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GENERAL CONFERENCE

Sabbath School Lesson

QUARTERLY
Senior Division, First Quarter, 1962

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"And I will 1Jut enmity between thee and the woman, and
between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and
thou shalt bruise his heel." -Genesis 3:15.
•

The hour of crisis which awaits the world is fast approaching. Rumors
of war and peace talks; the brazen quality that crime and immorality has
adopted; the inability of society to curb its rapid speed; the increased
accidents by air, land and stJa, despite modern inventions and precautions;
the scientific discoveries, primarily planned to aid man's comforts and
better his working conditions, btJgin now to hang over the nations like'
death clouds; the wild indulgence of fashion, worldliness, passion and
pleasure; the so-called higher education which teaches youth to deny
the existence of God, particularly in countries where God was the reason
for the nation's birth; yet Christian churches are devoid of the power to
stay this fast-flowing tide of confusion to delusion, desperation and ulti-
mate destruction. These, and other conditions, fulfill literally the sure
word of prophecy as signs that the close of human history is about to
be ushered inl

The originator of all this chaos knows that he has tried God too far.
He knows that he cannot hope for a better world. He also knows that
time is so very short, and so, ". . . as a roaring- lion, walketh about,
seeking whom he may devour." He is making his last gigantic effort in
canvassing for candidates for destruction.

To the children of light the condition of the world described herein

serves as a beacon light, shining clearly and unmistakably, indicating
that the "great day" is nearly upon us. It is only by a diligent and pray-
erful study of the sacred Word that we will be prepared to meet our
Lord when He shall come in His. glory and to live with Him in joyful
communion throughout the ages.
THE GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterl)', "The Origin and Progress of the Great Controversy,"
for January to March 1962. is published by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement
General Conference and printed by the Refonnation Herald Publishing Association
(a corporation of the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement} at Sacramento. California.
U.S.A. Mailing Address: P. O. Box 5234 Oak Park, Sacramento 17, California.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
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GC Archive
Lesson No. 1 - Sabbath, January 6, 1962
THE BIBI,E - DIVINE REVELATION
Key Text: "For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it
shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely
come, it will not tarry." Habakkuk 2:3.

Questions
1. "Vill our study of future developments in the world in connection
with the great controversy have any connection with what has been
written in the Scriptures? Dare we have confidence that Scriptures
can be a guide to us at-this time? Ecclesiastes 3:15; Romans 15:4.
2. From what source may we glean the authentic information in re-
gard to the past, present and future? Deuteronomy 29:29.
NOTE: "The prophecies which the great I AM has given in His word,
uniting link after link in the chain of events, from eternity in the past to
eternity in the future, tell us where we are today in the procession of
of the ages and what mar be expected in the time to come. All that
prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has
been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all
which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order. . .. The Bible, and the
Hible only, gives a correct view of these things." -Prophets and Kings,
pp. 536, 637.
3. How should the Christian relate himself to the prophecies of the
Bible? 2 Peter 1:19.
4. Have we divine assurance that the prophecies of the Bible can be
depended upon? Habakkuk 2:1-3.
5. What solemn declaration did the Lord make concerning His method
of guiding His people? Should we expect that promise to be ful-
filled irrespective of any conditions? Amos 3:7.
NOTE: "If you comply with the conditions, can you not trust the Lord to
fulfill His word? Let these blessed promises, set in the framework of
faith, be placed in memory's halls. Not one of them will fail. All that
God hath spoken He will do. 'He is faithful that promised:" -Testimonies
vol. 5, p. 630.
6. What further proof have we that the Bible is inspired? Daniel
2:19-22.
NOTE: "The Bible, and the Bible only, gives a correct view of these
things. Here are revealed the great fiinal scenes in the history of our
world, events that already are casting their shadows before, the sound of
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 their approach causing the earth to tremble and men's hearts to fail them
for fear." -Prophets and Kin&!, p. 537.
7. What accurate prediction did the Scriptures make concerning present
day events? Matthew 24:6, 7.
NOTE: "The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecy of
the eleventh chapter of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfillment.
Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will .take place." -
Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 14.
8. What is the attitude of many thinking men and women of the world
as they view present day events? .
ANSWER: "The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living.
Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority,
thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon
the events taking place about us. They are watching the relations that
exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking posses-
sion of every earthly element, and they recognize that something great
and decisive is about to take place--that the world is on the verge of
a stupendous crisis." -Pl'ophet,~ and Kings, p. 537.
9. When the gospel message has fulfilled its purpose, what will follow?
Matthew 24:14; Daniel 2:44, 45.
NOTE: "Earthly powers are shaken. We need not, and cannot, expect
.; union among the nations of the earth. Our position in the image of Ne-
buchadnezzar is represented by the toes, in a divided state, and of a
crumbling material, that will not hold together. Prophecy shows us that
the great day of God is right lIpon us. It hasteth greatly." -Testimonies,
vol. 1, p. 361.
10. What actual control does God have over nations and peoples even in
our day? Jeremiah 18:8-10.
11. What important prophecy has already realized its fulfillment? Ezekiel
38:1-4.
12. Name one of the most obvious signs unfolding before us today,
which shows we are living neal' the close of time. Ezekiel 38:15·22.
NOTE: This prophecy has had a very significant fulfillment in recent
years in the rise to a position of great prominence, the 'power which
lies to the north of Palestine. According to the prediction, this nation
would come from her place "out of the north parts," and this has cer-
tainly been evident during the last 17 years. While this great power
thinks only of glorifying herself, in reality she is being prepared for the
great day of the Lord.

