October 29, 1998

Week of Prayer Experience the Power

“Behold, I come quickly . . .” A Message From the Officers of the

Our mission is to uplift Jesus Christ through stories of His matchless love, news of His present workings, help General Conference for knowing Him better, and hope in His soon return. The Adventist Review (ISSN 0161-1119), published since 1849, is the general paper of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is published by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and is printed 40 times a year each Thursday except the first Thursday of each month by the Review and Herald® Publishing Association. Periodicals uppose the Scriptures were not available to us. Would we be postage paid at Hagerstown, MD 21740. Copyright © 1998, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. acquainted with the plan of redemption? Would we have any Publishing Board: Robert S. Folkenberg, chair; Phil Follett, vice- knowledge about God? Would we know that Christ died for us? chair; Lowell Cooper; William G. Johnsson; A. C. McClure; Dorothy Watts; Ted N. C. Wilson; Martin Ytreberg; Robert Nixon, legal advisor Yet to know Him is life eternal (John 17:3).

Executive Publisher and Editor William G. Johnsson While God could and did employ many avenues of communi- Associate Editors Roy Adams, Bill Knott Scation that He deemed appropriate, He gave humanity the inspired writ- Managing Editor Myrna Tetz News Editor Carlos Medley ten Word. I thank God for the gift of Scripture. It is the Inspired Word Assistant Editors Stephen Chavez, Andy Nash that reveals the plan of redemption, how we Editorial Assistant Ella Rydzewski Administrative Secretary Chitra Barnabas may be brought back into a loving relationship Editorial Secretaries Mary Maxson, Jean Sequeira with Him. Indeed, the power of His Word can Art Director Bill Kirstein Designer Bill Tymeson transform anyone into a loving and lovable Design Assistant/Production Stephanie Kaping Christian! What a merciful heavenly Father Ad Sales Melynie Tooley Subscriber Services Steve Hanson and precious Saviour we have! Marketing Coordinator Ray Tetz No wonder Satan continues his ferocious Consulting Editors: Robert S. Folkenberg, Matthew Bediako, Phil Follett, Robert J. Kloosterhuis, A. C. attacks on Scripture. His fiendish intent is to McClure, Jan Paulsen, Leo Ranzolin, R. F. Rawson, Calvin B. Rock, G. Ralph Thompson destroy our confidence in the reliability and Special Contributors: P. D. Chun, L. T. Daniel, L. J. trustworthiness of God’s revelation to humanity. Evans, Ulrich Frikart, Lee Huff, Israel Leito, Ruy H. Nagel, L. D. Raelly, Ron Watts, Bertil Wiklander But even though the Bible is under continual satanic attack—be it by direct frontal assault or To Writers: We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. (Please Robert J. Kloosterhuis query before submitting long articles.) Include address, telephone number, and Social Security number, where subtle devious undermining, let us continue to available. Address all editorial correspondence to 12501 fortify, immerse, and saturate ourselves with Scripture. Our only safe haven is Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600. Editorial office fax number: (301) 680-6638. in Him whom Scripture reveals. As we come to know Christ better, we shall

E-mail: Internet: [email protected] see more clearly the beauty, unity, and grandeur of Scripture. CompuServe network: 74617,15 The theme for this year’s Week of Prayer—“Experience the Power of Subscriptions: US$38.97 for 40 issues, US$50.97 for 52 issues. Add $10.20 postage for addresses outside North His Word”—is presented by an array of dedicated individuals. It begins America. To order, send your name, address, and payment to your local Adventist Book Center or Adventist Review with the perceptive presentation by General Conference president Subscription Desk, Box 1119, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Robert Folkenberg and ends with Ellen G. White’s powerful message. A Single copy, US$2.50. Prices subject to change without notice. Subscription queries and changes of address: Call different author each day brings a fresh, inspiring message to warm, l-800-456-3991, 301-791-7000, ext. 2439. or e-mail [email protected]. energize, and strengthen our relationship with Christ.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Adventist Review, 55 Nor have the children been left out. They too have a rich store of bless- West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740. ings in the readings prepared just for them. Texts credited to Clear Word are from The Clear Word, copyright © 1994 by Jack Blanco. Scriptures credited to ICB are quoted from the So, dear reader, welcome to the 1998 Week of Prayer readings. I invite International Children’s Bible, New Century Version, copyright © 1983, 1986, 1988 by Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas 75039. Used by you to reflect on and absorb the wonderful presentations prepared espe- permission. Texts credited to Message are from The Message. Copyright © 1993. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing cially for your spiritual edification and growth. May you experience the Group. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, International power of His Word.” By His grace. Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. Texts credited to NKJV are from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by per- mission. All rights reserved. Bible texts credited to RSV are from the Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, 1971, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by permis- sion. Bible texts credited to TEV are from the Good News Bible— Old Testament: Copyright © American Bible Society 1976; New Testament: Copyright © American Bible Society 1966, 1971, 1976.

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. Robert J. Kloosterhuis is a general vice president Vol. 175, No. 44 of the General Conference.

22 (1454) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 FIRST SABBATH We Still Believe ROBERT S. FOLKENBERG the Bible May the world see it in our every word and action.

ack in 1997 MCI ran an amusing TV ad for e Christians are travelers too. We who believe in their long-distance telephone service. The ad Jesus are traveling to a “city which has foundations, was particularly aimed at the quality of their Wwhose builder and maker is God” (Heb. 11:10, competitors. The scene begins with the space NKJV). We too have a detailed “flight plan” called the shuttle sitting on its pad while the camera Bible. And our eternal lives depend on following that plan. Bslowly moves in. The voice of the launch director is then Strangely, while most of the world applauds the precision heard over an intercom counting down to liftoff. and accuracy of watches, computers, and the space program, “Approximately 10 . . . more and more people seem to be content to view God’s 9, give or take . . . flight plan to heaven with sloppiness, human speculation, somewhere in the vicinity of 8 . . . guesswork, and distrust. Even some professed Christians about 7 . . . openly question whether 6 or so . . . there are true absolutes in 5—plus or minus . . . the world, and often treat 4, I think . . . the Bible with doubt and, uh, 3 . . . in the worst cases, out- 2ish . . . right contempt. 1—liftoff! [the shuttle Is the Bible still rele- sits there] vant for today? Does it Any moment now . . . still speak to the needs of [still no action] the college student? the Here it comes . . . still troubled administrator? waiting.” the teenage runaway? the The words “Precision Is cashier at the supermar- Important” then flash over ket? the business execu- the earthbound shuttle, tive? the computer pro- and it’s not hard to get the grammer? the cancer

COMPOSITES point. The commercial patient? the busy home- AL works because everyone maker? DIGIT

/ knows that there can be Does it speak with the

CK no margin for error when authority of the Creator- TO S it comes to getting some- God, providing humanity AL thing as technologically with a fully trustworthy IGIT D sophisticated as the space “map” through the wilder-

AND shuttle off the ground and ness of life here on earth ISC

D into the heavens. There’s to the promised land of

HOTO no guesswork, or approxi- heaven? Or is it like the

© P mates, or best estimates, flawed shuttle countdown

AGE or instincts. Every in the TV commercial— P moment of the launch uncertain and untrustwor- THIS sequence is planned, thy, filled with fables and AND timed, and accounted for. myths, and subject to the The lives of the astronauts whims and opinions of PHOTOS depend on their following fickle society? VER O

C a detailed flight plan.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1455) 23 Doubt Is “In” message that has come from the Lord.’ My mise with the precious blood of Christ, Doubt is in vogue today. It’s “cool” people come to you, as they usually do, thus giving thirsting humanity a pol- to disregard authority. Tim “the Tool and sit before you to listen to your words, luted concoction that has the appear- Man” Taylor of TV’s Home Improve- but they do not put them into practice. ance of the water of life, while in real- ment has turned ineptitude and disre- With their mouths they express devotion, ity it’s the wine of Babylon. gard of directions into an art form. but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain. Let’s keep in mind the following: And Ellen Degeneres, the first Indeed, to them you are nothing more than 1. Our message will remain rele- openly gay actress in a lead role on a one who sings love songs with a beautiful vant if we remember that the Bible, TV sitcom, has caused millions to voice and plays an instrument well, for they not human opinion, is the foundation view the moral guidelines of the hear your words but do not put them of the Seventh-day Adventist message. Bible as hopelessly outdated, narrow, into practice” (Eze. 33:30-32, NIV). Despite what some individual and politically incorrect. Every- Adventists have been teaching, we where we turn today, we’re told, still believe in a literal creation and “Color outside the lines,” “The a literal seven-day Creation week, of rules have changed,” and which the Sabbath is a memorial. “Question everything.” “By the word of the Lord were Sadly, the Bible predicts a time the heavens made, their starry host when trust in the Bible will erode: We must resist by the breath of his mouth. . . . For “For the time will come when men he spoke, and it came to be; he will not put up with sound doctrine. the temptation to commanded, and it stood firm” (Ps. Instead, to suit their own desires, 33:6-9, NIV). they will gather around them a mix the water of The Bible excludes a multimil- great number of teachers to say lion-year evolutionary process and what their itching ears want to simply states that God spoke and it hear” (2 Tim. 4:3, 4, NIV). human wisdom was so. Even some modern, secular And though there are more Bibles scientists acknowledge that the evo- available than ever before, our lives and doctrinal lutionary model of origins requires seem to be less impacted by the as much faith (if not more) as does words in those Bibles. Pastor Jesse compromise with accepting the Word of God. Wilson noted this trend in the Why then do so many find god- May/June 1997 issue of Message mag- less evolution attractive? Ah, simply azine: “The research of George Barna the precious because it is godless. “The higher and George Gallup, in The Day critics put themselves in the place America Told the Truth, has revealed blood of Christ. of God, and review the Word of some embarrassing facts: the actions God, revising or endorsing it. . . . of many Christians do not line up These higher critics have fixed with their words. In fact, recent sur- things to suit the popular heresies of veys seem to indicate that Christians these last days. If they cannot sub- lie, cheat on their taxes, fornicate, vert and misapply the Word of God, divorce, and generally sin at roughly the As we prepare to cross the thresh- if they cannot bend it to human prac- same rate as non-Christians” (“Test of old of a new millennium, we will need tices, they break it” (The Upward Look, Discipleship,” p. 6). greater grace and wisdom to be able to p. 35). We are a people who love “good articulate the everlasting gospel and The Bible still teaches, and we still preaching”—to hear the Word pro- the revelation of His imminent return believe, that Jesus is coming soon, that claimed with power and authority. But in glory to a global family living in the death is a sleep, that salvation comes more and more our response imitates twenty-first century. If our message is through faith in Christ alone, that the how we respond to secular entertain- to remain relevant and bear the divine Sabbath is God’s sign of salvation, and ment: we sit; we watch; we applaud, credentials of Holy Spirit power and that Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanc- laugh, or cry; we talk about the good authority: tuary is cleansing our lives right now. time we had—and then we go home. ■ we must reaffirm our commit- 2. Our message will remain rele- We seem to react like those who lis- ment to proclaiming and living present vant if we remember that the Bible, tened to Ezekiel preach: truth as it is revealed in Christ Jesus not pop psychology, provides power “As for you, son of man, your coun- through the Word of God. for character change and Christlike trymen are talking together about you by ■ we must draw near to God and living. the walls and at the doors of the houses, resist the temptation to mix the water “For the word of God is living and saying to each other, ‘Come and hear the of human wisdom and doctrinal compro- active. Sharper than any double-edged

24 (1456) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 sword, it penetrates even to dividing vant if we remember that the Bible— make disciples of all nations, baptizing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it not trends in contemporary society or them in the name of the Father and of judges the thoughts and attitudes of even Protestantism—forms the heart the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and the heart” (Heb. 4:12, NIV). of all Adventist worship. teaching them to obey everything I It was the power of the living Worship of the true God—how we have commanded you. And surely I am Christ, through the Word of God, that worship, why we worship, when we with you always, to the very end of the transformed Mary Magdalene from worship—is central to the great con- age” (Matt. 28:19, 20, NIV). prostitute to daughter of God, the thief troversy and forms part of the first Our mission has not changed. “We on the cross to a citizen of heaven, and angel’s message: “He said in a loud [still] believe that God has given this the self-righteous Nicodemus into a voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, church a unique end-time assignment: humble disciple of Christ. It was this because the hour of his judgment has to proclaim the three angels’ messages of power that transformed Cuban judge come. Worship him who made the Revelation 14, including (1) the arrival Humberto Alvarez, who was baptized heavens, the earth, the sea and the of the judgment in the context of the during NET ’96 by the same pastor he springs of water” (Rev. 14:7, NIV). everlasting gospel, (2) the importance of had once sentenced to jail; and that Remove the Bible, and you have keeping the commandments of God and transformed Mormon high priest Ray the faith of Jesus, and (3) the immi- Smart and his wife, Evelyn, during nent return of Jesus” (We Still Believe, the NET ’96 meetings in Orlando, p. 51). Florida. Evelyn quit teaching Sunday Perhaps the Bible is under attack school—something she had done for today because we haven’t lived it. 23 years (Touched by the Spirit: Stories We’ve studied it, debated it, inter- From NET ’96, p. 9). preted it, argued over it, preached 3. Our message will remain rele- from it, bludgeoned each other with vant if we remember that the it, quoted it, read it, memorized it— Bible, not culture, is the essence of but we just haven’t lived it. Jesus— Seventh-day Adventist standards the Living Word of God—is coming and always lifts us above our cul- again. And if we plan to receive the tures. Living Word when He comes, we CK Born-again believers have a new must receive His Written Word TO S culture. The Bible describes it: “For today. ■ AL

