in such a form that He could answer them. How often has time revealed to us the utter foolishness of some of our praying, and how grateful we are that we never received some things we asked for! Perseverance. Perseverance in prayer is not for the purpose, by sheer persistence, of making God change His mind, in some such fashion as a begging child finally extracts what he wants from an unwilling parent. Perseverance in prayer, however, clearly indicates on the part of the suppliant a state of mind that gives God an opportunity to do things He could not safely do for him otherwise (see on Luke 18:1–8). For all saints. Literally, “concerning all the saints.” The saints are to be mutually supported by prayer and fellowship. It is impossible for one to be “in Christ” (see on ch. 1:1) without sharing the common sufferings of the saints and holding them up in prayer (see 1 Peter 5:9). Possibly the aging apostle, in bonds in Rome, thinks with more urgency on the communion of the saints in view of the request he is about to make Eph. 6:19). A POSSIBLE ANSWER: What we have been given at stewards is that of an intangible armor which is to safeguard something of grater importance... our redemption and salvation. All of which is experienced in our bodies... hence the identification of the word of God and the functional embellishment of body parts like the chest, waist, feet, head. Why is the proper management of these things so crucial to us? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Because it is a part of our defense system and has a direct impact on the quality and longevity of our lives. They are vital parts of the body and are intricately needed in the carrying out of God’s will. The lack thereof can cost us our salvation. “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23, NKJV). The world, and all that it offers, cannot offer us the redemption that we have in Christ. (A POSSIBLE ANSWER Continued: ) Redemption, a gift God gives to us, is our most valuable possession. Keeping the reality of this redemption always before us helps us maintain perspective in our stewardship of other possessions given to us from God as well. “Only in the light that shines from Calvary can nature’s teaching be read aright. Through the story of Bethlehem and the cross let it be shown how good is to conquer evil, and how every blessing that comes to us is a gift of redemption.” - Ellen G. White, Education , p. 101 . Redemption is ours only because Jesus paid the ultimate price. Paul clearly states, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Eph. 1:7, NKJV). The words “we have” mean that we have “redemption.” It is ours, but only because God has given it to us. How crucial, then, that we keep on “the whole armor of God” (Eph. 6:11, NKJV), in order that the evil one doesn’t come and take it away. For the only way he can do this is if we allow him to, which will happen only if we don’t obey what is revealed to us in “the word of God” (Eph. 6:17). Our greatest protection is by obeying, in faith, the light we have

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 10 been given. Read again Ephesians 6:13-17. How do we put on the armor of God, and in what ways are we stewards of all that we have been given in that armor? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: We put on the armor of God by knowing, accepting and practicing the truth while living it out in our lives. We are stewards of the armor in that we are expected to preserve it, use it and share it with others. Lastly, we demonstrate that by being responsible and accountable to the owner who made it available for our use and blessing.

Thursday Our Responsibility as Stewards February 1 Wise stewards are defined by their willingness to accept and execute the moral principle of personal responsibility. Acceptance of personal responsibility is the choice we make and the actions we take. It recognizes the relationship between cause and effect. Willingness to accept personal responsibility is a key trait that cannot be ignored when we define what a steward is, for stewards must be single-minded in having the best interest of the Owner at heart. Hence, such willingness is a choice that defines the desired relationship a steward has with God. “God desires to bring men into direct relation with Himself. In all His dealings with human beings He recognizes the principle of personal responsibility. He seeks to encourage a sense of personal dependence and to impress the need of personal guidance. His gifts are committed to men as individuals. Every man has been made a steward of sacred trusts; each is to discharge his trust according to the direction of the Giver; and by each an account of his stewardship must be rendered to God.” - Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church , vol. 7, p. 176 . When we become stewards, we will not shift our responsibility to another individual or to an organization. Our personal responsibility is to God and will be reflected in all of our interactions with those around us (Gen. 39:9; see also Dan. 3:16). We will embrace the task at hand to the best of our abilities. Success in God’s eyes will depend more on our faith and on our purity than on intelligence and talent. Read 2 Corinthians 5:10. How do we understand these words in the context of what it means to be a wise steward?

2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 10. For we must. The conjunction “for” connects this verse with what has gone before. Anticipation of being called upon to stand before God on the great judgment day was one of Paul’s reasons for seeking so earnestly to be found acceptable before God. Faithfully and selflessly he purposed to discharge the trust committed to him as an ambassador for Christ. Those for whom the solemnity of that day has reality will ever be diligent and serious in seeking to make God first and to please Him in their daily lives. The final judgment is necessary to the vindication of God’s character and justice (Ps. 51:4; Rom. 2:5; 3:26). In the present earthly state the best of men are often most afflicted, while the worst of men may prosper (Ps. 37:35–39; cf. Rev. 6:9–11). The character of God requires that in the end it shall be well with them that do good, and ill with them that do evil. This state of affairs does not now exist, and therefore there must be a day when the wrongs of the present time are made right. It is also necessary in order that Christ may triumph over the prince of darkness and his followers (Isa. 45:23; Rom. 14:10, 11; Phil. 2:10; GC 666–671), and that Christ may take to Himself that which He has purchased with His own blood (Heb. 2:11–13; cf. John 14:1–3). Appear. Gr. phaneroō, “to make manifest,” “to make visible,” “to make known,” “to show openly,” “to make public.” This word occurs nine times in 2 Corinthians. On that great day men will not only put in an appearance at the bar of justice, but will stand revealed as to what manner of persons they are. The secrets of their lives will be made bare (Eccl. 12:14; Rom. 2:16; 1 Cor. 4:5). All will have a fair hearing (cf. Jude 15). No man will be judged in his absence, or by proxy (Rom. 14:12; cf. James 2:12, 13).