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Lesson No. 2 - Sabbath, January 13, 1962
THE ORIGIN OF THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Key Text: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a
roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" 1 Peter 5:8.
Questions
1. What did John the Revelator see taking place in heaven? What
description does Inspiration give of the one time "covering cherub?"
Revelation 12:7-9.
NOTE: "Satan was once an honored angel in heaven, next to Christ.
Hi~ countenance, like those of the other angels, was mild and expressive
of happiness. His forehead was high and broad, showing great intelligence.
His form was perfect; his bearing noble and majestic. But when God said
to His Son, 'Let us make man in our image: Satan was jealous of Jesus.
He wished to be consulted concerning the formation of man, and be-
cause he was not, he wa~ filled with envy, jealousy, and hatred. He de-
sired to receive the highest honors in heaven next to God." -Early Writ-
ings, p. 145.
Lucifer, a divine being, once the covering cherub, after his fall was
given the names of Dragon, Serpent, Satan and Devil. A being which
was OIlt'e holy, fell to the depths of hate. He stripped himself of natural
feelings, became capable of the most heinious crimes. Being the origina-
tor of all deceit, he stalks his unwary victim, infiltrating his venom of all
manner of evil into it, venom which is deadiy, but for the gift of God.
He impersonates so many evil agencies, yet always on the outside, ap-
peurs innocent. He delights in tampering with the crowning work of God
in man--his mind. He can warp it, and twist it, and eventually make it
the habitation of legions of demons, who in their turn will not rest until
they tear their victim to pieces, and shame the image of God into the
dust.
2. What is Satan's primary objective in this world? Who today is
symbolized by the dragon of Revelation 12:17? 1 Peter 5:8.
NOTE: "In the scene representing the work of Christ for us, and the
determined accusation of Satan against us, Joshua stands as the high
priest, and makes request in behalf of God's commandment-keeping peo-
111e. At the same time Satan represents the people of God as great sinners,
and presents before God the list of sins he has tempted them to commit
through their lifetime, and urges that because of their transgressions,
they be given into his hands to destroy. He urges that they should not
be protected by ministering angels against the confederacy of evil." --
Testimonies to Ministers, p 39.
3. What is our only sure defense against Satan's strategic attacks, and
efforts to possess our minds? 1 Peter 5:9; 11 Corinthians 10:4-6.
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 4. Where did Satan concentrate his forces for attack, when he knew
that Israel was about to be liberated? Through whom can he work
most effectively at the present? Daniel 10:13.
NOTE: "Satan's chief work is at the headquarters of our faith. He
spares no pains to corrupt men in responsible positions and to persuade
them to be unfaithful to their several trusts. He insinuates his suspicions
and jealousies into the minds of those whose business it is to do God's
work faithfully. While God is testing and proving these helpers, and
fitting them for their posts, Satan is doing his utmost to deceive and
allure them, that they may not only be destroyed themselves, but may
influence others to do wrong and to injure the great work. He seeks by
all the means in his power to shake the confidence of God's people in the
voice of warning and reproof through which God designs to purify the
church and prosper His cause." -Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 210, 211.
5. What other aims docs the devil have in regard to man, and what
would be the result if he succeeded in his diabolic schemes?
ANSWER: "It is Satan's plan to weaken the faith of God's people in the
Testimonies. Next follows skepticism ill regard to the vital points of our
faith, the pillars of our posiUon, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures,
and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which
were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the de-
ceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts, till he
launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends
hi destmction." -Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 211.