IGIT you were once darkness, but now

© D you are light in the Lord. Live as Questions for Discussion children of light” (Eph. 5:8, NIV). 1. Review and discuss the ways our HOTO P “Here there is no Greek or Jew, cir- author thinks the Bible can remain cumcised or uncircumcised, barbar- consumer-driven worship, focusing on relevant today. How would you ian, Scythian, slave or free, but what people want and not on what describe the contribution you can Christ is all, and is in all” (Col. 3:11, God wants. This is not true worship, make to each of these? NIV). “But you are a chosen people, no matter how entertaining the 2. The article stresses the transform- a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a “show,” how big the “cathedral,” or ing power of Christ in the Word and people belonging to God, that you how large the crowd in the pews. cites examples of people so trans- may declare the praises of him who A watered-down gospel will never formed. Do you know of others, and called you out of darkness into his save the lost. Ours is a message of how can such testimonies enhance our wonderful light. Once you were not a revival and reformation. Our ability to attempts to spread the gospel? people, but now you are the people of respond to heaven’s call, to return to 3. How is your confidence in the God; once you had not received true worship based on the Word of God authenticity and reliability of the Bible? mercy, but now you have received and not our own whim, will lighten the What evidences can you cite in your mercy” (1 Peter 2:9, 10, NIV). whole earth with the glory of God and personal life to support your position? We are citizens of heaven and adopt prove Satan a liar. the culture of our new home. We must 5. Our message will remain rele- remember that once we join Christ, vant if we remember that the Bible, this world, with its culture, is not our not sociology, motivates us for world home. “Do not conform any longer to mission. Robert S. Folkenberg is pres- the pattern of this world, but be trans- Making disciples of the Lord Jesus ident of the General formed by the renewing of your mind” Christ is the only reason the church Conference of Seventh-day (Rom. 12:2, NIV). exists. Our commission comes from the Adventists, Silver Spring, 4. Our message will remain rele- Master Himself: “Therefore go and Maryland.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1457) 25 SUNDAY The Transforming CARLOS PUYOL Power of His Word How it happens, what’s involved

any books have appeared in the history of tives, its sayings. These can impress the mind, create inter- humanity, but none of them have had such est, and provide religious, historical, and psychological permanence and universal influence as has knowledge. But the Bible’s transforming power comes from the Bible. The excellence of the Bible the result of the union of the three agents involved in the resides in the fact that it is not a simple process of revelation. Mtext of religious sayings, or a catechism on a system of doc- First, there is God the Father, the author of the Bible, trinal truths or moral precepts, or even a compilation of who, in His effort to reveal Himself to us, has made the bibli- religious traditions. The Bible is much more than all of cal text the primary medium for the divine-human encounter. that. It is the book of salvation history, a history in which Second, there is the Holy Spirit, whose positive influence God and humanity are the main protagonists in the effort operated through inspiration in the mind of the holy writers to resolve the most fundamental problem of our world: the (2 Peter 1:21) and continues to work on our minds as we problem of sin. read, convincing us of sin, righteousness, and judgment, guid- Indeed, that’s one of the things that make the Bible ing us into all truth and testifying about Jesus (John 14:17; unique and of continuing interest—its extensive and defini- 15:26; 16:8, 13). And third, God’s people, who, in the exer- tive treatment of the universal phenomenon we know as cise of their unquestionable freedom, search the Scriptures to sin—or evil. Written over a period of some 15 centuries, the find God, recognizing and receiving the Bible as His Word, book pulsates with one objective, namely, to show the accepting its authority as norm and obeying its precepts. divine plan for humanity and the progress of that plan in the great arena of history. The Bible—Source of Divine Encounter The Bible presents an extensive repertoire of the activities God has revealed Himself in nature (Ps. 19:1, 2). There we of God working for the transformation of humanity. It talks can behold His admirable, invisible perfections—His “eternal about the pride, the ambition, the envy, the injustice, the power and deity,” as Paul puts it (Rom. 1:20). This is what the- oppression, the fear, the impotence, the guilt complex, the ologians refer to as general (or universal) revelation. Another desperation, that exists in the heart of sinful human beings. kind of revelation, also general but more intimate and elo- But it also speaks about liberty, love, faith, trust in God, hope, quent, is that of conscience—an inner voice that distinguishes and the joy that God gives to the converted person. Its stories between good and evil (see Rom. 2:14-16). God uses it as a are a living witness of the transforming power of divine grace contact point to reach us. Sin, however, has darkened the and an example of what God is willing to do for us today: human conscience and marred the perfect work of God in such “For whatever was written in former days was written for our a way that after the Fall, nature and conscience—by them- instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement selves—constitute an insufficient means of revelation. of the scriptures we might have hope” (Rom. 15:4).* And so God provided the supreme revelation in Jesus Christ—Emmanuel, God with us, the revelation of God par The Bible’s Source of Transforming Power excellence. The secret of the Bible’s enduring interest lies in the rele- Since the Fall, and until the supreme revelation came vancy of its message and in the absolute moral value of the through Christ, God used a series of intermediate written experiences it narrates. Moreover, the Bible has power to revelations to educate humanity and reveal Himself. Known transform its readers, to restore in them the image of God. today in their collected form as the Old Testament, these “For the word of God,” says the book of Hebrews, “is living were mediated to Israel through the ancient prophets. The and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to New Testament, coming after Christ and complementing the the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and dis- Old, was brought to us through the writings of the apostles as cerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb. they reflected on God’s supreme revelation in Christ (Heb. 4:12). 1:1; 1 Thess. 2:13; 1 John 1:1-3). The Bible’s transforming power, however, does not reside In both Old and New Testaments we find God and in its literary element—in its images, its parables, its narra- humanity in action, in a personal encounter that made pos-

26 (1458) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 sible a revelatory process. In the pages came by the impulse of man, but men who in the use and exercise of this of the Bible God speaks to us, inter- moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from freedom makes possible or hinders the venes in our affairs, corrects us, shows God” (1 Peter 1:10, 11; 2 Peter 1:21). transforming power of the Word of us His will, announces His plans to us, We find the same explicit affirmation God. Once the Word of God is and strengthens our faith and hope. on inspiration in the words of Paul to received as God’s revelation and its We, in turn, react, responding to God Timothy: “All scripture is inspired by plenary inspiration is accepted, it with trust or doubt, with devotion or God and profitable for teaching, for becomes in the human spirit an incon- rebellion, heroism or fear, loyalty or reproof, for correction, and for training testable source of authority. betrayal, love or apathy. God and in righteousness, that the man of God The believer who accepts with faith humanity are always involved in the may be complete, equipped for every and confidence the normative authority revelatory process. The Bible is written good work” (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). of the Word of God incorporates its holy by human beings, but proclaimed as The transforming power of the Word principles into his or her lifestyle. The the Word of God. teachings and precepts of the Bible The Word of God continues become an integral part of that per- today as a system of communication son’s life and character, and through between God and humanity, both a He who with the simultaneous work of the Holy revelation and an encounter. It’s Spirit they become a new creature. important—I would say, indispens- sincere and Peter describes this in the following able—that we study its message. But way: “You have been born anew, not of unless that study leads to a personal perishable seed but of imperishable, encounter between God and us, it teachable spirit through the living and abiding word of will have failed to reach the divine God” (1 Peter 1:23). Surrendering our purpose and will lack the power to studies God’s autonomous will to the illumination transform the heart. Says Ellen G. of the Spirit and to the sovereign White: “He who with sincere and Word will be authority of the Word of God as a teachable spirit studies God’s Word, rule of faith and practice generates in seeking to comprehend its truths, us a new birth of hope, strength, and will be brought in touch with its brought in touch character. Author; and, except by his own Ellen G. White states: “The cre- choice, there is no limit to the pos- with its Author. ative energy that called the worlds sibilities of his development” into existence is in the Word of (Education, p. 125). God. This Word imparts power; it of God lies in the fact that it is inspired; begets life. Every command is a Inspiration and Illumination: The the presence of the Holy Spirit is in its promise; accepted by the will, received Work of the Holy Spirit pages. It is the supernatural activity of into the soul, it brings with it the life The intervention of the Holy Spirit the Spirit in the work and in the lives of the Infinite One. It transforms the in the reception and writing of the of its authors that gives to the Bible an nature and re-creates the soul in the Holy Scriptures is affirmed in the multi- unparalleled convicting power, an irre- image of God” (ibid., p. 126). ■ ple testimonies of its authors. sistible spiritual force, the capacity to Thousands of texts in the Bible speak break the rebellious human spirit, to * All Scripture quotations in this article come from the Revised Standard Version. about the supernatural origin of the teach, to correct, to train in righteous- messages of the prophets. David said, ness, to perfect, to transform, and to “The Spirit of the Lord speaks by me, convert the soul of its readers, equip- Questions for Discussion his word is upon my tongue” (2 Sam. ping them for good works. 1. How does the author explain the 23:2). When Ezekiel describes how his The work of the Holy Spirit does continuing appeal of the Bible? visions came, he employs such expres- not end with the inspiration of the 2. Compare and contrast the sources sions as “the Spirit entered into me,” biblical writer, but continues in the from which we draw our knowledge “the Spirit . . . fell upon me,” “the Spirit process of illumination. In other words, about God. How is each of these sources lifted me up” (Eze. 3:24; 11:5; 43:5). the Spirit illumines the reader of the important in meeting the variety of Paul considers the prophetic ministry as Bible, as Jesus promised (John 14:17; peoples and cultures we might face? a gift of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:7- 15:26; 16:8, 13). 10). Peter, in two fundamental texts, Carlos Puyol is secretary of explicitly affirms the inspiration of the Accepting the Authority of the Euro-Africa Division. Holy Spirit in the ministry of the the Word prophets, “the Spirit of Christ within Finally, the third agent in the them,” stating that “no prophecy ever process of revelation is the believer,

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1459) 27 MONDAY Precious Is the Word WALTER L. PEARSON, JR. Clarity and comfort come from the Bible.

en years ago thieves broke into a self-storage the Bible. The analogy with my mother’s letter doesn’t fit facility and stole practically all my family’s perfectly, for we serve a risen Saviour. Our God is not dead. household goods. A slip of paper bearing my We have no lack of information communicated from heaven wife’s handwriting was to us through prayer and fellowship, all that was left to but the Bible does indeed represent a Tconfirm that this was indeed the primary and precious resource space that had held our possessions The Word of because of our relationship with the while we looked for a home. Author, Jesus Christ. The financial loss was staggering, God, as it is, My own experience with the but greater losses began to appear. Word has shown it again and again Along with the items that the to be a treasure worth savoring and thieves thought could be sold for remains the sharing, a genuine joy in my life. quick profit were cartons of priceless Dramatic, positive changes occur in pictures, books, and letters. A underpinning for my thinking and my living as I library that represented 20 years of make time to read the Bible system- painstaking collection was gone. all our hope. atically or listen to it on tape. Pictures that traced the develop- ment of my children from birth had An Incredible Collection vanished. Most painfully, the rob- The Bible has infinite value as a bers had also stolen cardboard containers of pictures and let- letter from One who loves us supremely, but its pages ters from my mother, who had died nearly 20 years earlier at encompass much more. Its literary significance would rec- the age of 49. ommend it even if the divine origin could somehow be dis- The loss of memorabilia related to my mother’s life was counted. What other book can better substantiate its claim stunning, for I had begun to organize papers and photo- to actually make the reader wiser? Psalm 19:8 reminds us: graphs with hopes that they would serve as the basis for a “The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the book. That thought was virtually extinguished with the loss commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes” of so much that was irreplaceable. (RSV). Or as one favorite paraphrase puts it: “The com- I’ll never forget the emotions that overwhelmed me some mandments of the Lord are radiant, enlightening the mind” months later when, in the process of cleaning a cluttered (Clear Word). dresser drawer, I came upon a letter from my mother. It was I’ve actually seen this process at work. I’ve been privi- a grand discovery. I had thought that I would never see leged through the years to know many older Christians who another. Though only ink stains on paper, this letter was never had the opportunity to acquire a formal education. precious. Her penmanship reminded me of what I had seen But almost without exception their temperament, conver- in those albums from long ago. Her voice was audible in my sation, and even their countenance seemed refined and mind as I read her words slowly, cherishing each one. uplifted by the influence of the Bible. Let none doubt it: this Somehow, the intensity of the problems I was experienc- is a powerful book! ing diminished as I recalled her wise counsel and her excel- No book in human history can hold a candle to the vast lent example. The power of communication from my dear scope and great depth of this Word: mother under those circumstances was greater than even I “In its wide range of style and subjects, the Bible has might have suspected. I drew strength from the words that something to interest every mind and appeal to every heart. my mom had penned. In its pages are found history the most ancient; biography But even a letter written by a mother who had died the truest to life; principles of government for the control of almost two decades earlier pales in significance when com- the state, for the regulation of the household—principles pared to the impact of the revelation from God contained in that human wisdom has never equaled. It contains philoso-

