Vol. 51, No. 1

Your Passport to Heaven \ Don’t Say Cheese! \ Why Thorns & Thistles? Volume 51, Number 1

In this issue

Digging Into Doctrine • Your Passport to Heaven The standard is high, yet the power is assured! 4

Good News • Why Thorns & Thistles Obstacles and challenges are often given in love for our benefi t. 7 • Dead Delightfully Doing Their Duty Our life must be cast into the furrow of the world’s need. 10

The Prophetic Word • Expanding Jerusalem’s Border A great divine plan— a tremendous opportunity! 14

Character Builder • Order God’s methodical creation tells us much about His character. 17

Home & Family • Leave Your Baggage at the Gate Offi cial Church Publication of the The door shuts behind you; Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement the smile opens! 21 “The age in which we live calls for reformatory action.” —Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 488.

Editor D. Sureshkumar To Your Health! • Don’t Say Cheese! Assistant to the Editor B. Monteiro Unfi t for food—why? 23 Creative Services D. Lee THE REFORMATION HERALD® (ISSN 0482-0843) features articles on Bible doctrine that will enrich the spiritual life of those who seek to know more about God. It is published bimonthly by Meet Today’s Reformers • Why Rebaptism? the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Confer- Sometimes there are lost sheep in Israel. ence, P. O. Box 7240, Roanoke, VA 24019-0240, U.S.A. Web: http://www.sdarm.org Are you one? 28 e-mail: [email protected] Printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing As- sociation. Manuscripts, inquiries, address changes, subscrip- • SDARM World News tions, payments, and donations should be mailed to the address 30 below. Periodical postage paid at Roanoke, Virginia 24022. Subscription rates: United States US $14.95 Children’s Corner • Chameleon Christians 32 Foreign (air mail) US $20.00 Single issue US $ 3.50

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Vol. 51, No. 1; Copyright © 2010 January–February Issue; Illustrations: 123RF on pp. 7, 32; Advent Digital Media on p. 12; Getty Images on pp. 2, 4, 14,18, 20, 27–31; SermonView.com on front cover and pp. 2, 6, 10, 14, 17–21; Dreamstime elsewhere unless specifi ed. Editorial Light-Emitting

only a glimmer of light here and there. Our Instructor said: ‘This darkness is Love the result of men’s following their own A spiritual parallel course. They have cherished hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. They Just as natural bioluminescence is have made questioning and faultfi nd- remarkable because of its light-emit- ing and accusing the chief business of here exists in ting ability, the people of God on this their lives. Their hearts are not right nature an intrigu- sin-darkened planet are uniquely called with God. They have hidden their light ing phenomenon known as to be “the light of the world” (Mat- under a bushel.’ “bioluminescence.” The name thew 5:14). As we will see in this issue “If every soldier of Christ had done is derived from “bios,” meaning of the Reformation Herald, according his duty, if every watchman on the “living,” and “lumen” meaning to Deuteronomy 7:6–8; 10:15, this is walls of Zion had given the trumpet a T“light.” This unusual quality possessed neither due to any innate superiority in certain sound, the world might ere this by light-emitting forms of life exists in them nor partiality on the part of God. have heard the message of warning. But certain fl ora and fauna such as fi refl ies, Rather it is a calling based on a need. the work is years behind. While men glowworms, and foxfi re fungi. In this dark era of earth’s history, while have slept, Satan has stolen a march The need for this extraordinary moral decadence prevails, we are called upon us. “glowing” appears to be much greater to develop holiness of character and “Putting our trust in God, we are to in places where life exists in the midst moral perfection, developed by obedi- move steadily forward, doing His work of darkness. For example, although ence to the Creator’s will and ways. with unselfi shness, in humble depen- the fi refl y lives in areas with a typical “Let us relate ourselves to God in dence upon Him, . . . remembering day/night ratio, this bioluminescent self-denying, self-sacrifi cing obedience. that it is not because of our worthi- creature only begins to emit light after Faith in Christ always leads to willing, ness that we receive the blessings of sunset. Likewise, the various forms cheerful obedience. . . . There is to be heaven, but because of the worthiness of marine life believed to produce perfect conformity, in thought, word, of Christ, and our acceptance, through some type of bioluminescence usually and deed, to the will of God. Heaven is faith in Him, of God’s abounding consist of species native to the dark- only for those who have purifi ed their grace.”2 est depths of the sea, where very little souls through obedience to the truth.”1 sunlight penetrates. The glimmer of hope in deepest Two maps in vision darkness The servant of the Lord describes an “The last rays of merciful light, the interesting vision of a map of the world. last message of mercy to be given to This map represented God’s vineyard to the world, is a revelation of His char- be cultivated, and all who received light acter of love. The children of God are from heaven were to refl ect it to others. to manifest His glory. In their own life The description is as follows: and character they are to reveal what “I saw jets of light shining from the grace of God has done for them.”3 cities and villages, and from the high Indeed, through the love of Christ places and the low places of the earth. shining in our hearts and radiating out- God’s word was obeyed, and as a result ward, our life can actually “glow in the there were memorials for Him in every dark”! This spiritual bioluminescence city and village. His truth was pro- will radiate to outshine the bleakest claimed throughout the world. midnight. R “Then this map was removed and References another put in its place. On it light was 1 Bible Training School, February 1, 1905. shining from a few places only. The 2 Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 28, 29. rest of the world was in darkness, with 3 Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 415, 416.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 3 Digging Into Doctrine

Your Passport to Heaven

Compiled from the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, with comments by Michel-Ange F. Ducheine

A passport is a most-needed docu- acter building is the most important work ment to travel to a foreign country. It ever entrusted to human beings; and contains valuable personal information never before was its diligent study so relating to your identity, including your important as now.”2 full name, your age, your nationality, “The work of forming and your photograph. There are differ- ent types of passports. This very idea of having a valid travel document for a voyage is heaven-born: “All the angels that are commissioned to visit the earth hold a golden card, which they present to the angels at the gates of the [Holy City] as they pass in and out.”1 Since we have been invited to take a trip to Heaven, let’s consider the kind of passport we need for that very special odyssey. A most important work The annals of history are full of names of great men and women who have con- [a good tributed immensely to humanity in every character] is the noblest in discipline of art and science. Such men which men can engage.”3 and women have inspired generations Why is such a work so important? after them to dream big and to cherish the Christ expects us to be perfect, even as our desire of doing some great work and thus Father which is in heaven is perfect (Mat- leaving a legacy to humanity. But what is thew 5:48). “God will accept only the most important and noble work we those who are determined to can ever perform? What is the best legacy aim high. He places every we can present to the world? human agent under The Bible thus entreats us “Keep thy obligation to do heart with all diligence; for out of it are his best. Moral the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23). “Char- perfection is

4 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 required of all. Never should we lower overcome. The real diffi culty arises the building is wrong. In our character the standard of righteousness in order from the corruption of an unsanctifi ed building, cracks are often seen. Unless to accommodate inherited or cultivated heart, and an unwillingness to submit these defects are remedied, the house tendencies to wrongdoing. . . . We need to to the control of God.”7 will fall when the tempest of trial beats understand that imperfection of character upon it. is sin. All righteous attributes of character God’s building “God gives us strength, reasoning dwell in God as a perfect, harmonious “You cannot build your character power, time, in order that we may whole, and everyone who receives Christ as a yourself. You must unite with the divine build characters on which He can place personal Saviour is privileged to possess these Builder. Said Paul, ‘According to the His stamp of approval. He desires each attributes.”4 grace of God which is given unto me, child of His to build a noble character, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid by the doing of pure, noble deeds, that No easy task the foundation, and another buildeth in the end he may present a symmetri- Jesus plainly taught that the task of thereon. But let every man take heed cal structure, a fair temple, honored by forming perfect character is not an easy how he buildeth thereupon. For other man and God. one. He illustrated this point with the foundation can no man lay than that is “In our character building we must following description: “From the days of laid, which is Jesus Christ.’ Let no man build on Christ. He is the sure founda- John the Baptist until now the kingdom suppose that he is appointed to be a tion—a foundation which can never be of heaven suffereth violence, and the foundation upon which other human moved. The tempest of temptation and violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12). beings are to build. Every human being trial cannot move the building which is “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for is to erect his building upon the sure riveted to the Eternal Rock. many, I say unto you, will seek to enter foundation, Jesus Christ. ‘Now if any “He who would grow into a beauti- in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24). man build upon this foundation gold, ful building for the Lord must cultivate “Christ has given us no assurance silver, precious stones, wood, hay, every power of the being. It is only that to attain perfection of character is stubble; every man’s work shall be made by the right use of the talents that the an easy matter. A noble, all-round char- manifest: for the day shall declare it, be- character can develop harmoniously. acter is not inherited. It does not come cause it shall be revealed by fi re; and the Thus we bring to the foundation that to us by accident. A noble character is fi re shall try every man’s work of what which is represented in the Word as earned by individual effort through the sort it is’ (1 Corinthians 3:10–13).”8 gold, silver, precious stones—material merits and grace of Christ. God gives that will stand the test of God’s purify- the talents, the powers of the mind; The building material ing fi res. In our character building we form the character. “It is formed by Every good foreman always looks Christ is our example.”10 hard, stern battles with self. Confl ict for the best material available in the ”It makes every difference what mate- after confl ict must be waged against construction. The Bible clearly points rial is used in the character building. The hereditary tendencies. We shall have out what we should seek for a last- long-expected day of God will soon test to criticize ourselves closely, and allow ing character building (1 Corinthians every man’s work. ‘The fi re shall try every not one unfavorable trait to remain 3:12–15). man’s work of what sort it is’ (1 Corin- uncorrected.”5 “In every generation and in every thians 3:13). As fi re reveals the differ- “Wrongs cannot be righted, nor land the true foundation for charac- ence between gold, silver, and precious can reformations in conduct be made ter building has been the same—the stones and wood, hay, and stubble, so by a few feeble, intermittent efforts. principles contained in the word of the day of judgment will test characters, Character building is the work, not of a God. The only safe and sure rule is to showing the difference between charac- day, nor of a year, but of a lifetime. The do what God says. ‘The statutes of the ters formed after Christ’s likeness and struggle for conquest over self, for holi- Lord are right,’ and ‘he that doeth these characters formed after the likeness of ness and heaven, is a lifelong struggle. things shall never be moved’ (Psalms the selfi sh heart. All selfi shness, all false Without continual effort and constant 19:8; 15:5). It was with the word of religion, will then appear as it is. The activity, there can be no advancement God that the apostles met the false worthless material will be consumed; in the divine life, no attainment of the theories of their day, saying, ‘Other but the gold of true, simple, humble victor’s crown.”6 foundation can no man lay than that is faith will never lose its value. It can never Although this important work is laid’ (1 Corinthians 3:11).”9 be consumed, for it is imperishable. very diffi cult, it is not impossible, for “God expects us to build characters One hour of transgression will be seen “with God all things are possible” in accordance with the pattern set to be a great loss, while the fear of the (Matthew 19:26). “Let no one say, I before us. We are to lay brick by brick, Lord will be seen to be the beginning of cannot remedy my defects of character. adding grace to grace, fi nding our weak wisdom. The pleasure of self-indulgence If you come to this decision, you will points and correcting them in accor- will perish as stubble, while the gold of certainly fail of obtaining everlasting dance with the directions given. When steadfast principle, maintained at any life. The impossibility lies in your own a crack is seen in the walls of a man- cost, will endure forever.”11 will. If you will not, then you can not sion, we know that something about