6. What profound tl'Uth did the wise Solomon express? What was the
cause of Lucifer's fall? Proverbs 16:18; 28:16-18.
NOTE: "Little by little Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-exalta-
tion. The Scripture says, 'Thine heart was lifted up because of thy
beauty, thou hast cormpted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness,'
Ezekiel 28:17. "Thou hast said in thine heart, ... I will exalt my throne
above the stars of God•... I will be like the Most High,' Isaiah 14: 13,
14. Though all his glory was from God, this mighty angel came to re-
gard it as pertaining to himself. Not content with his position, though
honored above the heavenly host, he ventured to covet homage due alone
to the Creator. Instead of seeking to make God supreme in the affections
and allegiance of all created beings, it was his endeavor to secure their
service and loyalty to himself. And coveting the glory with which the
infinite Father had invested His Son, this prince of angels aspired to
power that Wl'.5 the prerogative of Christ alone," -Patriarchs and Proph-
ets, p. 35.
7. What witness has been given regarding the eternal government of
God? How was it described? Psalms 119:142.
NOTE: "The law of love being the foundation of the government of
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God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect
accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all
His creatures the service of love-service that springs from an apprecia-
tion of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and
to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary
service." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 34.
8. Should God's law be regarded as an arbitary restriction upon man·
kind? Psalms 89: 13·18.
NOTE: "'God is love.' 1 John 4:16. His nature, His law, is love. It ever
has been; it ever will be. 'The high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity,'
whose 'ways are everlasting,' changeth not. With Him 'is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning.' Isaiah 57:15; Habakkuk 3:6; James 1:17.
"Every manifestation of creative power is an expression of infinite
love. The sovereignty of God involves fullness of blessing to all created
beings." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 33.
"So long as all created beings acknowledged the allegiance of love,
there was perfect harmony throughout the universe of God. It was the
joy of the heavenly host to fulfill the purpose of their Creator. They
delighted in reflecting His glory and shOWing- forth His praise. And while
love to God was supreme, love for one another was confiding and un-
selfish. There was' not note of discord to mar the celestial harmonies."
Ibid., p. 35.
9. Due to his envy of Chl'ist what course did Lucifer pursue?
ANSWER: "Leaving his place in the immediate presence of the Father,
Lucifer went forth to difluse the spirit of discontent among the angels.
lie worked with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealed his real
purpose under an appearance of reverence for Gqd. He began to insinu-
ate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings, intimating
that though laws might be necessary for the inhabitants of the worlds,
angels, being more exalted, needed no such restraint, for their own wis-
dom was a sufficient guide." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 37.
10. While God bore patiently with him for a time, what thoughts came
into the mind of Lucifer? What could have been avoided, had Luci·
fer taken notice of his inner convictions?
ANSWER: "His disaffection was proved to be without cause, and he
was made to see what would be the result of persisting in revolt: Lucifer
was convinced that he was in the wrong. He saw that 'the Lord is
righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works' (Psalms 145: 17);
that the divine statutes are just, and that he ought to acknowledge them
as much before all heaven. Had he done this, he might have saved him-
self and many angels. He had not at that time fully cast off his allegiance
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to God. Though he had left his position as covering cherub, yet if he
had been willing to return to God, acknowledging the Creator's wisdom,
and satisfied to fill the place appointed him in God's great plan, he would
have been reinstated in his office." -Ibid., p. 39.