28 (1460) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 phy the most profound; poetry the noted the indentations in the volcanic As this planet becomes less hos- sweetest and the most sublime, the surface and reveled in the omnipo- pitable to the children of God, and as most impassioned and the most pa- tence of a God who might order both the Holy Spirit is withdrawn, the thetic. Immeasurably superior in value that floodwaters should cover the Word will become our survival to the productions of any human earth and that they should recede at resource in a hostile environment. author are the Bible writings, even His command. He marveled that even What a glorious privilege we have to when thus considered; but of infinitely on that jagged formation designated a rely on the marvelous inventory of wider scope, of infinitely greater value, penal colony by the emperor of Rome, Bible promises, which are “as sure as are they when viewed in their relation divine authority could limit inunda- the dawn.” The obvious failure of to the grand central thought” (Child tion by the waters with the command societal structures to address human Guidance, p. 505). “Hitherto and no further.” needs fairly chases believers to the The importance of Scripture as a Instead of allowing himself to be Word. In this uncertain milieu, we faith link to the history of God’s peo- must have an authoritative source of ple and thousands of steadfast lives both truth and solace. also cannot be overstated. Scripture Some today seem anxious to limit ties us to the wisdom and the experi- the implications of the Holy ence of those who have stood faithfully Scriptures in our lives. Attributing in times past, giving us inspiration for unlimited normative authority to the our own challenges. Word of God troubles them, and they “Through the study of the Bible, reduce it to just another of the converse is held with patriarchs and world’s “great books.” If we accept prophets. The truth is clothed in ele- that diminution, we are condemned CHLAIKJER S vated language, which exerts a fasci- to an exile without our greatest ESS J nating power over the mind; the resource. The Word of God, as it is, BY thought is lifted up from the things of remains the underpinning for all our TION earth, and brought to contemplate the hope. glory of the future immortal life. LLUSTRA I What wisdom of man can compare cut off from his Lord, John sifted A Love of the Truth with the grandeur of the revelation of through the sensory stimuli to find The Bible means so much to me God?” (Fundamentals of Christian indications of God’s efforts to express because, like the long-lost letter from Education, p. 130). His presence and His love. It’s not sur- my mother, it is a precious communi- prising that a man whose senses were cation from a God who loves me. And A Survival Resource so keenly attuned to detect God’s His love doesn’t leave me as it found Ellen White’s description of the voice was “in the spirit on the Lord’s me; Scripture builds me up, sharpening experience of John the revelator on day.” Scripture, which had been the my mind and forming me into the Patmos has always captivated me, for it standard of his life, now became his image of Christ. illustrates how Scripture can bring joy survival resource and consolation. My commitment is not only to be in the most desolate circumstances and Of course, John’s hopes weren’t familiar with this precious Book, but to connectedness with God even when disappointed. That patch of land that love both the truth and the Lord of we are alone. was to be his final resting place was truth it reveals. ■ After his dramatic deliverance transformed into a virtual communica- from the cauldron of oil, John might tion center as he received and recorded a Questions for Discussion well have been forgiven for any bit- spectacular vision of the sweep of human 1. How has Scripture functioned terness as he faced this banishment. history. What might have been ultimate like a personal communication from But this experience would not turn punishment became consummate joy God to you? out to be punishment for the last of when he was blessed to pen the Bible’s 2. How have challenges to the the disciples. His faith in the God of final book. authority of the Word of God af- Scripture predisposed him to be open The Word revealed to John the fected your life or the lives of those to what God might communicate in revelator is still efficacious for God’s close to you? this lonely place. children who are destined to survive Ellen White suggests that as John under situations at least as challeng- observed the clouds above him on ing. Yes, God still reaches humanity Walter L. Pearson, Jr., is the that relatively small, desolate isle, he through various sensory avenues, but speaker/director for the imagined that they were the same the primary source of His revelation Breath of Life television ones that had traversed the space continues to be the Written Word of ministry. above the Temple at Jerusalem. He God, the Bible.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1461) 29 TUESDAY Joy in the Word BY DOROTHY EATON WATTS Especially for those times when you’re hurting, confused, overwhelmed

heard joy today—in the squeals of a 3-year-old chasing things that hadn’t gotten done the day before. They bubbles, in the lilting song of a sparrow, in the happy would now be added to my list for today. I groaned and ripple of a mountain brook. rolled over, but finally stumbled out of bed. My heart was I saw joy today—in the heavy and my spirit sagged. I felt dancing eyes of a new bride, so weak, so vulnerable. Iin the wiggles of a puppy welcoming That morning I turned to its master, in the face of a schoolgirl Her breaking heart Zephaniah 3:17: “The Lord thy God skipping down the street. in the midst of thee is mighty; he I felt joy today—in the warmth cried out in the will save, he will rejoice over thee of sunshine, in the rhythm of a with joy; he will rest in his love, he praise chorus, in the welcome will joy over thee with singing.” I embrace of the man I love. silence of the pictured myself a little girl coming to I found joy today—in the pages my heavenly Father to be held in of an old book, in my hour with tropical night. His arms, hearing Him say, “Now, God’s eternal Word, in the presence Dorothy, I’ll take care of every- of Him who is the source of all joy. thing.” I could imagine Him holding In my encounter with Christ in Scriptures this morning me close as He sang a joyful love song to quiet me.” I felt the I found “the fulness of joy”—warmth, brightness, music, warmth of His embrace. His joy filled me with new energy. laughter, sunshine and roses, and infinite possibilities. My After that encounter with God’s Word I was able to heart sang, my eyes danced, and my voice broke out in breeze through my day with a light heart. I finished the 17 praise. Joy was mine, captured by a moment with the Lord items on my to-do list by midafternoon. I fixed myself some in His Word. cold lemonade and sat in my garden to enjoy the flowers, to bask in the sunshine of God’s love. It was a joyful day! ita Armstrong is another who found joy in the Word. What a difference the Word had made! She had lived on an emotional roller coaster for “Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart” Rmuch of her life. She masked her unhappiness, but (Jer. 15:16). often felt discouraged. Then one afternoon she spent several hours meditating on oyce Landorf Heatherley found strength and joy in the God’s Word, His power, and His love. She remembered the Word following her divorce. She felt forsaken by every- certainty she had had as a child that Jesus loved her, then she Jone, including God. Numb with pain and unable to thought of heaven and the joy she would feel when in God’s concentrate on Bible study or prayer, she seemed unable to presence at last. The words of Hebrews 13:8 came to her: do the simplest chores. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” One morning while dusting an end table, she picked up Jesus cannot change! Rita thought. He loved me when I was her Bible, and it slipped through her fingers to the floor. It a child, He will love me when I get to heaven, and He loves me fell open to Romans 8. Her eyes rested on the verses at the now! Joy and love overwhelmed her. Suddenly she realized close of the chapter: “For I am persuaded, that neither she was significant in God’s eyes—that she mattered to God! death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, Jumping to her feet, she danced around the house, singing nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor again and again, “I matter to God! I matter to God!” 1 depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us “In thy presence is fulness of joy” (Ps. 16:11). from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (verses 38, 39). ne morning I awoke to feel the stresses of life at Joyce carried the Bible to the piano and placed it open on work in my body. My back, head, and feet hurt, the music rack. Every day after that she spent some time sit- Oand I wasn’t yet out of bed! I thought of all the ting on the piano bench reading those words again and again

30 (1462) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 through her tears. As she med- day with joy, joy found in my itated on those words each day, time with God and His Word. life and hope came to her I had discovered the truth of again. She felt again the lov- Ellen White’s words: ing presence of the Lord. Joy “Man, created for fellow- returned in those moments ship with God, can only in with God on the piano bench, such fellowship find his real listening to God speak to her life and development. through His Word.2 Created to find in God his “The joy of the Lord is your highest joy, he can find in strength” (Neh. 8:10). nothing else that which can quiet the cravings of the ISC D arlene Rose was a heart, can satisfy the hunger

HOTO missionary in New and thirst of the soul. He © P D Guinea when World who with sincere and teach-

HOTO War II broke. Japanese sol- able spirit studies God’s P diers captured her and her Word, seeking to compre- husband, and kept them in separate inner joy she had found in the pres- hend its truths, will be brought in prisoner-of-war camps in the jungle. ence of Christ through His Word.3 touch with its Author” (Education, pp. But just before she was miraculously “To give unto them . . . the oil of joy 124, 125). And the Author is the delivered, she learned that her hus- for mourning, the garment of praise for source of all joy. band had died. the spirit of heaviness.” “You have given them great joy, That night when the lights in the Lord: you have made them happy.” camp were out, she lay facedown on ot long ago I went through a her mat, longing for a soft shoulder to time of darkness. I couldn’t bear ave you discovered the secret lay her aching head on, for someone to Nthe pain of the present, but of a Christian’s happy life? Are put a comforting arm around her. She could see no hope for the future. On the Hyou spending time every day in felt all joy had gone with the loss of outside I was smiling. Inside I felt so frag- the Word, in the presence of Him who her husband, and she thought she ile, splitting apart at my very soul. It was is the source of all joy? According to would never be able to smile again. then that I read Isaiah 9:2, 3: “The peo- John, for this purpose the Bible was “Lord, are You there?” her breaking ple who walked in darkness have seen a written—to introduce us to joy. heart cried out in the silence of the great light. They lived in a land of shad- “And these things write we unto you, tropical night. “Do You see my pain? Do ows, but now light is shining on them. that your joy may be full” (1 John 1:4). ■ You care?” Just then the Lord spoke You have given them great joy, Lord; you quietly to her heart the words of Isaiah have made them happy” (TEV). l I. Howat, ed., Light in the Middle of the Tunnel (Fern, Scotland: Christian Focus 61:1-3: “He hath sent me to bind up “Lord, come to me with the light Publications, 1994), pp. 109-121. the brokenhearted, . . . to comfort all and joy of Your presence,” I wrote in 2 Joyce Landorf Heatherley, Unworld People that mourn, . . . to give unto them my journal. (Austin, Tex.: Balcony Publishing, 1987), pp. 216-222. beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for “Lead me out of darkness into Your 3 Darlene D. Rose, Evidence Not Seen (San mourning, the garment of praise for brightness.” “Bring your shadows to Francisco: HarperCollins, 1990), pp. 109-113. the spirit of heaviness.” Me,” He whispered. So real did Christ’s presence seem “The shadows in my life are many, Questions for Discussion that she quietly poured out her sorrows Lord,” I began. For several minutes I 1. With which of the persons men- to His listening ear, sensing that He wrote down my concerns for sins, fail- tioned in the lesson do you identify took note of every word she whispered. ures, health problems, children, grand- most closely? She knew He understood her oppres- children, speaking appointments, and 2. How can you improve quality sive sense of aloneness, the grief too writing projects. I handed over nine time with your Lord? deep for words. Darlene sensed that He burdens to the Lord that morning. 3. What about this reading most wept with her, that He cared. About In my journal I wrote: “Lord, You impressed you? What possible new ways that night she later wrote, “I was learn- are my light, my joy, and my song! to witness does the reading suggest? ing to understand the comfort of the Come to me, Lord! Warm my heart, Holy Spirit. Sometime during the dark lighten my spirit. Please, Lord, I need Dorothy Eaton Watts is hours I slept. The sword of sorrow had You! Oh, how I need You!” associate secretary of the pierced deep within me, but He had The sun felt as if it were shining for Southern Asia Division in bathed the sword in oil.” The next the first time in weeks! Infused with Hosur, India. morning Darlene’s face radiated the energy and hope, I felt able to face my

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1463) 31 WEDNESDAY They Testify of Me BRYAN W. BALL Jesus is the heart of it all.

