The
Sermon on the Mount is Heaven’s
benediction to the world, a voice from the throne of God.
It was given to mankind to be to them the law of duty and the light of
heaven, their hope and consolation in despondency, their joy and comfort
in all the vicissitudes and walks of life. Here the Prince of preachers, the
Master
Teacher, utters the words that the Father gave Him to speak. The Beatitudes are Christ’s
greeting, not only to those who believe, but to the whole
human family. He seems to have forgotten for a moment
that He is in the world, not in heaven; and He uses the
familiar salutation of the
world of light. Blessings flow from His lips as the gushing
forth of a long-sealed current of rich life.
Christ
leaves us in no doubt as to the traits of character that He will always recognise
and bless. From
the ambitious favourites
of the world,
He turns to those whom they disown, pronouncing all blessed
who receive His light
and life. To the poor in spirit, the meek, the lowly,
the sorrowful, the despised, the persecuted, He opens His
arms of refuge, saying, “Come
unto Me, . . . and I will give you rest.”
Christ can look upon the misery of the world without
a shade of sorrow for having created man. In
the human heart He sees more than sin,
more
than misery. In His infinite wisdom and love
He sees man’s possibilities,
the height to which he may attain. He knows that,
even though human beings have abused their mercies and destroyed their
God-given dignity, yet
the Creator is to be glorified in their redemption.
Throughout all time the words that Christ spoke from
the mount of Beatitudes will retain their power. Every sentence is a jewel
from the
treasure house
of truth. The principles enunciated in this discourse
are for all ages and for all classes of men. With divine energy, Christ
expressed
His faith and
hope as He pointed out class after class as blessed because
of having formed righteous characters. Living the life of the Life-giver,
through
faith in Him,
everyone can reach the standard held up in His words.
Thoughts From The Mount Of Blessing, pages vii-viii.
‘‘Blessed’ March
26-April 1
‘Ye are the light of the world’ April 2-8
‘Think not that I am come to destroy the law’ April 9-15
‘That thine alms may be in secret’ April 16-22
‘When thou prayest’ April 23-29
‘Be not as the hypocrites’ April 30-May 6
‘Ask and it shall be given you’ May 28-June 3
‘Beware of false prophets’ June 11-17
'Not everyone that saith'. June 18-24
‘ Blessed’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward
in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.’ Matthew
5:12.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 6-35.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:1-12.
LESSON AIM: To understand the ladder of Christian development Jesus set
out in the Beatitudes. Introduction ‘Throughout the Beatitudes there is an advancing line of Christian experience.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 13. ‘Blessed are the poor in
spirit’
Upon
whom did Christ’s first
blessing rest? Matthew 5:2-3. Compare Psalm 51:17.
NOTE: ‘Jesus had presented the cup of blessing to those who felt that
they were “rich, and increased with goods” (Revelation 3:17), and
had need of nothing, and they had turned with scorn from the gracious gift.
He who feels whole, who thinks that he is reasonably good, and is contented
with his condition, does not seek to become a partaker of the grace and righteousness
of Christ. Pride feels no need, and so it closes the heart against Christ and
the infinite blessings He came to give. There is no room for Jesus in the heart
of such a person. Those who are rich and honourable in their own eyes do not
ask in faith, and receive the blessing of God. They feel that they are full,
therefore they go away empty. Those who know that they cannot possibly save
themselves, or of themselves do any righteous action, are the ones who appreciate
the help that Christ can bestow. They are the poor in spirit, whom He declares
to be blessed.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 7.
What group is next singled out for blessing? Matthew 5:4. Compare Psalm 51:8-9.
NOTE: ‘The mourning here brought to view is true heart sorrow for sin.
Jesus says, “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto
Me.” John 12:32. And as one is drawn to behold Jesus uplifted on the
cross, he discerns the sinfulness of humanity. He sees that it is sin which
scourged and crucified the Lord of glory. He sees that, while he has been loved
with unspeakable tenderness, his life has been a continual scene of ingratitude
and rebellion. He has forsaken his best Friend and abused heaven’s most
precious gift. He has crucified to himself the Son of God afresh and pierced
anew that bleeding and stricken heart. He is separated from God by a gulf of
sin that is broad and black and deep, and he mourns in brokenness of heart.
Such mourning “shall be comforted.” God reveals to us our guilt
that we may flee to Christ, and through Him be set free from the bondage of
sin, and rejoice in the liberty of the sons of God. In true contrition we may
come to the foot of the cross, and there leave our burdens.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, pages 9-10. ‘Blessed are the meek’
Which group are singled out for the greatest honour? Matthew 5:7. Compare
Psalm 37:11.
NOTE: ‘It was through the desire for self-exaltation that sin entered
into the world, and our first parents lost the dominion over this fair earth,
their kingdom. It is through self-abnegation that Christ redeems what was lost.
And He says we are to overcome as He did. Revelation 3:21. Through humility
and self-surrender we may become heirs with Him when “the meek shall
inherit the earth.” Psalm 37:11.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 17.
What promise is made for those who seek righteousness? Matthew 5:6. Compare
Zephaniah 2:3.
NOTE: ‘Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is
love.” 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for “all
Thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love
is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love,
and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied
in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, page 18.
‘
As we discern the perfection of our Saviour’s character we shall desire
to become wholly transformed and renewed in the image of His purity. The more
we know of God, the higher will be our ideal of character and the more earnest
our longing to reflect His likeness. A divine element combines with the human
when the soul reaches out after God and the longing heart can say, “My
soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him.” Psalm
62:5. If you have a sense of need in your soul, if you hunger and thirst
after righteousness, this is an evidence that Christ has wrought upon
your heart,
in order that He may be sought unto to do for you, through the endowment
of the Holy Spirit, those things which it is impossible for you to do
for yourself. We need not seek to quench our thirst at shallow streams; for
the great
fountain
is just above us, of whose abundant waters we may freely drink, if we
will rise a little higher in the pathway of faith. The words of God are
the wellsprings
of life. As you seek unto those living springs you will, through the
Holy Spirit, be brought into communion with Christ. Familiar truths will
present themselves
to your mind in a new aspect, texts of Scripture will burst upon you
with a new meaning as a flash of light, you will see the relation of
other truths
to the work of redemption, and you will know that Christ is leading you,
a divine Teacher is at your side. Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
pages 19-20. ‘Blessed are the merciful’
What must we do to obtain mercy from God? Matthew 5:7. Compare James 2:13.
NOTE: ‘The merciful are “partakers of the divine nature,” and
in them the compassionate love of God finds expression. All whose hearts are
in sympathy with the heart of Infinite Love will seek to reclaim and not to
condemn. Christ dwelling in the soul is a spring that never runs dry. Where
He abides, there will be an overflowing of beneficence. To the appeal of the
erring, the tempted, the wretched victims of want and sin, the Christian does
not ask, Are they worthy? but, How can I benefit them? In the most wretched,
the most debased, he sees souls whom Christ died to save and for whom God has
given to His children the ministry of reconciliation. The merciful are those
who manifest compassion to the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed. Job
declares, “I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him
that had none to help him. The blessing of him that was ready to perish came
upon me: and I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy. I put on righteousness,
and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem. I was eyes to the
blind, and feet was I to the lame. I was a father to the poor: and the cause
which I knew not I searched out.” Job 29:12-16.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, page 22.
What quality is essential if we are to see God? Matthew 5:8. Compare Psalm
15.
NOTE: ‘The wisdom that is from above “is first pure.” James
3:17. Into the city of God there will enter nothing that defiles. All who are
to be dwellers there will here have become pure in heart. In one who is learning
of Jesus, there will be manifest a growing distaste for careless manners, unseemly
language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be
purity and refinement of thought and manner. But the words of Jesus, “Blessed
are the pure in heart,” have a deeper meaning, not merely pure in the
sense in which the world understands purity, free from that which is sensual,
pure from lust, but true in the hidden purposes and motives of the soul, free
from pride and self-seeking, humble, unselfish, childlike. Only like can appreciate
like. Unless you accept in your own life the principle of self-sacrificing
love, which is the principle of His character, you cannot know God.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, pages 24-25. ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’
What characterises the children of God? Matthew 5:9. Compare Hebrews 12:14,
Romans 14:19.
NOTE: ‘Whoever consents to renounce sin and open his heart to the love
of Christ, becomes a partaker of this heavenly peace. There is no other ground
of peace than this. The grace of Christ received into the heart, subdues enmity;
it allays strife and fills the soul with love. He who is at peace with God
and his fellow men cannot be made miserable. Envy will not be in his heart;
evil surmisings will find no room there; hatred cannot exist. The heart that
is in harmony with God is a partaker of the peace of heaven and will diffuse
its blessed influence on all around. The spirit of peace will rest like dew
upon hearts weary and troubled with worldly strife. Christ’s followers
are sent to the world with the message of peace. Whoever, by the quiet, unconscious
influence of a holy life, shall reveal the love of Christ; whoever, by word
or deed, shall lead another to renounce sin and yield his heart to God, is
a peacemaker.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 27-28.
How does James explain the importance of being a peacemaker? James 3:17-18.
NOTE: ‘When we see men firm in principle, fearless in duty, zealous in
the cause of God, yet humble and lowly, gentle and tender, patient toward all,
ready to forgive, manifesting love for souls for whom Christ died, we do not
need to inquire: Are they Christians? They give unmistakable evidence that
they have been with Jesus and learned of Him. When men reveal the opposite
traits, when they are proud, vain, frivolous, worldly-minded, avaricious, unkind,
censorious, we need not be told with whom they are associating, who is their
most intimate friend. They may not believe in witchcraft; but, notwithstanding
this, they are holding communion with an evil spirit. To this class I would
say: “Glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth
not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife
is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above
is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy
and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of
righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”’ Testimonies,
volume 5, pages 224-225. ‘Blessed are they that are
persecuted’
With what surprising words did Christ end this series of blessings? Matthew
5:11.
NOTE: ‘Through trials and persecution, the glory (character) of God is
revealed in His chosen ones. The church of God, hated and persecuted by the
world, are educated and disciplined in the school of Christ. They walk in narrow
paths on earth; they are purified in the furnace of affliction. They follow
Christ through sore conflicts; they endure self-denial and experience bitter
disappointments; but their painful experience teaches them the guilt and woe
of sin, and they look upon it with abhorrence. Being partakers of Christ’s
sufferings, they are destined to be partakers of His glory. In holy vision
the prophet saw the triumph of the people of God. He says, “I saw as
it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory,
. . . stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the
song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and
marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou
King of saints.” “These are they which came out of great tribulation,
and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in
His temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.” Revelation
15:2, 3; 7:14, 15.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 31.