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Judgment seat. Gr. bēma, “a raised platform,” from which a formal Roman trial was conducted. Christ is to be the final judge (Matt. 11:27; John 5:22–27; Acts 17:31; 1 Peter 4:5). He is particularly fitted for this task. He is the world’s Creator and its Redeemer. It is a most awesome thought that our Saviour is to be our judge. He took upon Him the nature of those who will come before His bar of justice (Phil. 2:6–8), those whose destiny He will decide. He suffered every temptation to which they have been subjected (Heb. 2:14–17; 4:15). He stood in man’s place. In Christ divine wisdom is combined with human experience. His understanding and insight are infinite (Heb. 4:13). In Christ the righteousness of God has been united with that of a perfect Man. In His role as “Judge of all,” God the Father is united with Christ (Heb. 12:23, 24), and is seen by John the revelator upon a “great white throne” at the end of the thousand years (Rev. 20:11, 12). Receive. Gr. komizō, “to receive as a reward,” “to care for,” “to carry away.” Good or bad, men’s deeds are recorded in heaven (Eccl. 12:13, 14; cf. Eph. 6:8; Col. 3:25; 1 Tim. 6:19). In his body. That is, in this life (see on v. 6). Obviously, probation is here limited to man’s existence in this present world and terminates with the dissolution of the body (v. 1). According to. A man’s deeds will be compared with the great standard of conduct, the law of God (Eccl. 12:13, 14; Rom. 2:12, 13; James 1:25; 2:10–12). In the final judgment there will be no vague standard of righteousness, and thus no chance to escape a just recompense by a belated appeal to divine mercy (Gal. 6:7; Rev. 22:12). A POSSIBLE ANSWER: We understand these words to say that anticipation of being called upon to stand before God on the great judgment day is reason for seeking so earnestly to be found acceptable before God. We should faithfully and selflessly purpose to discharge the trust committed to us as an ambassadors for Christ. Those for whom the solemnity of that day has reality will ever be diligent and serious in seeking to make God first and to please Him in their daily lives. (Ibid: modified, above). Theologians and philosophers have for centuries debated the difficult question of free will. But the Scripture is clear: we as human beings do have free will and free choice. The idea of being judged by our deeds makes no sense otherwise. Hence, we do have a personal responsibility, by the grace of God, to choose to make the right decisions in all that we do, which includes being faithful stewards of all our Master’s goods.

Friday Further Thought: February 2

The word translated as “steward” in a few Old Testament texts comes, not from a single word but from a phrase: asher al bayt, the “one who is on or over a house.” For example, Genesis 43:19 can be translated: “When they drew near to the steward of Joseph’s house, they talked with him at the door of the house” (NKJV). If one considers that the family that resides in the house is part of the house itself, then what is more valuable to a person than their own home? Hence, a steward is someone being entrusted with something very valuable that, nevertheless, does not belong to him. In many ways, that makes the responsibility even greater than it would be if the steward were in charge of his or her own possessions. This same idea is continued in the New Testament as well. “The NT takes OT ideas and joins them with first-century ideas, concepts, and words, thus enriching and enlarging the biblical teaching on stewardship. The most common Greek words used in relationship with stewardship are derived from oikos and oikia, ‘house.’ The oikonomos is one who keeps the house: the steward or manager. Oikonomia is the abstract noun, ‘management of the house,’ the meaning of which is often much broader.” - Handbook of Seventh-day Adventist Theology (Hagerstown, Md.: Review and Herald Publishing Association, 2000), p. 653.

http://www.drcolinadunbar.com/1st-qrt-2018-sabbath-school-lessons.html 12 Discussion Questions:

1 Instead of taking responsibility for eating the forbidden fruit, what did Adam say to God when asked about what he had done? Gen. 3:12. How interesting that one of the earliest human responses brought about by sin is to seek to shift the blame from oneself to another. What does his response say about his willingness to accept personal responsibility for his actions? What should it tell us about our own willingness as well? How can we learn to avoid the common trait of blaming others for our mistakes? 2 In class, dwell more on the idea of being stewards of things that are not tangible but spiritual. What does that mean? How do we “manage” these things? 3 Think about the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14:6-12. What important truths are expressed there of which we have been given the responsibility to be stewards? 4 Why is it so important for us to learn to trust in and believe in spiritual things that we don’t fully understand? In what worldly ways do we do that all the time anyway?

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