recent book, The Word of the Lord, reminds of Him on whom the Bible centers. As Barclay again says: us of a very basic truth. The Bible “makes “The function of the Scriptures is not to give life, but to the redeeming God known to us.” point to Him who can.” How true this is! And how necessary it is On the road to Emmaus Jesus Himself used this very for those who revere the Bible to remember principle. The Bible says that in rekindling the flagging Athat it is more than just a source of information. Of course, faith of the disappointed disciples, “beginning at Moses Scripture does impart understanding, but it is also the “liv- and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the ing” and “powerful” Word of God (Heb. 4:12).* Scriptures the things concerning Himself” (Luke 24:27). If we are truly to experience that power in our lives, then The result of this divine exposition of Scripture is we must not only understand what the Bible says but also remarkable. They said to each other, “Did not our heart understand why it was written. As someone has said, the burn within us . . . while He opened the Scriptures to us?” Bible “is given to man to enable him to enter into salva- (verse 32). The real power of the Word of God lies in its tion.” This is the “why” we must never forget. application to Jesus and His great redemptive work. Eternal Paul understood this essential truth. The Holy Scriptures, life comes from the incarnate Word, from Christ, who is the he wrote to Timothy, “are able to make you wise for salva- focus of all Scripture. tion” (2 Tim. 3:15). The purpose of Scripture is not merely to impart religious knowledge, but to lead to salvation. So How It Happens Paul adds, “through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” The wis- The extent of the Bible’s witness to Jesus is quite com- dom that leads ultimately to salvation is not head knowl- pelling. To examine it in detail would require volumes. But edge of the Scriptures, but an experiential knowledge of there are some specific emphases that illuminate the purpose Jesus Christ, which comes by faith. of the Bible and help us to grasp again its saving message. In one of His discourses with the Jews, Jesus Himself Truly, the Scriptures “testify of Him.” referred to the purpose for which Scripture was written. 1. They testify of His person. The Bible is the main source The incident appears in what is perhaps one of the most of information regarding the existence of Jesus. While there crucial passages in the Bible and reveals to us the ultimate are some casual references in nonbiblical literature, the only purpose of the Written Word. To the misguided Jews Jesus substantive knowledge we have of Jesus is from the Bible. said, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you The historical Jesus is the Jesus of biblical history, the Jesus have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. who was born in the reign of Caesar Augustus, and who was But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have crucified under Pontius Pilate. life” (John 5:39, 40). This Jesus, this historical figure who lived and died in These Jews were perhaps the best Bible students in the first-century Palestine, is none other than the divine/human world. They continuously and meticulously read the Word Son of God. This is the unequivocal testimony of Scripture. and studied the text. Yet they failed totally to understand “Emmanuel, the risen one.” He alone is the way to the what it was all about. William Barclay comments some- Father and to the Father’s house. The parables and miracles where that “water has as much chance of getting into con- that saturate the pages of the Gospels are the words and acts crete as the Word of God had of getting into their minds.” of a real Person who lived in real time, and whose coming And the reason? They read the Scriptures, not to hear the changed the destiny of the human race forever. Word of the redeeming God, but to find arguments to sup- Without the Bible we would know nothing of signifi- port their own positions. cance about Jesus. Let us be reminded during this Week of Prayer, as we 2. They testify of His atoning death. While it is clear that acknowledge again the authority and power of God’s Word, Scripture testifies to the life and ministry of Jesus, it is also that it is possible to study Scripture for the wrong reasons. clear that it focuses with great detail on the final week of His Eternal life does not come to us merely through studying life. The death of Jesus is unequivocally the focal point of and understanding the Bible. It comes through acceptance the Gospels. And why so? Because Jesus’ death was different

32 (1464) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 COMPOSITE AL IGIT / D ISC D HOTO © P AND CK TO S AL IGIT © D HOTOS P

from any other death in human history. us,” as Paul says again (Rom. 5:8). Central and glorious as the cross of The death of Jesus on the cross of All this reminds us that Christianity, Calvary is, it is not the only provision Calvary was, and is, an event with rightly understood, does not primarily in the divine plan for human salva- profound theological and redemptive offer us an example and is not principally tion. Paul states, “For if when we were significance. He died not for Himself a process of mental illumination. The enemies we were reconciled to God or on account of anything He had Christian message deals with sinful through the death of His Son, much done. Jesus’ death was a sacrificial human existence and deals with it by more, having been reconciled, we shall death, a substitutionary death, an way of substitution and atonement. To be saved by His life” (verse 10). atoning death. Paul states it thus: this the Scriptures bear eloquent testi- And the significance of Jesus’ life is “Christ died for our sins according to mony. It is central, indispensable, and that it was a righteous life. The testi- the Scriptures” (1 Cor. 15:3). Jesus irreplaceable. mony of the Bible is that this righteous- lived in order that He might die—“for 3. They testify of His righteousness. ness, found only in Christ, is the source

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1465) 33 and basis of the righteousness sinful behalf appears.” assume His rightful place as ruler of humans need in order to be saved. “By 5. They testify of His kingship and the universe. one Man’s obedience many will be made reign. “Jesus Shall Reign” is not simply What a prospect to contemplate! righteous” (verse 19). The gospel a beautiful hymn. It is a statement of And what a testimony! We gladly reaf- according to Romans is the gospel God’s ultimate purpose, an affirmation firm that Scripture does testify of Him according to the righteousness of Jesus. that human history moves toward a from beginning to end. He who is the Ellen White has written much on divine destiny. John saw the “Word of seed of the woman in Genesis is also this pivotal and beautiful truth. the worthy lamb of Revelation. “Only the covering which Christ Without Him the Bible would be Himself has provided can make us pointless, a story without a plot, meet to appear in God’s presence. The Christian without a hero, without a conclu- This covering, the robe of His own sion, and without credibility. righteousness, Christ will put upon message, which So the question comes to us again every repenting, believing soul. . . . with new insistence. Just what does This robe, woven in the loom of deals with sinful the Bible mean to us? Why do we heaven, has in it not one thread of read it? Why do we study its sacred human devising. Christ in His and inspired text? humanity wrought out a perfect human existence Is it possible that we search the character, and this character He Scriptures the same way the Jews of offers to impart to us” (Christ’s by way of Jesus’ day did and, as they did, per- Object Lessons, p. 311). haps miss the point of it all? Have 4. They testify of His intercessory substitution we really grasped that the Written ministry. One of the neglected Word was given to lead us to a sav- truths of contemporary Christianity ing knowledge of the Word who is the priestly ministry of Jesus in and atonement, became flesh? And most pressing of heaven. Yet the Scriptures testify all, are we willing to come to Him clearly to this ministry of interces- is central, each day in simple, trusting faith sion. “We have a great High Priest that we may have life? Only so can who has passed through the heav- indispensable, we truly experience the mighty ens, Jesus the Son of God” (Heb. power of the Word of God. ■ 4:14). This High Priest can sympa- thize with our weaknesses and and irreplaceable. * Scripture references in this article are from the New King James Version. temptations. He identifies with the human family, having been one of us, God” with a new name—“KING OF and He urges us to come totally to the KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” throne of grace. (Rev. 19:16). Questions for Discussion This is no mere theological casu- 1. From the reference to the Jews in istry. It is an integral part of the divine cripture bears its consistent and Scripture, what pitfalls do you see for plan to rescue human beings. It is the powerful witness to the fact that modern Christians and for Seventh- assurance that we are not left alone to SJesus will at the end reign in eter- day Adventists in particular? face the enemy or the strong and often nal glory. The world will be cleansed 2. Discuss the five ways in which seemingly overwhelming power of our from sin and restored to its rightful Scripture testifies to Jesus. Which do human fallenness. place in the universe. The record you find most meaningful for your per- “Jesus lives,” says Ellen White. “He states, “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to sonal life? died to make a way of escape for the testify to you these things in the 3. How might we use any or all of fallen race, and He lives today to make churches” (Rev. 22:16). these five points in sharing the gospel intercession for us, that we may be All this is the predicted and neces- with others? exalted to His own right hand. Hope sary conclusion to human history. The in God” and “remember,” she says, “Christ event” takes in at one great that “through Him you can conquer” cosmic sweep all the facets of Jesus’ (Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 591, 592). redemptive activity. He is the alpha Until his retirement in No wonder Charles Wesley wrote and the omega, the beginning and the December 1997, Bryan W. with such conviction: end, the author and the finisher of our Ball was the president of the “Arise, my soul, arise, Shake off faith. Jesus will come—indeed, must South Pacific Division, head- thy guilty fears; come—to bring to a triumphant con- quartered in Wahroonga, The bleeding Sacrifice In my clusion the plan of salvation and to New South Wales, Australia.

34 (1466) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 THURSDAY The Unique, Impelling JAIRYONG LEE Power of God’s Word No other book can possibly compete.

ne of the internal evidences of the Bible’s sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of inspiration is its impelling power. In this joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and respect the Bible is different from all other intents of the heart” (Heb. 4:12). books. In turn, it has Once I saw a documentary about been translated into Western missionaries working in the Omore languages than any other Philippines during the pioneering book, always holding the best-seller The Word of God days. The missionaries were walking position. The Bible is the most through a jungle in a remote area. loved, most read, and most appreci- can change hearts Suddenly a group of locals appeared ated book in the world because of from the bush and blocked the way, its enormous power to positively in all conditions. threatening the missionaries with influence human beings. spears, swords, and bows and arrows. No other book has had as much The missionaries tried to explain impact on human lives as the Word of God. Here’s why: their work, but the language barrier simply added more trou- 1. The Scriptures introduce everlasting life to perishing bles and misunderstanding. Finally one missionary pulled a souls. Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you Bible from his bag, and using body language and a picture of think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify the Crucifixion, began explaining the sacrificial love of Christ. of Me” (John 5:39).* In other words, the Scriptures tell sin- Somehow the Holy Spirit worked on the hearts of these ners doomed to eternal destruction about Christ—“the way, people, and they began studying the Bible with the mission- the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). aries. After several days they became Christians. Jesus Himself knew the difference firsthand. When He The Word of God can change hearts in all conditions. received the news that one of His dearest friends, Lazarus, Drunkards and drug addicts have been cured by it, the dis- had died, it could have meant eternal separation—if God couraged have been encouraged, and even wicked sinners had not prepared a plan of salvation. Jesus turned to the in prison cells have become saints of God by reading it. grieving Martha and said, “I am the resurrection and the As the two disciples on the road to Emmaus said to one life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall another, “Did not our hearts burn within us while He live. And whosoever lives and believes in Me shall never talked with us on the road, and while He opened the die” (John 11:25, 26). Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32). Millions of Christians have died believing in Christ What power there is in the marvelous Word of God! Jesus. Now they await the resurrection morning, when they 3. The Scriptures lead people to the path of righ- will receive immortal bodies and life from the returning teousness. Our life journey in this sin-darkened world Saviour—the life and the resurrection. demands a sure guide. Human philosophies and teachings Sinful human beings are concerned about life and death. have suggested various ways of life. But none of these They think seriously about death and fear eternal separation could possibly give satisfactory answers to the many from their loved ones. Satan has taken advantage of this perplexing questions about the state of life. human weakness, disseminating the belief in the immortality The Scriptures are “an infallible guide under all circum- of the soul. But the Scriptures reveal that there is eternal life stances, even to the end of the journey of life” (Ellen G. only in Christ. By believing in the name of Jesus, a person White, in Signs of the Times, Mar. 21, 1906). The psalmist doomed to eternal death will receive eternal life. sings, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my 2. The Scriptures transform lives. One of the purposes path” (Ps. 119:105). As a light brightens the road ahead, the and functions of the Scriptures is to transform a sinful life Scriptures help us see the path we’re traveling. into a godly one. Sinners are overwhelmed by the forgiving The Scriptures tell us what is right and what is wrong, grace of God introduced in the Bible. “For the word of God which way we should go and which way we shouldn’t. As is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged long as we are faithful to the Word of God, we will never

36 (000) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 ISC D HOTO © P HOTO P

miss the way to heaven. and will easily fall prey to the devil. testimony these will detect the 4. The Scriptures guarantee “Satan well knows,” wrote Ellen deceiver in his disguise” (The Great eternal victory. The 6,000-year battle White, “that all whom he can lead to Controversy, p. 625). between good and evil will soon end. neglect prayer and the searching of the Let us be armed with the Word of Since Satan well knows that his time Scriptures will be overcome by his God until we set foot on the heavenly is short, he brings all kinds of tempta- attacks. Therefore he invents every Canaan. ■ tions and troubles to people. He “walks possible device to engross the mind” about like a roaring lion, seeking (The Great Controversy, p. 519). * Scripture references in this article are from the New King James Version. whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). She wrote later: “I saw that young How can we resist Satan’s temptations and old neglect the Bible. They do not and be victorious over him? We must make that book their study and their Questions for Discussion be armed with the Word of God. rule of life as they should. Especially are 1. Think of a time when you clearly The Word of God is the most pow- the young guilty of this neglect. Most of felt the power of God’s Word. What erful weapon we can use in this spiri- them are ready, and find plenty of time, passage were you reading? What was tual warfare. When Jesus was tested by to read almost any other book. But the happening in your life at that time? Satan in the wilderness 40 days after word that points to life, eternal life, is 2. Three times Jesus responded to His baptism, He did not use worldly not perused and daily studied. . . . Idle Satan’s wilderness temptations with “It knowledge or human philosophy. He stories have been attentively read, while is written . . .” In what ways does used only one tool: “It is written.” This the Bible has been passed by neglected” Satan tempt you? With what texts can proves that the Word of God is the (Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 134, 135). you respond? most powerful, useful, and sure weapon 3. Does being “people of the Book” that Christians have in the great con- s the close of probation draws mean doctrinal purity, regular Bible troversy between good and evil. nearer, Satan’s attack on study, or both? Are Adventists still In the explanation of the whole AGod’s people will intensify. “people of the Book”? armor of God, Paul admonishes that in “Only those,” wrote Ellen White, order “to stand against the wiles of the “who have been diligent students of Jairyong Lee is the director of devil” (Eph. 6:11), we should “take . . . the Scriptures and who have received the 100 Missionary the sword of the Spirit, which is the the love of the truth will be shielded Movement/North America. word of God” (verse 17). When we from the powerful delusion that takes lose this weapon, we become helpless the world captive. By the Bible