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 5 Admittance to Heaven “John saw a Lamb on Mount Zion, and with Him 144,000 having His Father’s name written in their fore- heads. They bore the signet of heaven. 3. THE KNOWL- They refl ected the image of God. They EDGE OF CHRIST: were full of the light and the glory of Jeremiah 22:15, 16; the Holy One. If we would have the Psalm 119: 142, 160; image and superscription of God upon 1 John 5:17; 2: 3, 4. us, we must separate ourselves from “In His prayer to the all iniquity. We must forsake every evil Father, Christ gave to the way, and then we must trust our cases world a lesson which should be in the hands of Christ. While we are graven on mind and soul. ‘This is life working out our own salvation with eternal,’ He said, ‘that they might know fear and trembling, God will work in The best material Thee the only true God, and Jesus us to will and to do of His own good “Do not permit upon your tables the Christ, whom Thou hast sent’ (John pleasure.”18 magazines and newspapers in which are 17:3). This is true education. It imparts “A character formed according to found love stories. Supply their place power. The experimental knowledge of the divine likeness is the only treasure with books that will help the youth to God and of Jesus Christ whom He has that we can take from this world to the put into their character building the sent, transforms man into the image of next. Those who are under the instruc- very best material—the love and fear of God. It gives to man the mastery of him- tion of Christ in this world will take God, the knowledge of Christ.”12 self, bringing every impulse and passion every divine attainment with them to of the lower nature under the control of the heavenly mansions. And in heaven 1. THE LOVE OF GOD: 1 JOHN 5:3. the higher powers of the mind. It makes we are continually to improve. How “Obedience to the laws of God its possessor a son of God and an heir of important, then, is the development of develops in man a beautiful character heaven. It brings him into communion character in this life.”19 that is in harmony with all that is pure with the mind of the Infi nite, and opens “Let your souls answer the ques- and holy and undefi led. In the life of to him the rich treasures of the universe. tion, Does my character correspond to such a man the message of the gospel “This is the knowledge which is the qualifi cations essential that I may of Christ is made clear. Accepting obtained by searching the word of God. receive a passport to the mansions the mercy of Christ and His healing And this treasure may be found by every Christ has prepared for those who from the power of sin, he is brought soul who will give all to obtain it.”15 are fi tted for them? Holiness must be into right relation with God. His life, inwrought in our character.”20 R cleansed from vanity and selfi shness, The greatest testimony References is fi lled with the love of God. His daily “To whom God would make known 1 Early Writings, p. 39. obedience to the law of God obtains what is the riches of the glory of this 2 Education, p. 225. for him a character that assures him mystery among the Gentiles; which 3 Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 657. eternal life in the kingdom of God.”13 is Christ in you, the hope of glory” 4 Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 330 (emphasis sup- (Colossians 1:27). plied). 5 2. THE FEAR OF GOD: PROVERBS “Transformation of character is the Ibid., p. 331. 6 The Ministry of Healing, p. 452. 8:13. testimony to the world of an indwelling 7 Christ ‘s Object Lessons, p. 331. “With the peace and joy of those Christ. The Spirit of God produces a new 8 Manuscript Releases, vol. 21, pp. 398, 399. who . . . serve God, there is always life in the soul, bringing the thoughts 9 The Acts of the Apostles, p. 475. seen a godly fear. . . . This sancti- and desires into obedience to the will of 10 Child Guidance, pp. 165, 166. 11 fi ed fear is entirely proper. It is not a Christ; and the inward man is renewed The Review and Herald, December 11, 1900. 12 Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. servile, cowardly fear; it is a dread to in the image of God. Weak and erring 133 (emphasis supplied). do anything that Christ will not ap- men and women show to the world that 13 God’s Amazing Grace, p. 146. prove. This fear regulates the Christian the redeeming power of grace can cause 14 The Signs of the Times, September 22, 1898. experience. Those who feel it sanctify the faulty character to develop into sym- 15 Christ ‘s Object Lessons, p. 114. 16 the Lord in their hearts. They regard metry and abundant fruitfulness.”16 Prophets and Kings, p. 233. 17 Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 69. God with a reverence and love that “Christ is waiting with longing 18 The Review and Herald, March 19, 1889. leads to self-abasement. But their fear desire for the manifestation of Himself 19 Christ‘s Object Lessons, p. 332. is very different from the terror of a in His church. When the character of 20 Testimonies to Ministers, p. 446 (emphasis slave, who lives in expectation of the Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in supplied). lash. This genuine fear leads to fi rm His people, then He will come to claim reliance on God.”14 them as His own.”17

6 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 Good News

ll the objections tthathat sskepticsk infl icted brings no compensating hhaveave raraisedi to jus- benefi t.”1 tifytify theitheirr disbelief In other words, they assert that in a merciful,f loving, God either intended to produce omniscient, and omnipotent God, fl eas and fl ies, mosquitoes and Creator of heaven and earth, have lice, rats and mice, and many other been adequately answered by former plagues, or that He was unable to atheists. Here I just want to discuss prevent these evils. So they say that one of their arguments. they cannot believe in a God who is Skeptics and agnostic evolution- defi cient either in love and mercy or By A. Balbach ists say that belief in God faces an in knowledge and power. insurmountable problem. They Infi dels who stumble over this explain: seeming diffi culty ignore the teach- “Whoever contends that each ings of the Word of God. According kind of animal was especially de- to the Bible, the original creation signed must assert either that there of God was perfect. “God saw was a deliberate intention on the every thing that he had made, and, part of the Creator to produce these behold, it was very good” (Genesis results, or that there was an inabil- 1:31). There were no plagues, no ity [on His part] to prevent them. . pestilences, no scourges to affl ict . . Of all the animal kingdom as a humanity, beasts, or vegetation. But whole, more than half the species since humanity sided with Satan, are parasites. Thus we are brought opening the door for sin to enter to the contemplation of innumer- into the world, the entire human able cases in which the suffering race and its descendants must carry

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 7 the consequence of that wrong choice. there is none that doeth good, no, not ness and riches make the heart hard This is why there is a curse resting one. Their throat is an open sepulcher; that has never been oppressed by want upon this planet. God said to Adam: with their tongues they have used or burdened by sorrow. The love of “Because thou hast hearkened unto deceit; the poison of asps is under their pleasure was fostered by wealth and the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of lips: whose mouth is full of cursing and leisure, and the people gave themselves the tree, of which I commanded thee, bitterness: their feet are swift to shed up to sensual indulgence. ‘Behold,’ saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed blood: destruction and misery are in says the prophet, ‘this was the iniquity is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow their ways: and the way of peace have of thy sister Sodom, pride, fullness of shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy they not known: there is no fear of God bread, and abundance of idleness was life; thorns also and thistles shall it before their eyes” (Romans 3:12–18). in her and in her daughters, neither did bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat What would have happened to the she strengthen the hand of the poor the herb of the fi eld; in the sweat of human race if the downward road and needy. And they were haughty, and thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou which they chose to travel had been committed abomination before me: return unto the ground; for out of it left wide open and well paved, with- therefore I took them away as I saw wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and out any obstacles? Wouldn’t the Flood good’ (Ezekiel 16:49, 50).”2 unto dust shalt thou return” (Genesis have been sent to destroy them much 3:17–19). earlier? Wouldn’t Sodom and Go- The curse of ease and excess free The curse that the fi rst man brought morrah have sealed their doom long time upon himself, with so many “thorns before the days of Abraham? Wouldn’t “Idleness and riches make the heart and thistles,” has made it necessary the world be ripe for destruction many hard that has never been oppressed by for humanity to struggle for survival centuries ago? want or burdened by sorrow. . . . There on earth. The human race has to bear is nothing more desired among men all kinds of hardships as long as “the What foundation was laid in the than riches and leisure. . . . Idleness is whole world lieth in wickedness” (1 ancient “cities of the plain”? the greatest curse that can fall upon John 5:19). In the history of Sodom and Go- man, for vice and crime follow in its Paul, the apostle, wrote about this morrah we can see what happens when train. It enfeebles the mind, perverts problem: people do not have to struggle against the understanding, and debases the “We know that the whole creation “thorns and thistles.” The inhabitants soul. Satan lies in ambush, ready to groaneth and travaileth in pain of these cities did not have to face the destroy those who are unguarded, together until now. And not only they, obstacles, hardships, and worries that whose leisure gives him opportunity to but ourselves also, which have the fi rst- plague our generation. They lived a insinuate himself under some attractive fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves very easy life, without the discomforts, disguise. He is never more successful groan within ourselves, waiting for the sufferings, and uncertainties which than when he comes to men in their adoption, to wit, the redemption of were molesting the rest of the inhab- idle hours.”3 our body” (Romans 8:22, 23). ited world. If boys and girls are raised in idle- “Rich harvests clothed the fi elds, and ness; if they are indulged like pam- How does God explain all this? fl ocks and herds covered the encircling pered poodles; if they are not put to God in His love and mercy suffers hills. . . . With little thought or labor, study, work, and carry responsibilities with us. Yet He will not stop the suffer- every want of life could be supplied, from their early years, many of them ing that men and women have brought and the whole year seemed one round will be useless or more than useless upon themselves through sin. He says: of festivity. citizens. They will be misfi ts in school, “They are all gone out of the way, “The profusion reigning everywhere misfi ts at work, misfi ts in marriage, they are together become unprofi table; gave birth to luxury and pride. Idle- misfi ts in church, and misfi ts in society.

8 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 What would have happened to the human race if the downward road had been left wide open and well paved, without any obstacles? . . . Wouldn’t the world have been ripe for destruction many centuries ago?

Their hands will not serve for any good The question raised by the skep- crying, neither shall there be any more thing—maybe only for handcuffs. tics—“How can we believe in a God pain: for the former things are passed We all want our children and grand- who either created all the plagues away. And he that sat upon the throne children to succeed in life. But can they existing in the world or was unable to said, Behold, I make all things new” have success in the right direction, on prevent them?”—becomes insignifi cant (Revelation 21:3–5). the upward road, unless they are taught in comparison to the revelations of “And there shall be no more curse” to struggle with all the wisdom and God. God, who can be found by each (Revelation 22:3). power that they can obtain from the person who is not afraid to accept the “Blessed are they that do his com- divine Helper? challenge—“Ye shall see me, and fi nd mandments, that they may have right to me, when ye shall search for me with the tree of life” (Revelation 22:14). R Fleas, frustration, and facts all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13)—has We may fi nd an enlightening a plan for this world. And He has re- References answer in an experiment that was vealed His plan in His Word, the Bible. 1 Sir Robert Anderson, K.C.B., LL.D., In De- conducted at a university. Scientists This is of overwhelming signifi cance. fence: A Plea for the Faith, pp. 40, 41. 2 wanted to see the difference in the Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 156. 3 Ibid., pp. 156, 157. behavior of dogs submitted to two Getting it all into perspective distinct lifestyles. In one cage they Honest Christians, who know how kept dogs with fl eas; in the other they to distinguish the signifi cant from the had dogs without fl eas. Those without insignifi cant, do not reverse values. A fl eas acted as real troublemakers. The simple believer said that when he faces others, that were full of fl eas, had no a question to which he has no answer, time for canine delinquency; they he just uses a bit of “horse-sense.” How had a problem which kept them busy does a horse act when a portion of hay struggling to survive. And when they is dumped into his trough? He does not were dipped into a solution to kill the refuse to eat the hay because there are or fl eas, they used every short moment of may be some inedible particles mixed respite from toil to get some rest in- with it. He feeds himself happily and stead of howling and fi ghting among leaves the hard sticks aside. Why should themselves. intelligent human beings get choked on The moral lesson taught by that ex- some “hard sticks” and reject altogether periment and by the history of human- the superabundant evidence? ity is that people must be kept busy The evidence from the revelations all the time struggling to survive. If we of God shows that this planet will be Like What You See? do not have to eat our bread in the restored to its original condition. The There’s more to come! With six sweat of our brow, and if there had not curse brought in by sin will be elimi- issues a year, including the Week of been any “thorns and thistles” in our nated once and for all. This is the plan way, we would in a short time become of God for this world made new: Prayer magazine, an annual sub- much worse than the antediluvians, “For, behold, I create new heavens scription to The Reformation Herald who became so wicked that they had and a new earth: and the former shall can bring, on a regular basis, rich to be destroyed. not be remembered, nor come into spiritual food and deep insight to There is yet another reason or pur- mind” (Isaiah 65:17). your home or to that of a loved one. pose for the existence of “thorns and John the Revelator described the Why not subscribe today? thistles” in our life on earth. While we glory of that time so soon to come: have to suffer because “sin entered into “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with Please call Reformation Herald the world” (Romans 5:12), we are led men, and he will dwell with them, to seek an answer to a question which and they shall be his people, and God comes up in the mind of many a hu- himself shall be with them, and be 1-540-366-9400 man being: “Will there ever be a time their God. And God shall wipe away or visit us online at when the curse of sin shall be removed all tears from their eyes; and there shall www.sdarm.org/publications.html from this planet?” be no more death, neither sorrow, nor