What warning did Paul give concerning those who try to live the Christian
life? 2 Timothy 3:12.
NOTE: ‘Jesus does not present to His followers the hope of attaining
earthly glory and riches, of living a life free from trial. Instead He calls
upon them to follow Him in the path of self-denial and reproach. He who came
to redeem the world was opposed by the united forces of evil. In an unpitying
confederacy, evil men and evil angels arrayed themselves against the Prince
of Peace. His every word and act revealed divine compassion, and His unlikeness
to the world provoked the bitterest hostility. So it will be with all who will
live godly in Christ Jesus. Persecution and reproach await all who are imbued
with the Spirit of Christ. The character of the persecution changes with the
times, but the principle, the spirit that underlies it, is the same that has
slain the chosen of the Lord ever since the days of Abel.’ Acts of the
Apostles, page 576. ‘Rejoice and be exceeding
glad’
What
is to be the Christian’s
response to persecution? Matthew 5:12. Compare Luke 6:22-23.
NOTE: ‘It was this joy that filled the hearts of Paul and Silas when
they prayed and sang praises to God at midnight in the Philippian dungeon.
Christ was beside them there, and the light of His presence irradiated the
gloom with the glory of the courts above. From Rome, Paul wrote, unmindful
of his fetters as he saw the spread of the gospel, “I therein do rejoice,
yea, and will rejoice.” Philippians 1:18. And the very words of Christ
upon the mount are re-echoed in Paul’s message to the Philippian church,
in the midst of their persecutions, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again
I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 35.
How did the apostles manifest this joy in times of persecution? 2 Corinthians
12:10, 1 Peter 3:14, 1 Peter 4:13.
NOTE: ‘If we can bear persecution for His dear name’s sake, His
love becomes a ruling power in our hearts, for we have the assurance that nothing
can separate us from the love of Christ. Never is the tempest-tried soul more
dearly loved by his Saviour than when he is suffering reproach for the truth’s
sake. When for the truth’s sake the believer stands at the bar of unrighteous
tribunals, Christ stands by his side. All the reproaches that fall upon the
human believer fall upon Christ in the person of His saints. “I will
love him,” said Christ, “and will manifest myself to him” (John
14:21). Christ is condemned over again in the person of His believing disciples.
When for the truth’s sake the believer is incarcerated in prison walls,
Christ manifests Himself to him and ravishes his heart with His love. When
he suffers death for the sake of Christ, Christ says to him, They may kill
the body, but they cannot hurt the soul. “Be of good cheer; I have overcome
the world” (John 16:33).’ That I May Know Him, page 275.
‘ Ye are the light of the world’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see
your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ Matthew
5:16.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 35-44.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:13-16.
LESSON AIM: To show the importance and purpose of Christian witness. Introduction ‘As Christ is the channel for the revelation of the Father, so we are
to be the channel for the revelation of Christ. While our Saviour is the great
source of illumination, forget not, O Christian, that He is revealed through
humanity. God’s blessings are bestowed through human instrumentality.
Christ Himself came to the world as the Son of man. Humanity, united to the
divine nature, must touch humanity. The church of Christ, every individual
disciple of the Master, is heaven’s appointed channel for the revelation
of God to men.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 40. ‘Ye are the salt of the
earth’
To what did Jesus compare the influence of Christians in the earth? Matthew
5:13, first part.
NOTE: ‘Salt is valued for its preservative properties; and when God calls
His children salt, He would teach them that His purpose in making them the
subjects of His grace is that they may become agents in saving others. The
object of God in choosing a people before all the world was not only that He
might adopt them as His sons and daughters, but that through them the world
might receive the grace that bringeth salvation. Titus 2:11. When the Lord
chose Abraham, it was not simply to be the special friend of God, but to be
a medium of the peculiar privileges the Lord desired to bestow upon the nations.
Jesus, in that last prayer with His disciples before His crucifixion, said, “For
their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the
truth.” John 17:19. In like manner Christians who are purified through
the truth will possess saving qualities that preserve the world from utter
moral corruption. Salt must be mingled with the substance to which it is added;
it must penetrate and infuse in order to preserve. So it is through personal
contact and association that men are reached by the saving power of the gospel.
They are not saved in masses, but as individuals. Personal influence is a power.
We must come close to those whom we desire to benefit.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, pages 35-36.
How did Paul describe what the words of a Christian should be like? Colossians
4:6.
NOTE: ‘Courtesy is one of the graces of the Spirit. It is an attribute
of Heaven. The angels never fly into a passion, never are envious or selfish.
No harsh or unkind words escape their lips. If we are to be the companions
of angels, we too must be refined and courteous. The truth of God is designed
to elevate the receiver, to refine his taste and sanctify his judgment. No
man can be a Christian without having the spirit of Christ; and if he has the
spirit of Christ, it will be manifested in a refined, courteous disposition.
His character will be holy, his manners comely, his words without guile. He
will cherish the love that is not easily provoked, that suffers long and is
kind, that hopes all things and endures all things. Those who profess to be
followers of Christ and are at the same time rough, unkind, and discourteous
in words and deportment have not learned of Jesus. The conduct of some professing
Christians is so lacking in kindness and courtesy that their good is evil spoken
of. Their sincerity may not be doubted, their uprightness may not be questioned;
but sincerity and uprightness will not atone for a lack of kindness and courtesy.
The Christian is to be sympathetic as well as true, pitiful and courteous as
well as upright and honest. True courtesy blended with truth and justice makes
the life not only useful but beautiful and fragrant. Kind words, pleasant looks,
a cheerful countenance, throw a charm about the Christian that makes his influence
almost irresistible.’ In Heavenly Places, page 180. ‘If the salt have lost his
savour’
What value has salt if it does not perform its seasoning function? Matthew
5:13.
NOTE: ‘When Christians do not reveal Christ, of what value are they?
Are they not like savourless salt, “good for nothing”? But when
they reveal in their lives the saving properties of the truth, poor, sin-hardened
souls are not left to perish in corruption. Good works are seen; for the living
principles of righteousness cannot be hidden. The gospel acted is like salt
which contains all its savour. It is powerful in the saving of souls.’ This
Day With God, page 25.
What did the Lord say of those Christians whose lives fail to true Christlike
qualities? Matthew 25:41-46. Compare Revelation 3:15-17.
NOTE: ‘It is the dragon that is wroth; it is the spirit of Satan that
is revealed in anger and accusing. Not a semblance of the dragon’s spirit
must be seen in the life or the character of Christ’s servants. The testimony
you bear is to be a testimony to the truth as it is in Jesus. God’s servants,
who have had great light and blessing from Him, are not to be like a blast
of hail, on any occasion, to beat down and destroy. The salt that is to save
from corruption is the confession of the truth, the revelation of the love
of Christ. The magnifying of the law of Jehovah is not accomplished by breaking
its principles. God cannot manifest His power to exalt the human agent; it
is truth that is to bear away the victory. And Christ’s ambassadors must
learn the lesson that sharp speeches and word-thrusts bring no victory.’ Manuscript
Releases, volume 13, page 315. ‘Ye are the light of the world’
In what other way did Christ describe the influence of the Christian? Matthew
5:14, first part.
NOTE: ‘“Ye are the light of the world.” As the sun goes forth
on its errand of love, dispelling the shades of night and awakening the world
to life, so the followers of Christ are to go forth on their mission, diffusing
the light of heaven upon those who are in the darkness of error and sin.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 38.
How does Paul describe the kind of light that Christians should shed in the
world? Philippians 2:15-16, first part.
NOTE: ‘No other light ever has shone or ever will shine upon fallen man
save that which emanates from Christ. Jesus, the Saviour, is the only light
that can illuminate the darkness of a world lying in sin. Of Christ it is written, “In
Him was life; and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4. It was by
receiving of His life that His disciples could become light bearers. The life
of Christ in the soul, His love revealed in the character, would make them
the light of the world. Humanity has in itself no light. Apart from Christ
we are like an unkindled taper, like the moon when her face is turned away
from the sun; we have not a single ray of brightness to shed into the darkness
of the world. But when we turn toward the Sun of Righteousness, when we come
in touch with Christ, the whole soul is aglow with the brightness of the divine
presence. Christ’s followers are to be more than a light in the midst
of men. They are the light of the world. Jesus says to all who have named His
name, You have given yourselves to Me, and I have given you to the world as
My representatives. As the Father had sent Him into the world, so, He declares, “have
I also sent them into the world.” John 17:18.’ Thoughts from the
Mount of Blessing, pages 39-40. ‘Cannot be hid’
How did Jesus describe the situation where God has placed His people? Matthew
5:14, last part.
NOTE: ‘Believers are to shine as lights in the world. A city set on an
hill cannot be hid. A church, separate and distinct from the world, is in the
estimation of heaven the greatest object in all the earth. The members are
pledged to be separate from the world, consecrating their service to one Master,
Jesus Christ. They are to reveal that they have chosen Christ as their leader.
The church is to be as God designed it should be, a representative of God’s
family in another world.’ Selected Messages, book 3, page17.
How did Jesus describe the folly of trying to hide the light? Matthew 5:15.
NOTE: ‘Let no one feel inclined to hide his light. Those who hide their
light so that the world may not distinguish between them and those who walk
in darkness will soon lose all power to diffuse light... It is not to be looked
upon as a trifling matter to have the light of present truth, and yet to be
noncommittal. It is no trifling thing to say by attitude and sentiment, even
though that sentiment is not expressed in words, “My Lord delayeth His
coming.” The spirit and influence of the peace and safety sentiment is
in our very midst, and the very atmosphere that surrounds the soul of many
who profess to be believers in the soon coming of Christ is of a malarious
character, calculated to soothe the very ones who would be stirred if we showed
zeal and determination and stood at our post of duty to warn men of the speedy
advent of our Lord. We must speak forth the truth, we must let our light shine
forth in clear, steady rays, lest some soul shall stumble and fall because
our light is eclipsed.’ That I May Know Him, page 215. ‘Let your light so shine’
What command did Jesus give to His followers? Matthew 5:16, first part.
NOTE: ‘Jesus did not bid the disciples, “Strive to make your light
shine;” He said, “Let it shine.” If Christ is dwelling in
the heart, it is impossible to conceal the light of His presence. If those
who profess to be followers of Christ are not the light of the world, it is
because the vital power has left them; if they have no light to give, it is
because they have no connection with the Source of light.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, page 41.
What will men see when we let our light shine? Matthew 5:16, middle part.