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1469) 37 FRIDAY The Word Made ALEJANDRO BULLON More Sure

eter clearly contrasts light and darkness as he writes throughout the known world. to stimulate strong faith and encourage the con- Undoubtedly, the enemy of God was being driven crazy verted Jewish and Gentile believers in Asia and the by his hatred toward the faithful pioneers of the Christian surrounding regions. faith. What could he do to destroy “And we have the them? Could he make the gospel Pprophetic word made more sure,” he ineffective by destroying the value assures them as he begins his second Darkness has of the redemptive work of Christ in letter. “You will do well to pay the life of the individual? attention to this as a lamp shining no power when It was then that the enemy in a dark place, until the day dawns decided to change his strategy. He and the morning star rises in your would continue to persecute and hearts” (2 Peter 1:19, RSV). confronted kill Christians, but at the same Whenever I think of darkness, I time he would attack them in the remember a dramatic experience I with light. sensitive terrain of faith and doc- had working as a missionary among trine. Consequently, a strange form the Campas Indians in the of libertine Gnosticism began to Amazonian region of my home country. The day had been invade the church. The Gnostics believed that the exhausting. I had left home very early, and although it was worldly system had as one of its purposes the “destruction” already 5:00 in the afternoon, I had not reached my final of the body. The body was equated with sin because it was destination. Soon the darkness of the night surrounded me, material, and according to them, matter was inherently and I was unable to see anything. I was left to the mercy of evil. This led them to conclude that Christians could the dangers of an unknown jungle. It was cold, and I began cooperate with the worldly system by “destroying” the to feel insecure. body through punishment or degradation. “Pastor,” the Indians had told me, “if you ever have to spend the night in the jungle, build a fire. The blaze will Spiritual Mischief warm you and keep the wild animals and insects away The type of Gnosticism that attacked the church at from you.” Colossae argued for the destruction of the body through Darkness intimidates, scares, causes panic, and many punishment. In the days of Peter, however, another type of times leads to desperation and craziness. Darkness is a Gnosticism surfaced, teaching that the body could be symbol of confusion and death. By contrasting light and destroyed through a licentious lifestyle. The church was now darkness, Peter is calling the attention of the church to introduced to “the lust of defiling passion” (2 Peter 2:10, the danger of losing the light by rejecting or disdaining it. RSV). Individuals appeared having their “eyes full of adul- The message of our text was written by a simple man with- tery, insatiable for sin,” enticing unsteady souls, and with out much culture but filled by the Holy Spirit to a church hearts “trained in greed” (verse 14, RSV). that was becoming firmly established in the truth. It was a Darkness. Thick moral darkness was beginning to engulf young church living its first century of existence, with false the church even in the days of Peter. This church that had teachers seeking to introduce heresies in its midst. resisted persecution and suffering was, perhaps, unaware of The early church, in its first love, was being persecuted it. They seemed undecided as they considered the heresies because of a firm faith in Christ, but the persecution that the enemy was introducing. It was this situation that resulted only in the believers trusting the Lord more than moved Peter to write his second letter to the church. This ever. Some were humiliated and misunderstood, some were historical context will make it easier for us to understand thrown to the wild beasts in the Roman arena, and others the message of our text: “We have the prophetic word made were burned alive. In the midst of pain and suffering the more sure. You will do well to pay attention to this as to a church continued to grow as its members shared the gospel lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the

38 (1470) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 morning star there darkness rises in your all around you? hearts.” Do you have an The Word of urgent decision God is our only to make but do safeguard in not know how this dark world. to make it? Today, as he Open the has done so Inspired Word. often in the Kneel down past, the enemy and ask God for will do any- answers. The thing to destroy Word is your the church of light, and as God. As we long as you face the final make it the moments of norm of your

ISC human history, life, you will D when an eter- not stumble, HOTO nal day is about but will walk © P to dawn and safely through HOTO

P the glorious the valley of morning star is about to rise, the Peter’s advice is that we should pay shadow and death. It will always shine enemy will attack the church as never attention to the “prophetic word.” This on your way, and in its pages you will before. He will attempt to destabilize means to believe in the revealed Word find the hope and assurance that you good doctrine by introducing teach- and to defend it as fully inspired and will never walk alone. ings of human origin. It is at this trustworthy, and as the only rule of faith That night in the jungle I lit the fire moment that the Lord points us to the and practice. and felt secure. There was darkness “prophetic word” as our only safe- What would happen to you if during around me, and it was cold and dan- guard. a dark night the lamp that lit your way gerous. There were many insects emit- Beloved, do not doubt it. Today men began to go out? And what would hap- ting strange sounds. But I was secure. and women will rise among us, doubt- pen to the church if, in a world of Jesus was with me, and I had light. ing the Word of God, assigning levels of moral and spiritual darkness, the Word Darkness has no power when con- inspiration, attempting to rationalize of God began to lose its authority? The fronted with the light. We invite you clear biblical principles and teachings, Word is the only lamp to lighten our to go back home today, trusting the and working very hard in order that way; the lighthouse that will take us Word of God more than ever before. truth may give in to social and cultural safely to our glorious destiny. Would you like to accept it again as pressures. Long ago the servant of the If for any reason we were persuaded trustworthy, as fully inspired, and as Lord prophesied it: “Men arise who that the Bible is not inspired, as it the only authorized rule for each one think they find something to criticize in claims to be (2 Tim. 3:16), and if we of your beliefs? God’s Word. They lay it bare before let social or cultural pressures justify others as evidence of superior wisdom. the violation of biblical principles and Questions for Discussion These men are, many of them, smart teachings, we would be opening the 1. What is the meaning of the men, learned men, they have eloquence door to the complete disintegration of “prophetic word” (2 Peter 1:19, RSV)? and talent, the whole lifework [of the unity of the church. Is not the 2. What teachings of human origin whom] is to unsettle minds in regard to world trying to justify free love, has Satan used to destabilize good doc- the inspiration of the Scriptures. They homosexuality, and indiscriminate trine today? influence many to see as they do” abortion? What is the point of refer- 3. If Peter were to write a letter to (Selected Messages, book 1, p. 17). ence for our church? Peter answers, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in We need wisdom not to be influenced “We have the prophetic word made 1998, what warnings would he give? by the liberalism that marches under the more sure. You will do well to pay standard of historical criticism and to attention to it.” Alejandro Bullon is the min- avoid at the same time the radicalism of This text contains a message not isterial secretary of the South the right that is trying also to destabilize only for the church but also for you American Division. the church as an organized body. Where and me. Are you living in the darkness can we find assistance for this task? of suffering and pain in this world? Is

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1471) 39 SECOND SABBATH The Power of the ELLEN G. WHITE Truth in the Daily Life The world should sense a difference about us.

he truths contained in the Word of God must family. It must bring under its control the temper and the not be received merely as a theory. Through voice. The apostle exhorts us: “As he which hath called you the reception of Christ as our personal is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because Saviour, the precious truths which that Word it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” contains will become as threads of gold to bind It is a mistake for any to suppose that they can with safety Tus to Christ and to one another. As the penetrating power pass by the little things with indifference. In the home and of the leaven produces an entire change in the meal, so the in the church there are matters which are looked upon as power of the Word of God, through His grace, will work a “little things.” But it is these “little things” that have the transformation in the soul. great results. It is the “little things” that discipline the soul, But the question arises, Why are there so many, claiming and prepare men to act with lowly-mindedness under large to believe God’s Word, in whom we do not see a reforma- responsibilities. The leaven of truth is a living principle. tion in words, in spirit, and in character? Why are there so This principle is to be practiced in the little things, and many who cannot bear opposition to their purposes and exert an influence over the daily life. The large and small plans, who manifest an unholy temper, and whose words are things are always linked together. It is because the “little harsh, overbearing, and passionate? things” are not always seen and linked with those of higher The answer is, They are not converted. They need to be interest that so many professed Christians fail. Many whose born again. The Word of God has not had the opportunity characters are now being weighed in the balances of the of doing its work upon the heart. The sunshine of Christ’s sanctuary are pronounced wanting, because they do not righteousness has not been permitted to shine into the soul bring the truth into the practical life. temple. Their natural and cultivated tendencies to evil have not been worked upon by the transforming power of the Why Aren’t We Different? truth, and as the result, preconceived opinions are retained. As members of the royal family, we are in solemn All this reveals the absence of the grace of Christ, and a dis- covenant with God to promote piety in the home and in belief in His power to transform the character. the church. But many act as if the truths of God’s Word The truths of the Word of God meet in one grand practi- did not exist. The same love of self, the same selfish cal necessity—the conversion of the soul through faith. indulgence, the same temper and hasty speech are seen in When the believer is united with Christ, that faith is mani- their lives as in the life of the worldling. The same sensi- fested in holiness of character, in consistent obedience to tive pride, the same yielding to natural inclination, the every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. The same perversities of character, are seen as if the truth grand principles of the Word of God are not to be thought were totally unknown to them. They close the windows too pure and holy to be brought into the daily life. The of the soul and shut out the righteousness of Christ, and truths of the Word of God are truths which reach to heaven then complain that they have no joy, no assurance and and compass eternity; and yet their vital influence is to be happiness in believing the truth. woven into the human life. The influence of the Word of But the sin lies at their own door; for they have not hid- God is to have a sanctifying effect on our speech, our den the leaven of truth in the heart. When the waters of actions, our associations with every member of the human life flow in pure, sweet currents to the parched soil of the

40 (1472) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 heart, there will be eradicated, be a develop- and the leaven of ment of fruit to the Word of God the glory of God. implanted in the Then the truth heart, to work will not be with its vital brought into dis- properties to repute by the restore the lost perverse disposi- image of God in tion, the defec- man. tive hereditary And, the and cultivated transformation tendencies now having taken revealed in word place through the and action. leaven of truth, a The leaven of work is entrusted truth must have to us. Christ life in itself, or it commissions us: will not work out “All power is of the heart the given unto me in deadly errors that heaven and in are there. The earth. Go ye Word of God therefore, and enjoins upon teach all nations, believers: baptizing them in “Whatsoever the name of the things are true, Father, and of the whatsoever Son, and of the things are hon- Holy Ghost; est, whatsoever teaching them to things are just, observe all things whatsoever whatsoever I things are pure, have commanded whatsoever you; and, lo, I things are lovely, am with you whatsoever alway, even unto

COMPOSITE things are of the end of the

AL good report; if world” (Signs of IGIT there be any the Times, Oct. / D virtue, and if 27, 1898). ISC D there be any It is God’s plan

HOTO praise, think on that old and © P these things. young shall study Those things His Word. This HOTOS P which ye have is necessary for both learned, and received, and heard, Jesus Christ.” This scripture is given to intellectual and spiritual growth. . . . do; and the God of peace shall be us to heed and to practice. As men and Christ has given us the Scriptures as with you.” women who profess godliness, we need our rule of life. This book contains His Should not the consideration of to ask ourselves, Are we obeying the teaching, and is worthy of the closest these matters arouse every Christian to Word of God? Is the leaven of truth study. “The words that I speak unto the solemn resolution to be more faith- hidden in the heart, working in the you,” He declared, “they are spirit, and ful? The words of inspiration should character, and conforming the entire they are life.” These words, falling have weight with us: “Gird up the being to the will and ways of God? We from the lips of Christ with divine loins of your mind, be sober, and hope need the converting power of God. authority, were to the disciples as a to the end for the grace that is to be The leaven of evil which works in dis- new revelation. They were not new, brought unto you at the revelation of obedience and denial of the truth must but they seemed so to the disciples,

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1473) 41 because their eyes were opened to see Father are one.” “For as the Father may be measured. The richest mines wonderful things in God’s Word. raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth of human production are not inex- them, even so the Son quickeneth haustible. But the highest, deepest, One Greater Than Gabriel whom he will. For the Father judgeth broadest flight of the imagination Should the angel Gabriel or one of no man, but hath committed all judg- cannot find out God. There is infinity the seraphs be sent to this world to ment unto the Son.” beyond all that we in our own take upon himself human nature, and Christ reproached His disciples with strength can comprehend; the Holy to teach men the mysteries of science their slowness of comprehension. They Spirit must reveal Him to us. Many and the knowledge of God, how eagerly were influenced by maxims and tradi- are too well satisfied with the surface men would listen to his instruction! tionary lore, so that the truths spoken truths of revelation. Precious gems of Supposing that he were able to set us a by the greatest Teacher the world has truth are passed by because their perfect example of purity and holiness, ever known were often lost truths to value is not seen. Let the Bible stu- sympathizing with us in all our sor- them. Christ led them to realize that dent tax his mind as he studies God’s rows, bereavements, and afflictions, He had put them in possession of truth Word; for the meaning often lies hid- and suffering the punishment of our den beneath the surface. The sins, how eagerly we would follow knowledge thus gained will be like him! What exaltation he would heavenly seed planted by the receive! Men would desire to place As members of the divine Sower.—Signs of the Times, him on the throne of David, and Dec. 22, 1898. ■ gather the nations under his banner. If, when the heavenly being royal family, we Questions for Discussion returned to his home, he left behind a 1. What reason does the author book containing the history of his are in solemn give for the lack of difference mission, with revelations regarding between the lives of Christians and the history and destiny of the world, covenant with that of people in the world in gen- how eagerly would its seal be broken! eral? How can this problem be cor- How anxiously would men seek to rected? obtain a copy! Thinking men would God to promote 2. The author cites the name of grasp the precious instruction, for the Gabriel in an intriguing illustration benefit of future generations. piety in the home that indicts us for the way we treat Thousands from all parts of the world the Bible. How did that comparison would copy the words of this book. and in the church. impact you? Can you cite other With intense interest they would read areas where we show a lack of and reread its pages. For a time all appreciation for the blessings God other interests would be subordinated has given? to this. of which they little suspected the 3. What is the one aspect of the But One surpassing all that supposi- value. After His resurrection, as He was present reading that impresses you tion can present came to this world. walking to Emmaus with two of the most? Why? Nearly two thousand years ago a voice disciples, He opened their under- of strange and mysterious import was standing, that they might understand heard from the throne of God: the Scriptures, so explaining the Old “Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest Testament to them that they saw in its not, but a body hast thou prepared me. teaching a meaning that the writers . . . Lo, I come (in the volume of the themselves had not seen. book it is written of me), to do thy Christ’s words are represented as being will, O God.” bread from heaven. As the disciples ate The prophet Isaiah bears striking the words of Christ, their understanding testimony to Christ: “Unto us a child was quickened. As they diligently sought is born, unto us a son is given: and the for the truth as for hidden treasure, they Ellen G. White was one of government shall be upon his shoul- understood better the value of the grace the pioneers of the Seventh- der: and his name shall be called and righteousness of Christ. In their com- day Adventist Church. Her Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty prehension of His teaching, they stepped work continues to be a God, The everlasting Father, The from the obscurity of dawn to the prophetic voice among Prince of Peace.” radiance of noon. Adventists. Of Himself Christ declares: “Before The work of no human author is Abraham was, I AM.” “I and my perfect. The depth of human intellect