11. What was Lucifer not prepared to do in order to be forgiven and

restored to his first estate?

ANSWER: "He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride for-
bade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly
honored to confess that he had been in error, that his imaginings were
false, and to yield to the authority which he had been working to
prove unjust." -Ibid.

12. Why has the Lord preserved these records for so long a time, with·
..out allowing them to be destroyed?

ANSWER: "So far as Satan himself was concerned, it was true that
he had now gone too far to return. But not so with those who had been
blinded by his deceptions. To them the counsel and entreaties of the
loyal angels opened a door of hope; and had they heeded the warning, .
they might have broken away from the snare of Satan. But pride, love
for their leader, and the desire for unrestricted freedom were permitted
to bear sway, and the pleadings of divine love and mercy were finally
rejected."

"Satan's rebellion was to be a lesson to the universe through all com-

ing ages-a perpetual testimony to the nature of sin and its terrible
results. The working out of Satan's rule, its effects upon both men and
angels, would show what must be the fruit of setting aside the divine
authority. It would testify that with the existence of God's government
is bound up the well-being of all the creatures He has made. Thus the
history of this terrible experiment of rebellion was to be a perpetual
'safeguard to all holy beings, to prevent them from being deceived as to
the nature of transgression, to save them from committing sin, and suf-
fering its penalty." -Ibid., p. 42.

"God permitted Satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of
disaffection ripen into active revolt. It was necesary for his plans to be
fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen
by alL" -Ibid., p. 41.

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Lesson No. 3 - Sabbath, January 20, 1962
OUR PLANET THE BATTLE GROUND
Key Text: "And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to
make war with the remnant of her seed, which kept the commandments
of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Revelation 12:17.
Questions
1. What account does John give of the activities of Satan and His angels
since they have been out of heaven? At what stage of the great
controversy do we find ourselves today? Revelation 12: 10·12.
NOTE: "The antitypical land of promise is just before us, and Satan
is determined to destroy the people of God and cut them off from their
inheritance. The admonition, 'Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into
temptation' . . . was never more needed than now." -Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 689.
2. What happened to our first parents when they chose to distrust
God and thus disregard His will?
ANSWER: "Before the entrance of sin, Adam enjoyed open communion
with his Maker; but since man separated himself from God by trans-
gression, the human race has been cut off from this high privilege." -
Great Controversy, p. 7.
"God has made them the recipients of rich blessings; but should. they
disregard His will, He who spared not the angels that sinned, could not
spare them; transgression would forfeit His gifts and bring upon them
misery and ruin." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 53.
3. What restriction did God put upon the rebel angels and their prince
Lucifer? What is their present occupation? 2 Peter 2:4; Psalm 34:7,
18.
NOTE: If Satan had not been restricted somewhat, he would have de-
stroyed the world by now (long ago). Hoyvever, the guardian angels of
God watch vigilantly over all who show by their lives, that they are
striving candidates for the kingdom of Heaven.
4. What has ever been the underlyng purpose in the establishing of
the moral law? Romans 7: 12.
NOTE: "But while everything in nature is governed by natural laws,
man alone, cf all that inhabits the earth, is amenable to moral law. To
man, the crowning work of creation, God has given power to under-
stand His requirements, to comprehend the justice and beneficience of
His law, and its sacred claims upon him; and of man unswerving obedi-
ence is required." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 52.
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 5. How 10J!.g after this world came into being were written records
first kept?

ANSWER: "During the first twenty-five hundred years of human his-

tory, there was no written revelation. Those who had been taught of
God, communicated their knowledge to others, and it was handed down
from father to son, through successive generations. The preparation of
the written word began in the time of Moses. Inspired revelations were
then embodied in an inspired book. This work continued during the
long period of sixteen hundred years-from Moses, the historian of crea-
tion and the law, to John the recorder of the most sublime truths of
the gospeL" -Great COlltrol;ersy, p. 7.

6. What unique document did God give Moses for the human race?
Exodus 31:]9; 32:16.

NOTE: "The Ten Commandments were spoken by God Himself, and

were writl)'ln by His own hand. They are of divine, and not of human
composition. But the Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the
language of men, presents a union of the divine with the human. Such
a union existed in the nature of Christ, who was the Son of God and
the Son of man. Thus it is true of the Bible, as it was of Christ, that
'the_ Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.' John 1:14." -Great
Controversy, p. 7.
7. Through whose descendants was the wiII and knowledge of God
preserved and carried on? Hebrews 11:12; Genesis 26:4, 5.