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 9 Good News Dead Delightfully Doing Their Duty

“The seed buried in the ground produces fruit, and in turn this is he man’s life planted. Thus the harvest is multiplied. was over . . . the So the death of Christ on the cross of last funeral dirge was Calvary will bear fruit unto eternal life. sung. . . . His lifeless body The contemplation of this sacrifi ce will had been carefully placed be the glory of those who, as the fruit in the oak casket—and before of it, will live through the eternal ages. Tburial, the casket was sealed shut. “The grain of wheat that preserves its We certainly would not like to imag- own life can produce no fruit. It abides ine that there could be any chance that alone. Christ could, if He chose, save anyone with any trace of life would be Himself from death. But should He do in such a situation. Thankfully, it is the this, He must abide alone. He could general custom around the world that bring no sons and daughters to God. only dead people are buried. Thank- Only by yielding up His life could fully, it is only dead people that are He impart life to humanity. Only by stuck in sealed coffi ns. falling into the ground to die could He By B. Monteiro There is a spiritual parallel to this. become the seed of that vast harvest— In the sealing message in the book the great multitude that out of every of Revelation, God only seals dead nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people—not physically dead people, people, are redeemed to God. but rather people who have died to “With this truth Christ connects the selfi shness and sin. lesson of self-sacrifi ce that all should Jesus explained, “Verily, verily, I say learn: ‘He that loveth his life shall lose unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall it; and he that hateth his life in this into the ground and die, it abideth world shall keep it unto life eternal.’ All alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth who would bring forth fruit as work- much fruit. He that loveth his life ers together with Christ must fi rst fall shall lose it; and he that hateth his life into the ground and die. The life must in this world shall keep it unto life be cast into the furrow of the world’s eternal” (John 12:24, 25). need. Self-love, self-interest, must per-

10 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 ish. And the law of self-sacrifi ce is the sin” (Romans 6:4–7). nitude of the burden. Why—because law of self-preservation. The husband- There are three strong indicators that He had not spent His days as a good man preserves his grain by casting it the “old self” of a person is still rearing enough health reformer? Hopefully, we away. So in human life. To give is to live. its ugly head. The Bible speaks in 1 know better. But it should cause us to The life that will be preserved is the John 2:16 of “the lust of the fl esh, and prayerfully examine our attitude when life that is freely given in service to the lust of the eyes, and the pride of similar misfortunes befall our com- God and man. Those who for Christ’s life.” Whenever we fall into temptation rades made in God’s own image. sake sacrifi ce their life in this world in any of these areas, it is evidence that Now before Jesus stand members of will keep it unto life eternal. the old man is still alive. In the case of the mainline ecclesiastical organiza- “The life spent on self is like the the third problem, the “pride of life,” tion: Priests and rulers of the great grain that is eaten. It disappears, but spiritual recovery is especially chal- religious order called into existence there is no increase. A man may gather lenging because the person is usually by God Himself. They are jeering at all he can for self; he may live and unaware of the problem. this pitiful Man of sorrows acquainted think and plan for self; but his life These three problems are also with grief. They mock the scene; they passes away, and he has nothing. The depicted in Matthew 4:1–10. They ridicule His outward appearance. law of self-serving is the law of self- can be summarized as appetite, love What about the brave, noble reform- destruction.”1 of the world, and presumption. These ers who had separated somewhat were the three temptations presented from that dead formalism to follow Three signs of life before Christ in an attempt to entice the Master? These had courageously There are certain vital signs that Him to sin. Thankfully, through divine faced opposition to pursue a unique show that a person is alive and well; strength, our Lord and Master stead- education from this Rabbi of Galilee. for example, doctors check to see that fastly resisted the bait. There were twelve of them who had blood pressure, temperature, and even been specifi cally ordained to respiration are within the normal range Only one Christian? receive the privilege of special 24-hour- characteristic of human life. There was a moment in history a-day instruction by the great Teacher Likewise in the spiritual realm, the when it appears as if that there may Himself. He had informed them in “old self” which is supposed to be have only been one true follower of advance that this exact scene was going dead, may be demonstrating evidence Christ on earth—at least as far as ac- to occur. Evidently now they either had of vitality. Remember him or her? He tions are concerned. Only one living forgotten or had just plain refused to or she is that person you used to be sermon. Who was it? When was it? believe Him in the fi rst place. . . . before your conversion to Christ. What Please consider the following: After all, it couldn’t be true, they are his or her characteristics? The Bible The Lamb of God had just been thought—there was no way they names a few examples, but they are not verbally abused, spat upon in the face, could think such a thing—it always exactly the same in everyone’s and whipped until the skin on His was too contrary to their bold case. Different people have different back was nearly in shreds. It was now imaginings of a posh new weaknesses. What are yours? Many the morning after He had been kept kingdom where they were people do not like to think about these awake all night by the unspeakably going to lead out. matters, because the human heart “is cruel mistreatment at the hands of men Why didn’t perhaps deceitful above all things, and desper- whom He had come to save. He had three of those big, ately wicked,” so we all like to think answered them back with no angry burly fi shermen grab that we are just fi ne the way we are. But retort, no self-justifying explanation. hold of that wooden if we ask God to show us ourselves, He He had remained silent. cross—perhaps one graciously, tactfully will do so. Then we Now a huge, heavy wooden cross at each side and need to put that part of our experience was thrust upon His back, and He was another at the to death. expected to carry that tremendous back, the way “We are buried with him by baptism weight in this weakened physical state. men normally into death: that like as Christ was So He submissively did for a while but have the raised up from the dead by the glory of then started to collapse under the mag- decency to the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his One solitary man was com- death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that pelled to help. He must have our old man is crucifi ed with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, had that rare, beautiful gift— that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from the gift of “helps.”

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 11 do as pallbearers in a funeral proces- ‘Make way for the King of the Jews.’ He Your golden moment—and mine sion? No, no, . . . they didn’t want to stops in astonishment at the scene, and At the golden moment, are you step forward just at this time. They were as he expresses his compassion in words and I like Simon the Cyrenian? What still in the same mood as they had been and deeds, they seize him and compel is that golden moment, anyway? The the night before when “they all forsook him to lift the cross which is too heavy golden moment in this case is the crisis him, and fl ed” (Mark 14:50). for Christ to bear. . . . That wooden moment—the time when it feels as if One solitary man, however, was com- cross borne by him to Calvary was the absolutely everyone you know appears pelled to help. He must have had that means of Simon taking upon himself to be doubting. It may not actually be rare, beautiful gift—the gift of “helps” the cross of Christ from choice, to ever true that they are doubting—you cannot which, in the list in 1 Corinthians 12:28, cheerfully stand beneath its burden. know their hearts—but circumstances comes right after “gifts of healings” and His compulsory companionship with are such that to you it may feel like it. ahead of “governments.” An unpleasant Christ in bearing His cross to Calvary, For some reason, it is as if everyone is task was, as it were, “dumped upon” in beholding the sad and dreadful work paralyzed with fear. Everyone seems to him. But like the Master Himself, he did and the spectators beneath the cross, be trying to save his or her life as if it not refuse it. We do not read of this man was the means of drawing his heart to were in jeopardy—and it may not just before in Scripture, neither after. We just Jesus. Every word from the lips of Christ be their physical life—maybe it is their know that his name is Simon and that was graven upon his soul. . . . And the only high reputation or standing among he was from Cyrene. The Bible speaks heart of Simon believed.”2 people. This is the same kind of attitude of him in Matthew 27:32. The Spirit of “And the heart of Simon believed.” the disciples had when they were wait- Prophecy provides a few more details How beautiful! We know the story very ing for someone else to perform the act about the scene: well—most of us have read about this of footwashing. But Jesus says, “Who- “The crowd that followed the also in The Desire of Ages. But have we soever will save his life shall lose it: but Saviour to Calvary taunted and reviled really applied its signifi cance to our indi- whosoever will lose his life for my sake, Him because He could not carry the vidual lives? At that moment, it seemed the same shall save it” (Luke 9:24). wooden cross. They all saw the weak as if there was only one Christian—only Right now, at this moment in his- and staggering steps of Christ, but one to step forward in Christ’s behalf, tory, the world is scheduled (actually compassion did not reveal itself in only one to take action at the golden overdue) to be enlightened with the the hearts of those who had advanced moment. Perhaps Simon was not re- glory of God through people who from one step to another in their abuse ally the only Christian in heart at that are to refl ect the image of Jesus fully and torture of the Son of God. . . . moment—but he certainly does quietly (Revelation 18:1; Early Writings, p. 85). “A stranger, Simon, a Cyrenian, com- shine as one who did not refuse to ac- Prophetic vision shows these people ing to the city from the country, hears cept the cross of Christ. He stands out as seeking out strangers to talk with them the crowd pass the taunts and ribaldry; one who took action. And that was quite about salvation. Is this always conve- he hears the contemptuous repetition, unique at this particular moment. nient? No, often our conscience tells us to do this right at the worst possible time. It is always comfortable? No, it is usually a pretty awkward idea—the enemy tempts us to assume that it’s not our talent. (That’s right—it’s not our talent—it’s God’s. We’re just to be His agents.) Is it always easy? No—this is the big problem: It crosses against self. “The talents of the humble cottager are needed in the house-to-house labor and can accomplish more in this work than brilliant gifts. “A thousand doors of usefulness are open before us. . . . Selfi shness and self-indulgence bar the way. “Church members, let the light shine forth. Let your voices be heard in humble prayer, in witness against intemperance, the folly, and the amusements of this world, and in the proclamation of the truth for this time. Your voice, your infl uence, your time—all these are gifts from God