42 (1474) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 Experience the Power of His Word

BY CHARLES MILLS

A Note to Parents and Teachers SABBATH Bible. End by saying, “This week we’re going to see what love messages he Bible sits on the God has put in the Bible for every shelves of more homes Love Letters boy and girl in this room.” than any other book. Yet we seldom experience its Story power. Why? Because Memory Gem When I was a little boy, I lived in a TScripture isn’t understood or appreci- Hebrews 4:12: “The word of God is country far from where I am now. As a ated for what it is—the unchanging, living and active” (NIV). matter of fact, there was a whole ocean lifesaving, mind-altering Word of and a couple seas between my grand- God. Visual Aid mother, aunts, uncles, and cousins and The following readings attempt to Gather some letters that you’ve where my family set up housekeeping. introduce the Bible to children not recently received from family and The country where we lived was only as God speaking to all the people friends, and place them within the Singapore. My relatives lived in the of the world, but as God speaking pages of your Bible. Show the children United States. directly to them. It’s my prayer that our what you’ve done, then say, “The Bible I loved Singapore. It had jungles heavenly Father will also whisper in filled with chattering monkeys and trees your ear as you lead young minds to a loaded with coconuts. We would visit better understanding of this beautiful beautiful flower gardens and attend book. strange festivals at which people played Here are a few activities you and mysterious music and sang and danced your children can enjoy together this to the rhythm of beating drums. week. Almost every week we’d get a letter Start a family history page in each from someone in faraway America. I’d child’s Bible. never met the writers, but they all Find and maintain a special place seemed to care about me. “This is from for everyone’s Bible in your home or your grandmother and grandfather in classroom. North Carolina,” my mom would say Read aloud from the International as she held up an envelope. “And this Children’s Bible (Word Publishing). is like a collection of letters from peo- one is from your uncle and aunt in Make Bible reading a scheduled ple you know and love. It also teaches New York,” she’d announce with great part of each day. You could light can- me about Jesus and keeps me from wor- expectation. dles or play sacred music softly in the rying too much. When I know what’s Then she’d read that my cousin had background to create a worshipful happening in my family, I feel better. the chicken pox, or my uncle got a mood. The Bible helps me understand what’s new job, or my grandmother fell down Include time to translate what happening in the world. These letters and hurt her elbow. Without fail every you’ve read into practical advice and and my Bible bring me happiness by writer would say, “And how is little REWS C real-world guidance. reminding me that someone loves me Charlie? Be sure to tell him that we Y ERR and is thinking about me.” love him very much.” T Next, share a few prepared (under- Who were these people? I wondered. BY

lined) examples from your letters, One fine day my family and I got on TIONS then read a couple of your favorite a big boat and sailed for weeks and LLUSTRA uplifting and hopeful texts from the weeks across the ocean. “Soon you’ll I

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1475) 43 meet all the people who wrote the let- SUNDAY warbled everywhere. ters,” Dad told me. “Your cousins, your Fire trucks arrived. Men and women uncles, your aunts—even your grand- shouted instructions as firefighters mother—will be at the dock when we stretched hoses from water mains and arrive at the New York harbor.” And Leap of Faith aimed them at the burning building. they were! So much hugging and Spray arched up from the street and laughing and crying I’d never seen. Memory Gem washed over the bricks and mortar, It seemed strange that even though Romans 10:17: “Faith comes from over the flower boxes and air-condi- I’d never met any of those hugging, hearing the message, and the mes- tioners, over the laundry hanging out- laughing, and crying people, I felt as if sage is heard through the word of side the windows, and the metal fire I knew them. Why? Because of their Christ” (NIV). escapes jammed with frightened people. letters. Even though we lived on oppo- Soon everyone in the building site sides of the world, we felt close Visual Aid escaped except one little girl. She stood because we took time to write to each Show a model airplane and a toy at the broken window of her room, other and share what was happening boat to the children and ask them if screaming through the thick smoke in our lives. anybody knows how an airplane flies or boiling all about her. Why didn’t she That’s the power of letters. That’s how a boat floats. Let them handle the run with the other people? Why hadn’t also the power of God’s most wonder- items. Then ask, “Even though most she left her apartment and found some- ful letter to us—the Bible. Even people don’t know how airplanes fly or one to help her escape? Because she though oceans of space separate us, we boats float, they happily climb on had been too scared to know what to can be friends. We can feel that we do. And she was blind. know Jesus even though we’ve never “Daddy. Daddy!” she screamed seen His face. again and again. Her father had gone to the store and didn’t know about the Application fire. If God talks to us through the “Little girl!” the firemen shouted Bible, how do we talk to Him? That’s from far below. “We’ve got a net spread right. By prayer. Prayer and the Bible out with strong people holding on to go together, don’t they? Why don’t it. Jump. Jump!” you decide right now to use God’s The blind girl ignored the firefighers’ Word to get to know Jesus better by pleas. She just stood there crying and having someone read it to you every screaming for her father as the fire day? Then allow Jesus to get to know crept closer and closer. Already her bed you better by talking to Him often was burning, and in a few moments the through prayer. curtains over her head would ignite. “Daddy! Daddy!” she called out, tears Discussion streaming from her sightless eyes. What’s your favorite letter that you Just then a man ran around the cor- have received? What did it say? In board real airplanes and real boats to ner and dropped his bags of groceries. what ways do people usually communi- go visit grandma or a friend who lives He saw the fire trucks and the men cate with each other today? (E-mail, far away. That’s faith. They have faith and women trying to control the rag- telephone, videotape, etc.) How would that the men and women who built ing inferno. He saw the black smoke Jesus use these communication tools to the airplane or the boat knew a lot pouring out of the windows. He saw reach us if He came to this world in about flying and floating. Faith is very the flames crackling and burning inside person right now? important when we read the Bible too. the building. And he saw his little We must believe that what Jesus said is daughter clinging to the windowsill, Activity true, that He’ll keep His promises, and her face pale and tear-stained. Ask the adult who takes care of you that He’ll come again.” That moment he noticed the big to help you write a letter or send an E- net being held by the strong people at mail to someone you know. Tell him or Story the base of the building. Looking up at her exactly what to say. You can share One day a tall apartment building the girl, he shouted, “Sweetheart, this a short story or just express your love. in a big city caught on fire. People is Daddy. You’ve got to jump. You’ve That’s exactly what God did when He screamed and ran to get out of the got to jump right now!” inspired people to write the Bible. building. Black smoke rushed down Suddenly the little girl grew calm. the hallways, and hot flames crept up Her screaming stopped as a smile spread the stairs. Loud alarms clanged and across her face. “OK, Daddy,” she called.

44 (1476) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 With that she stepped out into became Paul.) Sad? (The disciples person or place that’s represented in space and fell. So relaxed was she, so when Jesus went up to heaven.) How the book. Then say, “The Bible is like confident that her father would did God help them? this book. In it I find stories and never let her get hurt, that she tum- places that mean something important bled into the net without breaking a Activity to my eternal life. It reminds me that bone or even straining a muscle in Draw a “before” and “after” picture Jesus is my friend and that He’s her four-story drop. She trusted her of a Bible character who was helped preparing a wonderful new home for father completely. When she heard when God spoke to him or her. For me in heaven with others who chose his voice, she did exactly what he instance, you could draw Jonah being to love and obey God.” told her to do. That trust, that faith, swallowed by the whale (before) and Mention that some of your friends saved her life. then thanking God on the beach for have changed physically since school. I don’t know about you, but some- keeping him alive (after). Or how Then share the fact that in heaven we times I feel as if I am blind. I don’t about people crying by a graveside won’t grow old or get wrinkles or fight mean that I can’t see anything. I mean (before) and then joyously greeting diseases. We’ll be strong and healthy. that I don’t understand a lot of stuff. I loved ones at Jesus’ second coming How do you know that? Because the find myself asking “why” a lot. Why (after)? Whenever you face a problem, Bible says so! did my friend die? Why did that man remember, God is there helping you lose his job? Why is there so much before and after. Story sickness in this world? Why can’t I do Down in my basement there’s a big all the things I want to do? plastic box with my name on it. Inside Then I read my Bible and find that MONDAY the box are all kinds of treasures. No, I again and again God says to me, don’t mean gold and silver trinkets “Charles. This is your heavenly Father. worth a lot of money. No one would be Everything will be all right if you’ll just Wonderful interested in buying what’s in my box. have faith in Me. I’ll take care of you if But those things are very special to me. you’ll listen to My voice and follow Would you like to see some of my My instructions.” Suddenly my fear Words of Life personal treasures? Well, let me get the and uncertainty go away. That’s God top off and we’ll take a look. talking to me. He never lets anybody Memory Gem The first thing I see is a bunch of down. So I relax and fall into His Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of love letters from my wife. She wrote strong arms of love. the gospel, because it is the power of them to me before we got married. She God for the salvation of everyone who says mushy stuff like “I love you” and Application believes” (NIV). “I miss you.” Today, whenever she sees The next time you feel afraid, the me reading them, she gets all embar- next time you don’t know what to Visual Aid rassed and leaves the room. I like those do, ask your mom, dad, teacher, or Show one of your old high school letters because they make me feel that the adult who takes care of you to or college annuals and share how I’m somebody important to her. grab his or her Bible. Tell them, “I much you enjoy looking at the pic- H’mmmm, here are some interest- think I need a text or two that will tures of the buildings and classmates. ing treasures. These are my old help me not be afraid” or “Read to Perhaps include a short story about a Pathfinder Honor badges. I wore these me something that will give me colorful little patches on my uni- courage” or “How ’bout finding a form, showing everyone that I story of someone who was sad and learned how to take pictures, how to then became glad.” care for cats, know the names of The adult may have to do a little animals, cook nutritious food, bake searching, but be patient. God longs yummy bread, and identify different to speak to you through His Holy types of birds and trees. There’s Word. Listen, and let Him help you even my old necktie that I wore every day. with my Pathfinder uniform. Over here is a cracked and faded col- Discussion lar that fit around the neck of my dog What are some of the things that Toodles. A milk truck killed him. All I make you afraid or angry or sad? have left is this old collar, some pic- Can you think of anyone in the tures, and lots of wonderful memories. Bible who was afraid? (Daniel in the In this corner I find a large silver- lions’ den.) Angry? (Saul before he plated drinking cup. It used to belong