NOTE: ‘The light of the Sun of Righteousness is to shine forth in good
works, in words of truth and deeds of holiness. Christ, the outshining of the
Father’s glory, came to the world as its light. He came to represent
God to men, and of Him it is written that He was anointed “with the Holy
Ghost and with power,” and “went about doing good.” Acts
10:38. In the synagogue at Nazareth He said, “The Spirit of the Lord
is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He
hath sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives,
and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19. This was the
work He commissioned His disciples to do. “Ye are the light of the world,” He
said. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14, 16.
This is the work which the prophet Isaiah describes when he says, “Is
it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are
cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and
that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break
forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy
righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.” Isaiah
58:7, 8. Thus in the night of spiritual darkness God’s glory is to shine
forth through His church in lifting up the bowed down and comforting those
that mourn. All around us are heard the wails of a world’s sorrow. On
every hand are the needy and distressed. It is ours to aid in relieving and
softening life’s hardships and misery. Practical work will have far more
effect than mere sermonising. We are to give food to the hungry, clothing to
the naked, and shelter to the homeless. And we are called to do more than this.
The wants of the soul, only the love of Christ can satisfy. If Christ is abiding
in us, our hearts will be full of divine sympathy. The sealed fountains of
earnest, Christlike love will be unsealed.’ Christ’s Object Lessons,
pages 416-417. ‘Glorify your Father’
What is the purpose of letting our light shine through good works? Matthew
5:16, last part.
NOTE: ‘The disciples of Christ are set as light bearers on the way to
heaven; through them the Father’s mercy and goodness are made manifest
to a world enshrouded in the darkness of misapprehension of God. By seeing
their good works, others are led to glorify the Father who is above; for it
is made manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character
is worthy of praise and imitation. The divine love glowing in the heart, the
Christlike harmony manifested in the life, are as a glimpse of heaven granted
to men of the world, that they may appreciate its excellence. It is thus that
men are led to believe “the love that God hath to us.” 1 John 4:16.
Thus hearts once sinful and corrupt are purified and transformed, to be presented “faultless
before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 24.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, pages 41-42.
What does it mean to glorify God? 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
NOTE: ‘To give glory to God is to reveal His character in our own, and
thus make Him known. And in whatever way we make known the Father or the Son,
we glorify God.’ SDA Bible Commentary, volume 7, page 979.
‘
This does not refer merely to the words that roll off the tongue; it
is not merely to be eloquent in speaking and praying; but it is to make known
Christ, to have Christ in us, and make Him known to those that hear.’ Testimonies,
volume 2, page 609.
Lesson 3: April 9-15
‘ Think not that I am come to destroy the law’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments,
and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven:
but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the
kingdom of heaven.’ Matthew 5:19.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 45-52.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:17-48.
LESSON AIM: To show how Christ, far from abolishing God’s law, magnified
it and made it honourable. Introduction ‘The law given upon Sinai was the enunciation of the principle of love,
a revelation to earth of the law of heaven. It was ordained in the hand of
a Mediator, spoken by Him through whose power the hearts of men could be brought
into harmony with its principles. God had revealed the purpose of the law when
He declared to Israel, “Ye shall be holy men unto Me.” Exodus 22:31.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 46. ‘I am not come to destroy’
How
did Christ respond to the accusation that He had come to do away with God’s
law? Matthew 5:17-18.
NOTE: ‘He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation and was
reiterated upon Mount Sinai. Speaking of the law, Jesus said, “I am not
come to destroy, but to fulfil.” He here used the word “fulfil” in
the same sense as when He declared to John the Baptist His purpose to “fulfil
all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15); that is, to fill up the measure of
the law’s requirement, to give an example of perfect conformity to the
will of God. His mission was to “magnify the law, and make it honourable.” Isaiah
42:21. He was to show the spiritual nature of the law, to present its far-reaching
principles, and to make plain its eternal obligation.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, pages 48-49.
‘
This is the judgment pronounced in the kingdom of heaven. Some have thought
that the commandment-breaker will be there, but will occupy the lowest place.
This is a mistake. Sinners will never enter the abode of bliss. The commandment-breaker,
and all who unite with him in teaching that it makes no difference whether
men break or observe the divine law, will by the universe of heaven be called
least among the human agencies. For not only have they been disloyal themselves,
but they have taught others to break the law of God. Christ pronounces judgment
upon those who claim to have a knowledge of the law, but who, by precept and
example, lead souls into confusion and darkness. They are teaching for doctrines
the commandments of men, and making void the law of God through their traditions.’ Review & Herald,
November 15, 1898.
In
contrast to Christ’s words, what power has claimed the right to change
God’s laws? Daniel 7:25.
NOTE: ‘Prophecy had declared that the papacy was to “think to change
times and laws.” Daniel 7:25. This work it was not slow to attempt. To
afford converts from heathenism a substitute for the worship of idols, and
thus to promote their nominal acceptance of Christianity, the adoration of
images and relics was gradually introduced into the Christian worship. The
decree of a general council finally established this system of idolatry. To
complete the sacrilegious work, Rome presumed to expunge from the law of God
the second commandment, forbidding image worship, and to divide the tenth commandment,
in order to preserve the number. The spirit of concession to paganism opened
the way for a still further disregard of Heaven’s authority. Satan, working
through unconsecrated leaders of the church, tampered with the fourth commandment
also, and essayed to set aside the ancient Sabbath, the day which God had blessed
and sanctified (Genesis 2:2, 3), and in its stead to exalt the festival observed
by the heathen as “the venerable day of the sun.” This change was
not at first attempted openly. In the first centuries the true Sabbath had
been kept by all Christians. They were jealous for the honour of God, and,
believing that His law is immutable, they zealously guarded the sacredness
of its precepts. But with great subtlety Satan worked through his agents to
bring about his object. That the attention of the people might be called to
the Sunday, it was made a festival in honour of the resurrection of Christ.’ Great
Controversy, pages 51-52. ‘But I say unto you’
How did Jesus reveal the principles underlying the Ten Commandments? Matthew
5:21-22, 27-28.
NOTE: ‘Christ came to magnify the law and make it honourable. He showed
that it is based upon the broad foundation of love to God and love to man,
and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His
own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God. In the Sermon on
the Mount He showed how its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and
take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.’ Acts of the
Apostles, page 505.
What
warning did Christ give concerning true obedience to God’s law?
Matthew 5:20.
NOTE: ‘The righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees was of a selfish
character, consisting of external forms. The righteousness which God requires
is internal as well as external. The heart must be purified, else Christ cannot
be enthroned there. The life must be conformed to the will of God.’ Review & Herald,
April 8, 1902. ‘Swear not at all’
What did Christ say to those who feel they must demonstrate their truthfulness
by making oaths? Matthew 5:33-36.
NOTE: ‘This refers to common conversation. Some exaggerate in their language.
Some swear by their own life. Others swear by their head. As sure as they live,
as sure as they have a head, some take Heaven and earth to witness that such
things are so. Some hope that God will strike them out of existence if what
they are saying is not true. It is this kind of common swearing that Jesus
warns His disciples against.’ Spiritual Gifts, volume 4b, page 42.
‘
Our Saviour did not, however, forbid the use of the judicial oath, in
which God is solemnly called to witness that what is said is truth and nothing
but the truth. Jesus Himself, at His trial before the Sanhedrin, did not refuse
to testify under oath. The high priest said unto Him, “I adjure Thee
by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Christ, the Son of
God.” Jesus answered, “Thou hast said” (Matthew 26:63, 64).’ Reflecting
Christ, page 71.
How did Jesus counsel us to speak? Matthew 5:37.
NOTE: ‘These words condemn all those meaningless phrases and expletives
that border on profanity. They condemn the deceptive compliments, the evasion
of truth, the flattering phrases, the exaggerations, the misrepresentations
in trade, that are current in society and in the business world. They teach
that no one who tries to appear what he is not, or whose words do not convey
the real sentiment of his heart, can be called truthful. Everything that Christians
do should be as transparent as the sunlight. Truth is of God; deception, in
every one of its myriad forms, is of Satan. We cannot speak the truth unless
our minds are continually guided by Him who is truth.’ Sons & Daughters
of God, page 64. ‘Resist not evil’
What principle did Jesus next draw attention to? Matthew 5:38. See Exodus
21:23-25.
NOTE: ‘It is true that the rule, “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth” (Leviticus
24:20), was a provision in the laws given through Moses; but it was a civil
statute. None were justified in avenging themselves.’ Thoughts from the
Mount of Blessing, page 70.
How did Jesus instruct His followers to react to those who were aggressive
towards them? Matthew 5:39-42.
NOTE: ‘None were justified in avenging themselves, for they had the words
of the Lord: “Say not thou, I will recompense evil.” “Say
not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me.” “Rejoice not when
thine enemy falleth.” “If he that hateth thee be hungry, give him
bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink.” Proverbs
20:22; 24:29, 17; 25:21, 22, R.V., margin.’ Thoughts from the Mount of
Blessing, page 70.
How did Jesus exemplify His own teaching? 1 Peter 2:23.
NOTE: ‘The whole earthly life of Jesus was a manifestation of this principle.
It was to bring the bread of life to His enemies that our Saviour left His
home in heaven. Though calumny and persecution were heaped upon Him from the
cradle to the grave, they called forth from Him only the expression of forgiving
love. Through the prophet Isaiah He says, “I gave My back to the smiters,
and My cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not My face from shame
and spitting.” “He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He
opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep
before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth.” Isaiah 50:6;
53:7. And from the cross of Calvary there come down through the ages His prayer
for His murderers and the message of hope to the dying thief.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 71. ‘Love
your enemies’
What guiding principle in human relations did Jesus put forward? Matthew 5:43-44,
46-47.
NOTE: ‘We are to love our enemies with the same love that Christ manifested
toward His enemies by giving His life to save them. Many may say, “This
is a hard commandment; for I want to keep just as far as I can from my enemies.” But
acting in accordance with your own inclination would not be carrying out the
principles that our Saviour has given... If we would represent Christ’s
character by obeying this requirement, there would be a great change in evildoers.
Many souls would be convicted of their sinfulness and converted through the
impressions made upon them by our refusal to resent the evil actions of those
controlled by satanic agencies. We must prayerfully and determinedly work on
the Lord’s side. In all the issues that provoke the soul we should resist
the evil and refuse to abuse the evildoer. Let us daily represent Christ’s
great love by loving our enemies as Christ loves them. If we would thus represent
the grace of Christ, strong feelings of hatred would be broken down and into
many hearts genuine love would be brought. Many more conversions than are now
seen would follow. True, it will cost us something to do this.’ Medical
Ministry, pages 253-254.