12 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 ““OneOne talent,talent, ifif faithfullyfaithfully used,used, willwill dodo thethe vveryery wworkork GGodod ddesignsesigns tthathat iitt sshouldhould ddo.”o.” and are to be used in winning souls to Christ. “Visit your neighbors and show an interest in the salvation of their souls. Arouse every spiritual energy to action. Tell those whom you visit that the end of all things is at hand. The Lord Jesus Christ will open the door of their hearts and will make upon their minds lasting impressions. “Strive to arouse men and women To feel that we are “under obliga- from their spiritual insensibility. Tell to come up with a ton of legitimate tion” is not always comfortable. But them how you found Jesus and how excuses not to pick up his bed and if we are dead to self, it really doesn’t blessed you have been since you gained walk when Christ commanded him matter whether it’s comfortable or not, an experience in His service. Tell them to do so. Remember, for 38 years he does it? R what blessing comes to you as you sit had been completely immobile. Any References at the feet of Jesus and learn precious physical therapist can assure you that 1 The Desire of Ages, pp. 623, 624 (emphasis lessons from His word. Tell them of extreme atrophy of the muscles had supplied). the gladness and joy that there is in certainly set in. But instead, this man 2 Confl ict and Courage, p. 325. the Christian life. Your warm, fervent decided to go ahead and do it—to go 3 Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 37–39 (emphasis sup- words will convince them that you ahead and take action on what Christ plied). have found the pearl of great price. told him to do. And immediately the 4 Ibid., p. 37. 5 Confl ict and Courage, p. 294. Let your cheerful, encouraging words Lord supplied the “talent.” 6 General Conference Daily Bulletin, March 20, show that you have certainly found the If we do not feel that doing some 1891. higher way. This is genuine mission- form of missionary work is our talent, ary work, and as it is done, many will then maybe we need a new born-again awake as from a dream. experience. As mentioned, no, it is not “Even while engaged in their daily our talent. It is God’s talent. employment, God’s people can lead “Talents that are not needed are not others to Christ. And while doing this bestowed. Supposing that the talent they will have the precious assurance is small. God has a place for it, and that the Saviour is close beside them. that one talent, if faithfully used, will They need not think that they are left do the very work God designs that it to depend on their own feeble efforts. should do.”4 Christ will give them words to speak Does the world need to be enlight- that will refresh and encourage and ened? Yes. Is God willing to bestow the strengthen poor, struggling souls who talent to do it? Yes. He’s waiting for are in darkness.”3 empty vessels—dead vessels—willing to be used. The obstacle was men- My Life Story The scene of Bethesda repeated tioned earlier in an explanation from No, we are not saved by works, no the Spirit of Prophecy: “Selfi shness and Do you like stories? matter how zealous our activity. But if self-indulgence bar the way.” Then you need to read this book. we are not working, it is a symptom Remember, “every true disciple is It is full of real-life, captivating that something is seriously wrong— born into the kingdom of God as a missionary experiences, including our condition is like the nameless, missionary. He who drinks of the living deliverance from panthers, snakes, impotent man at the pool of Bethesda water becomes a fountain of life. The piranhas! The story of a mission- (in John 5:1–9). Obviously something receiver becomes a giver.”5 ary who has served the Lord for was wrong with this man. He had “It is not merely the ministers who are 56 years and is still alive to tell us been lying around paralyzed for 38 missionaries; every soul who has given how it happened. years. He could not even manage to himself to God is a missionary. Everyone Hardcover, 440 pages, full-color. drag himself to the hydrotherapy pool ought to feel that he is under obligation U.S. $ 24.95 (AUD$29.95) nearby. Surely he might have been able to God to win souls to Christ.”6

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 13 The Prophetic Word Expanding JJerusalem’serusalem’s BBordorder

A study from the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy compiled by J. P. Jean-François

PPARTART 1 ooff 3

Were the children of Israel any bet- ter, any more righteous than other nations? “Speak not thou in thine heart, after WWhyhy ddidid GGodod cchoosehoose aancientncient IIsrael?srael? that the Lord thy God hath cast them out The Lord answers in His word: from before thee, saying, For my righ- “For thou art an holy people unto the teousness the Lord hath brought me in Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath to possess this land: but for the wicked- I. GOD’S PURPOSE FOR chosen thee to be a special people unto ness of these nations the Lord doth drive ISRAEL himself, above all people that are upon them out from before thee. Not for thy the face of the earth. The Lord did not righteousness, or for the uprightness of nlarge the place of set his love upon you, nor choose you, thine heart, dost thou go to possess their thy tent, and let them because ye were more in number than land: but for the wickedness of these na- stretch forth the curtains any people; for ye were the fewest of tions the Lord thy God doth drive them of thine habitations: all people: but because the Lord loved out from before thee, and that he may spare not, lengthen thy you, and because he would keep the perform the word which the Lord sware cords, and strengthen thy oath which he had sworn unto your unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Estakes; for thou shalt break forth on fathers, hath the Lord brought you out Jacob. . . .” “Only the Lord had a delight the right hand and on the left; and thy with a mighty hand, and redeemed you in thy fathers to love them, and he chose seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and out of the house of bondmen, from their seed after them, even you above all make the desolate cities to be inhab- the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt” people, as it is this day” (Deuteronomy ited” (Isaiah 54:2, 3). (Deuteronomy 7:6–8). (9:4, 5; 10:15).

14 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 through His church. He designed that and built a tower in the midst of it, the principles revealed through His and also made a winepress therein: people should be the means of restor- and he looked that it should bring ing the moral image of God in man. forth grapes, and it brought forth wild “It was for the accomplishment of grapes” (Isaiah 5:1, 2). this purpose that God called Abraham “The husbandman chooses a out from his idolatrous kindred and piece of land from the wilderness; bade him dwell in the land of Canaan. he fences, clears, and tills it, and ‘I will make of thee a great nation,’ He plants it with choice vines, expecting Jerusalem’s Borderer said, ‘and I will bless thee, and make a rich harvest. This plot of ground, thy name great; and thou shalt be a in its superiority to the uncultivated blessing’ (Genesis 12:2).”1 waste, he expects to do him honor by “Now therefore, if ye will obey my showing the results of his care and voice indeed, and keep my covenant, toil in its cultivation. So God had then ye shall be a peculiar treasure chosen a people from the world to unto me above all people: for all the be trained and educated by Christ. earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me The prophet says, ‘The vineyard of the a kingdom of priests, and an holy na- Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, tion. These are the words which thou and the men of Judah His pleasant shalt speak unto the children of Israel” plant’ (Isaiah 5:7). Upon this people (Exodus 19:5, 6). God had bestowed great privileges, “[Israel’s] obedience to the law blessing them richly from His abun- of God would make them marvels dant goodness. He looked for them of prosperity before the nations of to honor Him by yielding fruit. They What is the world. He who could give them were to reveal the principles of His the prom- wisdom and skill in all cunning work kingdom. In the midst of a fallen, ise made to would continue to be their teacher, wicked world they were to represent Abraham and his and would ennoble and elevate them the character of God.”4 descendants? through obedience to His laws. If “By myself have I sworn, obedient, they would be preserved What kind of fruit was God expect- saith the Lord; for because from the diseases that affl icted other ing from that nation? thou hast done this thing, and nations, and would be blessed with “It was the privilege of the Jewish hast not withheld thy son, thine vigor of intellect. The glory of God, nation to represent the character of only son: That in blessing I will bless His majesty and power, were to be God as it had been revealed to Moses. thee, and in multiplying I will multi- revealed in all their prosperity. They In answer to the prayer of Moses, ply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, were to be a kingdom of priests and ‘Show me Thy glory,’ the Lord prom- and as the sand which is upon the sea princes. God furnished them with ised, ‘I will make all My goodness shore; and thy seed shall possess the every facility for becoming the great- pass before thee’ (Exodus 33:18, 19). gate of his enemies; and in thy seed est nation on the earth.”2 ‘And the Lord passed by before him, shall all the nations of the earth be “God desired to bring all peoples and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord blessed; because thou hast obeyed my under His merciful rule. He desired God, merciful and gracious, longsuf- voice” (Genesis 22:16–18). that the earth should be fi lled with joy fering, and abundant in goodness and “Abraham shall surely become a and peace. He created man for happi- truth, keeping mercy for thousands, great and mighty nation, and all the ness, and He longs to fi ll human hearts forgiving iniquity and transgression nations of the earth shall be blessed in with the peace of heaven. He desires and sin’ (Exodus 34:6, 7). This was him” (Genesis 18:18). that the families below shall be a sym- the fruit that God desired from His “Through the Jewish nation it was bol of the great family above.”3 people. In the purity of their charac- God’s purpose to impart rich blessings ters, in the holiness of their lives, in to all peoples. Through Israel the way What illustration did God use to their mercy and loving-kindness and was to be prepared for the diffusion of show what was expected from the compassion, they were to show that His light to the whole world. The na- children of Israel as a nation? ‘the law of the Lord is perfect, con- tions of the world, through following “Now will I sing to my wellbeloved a verting the soul’ (Psalm 19:7).”5 corrupt practices, had lost the knowl- song of my beloved touching his vine- edge of God. Yet in His mercy God yard. My wellbeloved hath a vineyard A warning to us from the experi- did not blot them out of existence. He in a very fruitful hill: and he fenced it, ence of Solomon purposed to give them opportunity and gathered out the stones thereof, In Solomon we fi nd a miniature for becoming acquainted with Him and planted it with the choicest vine, example of what God would have

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 15 done with Israel. “And of all my “While Solomon exalted the law of contact with many nations were used sons, (for the Lord hath given me heaven, God was with him, and wis- for personal aggrandizement. Solo- many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon dom was given him to rule over Israel mon sought to strengthen his position my son to sit upon the throne of the with impartiality and mercy. At fi rst, politically by building fortifi ed cities kingdom of the Lord over Israel. And as wealth and worldly honor came to at the gateways of commerce”7 (See 2 he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he him, he remained humble, and great Chronicles 8:4; 1 Kings 9:26, 28; 10:11.) shall build my house and my courts: was the extent of his infl uence. ‘Solo- for I have chosen him to be my son, mon reigned over all kingdoms from Let’s think it over and I will be his father. Moreover I will the river [Euphrates] unto the land of Dear friends, Solomon started off establish his kingdom for ever, if he the Philistines, and unto the border of with a good heart and a tremendous be constant to do my commandments Egypt.’ ‘He . . . had peace on all sides missionary spirit. He was extremely and my judgments, as at this day…. round about him. And Judah and Israel gifted. He was granted magnifi cent And thou, Solomon my son, know dwelt safely, every man under his vine opportunities to witness for God. But thou the God of thy father, and serve and under his fi g tree, . . . all the days what happened to him and his people? him with a perfect heart and with a of Solomon’ (1 Kings 4:21, 24, 25). They allowed their exalted privileges willing mind: for the Lord searcheth “But after a morning of great prom- to be eclipsed out of sight by a spirit of all hearts, and understandeth all the ise his life was darkened by apostasy. commercialism. In other words, buying imaginations of the thoughts: if thou History records the melancholy fact and selling, buying and selling. Does seek him, he will be found of thee; but that he who had been called Jedidiah— this too often end up being our focus if thou forsake him, he will cast thee ’Beloved of the Lord’ (2 Samuel 12:25, as well? off for ever” (1 Chronicles 28:5–7, 9). margin)—he who had been honored Solomon’s encounters with other “And Solomon the son of David was by God with tokens of divine favor people ended up being used for per- strengthened in his kingdom, and the so remarkable that his wisdom and sonal aggrandizement—in other words, Lord his God was with him, and magni- uprightness gained for him worldwide he started seeking to impress others fi ed him exceedingly” (2 Chronicles fame, he who had led others to ascribe for his own benefi t and advancement, 1:1). See 1 Kings 2:12; 1 Chronicles honor to the God of Israel, turned not really to honor God any more. 29:25. from the worship of Jehovah to bow Let’s face reality: Are many of us doing “In that night did God appear unto before the idols of the heathen.”6 the same? What should be our focus Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what “There was given to Solomon and instead? What opportunities lie before I shall give thee. And Solomon said his people opportunity to reveal to us in this day and age? What ought to unto God, Thou hast shewed great men of all nations the character of the be our focus in this busy era? mercy unto David my father, and hast King of kings, and to teach them to “In this our day the opportunities made me to reign in his stead. Now, reverence and obey Him. . . . for coming into contact with men O Lord God, let thy promise unto “Placed at the head of a nation that and women of all classes and many David my father be established: for had been set as a beacon light to the nationalities are much greater than in thou hast made me king over a people surrounding nations, Solomon should the days of Israel. The thoroughfares of like the dust of the earth in multitude. have used his God-given wisdom and travel have multiplied a thousandfold. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, power of infl uence in organizing and “Like Christ, the messengers of the that I may go out and come in before directing a great movement for the Most High today should take their this people: for who can judge this enlightenment of those who were position in these great thoroughfares, thy people, that is so great? And God ignorant of God and His truth. Thus where they can meet the passing said to Solomon, Because this was in multitudes would have been won to multitudes from all parts of the world. thine heart, and thou hast not asked allegiance to the divine precepts, Israel Like Him, hiding self in God, they riches, wealth, or honour, nor the would have been shielded from the are to sow the gospel seed, presenting life of thine enemies, neither yet hast evils practiced by the heathen, and the before others the precious truths of asked long life; but hast asked wisdom Lord of glory would have been greatly Holy Scripture that will take deep root and knowledge for thyself, that thou honored. But Solomon lost sight of in mind and heart, and spring up unto mayest judge my people, over whom this high purpose. He failed of improv- life eternal.”8 R I have made thee king: Wisdom and ing his splendid opportunities for en- References knowledge is granted unto thee; and I lightening those who were continually 1 will give thee riches, and wealth, and passing through his territory or tarrying Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 286. 2 Ibid., p. 288. honour, such as none of the kings have at the principal cities. 3 Ibid., p. 290. had that have been before thee, neither “The missionary spirit that God had 4 Ibid., p. 285. shall there any after thee have the like” implanted in the heart of Solomon and 5 Ibid., pp. 285, 286. (2 Chronicles 1:7–12). in the hearts of all true Israelites was 6 Prophets and Kings, pp. 51, 52. 7 Solomon is an example of Israel’s supplanted by a spirit of commercial- Ibid.., pp. 70, 71. 8 Ibid.., pp. 73, 74. great opportunity. ism. The opportunities afforded by