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1477) 45 to a man who was a priest for another learn that Jesus loves me. That’s worth obey Satan. Bible readers should learn religion. When he became a Seventh- more than all the gold and silver in to recognize the difference. day Adventist Christian, he gave me the world! this cup to show that he’d changed. Story He no longer feeds people wine and Application Several years ago my father had to wafers when they come to his church. Do you have any treasures? Why have a serious operation. A cancer was Now he tells them about Jesus and not add the Bible to your list? Get to growing inside of him, and the doctors that we’re going to live in heaven know the stories hidden inside its said it must come out right now! someday. pages. Discover how much Jesus loves I got scared, because sometimes Let’s see what else is in here. There you and what He did to make it possi- operations can be dangerous. I didn’t are a couple cars from my old train set ble for you and your family to go to want any bad thing to happen to my and some phonograph records filled heaven someday. father, because I loved him very much. with music from Japan, where I was a The day before the surgery I called student missionary. In this envelope is Activity him on the telephone. “Please tell a collection of pictures showing some Find a container and label it “trea- Mama to call me the minute you wake of the blind kids I met at summer sure box.” Place in it special toys, up from the operation,” I told him. camps when working for Christian letters, cards, and gifts that you want Record Services. to keep. Open your box every once in There’s also a really neat head- a while and remember what fun those dress I used to wear while living in things brought you. Beirut, Lebanon, copies of the first If something in the Bible teaches stories that I ever wrote, and a duck you an important lesson, draw a pic- puppet I call Donald. ture of what you learned and put it in See? Nothing really exciting to you, your treasure box. Have fun! huh? But to me these are bona fide, one-of-a-kind, worth-more-than- money treasures. TUESDAY Why are these simple things so important? Because they help me remember things that happened a long Happiness time ago. I enjoyed getting those mushy love letters from my wife-to-be. Overflowing I worked and studied hard to earn “OK,” he said. “I will.” those little Pathfinder badges. The ex- Memory Gem I held the phone close to my ear. “I priest who gave me the cup cried Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a love you, Daddy,” I said. when he told me the story of how he lamp to my feet and a light for my “I love you too, Charlie Boy,” he had learned about Jesus and His love. path” (NIV). responded. I remember seeing my train set for The next day, at exactly the time I the first time chugging around the Visual Aid knew my father was being wheeled base of a long-forgotten Christmas Hold up a newspaper and read sev- into the operating room, I left my tree. The lovely music of Japan eral carefully selected disturbing or home office and walked up the hill reminds me of the beautiful country- scary headlines. Ask the children if behind our house. Finding a cool, com- side and sun-sparkled seashore that’s good news or bad news and fortable spot under a tall tree, I sat where I used to spend my Sabbath why. down and waited. I didn’t feel like afternoons. Then read several that are more writing any books. I didn’t feel like The Bible is a treasure box too. It’s positive. Ask the group if these repre- taking any pictures with my camera. I full of stories that my mom read to me sent good news or bad news and why. didn’t feel like doing anything until I when I was a little boy. Most wonder- Try to come up with a formula for knew that my daddy was all right. ful of all, in the pages of the Bible I good news or bad news (e.g. it’s bad While I was sitting there, I heard find Jesus, my very best friend, walking news if the story . . . or It’s good news if something above my head. It was a the dusty paths of this earth, healing the story . . .). soft, trilling song sung by one of my sick people, playing with little kids, Tell your listeners that the Bible father’s favorite birds. I looked up and, caring for His mother, and dying on a brims with good news and bad news. through my tears, saw a little bluebird cruel cross so my sins can be forgiven. Remind them that there’s lots of good sitting on a limb, warbling into the When I open my Bible and look news for those who love Jesus and tons warm summer air. Many times Dad and inside, I find many, many treasures. I of bad news for those who choose to I had gone for long walks together and

46 (1478) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 seen bluebirds feeding their young or heart, the Bible bubbles over with sick person’s bedside, etc.], the more it sitting on a fence post announcing hope, encouragement, and excitement. helps you understand what that person their territory to all the other birds. Determine today to learn more about is like.” “Did you come to keep me this beautiful Book and discover how it company?” I asked. The little bird con- can make your life happier with the Story tinued to sing, filling my breaking joy that’s hiding within its pages. The first picture I ever took with heart with hope. I figured if God could my first camera was of my best friend. make a bluebird sing so beautifully, He Discussion He had a handsome smile, intelligent could certainly whisper into the ears of Share a time when you received eyes, and a waggly tail. I guess you the doctors and nurses who were right good news. How did it make you feel? probably know by now that my best then trying to make my daddy well. I What did you want to do when you friend wasn’t a person, although I hoped they’d all listen to the still small heard that good news? What happens think he sometimes thought he was. voice of Jesus, just as I was listening to when you share happiness with others? Nope. He was a dog named Toodles. the song above my head. Toodles became the most photo- After a while I went back to my Activity graphed dog around. I took pictures of house and waited for the phone to Have someone read the following him sitting in the grass, jumping over a ring. I waited and waited. Then rrrii- texts. Think about the joy that the fence, swimming in a river, barking at innnggg! words bring into your heart and talk a cat, sleeping in my bed with his head “Hello?” I said. about how you can share this joy with on my pillow, drinking water, sniffing “Daddy’s just fine,” my mother others. at a flower, and yawning. He didn’t announced with happiness lifting her John 3:16 mind. I think maybe he thought he words. “The doctors said he’s going to 1 John 1:9 was a movie star. be OK.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 Toodles could leap great distances “Hurray!” I shouted. “Thank You, just like a gazelle. I’ve got snapshots of Jesus, for helping those doctors and him sailing high over a pile of leaves nurses do a good job. Oh, thank You, WEDNESDAY just before he crashes into them and Jesus!” disappears, only to burst out again, That phone call was good news. barking and yapping with delight. He No, it was better than that. It was and I used to build snow forts, and he’d great news, stupendous news, and outra- Jesus in the Pages stand guard at the very top of the wall, geously wonderful news. I glanced out watching for invading armies or the the window and saw the tree rising Memory Gem neighbor boys, whoever showed up first. above the hilltop. I knew that some- Psalm 119:129, 130: “Your statutes Whenever we were about to go where within its branches was a blue- [laws] are wonderful; therefore I obey somewhere in our car, Toodles would bird singing its song to the world. them. The unfolding of your words jump in through the window and try to Now I had a song to sing too. My gives light; it gives understanding to hide on the floor of the back seat. He father was going to be all right. the simple” (NIV). didn’t want to be left behind. Sometimes when I read the Bible I Sometimes Toodles would run down feel like standing on a mountaintop and Visual Aid a rabbit in an open field. Of course, singing out its good news. “Hey, every- Bring several pictures of people you once he’d caught it, he’d have no idea body,” I want to shout, “Jesus has forgiv- know (family members, friends, etc.) what to do with it, so he’d let it go. en my sins. He’s building a new home and show them to the for me in a place where daddies don’t children. Say, “What do get sick and sons don’t have to worry these pictures tell you for one minute . . . ever. Best of all, this about this person? [tall, same Jesus is coming back to this old short, male, female, Black, world to take those who’ve chosen to White, Indian, Hispanic, love and obey Him up through the etc.] Pictures can help you clouds to that land beyond the rainbow recognize a person if you where every song will be glad and every saw him or her later in a voice will sing with joy.” crowd. They also help you get to know him or her Application better. The more pictures Don’t let anyone tell you that the you have [working, play- Bible is bad news. It’s not! For anyone ing, going to church, help- who wants to invite Jesus into their ing someone, praying at a

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1479) 47 Toodles enjoyed sniffing flowers. head. You give me more than I can that bring you happiness. Add lots of Yup. He’d stop during one of our many hold. Surely your goodness and love color. It might be Christmas morning, walks in the woods near our house and will be with me all my life. And I will a birthday, a fun vacation spot, or even sniff, sniff, sniff. Then he’d look at me live in the house of the Lord forever” a quiet corner of your room. Then as if to say, “What a delightful odor. (Ps. 23:1-6, ICB). whenever you see your drawing, you You gotta smell this!” See what I mean? Do those words can remember the good times you In the wintertime my dog would paint a picture of a bad person, an angry enjoyed there. hop onto the sled with me, and swish, person, a mean person? No. They form down the hills we’d fly, laughing and an image of Someone whose heart over- barking all the way to the bottom. flows with love and tenderness. That’s THURSDAY Today Toodles is gone. He died the picture of God the shepherd boy many years ago. All I have are memo- David wanted us to see. ries and lots of pictures hiding in my As a matter of fact, all the Bible picture book. Often I’ll sit and gaze at writers wanted us to see word images. Get Busy for Jesus those fading images and remember Scripture is like a big picture book Memory Gem what fun we had together exploring the filled with snapshots of best friends 1 Peter 2:2, 3: “Like newborn world and discovering its secrets. I can’t from long ago. The most beautiful pic- babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so sled down a hill without hearing a dis- ture is Jesus. that by it you may grow up in your sal- tant bark or enjoy the sight of a pile of vation, now that you have tasted that leaves without expecting my Toodles to Application the Lord is good” (NIV). burst out in a colorful flurry. The pic- From this moment on, every boy and tures bring it all back to me every time. girl should be looking for those pictures Visual Aid I’ve got more pictures in my Have the children close their book too. I see nephews and eyes. Then pass a bottle of nieces, homes I’ve lived in, and sweet-smelling perfume near people I’ve known. There are their noses. Ask, “What do you lots of images of my best smell?” Do the same with a friend—my wife, Dorinda. freshly sliced orange, an open Perhaps you have a book in package of peanuts, and a your home filled with pictures pinecone. Add other items as of people and places. Take good time allows. care of it, because someday that Then have them feel differ- book will be very important ent objects, such as a shoe, a to you. comb, a pencil, and a doll. I know one picture book we After everyone has identi- all have. It’s called the Bible. fied the “mystery objects” say, “Wait!” I hear you say. “The “How did you know what these Bible isn’t a picture book. It has in the Bible that they hear in stories or things were? You couldn’t see them.” mostly words in it.” You’re right, but the memory verses. And as you get Then suggest, “We can get to know those words help our minds form a older, those images will become sweeter Jesus by the sights, sounds, smells, mental picture, a thought picture of and sweeter, filling your heart with joy and touches mentioned in the Bible. Someone very important. and bringing a new excitement for your And people can discover a lot about Listen to these beautiful words and heavenly home to come. Jesus by listening to us talk, eating see if they don’t create a word picture our food, seeing how we live, and in your mind. Discussion even smelling our breath. Would you “The Lord is my shepherd. I have What type of pictures do you like to like to know how?” everything I need. He gives me rest in see? Animal snapshots, pictures of the green pastures. He leads me to calm beach, the mountains, the wide-open Story water. He gives me new strength. For prairies? If your life were a picture, A minister was holding some the good of his name, he leads me on would people enjoy looking at it? singing and preaching meetings in paths that are right. Even if I walk Would they see an image of Jesus in Pasadena, California. The people loved through a very dark valley, I will not be the way you talk, act, or play? to hear him speak, so they came night afraid because you are with me. Your after night to listen to his stories and rod and your walking stick comfort me. Activity hear the wonderful, encouraging mes- “You prepare a meal for me in front Create a picture book of your own sages he presented. of my enemies. You pour oil on my by drawing some scenes from your life One afternoon the man decided to

48 (1480) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 visit a rose garden in that city. He hurting someone else or shouting mean spirit in your heart? Do they hear His spent several hours enjoying the and angry words? No. They watch voice in your voice, feel His touch in beauty of the garden—the expertly sweet stories of love and caring. your touch, and see His love in your trimmed bushes and the carefully When they look in the cupboard, do actions? Determine right now to share tended plants. He saw roses of every they find things that hurt our bodies and the wonderful fragrance of God’s spirit imaginable color: red, blue, pink, yel- make our minds sick, such as unclean in everything you do. low, violet, white, even melon. And meats, lots of sugar, and tons of greasy the smell! He sniffed and sniffed, fill- food? No. They find bunches of fruits, Discussion ing his lungs with the fragrant air of grains, nuts, and beans—the diet that When someone is mean to you, the wonderful garden. Jesus created in the Garden of Eden. whose “fragrance” are they spreading? When he returned to the revival When they watch us play with our What are some good ways to share Jesus’ meeting, a number of people asked, friends, do they see us get into a lot of love with other people? How did Jesus “So, Pastor, how did you enjoy the fights? Do they see us keeping our toys show others that He cared about them? roses?” to ourselves? No. They see us learning The man knew he hadn’t told any- to share and trying to accept how Activity one where he was going. “How did other people want to play. Draw a picture of Jesus helping a you know I went to the rose garden?” When someone smells our breath, sick person. Then, using lots of colors, he gasped. do they catch a hint of alcohol, to- paint flowers around the scene. When- The people smiled. “Pastor, you bacco, or some other health-destroying ever you see your picture, you’ll have brought the fragrance of the flow- drug? No. Even our breath announces remember what you learned today. ers back with you.” that we care about our bodies. I like that story, don’t you? Those You see, when we read the Bible and men and women knew where the visit- discover how Jesus wants us to live, we FRIDAY ing pastor had spent his afternoon make important changes in our lives. because they could smell the odor of a The apostle Paul says we put away our thousand roses lingering in his clothes, old sinful habits and begin living like a hair, and skin. new person. We sound different, we Living God’s Way When I was young, my sister-in-law look different, we act different, and yes, had a little pillow she always kept on we even smell different. When people Memory Gem the end table by the bed. “What’s that meet us, it doesn’t take them long to 2 Timothy 3:15: “From infancy you for?” I asked. “It’s too small to put your realize that we’re not like other folks. If have known the holy Scriptures, which head on when you sleep. It’s too tiny they ask us why, we simply point to our are able to make you wise for salvation to put on the couch, and certainly it’s Bibles and say, “In this book we met through faith in Christ Jesus” (NIV). not big enough to sit on when you Jesus, and He changed us from what we want a softer chair.” were to what we are. We’re getting Visual Aid She laughed. “That’s not a pillow for ready to go to heaven. Would you like Show the children a collection of sleeping or sitting. It’s for remembering.” Jesus to help change you so you can bowls, each filled with a different “Remembering?” I frowned. come too?” ingredient. Include dirt, rocks, grass, “Remembering what?” Listen to this beautiful little poem water, a banana, and an old shoe. She picked up the little pillow and by Paul Gilbert. He understood that Then say, “I’d like to bake some bread. held it close to her nose. “Inside are when we meet Jesus, we can’t help Do I have all the right ingredients?” pine needles from Maine, the state in sharing His love with others. The word After their comments, suggest that which I was born. I always loved the “gospel” means “book about Jesus.” maybe you should use a recipe book smell of the pine forests that sur- You are writing a gospel, rounded my house. Now even though I A chapter each day, live a long way from Maine I can smell By deeds that you do, the scent of the forests and remember By words that you say. how much fun it was to be there in my Men read what you write, home state.” Whether faithless or true; You see, God has given us our Say! What is the gospel noses and ears and fingers and According to you? tongues as important tools for remembering, learning, growing, and Application even sharing our faith. What kind of message are you shar- When visitors stop by a Christian’s ing with your friends and relatives home, do they see videos of someone about Jesus? Do they see His sweet