When we put this principle into practice, what will it reveal about us? Matthew
5:45.
NOTE: ‘The children of God are those who are partakers of His nature.
It is not earthly rank, nor birth, nor nationality, nor religious privilege,
which proves that we are members of the family of God; it is love, a love that
embraces all humanity. Even sinners whose hearts are not utterly closed to
God’s Spirit, will respond to kindness; while they may give hate for
hate, they will also give love for love. But it is only the Spirit of God that
gives love for hatred. To be kind to the unthankful and to the evil, to do
good hoping for nothing again, is the insignia of the royalty of heaven, the
sure token by which the children of the Highest reveal their high estate.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 75. ‘Be ye therefore perfect’
With
what amazing command did Christ bring His comments on God’s law
to a close? Matthew 5:48.
NOTE: ‘The word “therefore” implies a conclusion, an inference
from what has gone before. Jesus has been describing to His hearers the unfailing
mercy and love of God, and He bids them therefore to be perfect. Because your
heavenly Father “is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil” (Luke
6:35), because He has stooped to lift you up, therefore, said Jesus, you may
become like Him in character, and stand without fault in the presence of men
and angels. The conditions of eternal life, under grace, are just what they
were in Eden, perfect righteousness, harmony with God, perfect conformity to
the principles of His law. The standard of character presented in the Old Testament
is the same that is presented in the New Testament. This standard is not one
to which we cannot attain. In every command or injunction that God gives there
is a promise, the most positive, underlying the command. God has made provision
that we may become like unto Him, and He will accomplish this for all who do
not interpose a perverse will and thus frustrate His grace.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 76.
By what means may we accomplish what Christ has commanded? Galatians 2:20,
Romans 6:6.
NOTE: ‘None need fail of attaining, in his sphere, to perfection of Christian
character. By the sacrifice of Christ, provision has been made for the believer
to receive all things that pertain to life and godliness. God calls upon us
to reach the standard of perfection and places before us the example of Christ’s
character. In His humanity, perfected by a life of constant resistance of evil,
the Saviour showed that through co-operation with Divinity, human beings may
in this life attain to perfection of character. This is God’s assurance
to us that we, too, may obtain complete victory. Before the believer is held
out the wonderful possibility of being like Christ, obedient to all the principles
of the law. But of himself man is utterly unable to reach this condition. The
holiness that God’s word declares he must have before he can be saved
is the result of the working of divine grace as he bows in submission to the
discipline and restraining influences of the Spirit of truth. Man’s obedience
can be made perfect only by the incense of Christ’s righteousness, which
fills with divine fragrance every act of obedience. The part of the Christian
is to persevere in overcoming every fault. Constantly he is to pray to the
Saviour to heal the disorders of his sin-sick soul. He has not the wisdom or
the strength to overcome; these belong to the Lord, and He bestows them on
those who in humiliation and contrition seek Him for help. The work of transformation
from unholiness to holiness is a continuous one. Day by day God labours for
man’s sanctification, and man is to co-operate with Him, putting forth
persevering efforts in the cultivation of right habits. He is to add grace
to grace; and as he thus works on the plan of addition, God works for him on
the plan of multiplication. Our Saviour is always ready to hear and answer
the prayer of the contrite heart, and grace and peace are multiplied to His
faithful ones. Gladly He grants them the blessings they need in their struggle
against the evils that beset them.’ Acts of the Apostles, pages 531-532.
‘ That thine alms may be in secret’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be
seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.’ Matthew
6:1.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 79-83.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:1-4.
LESSON AIM: To understand the true principles of benevolence. Introduction ‘Acts of kindness performed in secret will bind hearts together, and
will draw them closer to the heart of Him from whom every generous impulse
springs. The little attentions, the small acts of love and self-sacrifice,
that flow out from the life as quietly as the fragrance from a flower, these
constitute no small share of the blessings and happiness of life. And it will
be found at last that the denial of self for the good and happiness of others,
however humble and uncommended here, is recognised in heaven as the token of
our union with Him, the King of glory, who was rich, yet for our sake became
poor.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 82. ‘Take heed’
What warning did Christ give concerning the act of giving to the poor? Matthew
6:1, first part.
NOTE: ‘Christ’s own words make His meaning plain, that in acts
of charity the aim should not be to secure praise and honour from men. Real
godliness never prompts an effort at display. Those who desire words of praise
and flattery, and feed upon them as a sweet morsel, are Christians in name
only.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 80.
What will be the result for those who fail to heed this warning? Matthew 6:1,
last part.
NOTE: ‘In these words Christ draws a contrast between the self-seeking
practices of the world, and the unselfish ministry of which He has given an
example in His own life. For such ministry He offers no reward of worldly gain
or recognition. “Thou shalt be recompensed,” He says, “at
the resurrection of the just.” Then the results of every life will be
made manifest, and every one will reap that which he has sown.’ Gospel
Workers, page 512. ‘They have their reward’
What class of people did Jesus describe as an example of how not to act? Matthew
6:2.
NOTE: ‘The principles cherished by the Pharisees are such as are characteristic
of humanity in all ages. The spirit of Pharisaism is the spirit of human nature;
and as the Saviour showed the contrast between His own spirit and methods and
those of the rabbis, His teaching is equally applicable to the people of all
time. In the days of Christ the Pharisees were continually trying to earn the
favour of Heaven in order to secure the worldly honour and prosperity which
they regarded as the reward of virtue. At the same time they paraded their
acts of charity before the people in order to attract their attention and gain
a reputation for sanctity. Jesus rebuked their ostentation, declaring that
God does not recognise such service and that the flattery and admiration of
the people, which they so eagerly sought, was the only reward they would ever
receive.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 79-80.
Why does this class of people act in this way? Matthew 6:2, last part.
NOTE: ‘They gave to be regarded as noble and generous by men. They received
praise of men, and Jesus taught His disciples that it was all the reward they
would have. With many, the left hand does not know what the right hand does,
for the right hand does nothing worthy of the notice of the left hand. This
lesson of Jesus to His disciples was to rebuke those who wished to receive
glory of men. They performed their alms-giving upon some very public gathering;
and before doing this, a public proclamation was made of their generosity before
the people, and many gave large sums merely to have their names exalted by
men.’ Spiritual Gifts, volume 2, page 234. ‘Let
not thy left hand know
what thy right hand doeth’
What principle did Christ set forth for Christian benevolence? Matthew 6:3.
NOTE: ‘By their good works, Christ’s followers are to bring glory,
not to themselves, but to Him through whose grace and power they have wrought.
It is through the Holy Spirit that every good work is accomplished, and the
Spirit is given to glorify, not the receiver, but the Giver. When the light
of Christ is shining in the soul, the lips will be filled with praise and thanksgiving
to God. Your prayers, your performance of duty, your benevolence, your self-denial,
will not be the theme of your thought or conversation. Jesus will be magnified,
self will be hidden, and Christ will appear as all in all.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 80.
What principle of God’s
dealings with mankind did Jesus explain? Matthew 6:4.
NOTE: ‘We are not to think of reward, but of service; yet kindness shown
in this spirit will not fail of its recompense. “Thy Father which seeth
in secret Himself shall reward thee openly.” While it is true that God
Himself is the great Reward, that embraces every other, the soul receives and
enjoys Him only as it becomes assimilated to Him in character. Only like can
appreciate like. It is as we give ourselves to God for the service of humanity
that He gives Himself to us. No one can give place in his own heart and life
for the stream of God’s blessing to flow to others, without receiving
in himself a rich reward. The hillsides and plains that furnish a channel for
the mountain streams to reach the sea suffer no loss thereby. That which they
give is repaid a hundredfold. For the stream that goes singing on its way leaves
behind its gift of verdure and fruitfulness. The grass on its banks is a fresher
green, the trees have a richer verdure, the flowers are more abundant. When
the earth lies bare and brown under the summer’s parching heat, a line
of verdure marks the river’s course; and the plain that opened her bosom
to bear the mountain’s treasure to the sea is clothed with freshness
and beauty, a witness to the recompense that God’s grace imparts to all
who give themselves as a channel for its outflow to the world.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 81. ‘Where
your treasure is’
How did Jesus teach the true attitude to worldly possessions? Luke 12:33-34.
NOTE: ‘God calls upon those who have possessions in lands and houses,
to sell, and to invest the money where it will be supplying the great want
in the missionary field. When once they have experienced the real satisfaction
that comes from thus doing, they will keep the channel open, and the means
the Lord entrusts to them will be constantly flowing into the treasury, that
souls may be converted. These souls will, in their turn, practice the same
self-denial, economy, and simplicity, for Christ’s sake, that they, too,
may bring their offerings to God. Through these talents, wisely invested, still
other souls may be converted; and thus the work goes on, showing that the gifts
of God are appreciated. The Giver is acknowledged, and glory redounds to Him
through the faithfulness of His stewards.’ Counsels on Stewardship, page
58.
What story did Jesus give to warn against the dangers of selfish greed? Luke
12:16-21.
NOTE: ‘To live for self is to perish. Covetousness, the desire of benefit
for self’s sake, cuts the soul off from life. It is the spirit of Satan
to get, to draw to self. It is the spirit of Christ to give, to sacrifice self
for the good of others. “And this is the record, that God hath given
to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the Son hath
life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” 1 John 5:11,
12. Wherefore He says, “Take heed, and beware of covetousness; for a
man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”’ Christ’s
Object Lessons, page 259. ‘Thine alms are had in remembrance
in the sight of God’
What testimony is given of the life of Cornelius? Acts 10:1-2.
NOTE: ‘Prayer and almsgiving are closely linked together, the expression
of love to God and to our fellow men. They are the outworking of the two great
principles of the divine law, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with
all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy
strength”; and, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Mark
12:30, 31). Thus while our gifts cannot recommend us to God or earn His favour,
they are an evidence that we have received the grace of Christ. They are a
test of the sincerity of our profession of love.’ God’s Amazing
Grace, page 86.
What commendation was Cornelius given by the angel? Acts 10:3-4. Compare verses
30-31.
NOTE: ‘It is a wonderful favour for any man in this life to be commended
of God as was Cornelius. And what was the ground of this approval? “Thy
prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God” (Acts 10:4).