16 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 Character Builder

Part one in a series

By Pam Stemmler

ith your About 6,000 years have now passed. mind’s eye, picture As we look around the world, we can the most beautiful still see many beautiful sights. But scene you can imag- setup to produce the highest level of we must also admit that now, on a ine. Perhaps you might symmetry and beauty possible in order worldwide scale, there are even more envision a panorama of to make an attractive photo. examples of destruction, disorder, fi lth, Wmountains, oceans, gardens, and lakes. It seems that we all have similar and pain than as recent as 100 years What is your personal defi nition of the defi nitions about what order is or isn’t ago. word “beautiful”? when it comes to the scenarios just Now, did you happen to picture the mentioned. It is a God-given under- What has happened? scene of a city—or even a rural area standing. Why do I state it this way? In our scientifi c world, there is a law after a tornado, with homes, vehicles, Think back to Genesis for a moment. of physics known as the law of entropy. garbage, broken tree limbs, and every What was the earth like in the very This basically states that anything left imaginable substance scattered about beginning? to itself degenerates. Such a description and heaped in unusual places? I don’t “In the beginning God created the certainly applies to the condition of think so! Did you happen to picture a heaven and the earth. And the earth fallen planet Earth. place of fi lth? I doubt it. was without form, and void; and dark- This is what has happened to hu- Here is another question: When you ness was upon the face of the deep. manity—not only in general but spe- plan to have a family picture taken, And the Spirit of God moved upon the cifi cally in society, churches, families, do you have everyone put on dirty face of the waters” (Genesis 1:1, 2). and individuals. It is not in harmony clothing, mess up their hair, leave food Without form, void, and dark. Then with the Creator’s desire or His sense on the baby’s face, and sit in a hunched what did God do? He began systemati- of beauty. manner for the photo? No! Instead, cally to produce food, shelter, light, Chaos is seeking to take over our you all would put on nice clothing, and companionship for every creature. world. Despite any social programs make sure your hair was neat and “And God saw every thing that he had and plans that can be devised to stand erectly in an upright position as made, and, behold, it was very good. slow down the trend, Bible prophecy prompted by the photographer. He or And the evening and the morning were nonetheless reveals the fi nal outcome. she will usually orchestrate a special the sixth day” (verse 31). What is ultimately going to happen?

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 17 Where is God’s character demonstrated fi rst goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and in biblical history? In His creation . . . on transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting each day, a certain system of life was created. the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s chil- dren, unto the third and to the fourth The prophet John says: “The heaven earth, and, lo, it was without form, and generation” (Exodus 34:6, 7). “God is departed as a scroll when it is rolled void; and the heavens, and they had no love” (1 John 4:8). together; and every mountain and light. I beheld the mountains, and, lo, Where is God’s character demon- island were moved out of their places. they trembled, and all the hills moved strated fi rst in biblical history? In His And the kings of the earth, and the lightly. I beheld, and, lo, there was no creation. Let us therefore consider the great men, and the rich men, and the man, and all the birds of the heavens series of steps that our Creator took in chief captains, and the mighty men, were fl ed. I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful forming the amazing system of life on and every bondman, and every free place was a wilderness, and all the earth. man, hid themselves in the dens and cities thereof were broken down at the in the rocks of the mountains; and presence of the Lord, and by his fi erce Day 1 said to the mountains and rocks, Fall anger. For thus hath the Lord said, The On Day 1, there was light. Science on us, and hide us from the face of whole land shall be desolate; yet will I reveals that there are many types of him that sitteth on the throne, and not make a full end. For this shall the light, not just what we can see. There from the wrath of the Lamb: for the earth mourn, and the heavens above be is infrared light, ultraviolet light, white great day of his wrath is come; and black: because I have spoken it, I have light, and so forth. who shall be able to stand?” “And purposed it, and will not repent, nei- Also the differentiation between there were voices, and thunders, and ther will I turn back from it” (Jeremiah Day and Night took place. This is a lightnings; and there was a great earth- 4:23–28). signifi cant point. Night is important, quake, such as was not since men were We don’t want to take part in that, for many physiological processes take upon the earth, so mighty an do we? No, we want to be in a better place at night. Our bodies and minds earthquake, and so great” place—a heavenly place. What will need to be refreshed by sound sleep so (Revelation 6:14–17; Heaven be like? Will it be beautiful and that we may be ready for the next day, 16:18). orderly? “As it is written, Eye hath not and the nighttime has been designed An Old Testament seen, nor ear heard, neither have en- specifi cally for that purpose. Here we prophet was shown tered into the heart of man, the things can see system and order. a similar scene: “I which God hath prepared for them Since the world exists in space and beheld the that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). time, civilization has adopted ways If we want to live in that perfect and means to chronicle the passing of place of awesome beauty, then we must hours, days, weeks, months, and years. get ready. To prepare to dwell with our We have the clock and the calendar. Creator, we need to pursue His orderly Time is much more valuable than ways. When? Now! Where? In our money. Time is a talent that God has homes and on the property entrusted to us. Why? Because we have been directed to do so. God in His great mercy does not just give us a blue- print of what He expects from us. He actually provides us with power or ability to carry it out. For that we can be most thankful! God’s character revealed in nature Scripture mentions many attributes of God’s character: “Merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in

18 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 entrusted to us, and we are accountable wheat, oat, rice, tomatoes, peppers, cu- fundamental cycle that must be passed to Him for every moment wasted. cumbers, apples, pears, grapes, plums, through so that the steps do not reverse oranges, mangoes, walnuts. . . . Think or get mixed up. In the plant kingdom Day 2 also of the lovely cedar trees, maple there is fi rst the seed, then the blade, On Day 2, God made the fi rmament trees, pine trees, and hundreds of called Heaven. other trees that grow in the forest. The apostle Paul alludes to the third There is system and order in the heaven. Then there must be a second science of farming. What you sow and a fi rst heaven. This has often been you will reap. Tomato seeds yield explained as follows: Where we can tomatoes; beans yield beans. There see the clouds fl oating, the birds and is perfect order in seed planting. airplanes fl ying, the rainbow showing What you sow, you will reap. It is a its beautiful colors—that is the atmo- natural law. This principle teaches sphere, the fi rst heaven. us order as well. From the atmosphere surrounding Orderly combinations of nature the earth, we receive oxygen while make water available to us. Soils, we exhale carbon dioxide. If the right metals, gems, and other elements proportions of the gases contained in are interspersed for our many the air (about 78% nitrogen, nearly needs. Even gravity is a law in 21% oxygen, almost 1% argon, and God’s orderly arrangement to keep things in place. “God’s created works testify to His love and power. He has called then the corn, then the full ear of the the world into being, with all that corn. System and order are demon- it contains. God is a lover of the strated continually. Plants—from the beautiful; and in the world which simplest to the most complex—teach He has fi tted up for us He has not us many things, such as God’s love only given us everything necessary of beauty, His attention to detail, His for our comfort, but He has fi lled complexity of creation, and conse- the heavens and the earth with quence to action. Creation is designed beauty. We see His love and care in to obey its Creator. If it does not obey, the rich fi elds of autumn and His ugly things result. If we fail to follow smile in the glad sunshine. His hand God’s plan, there will be consequences has made the castle-like rocks and to endure. If we obey God’s plan, there the towering mountains. The lofty are wonderful results to enjoy. trees grow at His command; He has spread earth’s green velvet carpet, Day 4 and dotted it with shrubs and Day 4 seems to be out of place, but so forth) were suddenly changed, we fl owers. Why has He clothed the earth we know it is not. On this day was the would die. Here we can also see system and trees with living green, instead of creation of sun, moon and stars. Isn’t and order. a dark, somber brown? Is it not that it interesting that plant life was cre- The place of the planets and stars— they may be more pleasing to the eye? ated before sunshine! This proves that “outer space”—has often been called And shall not our hearts be fi lled with the creation day really is a 24-hour the second heaven. gratitude as we read the evidences of period. If it were symbolic as some The dwelling place of God—where His wisdom and love in the wonders of profess, plant life would not have He has His throne—is identifi ed His creation?”1 long existed without the sustenance of with the third heaven. By the grace of Have you ever looked deep within sunshine. God, we are looking forward to being a fl ower, examining the stamens and The sun rises and sets day after day, there—soon! pistils? Have you ever taken a magnify- month after month, year after year, ing glass to look at the detail of color? century after century, millennium Day 3 Have you ever unfolded a bud in the after millennium. It does not change On Day 3, God made a division winter to see how it will come out of its course. What would happen if the between the dry land and the seas. its little package to become a leaf in earth, in its revolution around the sun This was the day our food was cre- springtime? Have you ever taken time in one year, strayed a few degrees closer ated—grasses and herbs yielding seed to notice that there is order and system or a few degrees further from the sun? and trees yielding fruit all appeared in even in the smallest things of life? Everything would die. abundant varieties. Think of the corn, With all living things, there is a The orderly arrangement of the

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 19 “The Lebanon to the hyssop upon the wall. heavens They all declare His handiwork, from declare the lofty mountain and the grand the glory of ocean to the tiniest shell upon the stars is God; and the fi rmament sheweth his seashore. essential, handywork. Day unto day uttereth “He made the night, marshaling the too. Birds speech, and night unto night sheweth shining stars in the fi rmament. He calls and naviga- knowledge. There is no speech nor lan- them all by name. The heavens declare tors would guage, where their voice is not heard. the glory of God, and the fi rmament not be able Their line is gone out through all the showeth His handiwork, showing man to fi nd their earth, and their words to the end of the that this little world is but a jot in way in the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle God’s creation.”3 night without for the sun, which is as a bridegroom “The courtly robes of the greatest them. Stars do coming out of his chamber, and king that ever sat upon an earthly not collide and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. throne could not compare, in their make new constel- His going forth is from the end of the artifi cial splendor, with the spotless lations—they remain beauty of the lilies fashioned by the the same. The moon divine hand. This is an example of the shines in its bril- estimate which the Creator of all that liance, infl uencing is beautiful places upon the artifi cial in the tides on earth comparison with the natural. with an orderly, “God has given us these things of dependable pattern beauty as an expression of His love, continuing for as long that we may obtain correct views of as Christ wills that it should. New His character. We are not to worship moon, fi rst quarter, full moon, the things of nature, but in them we last quarter. Over and over again are to read the love of God. Nature it shines. Do we take all these is an open book, from the study of things for granted? Have you which we may gain a knowledge of ever considered the lessons that the Creator and be attracted to Him the Lord wants to teach us? by the things of use and beauty which We should be thankful to He has provided.”4 God that everything that belongs Indeed, “the invisible things of to our life on earth was designed to [God] from the creation of the world fi t into a system of order. heaven, and his circuit unto the ends are clearly seen, being understood “The same creative energy that of it: and there is nothing hid from the by the things that are made, even his brought the world into existence is heat thereof” (Psalm 19:1–6). eternal power and Godhead” (Romans still exerted in upholding the uni- 1:20). verse and continuing the operations The creative power of God’s word A complex system, a highly orga- of nature. The hand of God guides nized structure, such as the universe the planets in their orderly march “In the formation of our world, God reveals—where a remarkable intelligent through the heavens. It is not be- was not indebted to pre-existing mat- design is seen in its details—cannot cause of inherent power that year by ter. On the contrary, all things, material be the result of blind chance. This is year the earth continues her motion or spiritual, stood up before the Lord what the apostle Paul is seeking to round the sun and produces her Jehovah at His voice and were created explain. Therefore, he says, those who bounties. The word of God controls for His own purpose. The heavens and cannot see the hand of the Creator in the elements. He covers the heavens all the host of them, the earth and all the works of creation are left without with clouds and prepares rain for the things therein, are not only the work of excuse. And in looking to the orderly earth. He makes the valleys fruitful His hand; they came into existence by patterns of God’s systematic world and ‘grass to grow upon the moun- the breath of His mouth. of nature, surely we get a compelling tains’ (Psalm 147:8). It is through “While there is an individuality and glimpse of His glorious character! R His power that vegetation fl ourishes, variety in nature, there is a oneness in that the leaves appear and the fl owers their diversity; for all things receive References bloom. their usefulness and beauty from the 1 Special Testimonies on Education, p. 58. “The whole natural world is de- same source. The great Master Artist 2 Ibid., pp. 58, 59. signed to be an interpreter of the things writes His name on all His created 3 The Faith I Live By, p. 24. 4 of God.”2 works, from the loftiest cedar of In Heavenly Places, p. 115.