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1481) 49 instead of just guessing what to put vegetable stews, and bran muffins, magicians and enchanters in my into the mix. Produce the required and drink only cool, sparkling well whole kingdom!” volume and read off the proper ingre- water. dients. Then say, “I shouldn’t try to “At the end of the test we’ll all run Application guess what’s in a loaf of bread. By fol- a race, figure out some math prob- Obeying what God says in the Bible lowing what this book suggests, I’ll lems, talk about the latest scientific makes people healthier, smarter, and make much tastier food, don’t you experiments, and do push-ups. Then stronger. If we follow what the Bible think? I have another recipe book here maybe you’ll see why we want to eat teaches, we might even someday for making happy kids and happy our special diet.” impress a king! At least we’ll be able homes.” Show them your Bible. Nebuchadnezzar, a man who loved a to show our friends a better, safer, challenge, agreed. Daniel and his healthier way to live. Determine today Story friends Hananiah, Mishael, and to live your life exactly the way God Young Daniel felt nervous standing Azariah spent 10 days checking out the wants you to live. before the king. After all, this king local produce markets, gathering up was the same guy who’d taken an army carrots, string beans, ripe red tomatoes, Discussion and marched to Jerusalem, destroyed and big fat potatoes, while the king’s What are some good foods to eat the city, and carried off the beautiful chosen young men gorged themselves today? What are some foods that can candles and golden furnishings of the on prime rib, macaroni and cheese, hurt your body? Why do you think Temple of God. He’d also carried off a omelets, and hot-fudge sundaes. God put rules for living in the Bible? lot of God’s people, including Daniel. On the tenth day Daniel and his “Sir,” the young man said after buddies jogged over to the palace Activity clearing his throat, “I really appreciate and met with King Nebuchadnezzar Draw a picture of some healthy your offering me and my friends all the and his somewhat bulky team of foods (fruits, grains, nuts, vegetables) wonderful food and drinks from your eaters. “Let’s do some push-ups,” and put it on your refrigerator door at table. They look delicious. But . . .” Daniel suggested. He and his friends home to remind your family of the King Nebuchadnezzar’s eyebrows pumped up and down with ease. The good things God created for us to eat. rose slightly. “But?” other young men huffed and puffed “You see, sir,” Daniel continued, and could barely lift themselves off “the God whom we serve has told us the floor six times. SECOND SABBATH that we should eat only certain foods: “Let’s run a race,” the vegetarians fruits, grains, nuts, beans, pasta—basi- suggested. Off they went in a flash. cally a vegetarian diet.” The other young men stumbled around God’s Saving “Are you saying that my food isn’t the palace almost completely out of good enough for you?” the king breath. Book bellowed. “How ’bout those new buildings Daniel swallowed hard. Sometimes going up by the city gate?” Memory Gem obeying God wasn’t the most popular Nebuchadnezzar asked. “If they’re Revelation 1:3: “Blessed is the one thing to do. “All I’m saying, sir, is that building a wall 100 feet long and 20 who reads the words of this prophecy, your food won’t make us as strong, feet high and each brick is eight inches and blessed are those who hear it and wise, or healthy as we want to be. If it by three inches, how many bricks will take to heart what is written in it, please the king, I’d like for you to test they need?” because the time is near” (NIV). us for 10 days.” Daniel and his buddies came up “Test?” Nebuchadnezzar asked. with the answer while the other guys Visual Aid “What kind of test?” were still trying to figure out how Bring to class several “lifesaving” “Give my three friends and me many inches make a foot. items, such as a flotation device from a nothing but vegetables and water for “How can we grow better crops in swimming pool, a rope, a compass, a 10 days. After that, compare our skin our land?” the king asked. The four flashlight, a bottle of medicine, a map, tone, strength, and overall health to captives from Jerusalem suggested bet- and a CB radio or walkie-talkie. the young men who’ve had the honor ter watering systems and improved fer- Discuss how each can be used to of eating at your table. Feed these tilizer production. The other young save someone (or you) in certain cir- men lots of Big Macs, fries with men just shook their heads. cumstances. ketchup, diet sodas, cookies, and big, “Daniel and his friends are 10 Then hold up your Bible. Say, “This juicy steaks. Load ’em up on seafood, times wiser, faster, and healthier than is a lifesaving tool also. When we read hot dogs, pizza, and ice cream. And those who ate at my own table,” and believe what it says inside, God don’t forget the wine! As for us, we’ll Nebuchadnezzar gasped. “As a matter can save us from sin. It can also teach just eat baked beans, tossed salads, of fact, they’re smarter than my best us how to save others.”

50 (1482) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 Story creak, creak, creak of the handle being All night long the king couldn’t One day a 3-year-old girl fell into a turned and the clatter, clatter, clatter of sleep. What was happening in that deep well. She didn’t do it on purpose. the bucket coming back down the deep den? Were the hungry lions ripping She was playing at the top of the pit shaft. As soon as it plopped onto the poor Daniel into bite-sized snacks? and slipped. Next thing she knew, she surface of the water, he reached out Were they licking their chops and fill- was struggling in six feet of water far and grabbed the rope. After clambering ing their tummies? down in the darkness of the well. aboard, he called up to his mother. Early the next morning King Darius The girl’s mother heard her scream “OK, pull me up.” And the proud and hurried to the den. “Daniel? Daniel?” as she fell and rushed to help, but she joyous mother did just that. he called. “Did your God save you?” got there too late. Peering into the That brave brother loved his sister. The answer came quickly. “My God inky blackness, she could hear a He was willing to put himself in dan- sent his angel and shut the lions’ splashing sound. She knew her little ger to save her. Listen to this beautiful mouths. They haven’t hurt me.” daughter didn’t know how to swim. Bible text. “Greater love has no one A little boy at the bottom of a well What could she do? than this, that he lay down his life for and Daniel in the lions’ den—two peo- That’s when she noticed her young his friends” (John 15:13, NIV). ple who loved so much that they were son playing nearby. He didn’t know There’s a story in God’s Holy Book willing to die for others. that his sister had fallen into the well. “Come here quickly,” she ordered. Application “We’ve got to save your sister.” The Bible teaches us many things. Obediently the boy climbed up onto It shows us how to live healthy, helpful the wellhead and placed himself, feet lives. It also teaches us how to love first, into the bucket that the family other people the same way Jesus loved used to collect water from far below. us. He was willing to die for our sins so Holding on tightly to the strong rope that we could live forever in heaven attached to the bucket, he felt himself with Him. Aren’t you glad you have being lowered down, down, down into the Bible with all its wonderful stories the darkness. Above him, his mother and lessons? Let’s thank God right now turned the big wooden handle, slowly for His wonderful Book. spinning the spool around which the long rope had been wound. “Be care- Discussion ful,” she called, barely able to speak What are some things you can do because of her fear. “I don’t want to lose about a man who was willing to die for when the Bible asks you to be kind, both my children.” Someone we all know. His name was helpful, forgiving, gentle, and happy? The boy felt scared. The well was Daniel. Can you think of times when Jesus dark and kind of chilly. But he could “You must stop praying to that God was kind, helpful, forgiving, gentle, hear the splashing far below and knew of yours and pray to me instead,” King and happy? that his sister was in danger. He had to Darius ordered. Daniel shook his head. save her! “I’m sorry, but I can’t pray to a person, Activity Finally, in the darkness he felt the only to God.” Practice telling the story of Daniel bucket settle onto the water. “Stop,” “Don’t you know what will happen in the lions’ den. Then share it with a he called up to his mom. Immediately to you if you disobey me?” the king friend or neighbor. Invite them to find the container paused. shouted. a Bible of their own so that they can The little girl was choking and “Yes. But my God has said I should hear many more exciting stories of sputtering nearby. Her brother grabbed have no other gods before Him. I adventure and love and learn how to her arm, then realized he had a prob- would never disobey.” live happily on this earth while wait- lem. The bucket was too small to hold The king shook his head. “Then I ing for Jesus to return. both him and his sister. So this brave have no other choice. Into the lions’ boy jumped into the cold water and den you must go.” Charles Mills writes from lifted his little sister into the bucket. Now, this particular den had many Berkeley Springs, West “Pull it up!” He shouted. hungry lions in it. They hadn’t eaten Virginia, where he and his Within seconds he was alone at the for days, and were famished. Plop. wife, Dorinda, operate bottom of the well, shivering in the icy Down came nice, tasty Daniel. “May Christian Communications, a water, surrounded by darkness and your God be with you,” the king called media production company. He is the strange echoes. He waited, holding on from the opening. He liked Daniel and author of more than 30 adults’ and chil- to the rough stones at the side of the was sad to lose such a kind, gentle dren’s books, including the Shadow Creek well. In a few minutes he heard the friend. Ranch and Professor Appleby series.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998 (1483) 51 Making the Bible Central Again A Message From the President

ur flight from Moldova to Moscow was sched- offers while ignoring the accountability, submission, and uled to be only two hours. But winter weather death to self that the same Bible commands. closed the Moscow airport, and we flew to an The doubt and skepticism leveled at the Word of God is airport in Siberia to wait . . . and wait . . . and more often an unwillingness to do what we know God’s wait. During the many hours we sat in the Word says we ought to do. Ellen White put it this way: Ocramped airliner, watching several inches of ice accumulate “Disguise it as they may, the real cause of doubt and skepti- on the wings, I was impressed by a group of Orthodox rabbis cism, in most cases, is the love of sin. The teachings and who were on the same flight. One was seated close by, so restrictions of God’s Word are not welcome to the proud, when his time for prayer arrived, I watched him carefully. sin-loving heart, and those who are unwilling to obey its Ignoring the plane filled with people, most of whom were requirements are ready to doubt its authority. In order to undoubtedly atheists, he took out three little boxes, each arrive at truth, we must have a sincere desire to know the with a strap attached. Each contained a portion of Scripture. truth and a willingness of heart to obey it. And all who One of these he placed on his forehead and wrapped the come in this spirit to the study of the Bible will find abun- strap around his head to keep it dant evidence that it is God’s Word, and they may gain an in place. A second box he placed understanding of its truths that will make them wise unto on his upper arm, and the third salvation (Steps to Christ, p. 111). he wrapped around his hand. At Independence Hall in Philadelphia, guides show visi- Then wrapping a prayer shawl tors a printed copy of the Declaration of Independence and around his shoulders, he began to suggest they see the original at the archives in Washington, pray. I have to commend the D.C., because, as one explained, “the ink is fading and there rabbi for his dedication. is nothing anyone can do about it.” The day the newscast told the What about the church—you and me? Are the princi- world about the tragic assassina- ples, values, and beliefs of the Word of God fading from our tion of Israel’s prime minister day-to-day experience? There may be nothing scientists can Yitzhak Rabin, my mind flashed do about the fading ink of the Declaration of Independence back to the rabbi. What effect did such mechanical use of except to try to retard the process. But there is still some- Scripture have on the young zealot who rationalized his mur- thing Christians can do to get the word of God out from derous act as the will of God? Are there parallels to this between the covers of our Bibles and into our hearts. Each within the remnant movement? Some of the most savage let- issue of the Adventist Review, the medium through which ters I get come from those who seem to consider themselves these readings come to you, is committed to encouraging us holy enough to justify destructively unchristian conduct. to do just that.* Adventist Review editor Bill Johnsson quotes George Barna Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to “put [His] laws in [our] minds when he says: “America appears to be drowning in a sea of and write them on [our] hearts” (Heb. 8:10, NIV). We still relativistic, nonbiblical theology. We are living amid the dilu- do not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds tion of traditional, Bible-based Christian faith. Millions of from the mouth of the Lord (Matt. 4:4). The Scriptures still Americans are comfortable calling themselves Christian even are able to make us wise unto salvation (2 Tim. 3:15). though their beliefs suggest otherwise. At the same time, our rejection of orthodox Christian beliefs, coupled with a rela- tivistic culture, has led millions of adults to embrace a world view totally at odds with the faith they allegedly embrace. The irony is that most of the individuals who are caught up Robert S. Folkenberg is president of the General Conference of in their own contradictions are completely unaware of those Seventh-day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland. conflicts” (Adventist Review, August 1997, p. 5). This relativism is creeping into our church, too, because too many of us want the joy, peace, and grace that the Bible * For information on how to subscribe, see the ad on page 15.

52 (1484) ADVENTIST REVIEW, OCTOBER 29, 1998