Neither prayer nor almsgiving has any virtue in itself to recommend the sinner
to God; the grace of Christ, through His atoning sacrifice, can alone renew
the heart and make our service acceptable to God. This grace had moved upon
the heart of Cornelius. The Spirit of Christ had spoken to his soul; Jesus
had drawn him, and he had yielded to the drawing. His prayers and alms were
not urged or extorted from him; they were not a price he was seeking to pay
in order to secure heaven; but they were the fruit of love and gratitude to
God. Such prayer from a sincere heart ascends as incense before the Lord; and
offerings to His cause and gifts to the needy and suffering are a sacrifice
well pleasing to Him.’ God’s Amazing Grace, page 86. ‘Pure religion’
How did the Lord describe the sort of religious exercises that He most approves?
Isaiah 58:6-7.
NOTE: ‘This is the blessing of those who show mercy to the poor. The
prophet Isaiah says, “Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and
that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? When thou seest the
naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring
forth speedily. . . . And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy
thy soul in drought: . . . and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like
a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Isaiah 58:7-11. The work of
beneficence is twice blessed. While he that gives to the needy blesses others,
he himself is blessed in a still greater degree. The grace of Christ in the
soul is developing traits of character that are the opposite of selfishness,
traits that will refine, ennoble, and enrich the life.’ Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing, page 82.
How did James define the essence of true religion? James 1:27.
NOTE: ‘In placing among them the helpless and the poor, to be dependent
upon their care, Christ tests His professed followers. By our love and service
for His needy children we prove the genuineness of our love for Him. To neglect
them is to declare ourselves false disciples, strangers to Christ and His love.’ Ministry
of Healing, page 205.
‘
Every opportunity to help a brother in need, or to aid the cause of God
in the spread of the truth, is a pearl that you can send beforehand, and deposit
in the bank of heaven for safe-keeping. Love, courtesy, self-sacrifice, these
are never lost. When God’s chosen ones are changed from mortality to
immortality, their words and deeds of goodness will be made manifest, and will
be preserved through the eternal ages. Through the merits of Christ’s
imputed righteousness, the fragrance of such words and deeds is forever preserved.’ The
Faith I Live By, page 239.
Lesson 5: April 23-29
‘ When thou prayest’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and
when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy
Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.’ Matthew 6:6.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 83-86.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:5-15.
LESSON AIM: To understand the way Christ taught us to pray. Introduction ‘Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that
it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to
enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings
us up to Him.’ Steps to Christ, page 93. ‘Thou shalt not be
as the hypocrites are’
What warning did Christ give about prayer? Matthew 6:5.
NOTE: ‘The Pharisees had stated hours for prayer; and when, as often
came to pass, they were abroad at the appointed time, they would pause wherever
they might be, perhaps in the street or the market place, amid the hurrying
throngs of men, and there in a loud voice rehearse their formal prayers. Such
worship, offered merely for self-glorification, called forth unsparing rebuke
from Jesus. He did not, however, discountenance public prayer, for He Himself
prayed with His disciples and in the presence of the multitude.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 83.
In contrast to the hypocrites, what counsel did Jesus give concerning our
prayers? Matthew 6:6.
NOTE: ‘But He teaches that private prayer is not to be made public. In
secret devotion our prayers are to reach the ears of none but the prayer-hearing
God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petitions. “When
thou prayest, enter into thy closet.” Have a place for secret prayer.
Jesus had select places for communion with God, and so should we. We need often
to retire to some spot, however humble, where we can be alone with God.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, pages 83-84. ‘Vain repetitions’
What practice did Jesus counsel us to avoid in our prayers? Matthew 6:7.
NOTE: ‘The heathen looked upon their prayers as having in themselves
merit to atone for sin. Hence the longer the prayer the greater the merit.
If they could become holy by their own efforts they would have something in
themselves in which to rejoice, some ground for boasting. This idea of prayer
is an outworking of the principle of self-expiation which lies at the foundation
of all systems of false religion. The Pharisees had adopted this pagan idea
of prayer, and it is by no means extinct in our day, even among those who profess
to be Christians. The repetition of set, customary phrases, when the heart
feels no need of God, is of the same character as the “vain repetitions” of
the heathen. Prayer is not an expiation for sin; it has no virtue or merit
of itself. All the flowery words at our command are not equivalent to one holy
desire. The most eloquent prayers are but idle words if they do not express
the true sentiments of the heart.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 86.
What should we remember when we pray to God? Matthew 6:8. Compare Matthew
6:31-34.
NOTE: ‘Christ impressed upon His disciples the idea that their prayers
should be short, expressing just what they wanted, and no more. He gives the
length and substance of their prayers, expressing their desires for temporal
and spiritual blessings, and gratitude for the same. This sample prayer, how
comprehensive! It covers the actual need of all. One or two minutes is long
enough for any ordinary prayer. There may be instances where prayer, in a special
manner, is indicted by the Spirit of God, and where supplication is made in
the Spirit. The yearning soul becomes agonised, and groans after God. The spirit
wrestles as did Jacob, and will not be at rest without special manifestations
of the power of God. This is as God would have it. But there are many prayers
offered in a dry, sermonising manner. These pray to men, not to God. If they
were praying to God, and really understood what they were doing, they would
be alarmed at their audacity; for they delivered a discourse to the Lord in
the mode of prayer, as though the Creator of the universe needed special information
upon general questions in relation to the things that were transpiring in the
world. All such prayers are as sounding brass, and tinkling cymbal. They are
made no account of in Heaven. Angels of God are wearied with them, as well
as mortals who are compelled to listen to them.’ Review & Herald,
May 30, 1871.
‘
The prayer that comes from an earnest heart, when the simple wants of
the soul are expressed, as we would ask an earthly friend for a favour, expecting
it to be granted, this is the prayer of faith. God does not desire our ceremonial
compliments, but the unspoken cry of the heart broken and subdued with a sense
of its sin and utter weakness finds its way to the Father of all mercy.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 86. ‘After this manner therefore
pray ye’
How did Jesus counsel us to begin our prayers? Matthew 6:9.
NOTE: ‘To hallow the name of the Lord requires that the words in which
we speak of the Supreme Being be uttered with reverence. “Holy and reverend
is His name” (Psalm 111:9). We are never in any manner to treat lightly
the titles or appellations of the Deity. In prayer we enter the audience chamber
of the Most High; and we should come before Him with holy awe. The angels veil
their faces in His presence. The cherubim and the bright and holy seraphim
approach His throne with solemn reverence. How much more should we, finite,
sinful beings, come in a reverent manner before the Lord, our Maker! But to
hallow the name of the Lord means much more than this. We may, like the Jews
in Christ’s day, manifest the greatest outward reverence for God, and
yet profane His name continually. “The name of the Lord” is “merciful
and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, . . . forgiving
iniquity and transgression and sin” (Exodus 34:5-7). Of the church of
Christ it is written, “This is the name wherewith she shall be called,
The Lord our Righteousness” (Jeremiah 33:16). This name is put upon every
follower of Christ. It is the heritage of the child of God. The family are
called after the Father. The prophet Jeremiah, in the time of Israel’s
sore distress and tribulation, prayed, “We are called by Thy name; leave
us not” (Jeremiah 14:9). This name is hallowed by the angels of heaven,
by the inhabitants of unfallen worlds. When you pray, “Hallowed be Thy
name,” you ask that it may be hallowed in this world, hallowed in you.
God has acknowledged you before men and angels as His child; pray that you
may do no dishonour to the “worthy name by which ye are called” (James
2:7). God sends you into the world as His representatives. In every act of
life you are to make manifest the name of God. This petition calls upon you
to possess His character. You cannot hallow His name, you cannot represent
Him to the world, unless in life and character you represent the very life
and character of God. This you can do only through the acceptance of the grace
and righteousness of Christ.’ God’s Amazing Grace, page 94.
Upon what prospect should our prayers be focused? Matthew 6:10.
NOTE: ‘How can you who repeat the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy kingdom
come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven,” sit at ease in your
homes without helping to carry the torch of truth to others? How can you lift
up your hands before God and ask His blessing upon yourselves and your families,
when you are doing so little to help others?’ Christian Service, page
90. ‘Give us this day our daily
bread’
How are we to acknowledge our dependence on the Lord? Matthew 6:11. Compare
Luke 11:3.
NOTE: ‘Like a child, you shall receive day by day what is required for
the day’s need. Every day you are to pray, “Give us this day our
daily bread.” Be not disturbed if you have not sufficient for tomorrow.
You have the assurance of His promise, “Thou shalt dwell in the land,
and verily thou shalt be fed.” David says, “I have been young,
and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging
bread”... The prayer for daily bread includes not only food to sustain
the body, but that spiritual bread which will nourish the soul unto life everlasting.
Jesus bids us, “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that
meat which endureth unto everlasting life” (John 6:27). He says, “I
am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread,
he shall live for ever” (verse 51). Our Saviour is the bread of life,
and it is by beholding His love, by receiving it into the soul, that we feed
upon the bread which came down from heaven. We receive Christ through His Word,
and the Holy Spirit is given to open the Word of God to our understanding,
and bring home its truths to our hearts. We are to pray day by day that as
we read His Word, God will send His Spirit to reveal to us the truth that will
strengthen our souls for the day’s need. In teaching us to ask every
day for what we need, both temporal and spiritual blessings, God has a purpose
to accomplish for our good. He would have us realise our dependence upon His
constant care, for He is seeking to draw us into communion with Himself. In
this communion with Christ, through prayer and the study of the great and precious
truths of His Word, we shall as hungry souls be fed; as those that thirst,
we shall be refreshed at the fountain of life.’ Lift Him Up, page 131.
What prayer of spiritual dependence should also be ours? Matthew 6:13,
first part.
NOTE: ‘We are free to obey or to disregard the will of God; free to pray
or to live without prayer. As God compels no man to be righteous, so none are
compelled to be impenitent and vicious. Human passions may be strong and wayward,
but help has been laid upon One who is mighty. While that help will not be
forced upon any who despise the gift, it is freely, gladly given to all who
seek it in sincerity. We may be assailed by powerful temptations, for we have
a powerful, cunning foe; but these temptations are never irresistible. He who
struggles against them in the strength of Christ will overcome; but God will
never deliver those who will not strive to free themselves. The Christian must
be watchful against sins of the flesh, watchful against sins of the mind. Says
the apostle, “Gird up the loins of your mind.” The thoughts and
feelings must be restrained with a firm hand, lest they lead us into sin.’ Review & Herald,
January 19, 1886. ‘Forgive
us as we forgive’
How are we to frame our prayers for forgiveness? Matthew 6:12.
NOTE: ‘We are not forgiven because we forgive, but as we forgive. The
ground of all forgiveness is found in the unmerited love of God, but by our
attitude toward others we show whether we have made that love our own. Wherefore
Christ says, “With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with
what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:2.’ Christ’s
Object Lessons, page 251.