20 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 Home & Family

LLeaveeave YYourour BBaggageaggage aatt tthehe GGateate

t the entrance to relationships in the home circle. Do we our property, we have come home from a bad day at work or installed a large swing- perhaps a long trip that made us tired and By John Lausevic ing gate that blocks wild walk in the door with a sad expression on animals from entering. This our faces? If so, what are we portraying? opening is a steel-meshed Are we always happy to come into our Acountry-style gate over 3 meters (12 feet) homes, where we should be glad to be, wide, and it blocks the entire driveway. and our faces radiant with joy? Or do we On many occasions our children have come home with heavy burdens which had to open and also close it, but many really should be left at the gate? Do we more times they have a good swing on it. enjoy our time with our families, or are Recently they have taken up a new hobby: we so busy with our lives that we consider They happily run to open the gate and our home life to be an interruption? then climb onto it to sit there and wave I recently read a quotation which went goodbye as one of us drives out the gate. like this: “There are but few true fathers If they catch sight of the car coming back and mothers in this age of the world, home, they run off the house, shouting and this is on account of the artifi cial at the tops of their lungs that we have ar- lives we lead more than from any other rived. Their joy and enthusiasm is infec- cause.”1 tious and always brings a smile to one’s I pondered about this and tried to see if face when you see their antics repeated I fi t that bill. I defi nitely was an “artifi cial” over and over. father long ago, when a major portion Many years ago, I asked a friend why of my day was dedicated to my business she and her brother would run to the pursuits. I recall not knowing my children, lounge room window to wave goodbye to not being an active part of their lives, and I a parent leaving for work. Her response have really regretted letting that time pass. was, “It might be the last time you see I have tried to mend those broken fences, that person, and you want to have a good but they are always something that will be memory of that.” there. A patched fence will never look the This makes me think of father and our same as an original one.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 21 I recently read an article by a man who had lost his wife. His friend wrote the following very thought-provoking poem for him. So if you’re waiting for tomorrow, Why not do it today? If I Only Knew For if tomorrow never comes, You’ll surely regret this day. If I only knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day, That you didn’t take that extra time Well, I’m sure you’ll have so many more For a smile, a hug, or a kiss. So I can just let this one slip away. And you were too busy to grant someone, For surely there’s always tomorrow What turned out to be their one To make up for an oversight, last wish. And we always get a second chance To make everything right, right? So hold them dear TODAY! Take time to say, There will always be another day “I’m sorry, “please forgive me,” To say our,”I love yous” “thank you” or even, “it’s okay.” And certainly there’s another chance And THEN, if tomorrow never comes To say, “Anything I can do?” You’ll have no regrets about today.

But, wait a minute, just in case —Frank Rubio, III I might be wrong, And today is all I get, “In forming a relationship with Christ, the re- I would like to say how much newed man is but coming back to his appointed I love you relationship with God. . . . His fi rst duty is to his children and his nearest relatives. Nothing can And I hope we never forget. excuse him from neglecting the inner circle for the larger circle outside. That tomorrow is not promised In the day of fi nal reckoning, fathers and to anyone, mothers . . . will be asked what they did and said Young or old alike, to secure the salvation of the souls they took And today may be the last chance you get upon themselves the responsibility of bringing into the world. Did they neglect their lambs, To hold your loved one tight. leaving them to the care of strangers? . . . A great good done for others will not cancel the debt you owe to God to care for your children.”2 Let us think about each action, each motive of our life, and how we perform our duties. Remember the little ones at home who are wait- ing for you at your “gate.” Leave your monetary burdens, your work-related burdens—even your troubles—at the gate and place a cheerful smile upon your face as you walk through that door each and every day. R

1 The Health Reformer, November 1, 1876. 2 Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 162.

22 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 To Your Health!

Macaroni and cheese, pizza, cheese burgers, and cheesecake are among America’s favorite foods.

By L. Balbach

heese production in the rich cheese is a nutritious food, but from curd obtained from whole milk, U.S. is among the largest scientifi c evidence reveals that there are partly skimmed, or skimmed milk in the world. In 2008, many health-related problems associ- from cows, or from milk of other about 10 billion pounds ated with its consumption. You would animals with or without added cream, of cheese were produced in be much better off getting your calcium by coagulating with rennet, lactic acid, the United States.1 America’s love affair from dark green leafy vegetables like or other suitable enzyme or acid with Cwith cheese is increasing. Between 1910 turnip greens with 240 milligrams(mg) or without further treatment of the and 2008 cheese consumption has of calcium in one cup or collard greens separate curd by heat or pressure, or risen from 4.3 pounds a person/year with 357 mg of calcium in one cup. by means of ripening ferments, special to 32.7 pounds a person/year. From Also fortifi ed soy milk is another excel- molds or seasonings.” 1970 to 2008 cheese consumption had lent source of calcium.3 The absorption Cheese is made by coagulating tripled from 11 pounds to 32.7 pounds of calcium from plant foods is the casein, a protein found in milk. Ren- a year.2 With more women in the work same or better than from milk. Let us net, an enzyme used in the coagulating force, families are making more sand- look at the effects cheese has on our process, reacts with milk, separating wiches, eating frozen meals, and eating health. the whey from the curd and producing out in fast-food restaurants. This has cheese. Hard cheeses like cheddar and contributed signifi cantly to increased What is cheese? soft cheeses like cottage cheese and cheese consumption. The Food and Drug Administration mozzarella are made with rennet. In Many consumers feel that calcium- defi nes cheese as: “A product made the past, most of the rennet came from

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 23 the lining membrane of the fourth High in artery-clogging fat protein requirement. Three and a half stomach of unweaned calves, lambs or Cheese is giving Americans heart ounces of hard cheese provides up to goats. But due to the greater demand attacks, says the Center for Science in 50% of the daily protein needs. A slice for cheese, and lower availability of the Public Interest (CSPI). Cheese is of pizza has 14.6 grams (g) of protein, slaughtered calves, other sources are the highest source of saturated fat in but who stops at one slice? Three slices being used including pepsins from our diet. “Americans are eating far too of pizza have 46 g of protein, which is pigs, cows, and chickens. Some cheeses much fatty cheese. Unfortunately, it’s 3/4 of the daily protein requirement are made with vegetable-derived everywhere: on sandwiches, on lean for males and 100% for females. Daily rennet. Contact the specifi c cheese chicken, on salads, and even on fries. Reference Intakes (DRI) for protein for manufacturer to fi nd out which type And it’s doing even more damage to an adult are 0.8 g for each kg of body of rennet he or she uses. Salt, calcium our hearts than beef or butter,” accord- weight; 56 g of protein for males and chloride, and a yellow coloring agent ing to Margo Wootan, Nutrition Policy 46 g for females. The average American are added to cheese. Some varieties are Director for CSPI. “Heart disease is the eats 90–120 g of protein a day, which placed in a brine solution. To produce leading cause of death for American is 1.5–2 times the protein that our Swiss cheese, the milk is bleached. Few men and women,” says Dr. William body needs. If we continue eating high cheeses are eaten fresh; most cheeses E. Connor, professor of Medicine amounts of cheese and other protein- are ripened or cured from one month and Clinical Nutrition at the Oregon rich foods, we are at risk of develop- up to two years. Health Sciences University. “Anything ing health problems that result from Americans can do to reduce their protein-rich diets: decreased kidney High in calories and sodium intake of saturated fat and cholesterol, function, increased gall stone forma- Cheese is high in calories, averaging such as cutting back on cheese, would tion, and osteoporosis.5 about 100 calories an ounce. Cheese lessen the risk of heart disease.” contains a lot of sodium. “Just one ounce of full-fat cheese can Fat, cholesterol, and oxidized The sodium content of cheese varies have as much as six grams of artery-clog- cholesterol from less than 150 mg an ounce up ging fat—a third of a day’s worth,” said Most cheeses are high in fat, averag- to 550 mg an ounce. See Table 1. One Wootan. “An ounce isn’t much, just 1 ½ ing 6–9 grams an ounce; most of this cup of large curd cottage cheese has slices of processed cheese, or a 1 ¼ cube fat is saturated. The fat content of 911 mg of sodium. This is about half of cheddar or most other hard cheeses, fresh cheeses is about 12% of the total the amount people with hypertension or the cheese on a slice of a large pizza.”4 calories; ripened cheeses contain about can safely have on a 2 gm low-sodium 30% calories from fat. As a nation, we diet for the whole day. Processed Protein content are already struggling with too much cheeses like American, Blue, Parmesan, Cheeses are also a high source of fat in our diets. About 40% of our calo- and Roquefort have 350–500 mg. of protein. One half cup of cottage cheese ries come from fat. We need to limit sodium an ounce. has about one fourth of an adult’s daily our fat to less than 20% of the total calories. The cholesterol content of 3 1/2 ounces of cheese varies from 30 mg to 120 mg. The American Heart As- sociation recommends limiting our dietary cholesterol to less than 300 mg a day. When cholesterol is exposed to the air for some time, it produces oxidized cholesterol, which in turn develops dangerous by-products. Some of these by- products are so toxic that they destroy the cells that line the artery walls in less than 24 hours. Even when eaten in small amounts, these “oxidation products”