What important principle did Jesus express to His disciples? Matthew 6:14-15.
NOTE: ‘Nothing can justify an unforgiving spirit. He who is unmerciful
toward others shows that he himself is not a partaker of God’s pardoning
grace. In God’s forgiveness the heart of the erring one is drawn close
to the great heart of Infinite Love. The tide of divine compassion flows into
the sinner’s soul and from him to the souls of others. The tenderness
and mercy that Christ has revealed in His own precious life will be seen in
those who become sharers of His grace. But “if any man have not the Spirit
of Christ, he is none of His.” Romans 8:9. He is alienated from God,
fitted only for eternal separation from Him.’ Christ’s Object Lessons,
page 251. ‘For Thine is the kingdom’
With what words did Christ instruct His disciples to conclude their prayers?
Matthew 6:13, last part. Compare 1 Chronicles 29:10-14.
NOTE: It has become customary in recent Bible versions to omit the last
part of verse 13. The NIV, for example, claims that these words are only
found in ‘some late manuscripts.’ The facts are these: that of
the five hundred existing manuscripts containing this passage, only nine
omit the last
part of verse 13.
‘
The last, like the first sentence of the Lord’s prayer, points to our
Father as above all power and authority and every name that is named... Christ’s
followers were not to fear that their hope was lost, or that God had forsaken
the earth. The power and the glory belong to Him whose great purposes would
still move on unthwarted toward their consummation. In the prayer that breathes
their daily wants, the disciples of Christ were directed to look above all
the power and dominion of evil unto the Lord their God, whose kingdom ruleth
over all, and who is their Father and everlasting Friend.’ Signs of the
Times, November 4, 1903.
What
principle should motivate the Christian’s every word and action?
Ephesians 1:12. Compare Jeremiah 9:23-24.
NOTE: ‘Man cannot show greater weakness than by allowing men to ascribe
to him the honour for gifts that are Heaven-bestowed. The true Christian will
make God first and last and best in everything. No ambitious motives will chill
his love for God; steadily, perseveringly, will he cause honour to redound
to his heavenly Father. It is when we are faithful in exalting the name of
God that our impulses are under divine supervision, and we are enabled to develop
spiritual and intellectual power.’ Prophets & Kings, page 68.
‘
Let self drop out of sight, and let Jesus appear as the One altogether
lovely. We should seek to live for His glory alone, not that men may praise
us.’ In Heavenly Places, page 230.
‘ Be not as the hypocrites’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of
a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto
men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.’ Matthew
6:16.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 87-88.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:16-18.
LESSON AIM: To show the dangers of hypocrisy. Introduction ‘Christ desires us to make His service appear attractive, as it really
is. Let the self-denials and the secret heart trials be revealed to the compassionate
Saviour. Let the burdens be left at the foot of the cross, and go on your way
rejoicing in His love who first loved you. Men may never know of the work going
on secretly between the soul and God, but the result of the Spirit’s
work upon the heart will be manifest to all, for He “which seeth in secret,
shall reward thee openly.”’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 88. ‘That they may appear
unto men to fast’
When practice did the Lord forbid to His followers? Matthew 6:16.
NOTE: ‘Like other observances of a religious character, fasting, when
practised from right motives, will prove a blessing. But this, like almsgiving,
had been perverted. The Pharisees put on an outward appearance of great sanctity,
of humiliation and contrition, while in their hearts they cherished sins of
a revolting character. They made their religion unattractive by their stern,
forbidding appearance. But the true Christian will never chill the atmosphere
with severe exactions and painful stiffness. He is to have a sweet, subduing,
cheerful and saving influence upon those with whom he comes in contact.’ Signs
of the Times, December 3, 1896.
‘
The fasting which the word of God enjoins is something more than a form.
It does not consist merely in refusing food, in wearing sackcloth, in sprinkling
ashes upon the head. He who fasts in real sorrow for sin will never court display.’ Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, page 87.
What was the only reward for such conduct? Matthew 6:16, last part.
NOTE: ‘They received the praise they sought, and this was all the reward
they would have. This lesson was designed to rebuke those who wished to receive
glory of men.’ Signs of the Times, September 2, 1886. ‘Unto
thy Father which is
in secret’
What alternative course of action did the Lord commend to His followers? Matthew
6:17.
NOTE: ‘This lesson to the disciples is applicable to every Christian
to the end of time. Devotion to God does not consist in groans and sighs and
a sad countenance. Many give to the world wrong impressions in regard to the
religion of the Bible by complaining of trials and crosses and hardships. The
true servants of the heavenly King are the most happy people in the world.
While their service is earnest and sincere, they carry with them the rays of
the Sun of Righteousness, to lighten the path heavenward for all those who
will walk in it. The religious life is one of conflict and trial; yet of spiritual
happiness and joy.’ Signs of the Times, December 3, 1896.
What was promised to those who follow this counsel? Matthew 6:18.
NOTE: ‘The service rendered in sincerity of heart has great recompense. “Thy
Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly.” By the
life we live through the grace of Christ, the character is formed. The original
loveliness begins to be restored to the soul. The attributes of the character
of Christ are imparted, and the image of the Divine begins to shine forth.
The faces of men and women who walk and work with God express the peace of
heaven. They are surrounded with the atmosphere of heaven. For these souls
the kingdom of God has begun. They have Christ’s joy, the joy of being
a blessing to humanity. They have the honour of being accepted for the Master’s
use; they are trusted to do His work in His name.’ The Adventist Home,
page 535. ‘The fast that I have chosen’
What kind of fasting is not acceptable to God? Isaiah 58:3-5.
NOTE: ‘These fasts are only outward show, mere pretence, a mockery of
humility. These worshipers, while mourning and lamenting, retain all their
objectionable traits of character. Their hearts are not humbled, nor cleansed
from spiritual defilement. They have not received the softening showers of
the grace of God. They are destitute of the Holy Spirit, destitute of the sweetness
of the heavenly influence. They manifest no repentance, nor faith that works
by love and purifies the soul. They are unjust and selfish in their dealings,
mercilessly oppressing those whom they regard as their inferiors. Yet they
charge God with a neglect to manifest His power to them, and exalt them above
others because of their righteousness. The Lord sends them a message of positive
reproof, showing why they are not visited by His grace.’ SDA Bible Commentary,
volume 4, page 1150.
‘
The Pharisees sought to exalt themselves by their rigorous observance
of forms, while their hearts were filled with envy and strife. “Behold,” says
the Scripture, “ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the
fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice
to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man
to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread
sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable
day to the Lord?” Isaiah 58:4, 5.’ Desire of Ages, page 278.
How does the Lord describe the type of fasting of which He approves? Isaiah
58:6-7.
NOTE: ‘The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes
the fast that God has chosen, “to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo
the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every
yoke;” to “draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted
soul.” Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character
of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving
of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with
the publicans at Matthew’s feast, He was giving His life for the redemption
of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous
sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the
surrender of self in willing service to God and man.’ Desire of Ages,
page 278. ‘Woe unto you, hypocrites’
How did Jesus describe His abhorrence for hypocrisy? Matthew 23:25-26.
NOTE: ‘None are farther from the kingdom of heaven than self-righteous
formalists, who are perhaps filled with pride at their own attainments, while
they are wholly destitute of the Spirit of Christ, and are controlled by envy,
jealousy, and love of praise and popularity. They belong to the class that
John addressed as a generation of vipers, children of the wicked one. They
serve the cause of Satan more effectively than the vilest profligate; for the
latter does not disguise his true character; he appears what he really is.’ This
Day With God, page 197.
In what other vivid way did Jesus explain how hypocrisy appears to God? Matthew
23:27-28.
NOTE: ‘Unless the mind of God becomes the mind of man, every effort to
purify himself will be useless; for it is impossible to elevate man except
through a knowledge of God. The outward gloss may be put on, and men may be
as were the Pharisees whom Jesus describes as “whited sepulchres,” full
of corruption and dead men’s bones. But all the deformity of the soul
is open to Him who judgeth righteously, and unless the truth is planted in
the heart, it cannot control the life. Cleansing the outside of the cup will
never make the vessel pure within. A nominal acceptance of truth is good as
far as it goes, and the ability to give a reason for our faith is a good accomplishment,
but if the truth does not go deeper than this, the soul will never be saved.
The heart must be purified from all moral defilement. “I know also, my
God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness.” 1
Chronicles 29: 17. “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and
know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in
the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23, 24.’ Our High Calling, page
142. ‘I send unto you prophets’
How had the Lord attempted to enlighten the hypocrites among His people? Matthew
23:34.
NOTE: ‘Those who in sincerity and truth believe the words of Christ sent
to them through His ambassadors will understand what is the import of those
words; but those who have entrenched themselves in unbelief will be as were
the Jews, blinded to the light. By rejection of evidence, they lost their spiritual
eyesight, and could not discern between good and evil, between truth and error,
light and darkness. Those who are filled with unbelief can discern the least
thing that has an objectionable appearance, and by beholding the objectionable
feature, they can lose sight of all the evidence that God has given in manifesting
His abundant grace and power, in revealing precious gems of truth from the
inexhaustible mine of His word. They can hold the objectionable atom under
the magnifying glasses of their imagination until the atom looks like a world,
and shuts out from their view the precious light of heaven. But instead of
placing that which appears objectionable beneath the eyes, why not bring before
the soul the precious things of God? Why make the things of priceless value
of little esteem, while the worthless things are made much of? Why take so
much account of that which may appear to you as objectionable in the messenger,
and sweep away all the evidences that God has given to balance the mind in
regard to the truth? With the history of the children of Israel before us,
let us take heed, and not be found committing the same sins, following in the
same way of unbelief and rebellion.’ Review & Herald April 18, 1893.
How have the hypocrites responded to these messages of warning? Matthew 23:29-31.
NOTE: ‘The Pharisees built the tombs of the prophets, and adorned their
sepulchres, and said one to another, If we had lived in the days of our fathers,
we would not have united with them in shedding the blood of God’s servants.
At the same time they were planning to take the life of His Son. This should
be a lesson to us. It should open our eyes to the power of Satan to deceive
the mind that turns from the light of truth. Many follow in the track of the
Pharisees. They revere those who have died for their faith. They wonder at
the blindness of the Jews in rejecting Christ. Had we lived in His day, they
declare, we would gladly have received His teaching; we would never have been
partakers in the guilt of those who rejected the Saviour. But when obedience
to God requires self-denial and humiliation, these very persons stifle their
convictions, and refuse obedience. Thus they manifest the same spirit as did
the Pharisees whom Christ condemned.’ Desire of Ages, page 618. ‘How can ye escape?’
What awaits those who fail to turn away from hypocrisy? Matthew 23:33.
NOTE: ‘When men now despise the warnings which God in mercy sends them,
His Spirit after a time ceases to arouse conviction in their hearts. God gives
light to be cherished and obeyed, not to be despised and rejected. The light
which He sends becomes darkness to those who disregard it. When the Spirit
of God ceases to impress the truth upon the hearts of men, all hearing is vain,
and all preaching also is vain.’ Spirit of Prophecy, volume 4, page 231.
What warning are we given concerning hypocrisy in the end-time church? 1 Timothy
4:1-2.
NOTE: ‘Those who have once been convicted of the truth, but have resisted
the Holy Spirit’s influence, walk and work in co-partnership with Satan,
the first apostate. Blinded by the sophistry of him who was once found in the
heavenly courts, they join his ranks. The apostle Paul, speaking of this says, “Now
the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from
the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking
lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.” Those
who have turned away from a plain, “Thus saith the Lord,” will
be blinded in a superstitious faith in every kind of apostasy, and will be
led into that terrible iniquity which God’s word represents as being
drunken with the blood of the saints. When this enmity against the law of God
becomes so intense, we may know that Satan is imbuing human minds with the
same hatred of truth and of the precepts of God as turned the heart of Cain
against his brother Abel. In this time of prevailing iniquity it is essential
that we individually draw nigh unto God.’ Review & Herald, August
31, 1897.
What counsel did Peter give to those who practise hypocrisy and similar sins?
1 Peter 2:1-2.
NOTE: ‘Man cannot read the heart of man. His judgment is formed from
appearances, and these are often deceptive. God reads the intent and purposes
of the heart. Do nothing in an underhanded manner; be open as the day, true
to your brethren and sisters, dealing with them as you wish Christ to deal
with you.’ Review & Herald, May 14, 1895.
Lesson 7: May 7-13
‘ God and mammon’
MEMORY
VERSE: ‘For where your treasure is, there will your heart be
also.’ Matthew 6:21.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 89-96.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:19-24.
LESSON AIM: To show that we cannot divide our loyalties between God and
the world. Introduction ‘Christ does not say that man will not or shall not serve two masters,
but that he cannot. The interests of God and the interests of mammon have no
union or sympathy. Just where the conscience of the Christian warns him to
forbear, to deny himself, to stop, just there the worldling steps over the
line, to indulge his selfish propensities. On one side of the line is the self-denying
follower of Christ; on the other side is the self-indulgent world lover, pandering
to fashion, engaging in frivolity, and pampering himself in forbidden pleasure.
On that side of the line the Christian cannot go.’ Thoughts from the
Mount of Blessing, page 93. ‘Where moth and rust
doth corrupt’
How did Jesus describe the foolishness of materialism? Matthew 6:19.
NOTE: ‘How can houses and lands compare in value with precious souls
for whom Christ died? Through your instrumentality, dear brethren and sisters,
these souls may be saved with you in the kingdom of glory; but you cannot take
with you there the smallest portion of your earthly treasure. Acquire what
you may, preserve it with all the jealous care you are capable of exercising,
and yet the mandate may go forth from the Lord, and in a few hours a fire which
no skill can quench, may destroy the accumulations of your entire life, and
lay them a mass of smouldering ruins. You may devote all your talent and energy
to laying up treasures on earth; but what will they advantage you when your
life closes or Jesus makes His appearance? Just as much as you have been exalted
here by worldly honours and riches to the neglect of spiritual life, just so
much lower will you sink in moral worth before the tribunal of the great Judge. “What
shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”’ Counsels
on Stewardship, page 212.
What story did Christ tell to show the foolishness of focusing our thoughts
on worldly possessions? Luke 12:15-21.
NOTE: ‘To live for self is to perish. Covetousness, the desire of benefit
for self’s sake, cuts the soul off from life. It is the spirit of Satan
to get, to draw to self. It is the spirit of Christ to give, to sacrifice self
for the good of others. “And this is the record, that God hath given
to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the Son hath
life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” 1 John 5:11,
12. Wherefore He says, “Take heed, and beware of covetousness; for a
man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”’ Christ’s
Object Lessons, page 259. ‘Treasures in heaven’
Instead of amassing wealth, what alternative did Christ set out? Matthew 6:20,
Luke 12:33.
NOTE: ‘Christ entreats, “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” This
work of transferring your possessions to the world above, is worthy of all
your best energies. It is of the highest importance, and involves your eternal
interests. That which you bestow in the cause of God is not lost. All that
is given for the salvation of souls and the glory of God, is invested in the
most successful enterprise in this life and in the life to come. Your talents
of gold and silver, if given to the exchangers, are gaining continually in
value, which will be registered to your account in the kingdom of heaven. You
are to be the recipients of the eternal wealth that has increased in the hands
of the exchangers. In giving to the work of God, you are laying up for yourselves
treasures in heaven. All that you lay up above is secure from disaster and
loss, and is increasing to an eternal, an enduring substance.’ Counsels
on Stewardship, page 342.
How did Jesus explain this to a rich young man? Matthew 19:21. Compare 1 Timothy
6:17-19.
NOTE: ‘Here is portrayed the value of eternal riches, in contrast with
the treasures of earth. If the purpose and aim of your life is to lay up treasure
in heaven, you will be lifted above the base, sordid, demoralising influence
of an inordinate desire to obtain wealth in this life. Laying up treasure in
heaven will give nobility to the character; it will strengthen benevolence,
encourage mercy; cultivate sympathy, brotherly kindness, and charity. It will
unite the soul of man with Christ, by links that can never be broken. You may
lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven by being rich in good works, rich
in imperishable and spiritual things. The instruction is to “lay up for
yourselves treasures in heaven.” It is for our own interest that we secure
heavenly riches. God is not benefited by our benevolence. The cattle upon a
thousand hills are His. “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness
thereof.” Psalm 24:1. But in using the gifts that He has entrusted to
our care for the salvation of souls, we transfer our wealth to the treasury
of heaven. When we are seeking the glory of God, and hasting unto the day of
God, we are co-labourers with Christ, and our joy is not a base and fleeting
emotion; but it is the joy of our Lord. We are elevated above the corroding,
perplexing cares of this frail, fickle world.’ Our High Calling, page
195. ‘Where your treasure is’
What principle did Christ explain concerning riches? Matthew 6:21.
NOTE: ‘Where the treasure is, there the heart will be. In every effort
to benefit others, we benefit ourselves. He who gives money or time for spreading
the gospel enlists his own interest and prayers for the work, and for the souls
to be reached through it; his affections go out to others, and he is stimulated
to greater devotion to God, that he may be enabled to do them the greatest
good. And at the final day, when the wealth of earth shall perish, he who has
laid up treasure in heaven will behold that which his life has gained. If we
have given heed to the words of Christ, then, as we gather around the great
white throne, we shall see souls who have been saved through our agency, and
shall know that one has saved others, and these still others--a large company
brought into the haven of rest as the result of our labours, there to lay their
crowns at Jesus’ feet, and praise Him through the ceaseless ages of eternity.
With what joy will the worker for Christ behold these redeemed ones, who share
the glory of the Redeemer! How precious will heaven be to those who have been
faithful in the work of saving souls!’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 90.
How did Paul explain the importance of concentrating on things of eternal
importance? Colossians 3:1-2.
NOTE: ‘The sincere Christian appreciates the warning given by Jesus,
and is a doer of His word, thus laying up his treasure in heaven, just as the
world’s Redeemer has told him he should do. He views an eternity of bliss
worth a life of persevering and untiring effort. He is not misdirecting his
efforts. He is setting his affections upon things above, where Christ sitteth
at the right hand of God. Transformed by grace, his life is hid with Christ
in God. He has not lost by any means, the power of accumulation; but he employs
his active energies in seeking for spiritual attainments; then all his entrusted
talents will be appreciated as God’s gifts to be employed to His glory.
By him property will be prized, not hoarded, valued only inasmuch as it can
be used to advance the truth, to work as Christ worked when He was upon the
earth, to bless humanity. For this purpose he will use his powers, not to please
or glorify self, but to strengthen every entrusted gift that he may do the
highest service to God. Of him it can be said, “Not slothful in business;
fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” God does not condemn prudence and
foresight in the use of the things of this life, but the feverish care, the
undue anxiety, with respect to worldly things is not in accordance with His
will.’ Review & Herald, March 1, 1887. ‘If
thine eye be single’
What principle did Jesus next explain for those who wish to have the light
of God in their lives? Matthew 6:22. Compare Luke 11:36.
NOTE: ‘Singleness of purpose, wholehearted devotion to God, is the condition
pointed out by the Saviour’s words. Let the purpose be sincere and unwavering
to discern the truth and to obey it at whatever cost, and you will receive
divine enlightenment. Real piety begins when all compromise with sin is at
an end. Then the language of the heart will be that of the apostle Paul: “This
one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth
unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of
the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” “I count all things but
loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom
I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I
may win Christ.” Philippians 3:13, 14, 8.’ Thoughts from the Mount
of Blessing, page 91.
In contrast, how did Christ describe the one who compromises with evil? Matthew
6:23. Compare Luke 11:35.
NOTE: ‘Yielding to temptation begins in permitting the mind to waver,
to be inconstant in your trust in God. If we do not choose to give ourselves
fully to God then we are in darkness. When we make any reserve we are leaving
open a door through which Satan can enter to lead us astray by his temptations.
He knows that if he can obscure our vision, so that the eye of faith cannot
see God, there will be no barrier against sin. The prevalence of a sinful desire
shows the delusion of the soul. Every indulgence of that desire strengthens
the soul’s aversion to God. In following the path of Satan’s choosing,
we are encompassed by the shadows of evil, and every step leads into deeper
darkness and increases the blindness of the heart. The same law obtains in
the spiritual as in the natural world. He who abides in darkness will at last
lose the power of vision. He is shut in by a deeper than midnight blackness;
and to him the brightest noontide can bring no light. He “walketh in
darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded
his eyes.” 1 John 2:11. Through persistently cherishing evil, wilfully
disregarding the pleadings of divine love, the sinner loses the love for good,
the desire for God, the very capacity to receive the light of heaven. The invitation
of mercy is still full of love, the light is shining as brightly as when it
first dawned upon his soul; but the voice falls on deaf ears, the light on
blinded eyes.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 92. ‘No man can serve two masters’
What did Christ say is impossible for man to do? Matthew 6:24.