24 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 can cause irreversible damage. TABLE 1 Custard mixes, pancake mixes, NUTRIENT CONTENT OF CHEESES lard, and parmesan cheese are Cheese Type Weight Protein Total Fat Cholesterol Sodium the foods that contain oxidized (g) (g) (g) (mg) (mg) cholesterol and produce dam- 1 oz American cheese, processed 28.3 6.37 8.97 27.3 411 age to the blood vessels.6-8 1 oz American cheese spread 28.3 5.23 6.10 16.2 386 1 oz Bleu cheese 28.3 6.18 8.25 21.3 401 Cancer connection 1 oz Brick cheese 28.3 6.50 8.52 27.3 161 Scientists at the University 1 oz Brie cheese 28.3 5.95 7.95 28.3 180 of Ottawa in Canada set out to 1 oz Camembert cheese 28.3 5.68 6.96 20.2 239 investigate the impact of diet 1 oz Caraway cheese 28.3 7.23 8.38 25.3 198 on testicular cancer, the most 1 oz Cheddar cheese 28.3 7.15 9.52 30.4 178 common cancer in Canadian 1 oz Cheshire cheese 28.3 6.70 8.79 29.4 200 men, 20–45 years old. Michael, 1 oz Colby cheese 28.3 6.82 9.21 27.3 173 1 cup Cottage cheese-crmd-sml crd 210.0 26.2 8.93 31.0 850 Garner, the lead researcher 1 cup Cottage cheese-crmd-lrg crd 225.0 28.0 9.60 34.0 911 states: “Our results suggest that 1 cup Cottage cheese w/fruit 226.0 22.4 7.68 25.0 915 high dairy product intake, in 1 cup Cottage cheese-dry curd 145.0 25.0 0.610 10.0 19.0 particular high intake of cheese, 1 cup Cottage cheese-lowfat 2% 226.0 31.1 4.36 19.0 918 is associated with an elevated 1 cup Cottage cheese-lowfat 1% 226.0 28.0 2.30 10.0 918 risk of testicular cancer in 1 oz Cream cheese 28.3 2.13 10.0 31.4 85.0 Canadian males.” The authors 1 oz Edam cheese 28.3 7.17 7.90 25.3 277 suggest that the culprit may be 1 oz Feta cheese 28.3 4.56 6.28 25.3 320 the high amounts of female 1 oz Fontina cheese 28.3 7.35 8.75 33.4 - sex hormones (estrogen and 1 oz Gjetost cheese 28.3 2.77 8.43 25.3 172 progesterone) found in dairy 1 oz Gorgonzola cheese 28.3 7.09 9.11 25.3 519 products.9 Dairy products have 1 oz Gouda cheese 28.3 7.16 7.83 32.4 235 also been linked to an increased 1 oz Gruyere cheese 28.3 8.56 9.18 31.4 96.2 risk of breast cancer in women 1 oz Liederkranz cheese 28.3 5.06 8.10 21.3 395 and prostate cancer in men. 1 oz Limburger cheese 28.3 5.75 7.69 26.3 230 Epidemiological studies at 1 oz Monterey jack cheese 28.3 7.03 8.69 26.3 154 Loma Linda University found 1 oz Mozzarella-Part skim-reg. 28.3 7.09 4.66 16.2 134 that men who were heavy users 1 oz Mozzarella-whl milk-reg. 28.3 5.58 5.83 22.3 107 of milk, eggs, and cheese had 1 oz Muenster cheese 28.3 6.50 8.54 27.3 180 three times the risk of develop- 1 oz Nuefchatel cheese 28.3 2.86 6.79 22.3 114 ing prostate cancer.10 1 oz Parmesan cheese-grated 28.3 11.9 8.62 22.3 535 1 oz Pimento processed cheese 28.3 6.35 8.95 27.3 410 Hiding in the mold 1 oz Ricotta cheese-Dart skim 28.3 3.23 2.25 8.76 35.4 1 oz Ricotta cheese-whole milk 28.3 3.19 3.68 14.3 23.9 Are you eating moldy cheese 1 oz Romano cheese 28.3 9.13 7.74 29.4 344 without knowing it? Research- 1 oz Roquefort cheese 28.3 6.19 9.06 26.3 519 ers have found a yellowish 1 oz Swiss cheese 28.3 8.14 7.90 26.3 74.9 discoloration on moldy cheeses 1 oz Swiss processed cheese 28.3 7.10 7.07 24.3 393 where the Aspergillus parasiticus was growing. Although workers in the industry carefully wash Microorganisms in cheese cheeses, either imported from Mexico off the surface mold to hide the toxin or consumed in Mexico. The cheese invasion, the cheese was discolored up Mold on cheese that’s not part of the was contaminated with Mycobacterium to 10 millimeters (mm) on the inside.11 manufacturing process can also harbor bovis. The FDA recommends that We know that molds are danger- harmful bacteria, such as listeria, bru- consumers do not eat any raw milk ous toxins for animals and humans. cella, salmonella, and E. coli. In 1984, soft cheeses from Mexico, Nicaragua, Molds of the Aspergillus family produce 10,000 Canadians became ill from an or Honduras. Data show that they are cancer-causing chemicals called afl o- outbreak of salmonellosis. The cause? often contaminated with pathogens. toxins. Cheeses that take a long time They ate cheddar cheese which was The FDA further advises that there is to ripen at high humidity are ideal for contaminated with organisms from the some risk of infection from a number growing afl otoxins. Since cheeses are Salmonella family.13 of pathogenic bacteria for anyone who not tested for afl otoxin content during In 2005, cases of tuberculosis in eats raw milk soft cheese from any manufacturing, you may be eating New York City have been linked to source.14 Listeria is another microor- afl otoxins unknowingly.12 consumption of queso-fresco-style ganism that can be found in cheese

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 25 and in milk from healthy cows and signifi cant spoilage can happen even at content of cheddar and other cheeses goats. Infants and people with low normal refrigeration temperatures.23 concentrates the toxins even more. The immunity have trouble resisting this How can you practically apply this average cheese-eating American eats germ.15 information? First, it is believed that a little less than an ounce of cheddar these biogenic amines may be one of cheese daily. Based on this consump- The brain connection the many factors infl uencing hyperac- tion pattern, we can expect as many as Tyramine and tryptamine are two tivity in children. So if you have chil- thirty-six excess cancers in one million of the several major chemicals amines dren, make them one healthy cheese persons. That makes cheddar and any found in cheese. They can have a alternative or purchase soy cheese. other high-fat nonorganic cheese a detrimental effect on our frontal lobes. Second, people who eat tyramine and high risk food.”26 Tyramine is found abundantly in tryptamine-rich foods in the evening cheese, wine, and other rich foods.16 may have a problem with nightmares.24 No cheese factories in Eden When we eat tyramine in the cheese, it Therefore, if you like to eat pizza late Over one hundred twenty years ago, stimulates the body’s stress hormone in the evening, beware! a prominent nutritionist commented system, specifi cally the hormone called about the effect of cheese on health: norepinephrine. This chemical triggers Is a cheeseburger worth the mi- “Many a mother sets a table that is a our body’s stress response.17 graine? snare to her family. Flesh meats, butter, Stress often interferes with the The worst culprits for a migraine cheese, rich pastry, spiced foods, and fi ne control of our thought processes headache are dairy products, but condiments are freely partaken of by needed for learning, creative thinking, cheese is the worst offender.25 People both old and young. These things do and recall. Dr. Guyton states that the have reported severe migraine head- their work in deranging the stomach, stress hormones can actually decrease aches and allergic-type symptoms from exciting the nerves, and enfeebling the blood fl ow to the brain.18 Tyramine has eating cheese. intellect. The blood-making organs been called a false neurotransmitter be- cannot convert such things into good cause it confuses the brain cells. It acts Pesticides and chemical residues blood. The grease cooked in the food like a brain chemical messenger, when “The FDA tested 16 samples of ched- renders it diffi cult of digestion. The ef- it really comes from a food source. dar cheese from around the nation. fect of cheese is deleterious.”27 “Cheese Tryptamine is another chemical There were one hundred pesticide should never be introduced into the found in cheese that causes brain and industrial chemical residues in stomach.”28 transmission problems. Tryptamine the samples, . . . BHC, DDT, dieldrin, Today, the evidence against cheese has been associated with nightmares heptachlor, HCB, octachlor, and penta is tremendous, but the choice is yours. and even classed with drugs like were found in at least a quarter of the You can eat a high sodium, high LSD and psilocybin due to its hal- samples. . . . This is serious contamina- saturated fat, high protein, and high lucinogenic effects.19 Foods that have tion, the result of years of pesticide use, cholesterol food. You may wish to eat these mind-altering elements include which has laced our soil with poisons. this mind-altering food that is loaded cheese, fi sh and sausages.20-22 Early These poisons taint crops and are then with molds, cancer-causing toxins and spoilage of poultry also produces these concentrated in the milk of dairy cows amines, and artery-clogging fat. Or compounds. According to research, that feed on those crops. The high fat you may enjoy healthy cheese alterna-

References 9 Intern J of Cancer, 2003 June 26:106(6):934- of Therapeutics—7th edition. New York, NY: 1 USDA/ERS, Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry 941. MacMillan Publ. Co, 1985 pp.562-563. Outlook. 10 De Rose. D. J. Cheese as Food IV. J Hlth Heal 20 Moret S, Bortolomeazzi R, Lercker G. J Chro- 2 USDA/FAS, Production, Supply and Distribu- 1994:17(4). matogr 1992 Feb 7;591 (1-2) 175-180. tion Online Database; EuroStat Yearbook; 11 De Rose. D. J. Cheese as Food V. J Hlth Heal 21 Veciana-Nogues MT, Hernandez-Jover T, et US Census Bureau, International Database; 1995:18(l). al. J AOAC Int 1995 Jul-Aug;78(4):1045-1050. USDA/ERS, Livestock, Dairy and Poultry 12 Ibid. 22 Eerola S, Hinkkanen R, et al. J AOAC Int Outlook. 13 Ibid. 1993 May-June;76(3):575-577. 3 Heaney RP, Weaver CM. Am J Clin Nutr 1990 14 www.Consumer affairs.com/news. 23 Geornaras I, Dykes GA, von Holy A. Lett Apr;51(4):656-657. 15 De Rose. D. J. Cheese as Food V. J Hlth Heal Appl Microbiol 1995 Sept;21(3):164-166. 4 Center for Science in the Public interest 1995:18(l). 24 Lupandin VM, Lando LI, et al. ZH Nevropa- (CSPI). February 6, 2001. 16 Finberg JP, Seidman R, Better OS. Exp Phar- tol Psikhiatr 1978;78(10);1538-44.. 5 Baldwin. B. J Hlth Heal 1995:18(1). macol Physiol 1982 Nov-Dec’ 9 (6):639-643. 25 Mylek D. Pol Tyg Lek 1992 Jan 20-27;47(3- 6 Peng SK, Morin RJ. Artery 1987:14(2):85-99. 17 Guyton AC. Textbook of Medical Physiolo- 4):89-91. 7 Hubbard RW, Ono U, Sanchez A. Prog Food gy—8th edition. Philadelphia: WB Saunders 26 DeRose. D. J. J Hlth Heal 1995:18(2). Nutr Sci 1989:13(1):17-44. Company, 991 pp. 669-678. 27 White. E. G., Counsels on Diet and Foods, pp. 8 Peng SK, Taylor CB. Atherogenicitv Effect of 18 Ibid., pp.680-1. 368, 369. Oxidized Cholesterol. In: Perkins EG, Visek WJ, 19 Jaffe JH. Addiction and Drug Abuse. In: Gil- 28 Ibid. p. 368. editors. Dietary Fats and Health. Champaign, IL: man AG, Goodman LS, et al, editors. Good- 29 Genesis 1:29. American Oil Chemists Society, 1983, p. 930. man and Gilman’s The Pharmacologic Basis

26 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 tives! We have included great recipes Eden! Fruits, nuts, grains, legumes, our cheese substitutes and stop wor- for healthful cheese substitutes. These and vegetables make up the ideal rying about the disease-causing agents are made from nuts and seeds and can diet given by our Creator.29 Don’t you in cheese. It is not worth the migraine be used in your favorite recipes. After believe that He knows what is best for headache! R all, there were no cheese factories in our health? Experiment with some of

Recipes

Pimento “Ch eese” White “Ch eese” (Jack) 3/4 cup cashews 3/4 cup cashews 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 2 tablespoon sesame seeds 14 ounces jar pimentos 3 tablespoon nutritional yeast fl akes 1 heaping tablespoon nutritional yeast 1 1/4 teaspoon salt fl akes 1 teaspoon onion powder Salt to taste 1teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon dill weed 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon dill weed 1 tablespoon agar agar fl akes 1 tablespoon agar agar 1 cup boiling water 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 cup boiling water Blend all ingredients with boiling water. Macaroni & “Ch eese” Blend all ingredients with boiling 2 cups macaroni water. For best results, pour cheese mix- 1 cup water ture into a cup and grate cheese when 1 cup raw cashews ready to use. Mock 1 teaspoon salt Nachos: Parmesan “Ch eese” 1/3 cup lemon juice 4-ounce jar pimentos or fresh red pepper Eliminate agar agar and pour a hot 1 cup lightly toasted sesame seeds 1 teaspoon onion powder mixture over the tortilla chips. 1/4 cup nutritional yeast fl akes 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Sliced cheese: 3 tablespoon nutritional yeast fl akes 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Pour into a round can to set. Cut end 1 medium chopped onion 1/2 teaspoon salt and push out when ready to use. Slice 1/4 cup green pepper