NOTE: ‘Half-hearted Christians obscure the glory of God, misinterpret
piety, and cause men to receive false ideas as to what constitutes vital godliness.
Others think that they, also, can be Christians and yet consult their own tastes
and make provision for the flesh, if these false-hearted professors can do
so. On many a professed Christian’s banner the motto is written, “You
can serve God and please self, you can serve God and mammon.” They profess
to be wise virgins, but not having the oil of grace in their vessels with their
lamps, they shed forth no light to the glory of God and for the salvation of
men. They seek to do what the world’s Redeemer said was impossible to
do; He has declared, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Those who
profess to be Christians, but do not follow in the footsteps of Christ, make
of none effect His words, and obscure the plan of salvation. By their spirit
and deportment they virtually say, “Jesus, in Your day You did not understand
as well as we do in our day, that man can serve God and mammon.” These
professors of religion claim to keep the law of God, but they do not keep it.
Oh, what would the standard of true manhood have become had it been left in
the hands of man! God has lifted His own standard, the commandments of God
and the faith of Jesus; and the experience that follows complete surrender
to God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.’ Review and
Herald, Aug. 19, 1890.
How did Jesus reply to those who mocked this teaching? Luke 16:13-15.
NOTE: ‘Christ would teach His disciples not to judge or value men by
their wealth, or by the honours which they received of others. Such was the
course pursued by the Pharisees, who, while possessing both riches and worldly
honour, were valueless in the sight of God; and more than this, were despised
and rejected of Him, cast out from His sight as disgusting to Him because there
was no moral worth or soundness in them. They were corrupt, sinful, and abominable
in His sight.’ Signs of the Times, March 22, 1883. ‘God and mammon’
What did Paul describe as the root of all evil? 1 Timothy 6:10.
NOTE: ‘The Scriptures teach that wealth is a dangerous possession only
when placed in competition with the immortal treasure. It is when the earthly
and temporal absorbs the thoughts, the affections, the devotion which God claims,
that it becomes a snare. Those who are bartering the eternal weight of glory
for a little of the glitter and tinsel of earth, the everlasting habitations
for a home which can be theirs but a few years at best, are making an unwise
choice. Such was the exchange made by Esau, when he sold his birthright for
a mess of pottage; by Balaam, when he forfeited the favour of God for the rewards
of the king of Midian; by Judas, when for thirty pieces of silver he betrayed
the Lord of glory. It is the love of money that the word of God denounces as
the root of all evil. Money itself is the gift of God to men, to be used with
fidelity in His service. God blessed Abraham, and made him rich in cattle,
in silver, and in gold. And the Bible states, as an evidence of divine favour,
that God gave David, Solomon, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, very much riches and honour.
Like other gifts of God, the possession of wealth brings its increase of responsibility,
and its peculiar temptations. How many who have in adversity remained true
to God, have fallen under the glittering allurements of prosperity. With the
possession of wealth, the ruling passion of a selfish nature is revealed. The
world is cursed today by the miserly greed and the self-indulgent vices of
the worshipers of mammon.’ Review & Herald, May 16, 1882.
What counsel and warning did John give? 1 John 2:15-16.
NOTE: ‘If your thoughts, your plans, your purposes are all directed toward
the accumulation of the things of earth, your anxiety, your study, your interests
will all be centred upon the world. The heavenly attractions will lose their
beauty. Your heart will be with your treasure. You will have no time to devote
to the study of the Scriptures and to earnest prayer that you may escape the
snares of Satan. O that the great interests of the world to come were appreciated!
Why is it that men are so unconcerned about the salvation of the soul when
it was purchased at such cost by the Son of God? In the providence of God,
by physical skill or ingenious inventions, some may gather more wealth than
others. The Lord blesses them with health, with tact, and skill, that they
may receive of His goods to bestow upon others who may not have received these
blessings. The possession of means constitutes a test of character.’ Our
High Calling, page 200.
Lesson 8: May 14-20
‘ Take no thought’
MEMORY VERSE: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness;
and all these things shall be added unto you.’ Matthew 6:33.
STUDY HELP: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, pages 95-101.
LESSON AIM: To show that worry in not compatible with trust in God.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:25-34. Introduction ‘Do not spoil your religious experience by worry, but trust the Lord
to work for you and to do for you what you cannot do for yourself. The life
is more than meat. There is much needless worrying, much trouble of mind, over
things that cannot be helped. The Lord would have His children put their trust
fully in Him. Our Lord is a just and righteous God; His children should acknowledge
His goodness and His justice in the large and small things of life. Those who
cherish the spirit of worry and complaint are refusing to recognise His guiding
hand.’ In Heavenly Places, page 113. ‘Take
no thought for your
life’
What counsel did Jesus give regarding questions of food, drink and clothing?
Matthew 6:25, first part.
NOTE: The words translated ‘take no thought’ mean: do not be
anxious, do not be troubled with cares.
‘Needless anxiety is a foolish thing, and it hinders us from standing in
a true position before God. When the Holy Spirit comes into the soul, there will
be no desire to complain and murmur because we do not have everything we want.
Rather, we will thank God from a full heart for the blessings that we have.’ In
Heavenly Places, page 113.
How did Jesus explain the greater priorities of life? Matthew 6:25, last part.
NOTE: ‘As He thus presents eternal life to His followers, is it not of
more consequence to them than the life of this world? Your attention should
not be turned in the direction of anxiety, fear, and solicitude, in regard
to your meat and drink, and the clothing you are to put upon these bodies.
Is not the better life to be sought after with far greater carefulness, and
we engage in the work with greater earnestness than we should in making unnecessary
preparations for this life? While we are engaged almost wholly in the preparation
for this life, we are losing the opportunity of gaining eternal life. But can
we not invest more in this enterprise of everlasting life than in the things
of this short life?’ Review & Herald, April 12, 1870.
‘
I wanted to talk this morning, and I want you to see and understand that
our Lord is a just and righteous God. We do not want the constant worry and
fretting and complaining, we do not want to encourage it at all. We want to
just stand in a position that we can see the goodness of God. Then we will
have a pleasant disposition, and your company will be that which is pleasant,
and the angels of God will see that you are copying the example that they have
presented before you. We want, every one of us, to have an amiable disposition,
and unless you have a sanctified, amiable disposition, you will lose heaven
entirely. So that the care, anxiety, instead of worrying all the time for fear
you shall not have something good and nice to eat or some dresses to put on,
- now it is the most foolish thing, because you want to stand in a correct
position before God.’ Paulson Collection, page 179. ‘Behold the fowls of the air’
To
what example of God’s provision
did Christ point His followers? Matthew 6:26.
NOTE: ‘The Great Teacher is here leading out minds to understand the
parental care and love which God has for His children. He directs them to observe
the birds flitting from tree to tree, or skimming upon the bosom of the lake,
without a flutter of distrust or fear. God’s eye is upon these little
creatures; He provides them food; He answers all their simple wants. Jesus
inquires, “Are ye not much better than they?” If God cares for
and preserves the little birds, will He not have far greater love and care
for the creatures formed in His image?’ In Heavenly Places, page 114.
What
supreme example of God’s
care did Jesus explain? Matthew 10:29-31.
NOTE: ‘Our God has heaven and earth at His command, and He knows just
what we need. We can see only a little way before us; “but all things
are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews
4:13. Above the distractions of the earth He sits enthroned; all things are
open to His divine survey; and from His great and calm eternity He orders that
which His providence sees best. Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without
the Father’s notice. Satan’s hatred against God leads him to delight
in destroying even the dumb creatures. It is only through God’s protecting
care that the birds are preserved to gladden us with their songs of joy. But
He does not forget even the sparrows. “Fear ye not therefore, ye are
of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.’ Testimonies,
volume 8, pages 272-273. ‘Add one cubit unto his stature’
How did Jesus explain the futility of worry? Matthew 6:27.
NOTE: ‘If men love and obey God, and do their part, God will provide
for all their wants. No man can add one cubit to his stature, no matter how
solicitous he may be to do so. It is no less unreasonable to be troubled about
the morrow and its needs. Do your duty, and trust in God; for He knows of what
things you have need. He watches over us with more tenderness than does a mother
over an afflicted child. God is a friend in perplexity and affliction, a protector
in distress, a preserver in the thousand dangers that are unseen to us.’ Sons & Daughters
of God, page 16.
What
further example of the Father’s
care did Jesus reveal? Matthew 6:28-30.
NOTE: ‘It is He who made the flowers and who gave to the sparrow its
song who says, “Consider the lilies,” “Behold the birds.” R.V.
In the loveliness of the things of nature you may learn more of the wisdom
of God than the schoolmen know. On the lily’s petals, God has written
a message for you, written in language that your heart can read only as it
unlearns the lessons of distrust and selfishness and corroding care. Why has
He given you the singing birds and the gentle blossoms, but from the overflowing
love of a Father’s heart, that would brighten and gladden your path of
life? All that was needed for existence would have been yours without the flowers
and birds, but God was not content to provide what would suffice for mere existence.
He has filled earth and air and sky with glimpses of beauty to tell you of
His loving thought for you. The beauty of all created things is but a gleam
from the shining of His glory. If He has lavished such infinite skill upon
the things of nature, for your happiness and joy, can you doubt that He will
give you every needed blessing?’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,
page 96. ‘Your heavenly Father knoweth’
What counsel did Jesus give with regards to worries concerning our daily food
and clothing? Matthew 6:31. Compare Philippians 4:19, Psalm 23:1.
NOTE: ‘While God in His providence has laden the earth with His bounties
and filled its storehouses with the luxuries of life, there is no excuse whatever
for allowing the treasury of God to remain empty. Christians are not excusable
for permitting the widow’s cries and the orphan’s prayers to ascend
to Heaven because of their suffering want, while a liberal Providence has placed
in the hands of these Christians abundance to supply their need. Let not the
cries of the widow and fatherless call down the vengeance of Heaven upon us
as a people. In the professed Christian world, there is enough expended in
extravagant display, for jewels and ornaments, to supply the wants of all the
hungry and clothe the naked in our towns and cities; and yet these professed
followers of the meek and lowly Jesus need not deprive themselves of suitable
food or comfortable clothing. What will these church members say when confronted
in the day of God by the worthy poor, the afflicted, the widows and fatherless,
who have known pinching want for the meagre necessities of life, while there
was expended by these professed followers of Christ, for superfluous clothing,
and needless ornaments expressly forbidden in the word of God, enough to supply
all their wants?’ Review & Herald, November 21, 1878.
What
assurance of our heavenly Father’s
providence did Jesu