Spread: Lightly toast the sesame seeds at Add diced celery, olives. onions, and/ 300–350º F for 10–20 minutes. After Cook macaroni in 6 cups of salted or other ingredients. Stir and spread. the seeds are toasted, let them cool for water. Place water, cashews and salt in Cheese used for entrees: Leave out a few minutes and then mix them with blender. Whiz until nuts are thoroughly 1/2 teaspoon salt. all the other ingredients in a blender. blended. Add lemon juice. Add pimento, (Make sure that you add the sesame seasonings, nutritional yeast, and blend seeds while they are still hot.) The thoroughly. Pour this over cooked maca- resulting “cheese” will be crumbly in roni. Sauté onion and pepper and add to texture, similar to grated Parme- mixture. Bake in casserole at 350º F. for san cheese, so serve in a shaker 45 minutes. If it becomes too dry, add container as you would any water. Add more salt if necessary. R grated cheese. Sprinkle on top of spaghetti, salad, and other dishes. Store in a cool place in a sealed container; if refrigerated, it can keep “for months.” Yields 1 1/4 cups.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 27 Meet Today’s Reformers

By Aron Belu

believe this testimony Reform Movement. There, the past, It was hard to accept, but I prayed a will help other souls to be present, and future truth is preached. lot to God to help me make peace in more faithful to Jesus now The Atlanta East church is a small my heart. It took a few weeks, but in than at any other time of group with a warm heart. I take my my heart was only Jesus, and I wanted their life and will encourage a faith seriously and therefore asked if I to be saved. My problem disappeared. desire to seek Him wholeheartedly. Do could become a member again. I talked My family and the church supported Inot look to others but to Jesus only as with our church. . . . One Sabbath, Bro. me very much. My heart was open to your example. Jeff Wiktoroski spoke with me a lot Jesus. So I called Sr. Toni and told her, I grew up in a Reform Movement about being rebaptized—not just fel- “I am ready to step forward.” My family family. Baptized when I was 22 years lowshipped. I REFUSED IT! Quote: “I was so happy with my decision. The old, I was married in the same church. do not need to be rebaptized because Florida Camp Meeting was not far away. I have two sons. Most of my life, I was I was member of the SDARM!” But I The decision was made for me to be re- very strict in my Christian life until I kept it on my mind. So I started study- baptized at the Florida Camp Meeting. started to become lukewarm or looked ing, and it was very easy for me to look After my decision was made, Satan to others. I am a truck driver and my for what I needed because I have the worked very hard to delay the baptism: wife was my team driver for eleven Bible and Spirit of Prophecy on a CD. On my last trip to California and back, I years. We worked a lot. There was a That helped me to fi nd many quotes encountered many obstacles to stop me period when we only came home fi ve where the pen of Inspiration speaks from getting there. Here’s the story: The to seven times a year. During that time, about rebaptism for those who really trip takes 10–11 days. The fi rst delay was we still returned our tithes and offer- give their heart to Jesus. So I called in Louisiana, when the police stopped ings but did not attend the church very Bro. Evans Benjamin, the Field Leader, me on the side of the road for a routine often. Eventually we ended up having telling him I was ready to take a step inspection. I’ve never made mistakes to be disfellowshipped. When this hap- forward. Being honest, however, I also on my log book, but that morning I pened, I became more careless. told him I had one problem. . . . did. The log book was behind about Six years ago, I started working Bro. Benjamin told me to resolve 8–10 minutes, so that put me out of for myself and was home every other the problem fi rst. Another six months service for 10 hours. I started then to be week. I would either visit our church, passed, and I had not resolved the delayed from my plan. After that, the the Adventist Church, or stay home. problem until Bro. Vernon Rankin vis- trip went okay to California. Then on Then about three or four years ago, my ited me. He told me to read Matthew the way back home, a light rain began family and I began visiting the Atlanta 5:43, 44 (fi rst part). “Ye have heard to fall a few hours before dark. I had East SDA Reform Movement Church that it hath been said, Thou shalt love electrical problems, so I stopped to fi x on a regular basis. Wherever you go or thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. them. I checked all the connections for whatever you believe, there is no other But I say unto you, Love your enemies, shortages and if the wires were touching place that has more light than the SDA bless them that curse you.” each other. For 3 hours I found nothing.

28 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 In my mind was the fact that if I could “Reconversion and Rebaptism of there will be transformations of charac- not fi nd the problem before dark, I Seventh-day Adventists.—The Lord ter little dreamed of. As His Spirit works would not be able to make it to Florida. calls for a decided reformation. And with your spirit, there will be manifest So sitting between the truck and the when a soul is truly reconverted, let a saving grace by which we shall be trailer, I started praying to God to help him be rebaptized. Let him renew deeply convicted of the wonderful me. After my earnest prayer, it came his covenant with God, and God will transformation that is taking place to my mind to check the plate on top renew His covenant with him. . . . Re- in your character. Others will notice of the 5th wheel. I took the plate out, conversion must take place among the it, and be infl uenced thereby. Thus a never thinking that right there was an members, that as God’s witnesses they constant and progressive work will be electric connection. When I moved the may testify to the authoritative power going on in the church. Oh, my dear rubber covering, a fi re started. Quickly of the truth that sanctifi es the soul.”1 brethren and sisters, let us all come into I disconnected everything. I found “It is [the] baptism of the Holy line. We cannot afford to be out of line the problem and did a temporary fi x, Spirit that the churches need today. now—it is too late in the day. thanking God for His help. The next There are backslidden church members “Again, we read: ‘I have therefore day there was a strong dust storm in and backslidden ministers who need whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ Arizona. I was driving slowly and the reconverting, who need the softening, in those things which pertain to God’ traffi c stopped. About 1½ –2 miles subduing infl uence of the baptism of (Romans 15:17). ahead of me, the dust storm was very the Spirit, that they may rise in new- “ ‘Whereof I may glory through Jesus heavy. A big accident occurred with a ness of life and make thorough work Christ.’ This is the manner in which we 22-vehicle pile-up—9 big semi-tractor for eternity. I have seen the irreligion may glory. And as transformation of trailers and 13 cars. Later, on national and the self-suffi ciency cherished, and character takes place, through repentance news, it was reported that 4 people had I have heard the words spoken, ‘Except and confession and reconversion and died and many were injured as a result. ye repent and be converted, ye shall rebaptism, you will glory through Jesus So God helped me not to be involved never see the kingdom of heaven.’ Christ ‘in those things which pertain to in that accident. The next day in Dallas, There are many who will need rebap- God,’ not in the things that pertain to Texas, there was a cold heavy rain. I tizing, but let them never go down into your own personal, selfi sh interests.”4 was thinking if this rain slowed down, the water until they are dead to sin, “Just as long as you allow pride to it would freeze on the road causing cured of selfi shness and self-exaltation; dwell in your hearts, so long will you icy conditions. A few hours later I until they can come up out of the water lack power in your work. For years a called my friend to see where he was. I to live a new life unto God. Faith and wrong spirit has been cherished, a spirit learned that his brother was in Dallas repentance are conditions essential to of pride, a desire for preeminence. In this in freezing rain and traffi c was moving the forgiveness of sin.”2 Satan is served, and God is dishonored. 5 miles per hour. I thanked God again “Those who have been baptized The Lord calls for a decided reformation. for helping me to pass the freezing rain. can claim the help of the three great And when a soul is truly reconverted, let Again, the 3rd day in Louisiana, a very Worthies of heaven to keep them from him be rebaptized. Let him renew his heavy storm slowed me down again falling, and to reveal through them a covenant with God, and God will renew and I prayed to God to help me to go character that is after the divine simili- His covenant with him. My brethren, through. tude. This is what we claim to be—fol- show true repentance for departure After all these things I made it home lowers of Jesus. We must be molded from God. Let angels and men see that late Thursday night. By God’s abun- and fashioned in accordance with the there is forgiveness of sin with God. dant grace, early Friday morning we left divine pattern; and if you have lost Extraordinary power from God must take for Florida and arrived on time! your Christlikeness, my brethren and hold of Seventh-day Adventist churches. sisters, you can never, never come into Reconversion must take place among When is rebaptism really needed? communion with God again until you the members, that as God’s witnesses I want to share with you a few are reconverted and rebaptized. You they may testify to the authoritative examples where the Spirit of Prophecy want to repent and to be rebaptized, power of the truth that sanctifi es the speaks of rebaptism—with the hope and to come into the love and commu- soul. Renewed, purifi ed, sanctifi ed, the that God will work on your heart to nion and harmony of Christ. Then you church must be, else the wrath of God make the right decision in case this ap- will have spiritual discernment which will fall upon them with much greater plies to you. I am so glad that I made will enable you to see those things that power than upon those who have never the right decision to be rebaptized are above, where Christ sitteth at the professed to be saints.”5 R because I prepared myself to be more right hand of God.”3 References than just fellowshipped. I was recon- “God calls upon us to come into 1 verted! This gave me a chance to truly harmony with the divine pattern. He Evangelism, p. 375. 2 Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 267. reconsecrate my life to God. calls upon us, while it is called Today, 3 Sermons and Talks, vol. 1, p. 366. These are the following quotations to repent and be reconverted; and then 4 Ibid., p. 369. that were very helpful to me: His Spirit will dwell in us richly, and 5 Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, pp. 262, 263.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 29 SDARM World News

St. Lucia Believers and friends at a baptismal service, February 2010.

Peru Baptism (left) and Youth Congress (below) held by the Peruvian Union; around 2,000 people attended, January 2010.

30 The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 Nigeria Health seminar and youth convention, November 2009.

Angola Believers from Huambo (right) and Lubango churches (below), November 2009.

The Reformation Herald, Vol. 51, No. 1 31 Periodical Postage PAID Roanoke, VA 24022

P.O. Box 7240 Roanoke, VA 24019-0240 Return Service Requested

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Children’s Corner

hate being cooped up with my skin, evenven iiff this broken leg,” Jason com- I wanted to,”o,” said plained to Uncle John. “I can’t Jason. play ball or do anything. I am sick “Oh, butut lots ooff ppeo-eo- of my crutches.” ple are likee chameleons,chameleons,”” “Maybe the surprise I brought you replied Unclencle John. ““TheyThey Iwill help you feel better,” said Uncle John, act and look like Christians handing Jason a package. Eagerly Jason when everything is going their opened it and found a little green creature way, but when something unpleasant hap- about three inches long. pens they change their color immediately. “It’s a chameleon,” explained Uncle John. No one could tell by watching them that “Here, let him out of the jar. He’ll enjoy run- they have a loving Saviour and a wonderful ning around your mom’s house plants.” home in heaven waiting for them.” Jason gently placed his new pet on the Jason took a deep breath. He knew that stem of a large plant. Suddenly, he looked he hadn’t been acting much like a Christian closer. “He looks different, Uncle John!” lately. Ever since he had broken his leg, he exclaimed Jason. “His color is changing.” had been pouting, and feeling sorry for Uncle John chucked as he said, “He’s himself. Neither of them said anything for turning a brownish color because he is on a a few minutes. Then Uncle John stood up brownish stem.” and said, “I must get going. Enjoy your new By L. Balbach “That’s amazing!” exclaimed Jason. pet. The feeding instructions are on the jar.” “He can change to gray, brown, green, “Thanks,” Jason replied. “I’ll have fun or yellowish brown. He changes color taking care of him, and I’ve already learned not only to blend with his surroundings something from him. but also according to what Boys and girls, do you act one way at mood he is in or how church, but another way at school or at he feels,” explained home? Do you change color according to Uncle John. Then he your mood or circumstances? If you are turned to Jason and willing to let Him, God will help you be a said, “But I don’t consistent, unchangeable Christian instead want you to of a chameleon. Let this be your motto: learn his tricks!” “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect “I couldn’t way. . . . I will walk within my house with a change the color of perfect heart” (Psalm 101:2). R