8. Was God aware that His children would be led into captivity? Did
He plan to leave them without hope in the plight? Genesis 15:13, 14.

9. What extraordinary experience did Abraham have with God in the

latter part of His life particularly? Genesis 17: 1·6.

10. What decision did Jacob make when he heard his son Joseph was
still alive and holding a high position in the courts of Egypt? Genesis
45:27, 28.

n. At whose direction did Jacob prepare to go to Egypt? How did his

large family cooperate in this new venture? Genesis 46: 1·7.

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Lesson No. 4 - Sabbath, January 27, 1962
DIVINE INTERVENTION IN THE DELIVERANCE
OF ISRAEL FROM EGYPT
Key Text: "And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and
thirty years, even the selfsame day it came to pass, that all the h.osts
of the Lord went out from the land of Egypt." Exodus 12:41.
Questions
1. What circumstances did God permit to come upon the children
of Israel after the death of Jacob and Joseph? In what country were
they living at that time? Exodus 1:8·11.
2. What revelation did God give Abraham of the experiences through
which his posterity would pass? Genesis 15: 13·16; Exodus 12:41.
3. In the time of their distress whose help did Israel solicit? Exodus
3:7·9.
4. What responsibility was entrusted to Moses and Aaron and what
was to be the essence of their message? Exodus 3:16·18.
5. How did Moses react to the charge given him and why was Aaron
called to help him? Is there a lesson worthy of learning in this
experience?
ANSWER: (Moses) ". . . He had been so long away from the Egyptians
that he had not so clear knowledge and ready use of their language
as when he was among them.
"The Lord said unto him, 'Who hath made man's mouth, or who
maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the
Lord? To this was added another assurance of divine aid: . . . But
Moses still entreated that a more competent person bl;! selected.
"Moses was now directed to Aaron, his elder brother, who having
been in daily use of the language of the Egyptians, was able to speak
it perfectly.
"A man will gain power and efficiency as he accepts the responsibili-
ties that God places upon him, and with his whole soul seeks to qualify
himself to bear them aright. However humble his position 01' limited
his ability, that man will attain true greatness who, trusting to divine
strength, seeks to perform his work with fidelity." -Patriarchs and Phoph-
ets, pp. 254, 255.
6. What special instruction did the Israelite women follow, before
leaving Egypt? Exodus 12:35, 36.
7. Through what fearful experience did both Israelites and Egyptians
pass shortly after the ending of the last plague? What caused the
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 difference in their fates? Exodus 12:21-23, 29-33.
ANSWER: "Swiftly and secretly they made their preparations for de-
parture . . . But no dwelling of Israel was visited by the death-dealing
angel. The sign of blood-the sign of a Saviour's protection-was on their
doors, and the destroyer enten:d not.
". . . Pharaoh remembered how he had once exclaimed, 'Who is
Jehovah . . ." Now, his heaven-daring pride humbled in the dust, he
'called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get yOll
forth from among my pepole, both ye and the children of Israel; and go,
serve the Lord, as yc have said. Also take your flocks and your herds
as ye have said ... And be gone; and bless me also." -Ibid., p. 279.
8. What further trial awaited Israel before they crossed to safety?
What two reasons aroused the hate of Pharaoh once more against
God's people? Exodus 14:8-10, 11-14.
NOTE: "The people deplored their folly in attributing the death of
the first-born to the power of God . • . The Egyptians feared lest their
forced submission to the God of Israel should subject them to the deri-
sion of other nations; but if they should now go forth with a great show
of power and bring back the fugitives, they would redeem their glory,
as well as recover the services of their bondmen." -Ibid., p. 283.
9. What terrified the Israelites when camped by the Red Sea? How
did God protect them that night? Exodus 14: 10, 11, 19, 20.
10. How did Moses know before hand that Israel would be pursued by
Pharaoh? What was God's purpose in bringing Pharaoh and his
army to the Red Sea? Exodus 14:1, 4, 17, 18.
11. How did the children of Israel reach safety and what became of
the Egyptians and their chariots? Exodus 14:21·29.
NOTE: "The great lesson here taught is for all time. Often the Christian
life is beset by dangers, and duty seems hard to perform. The imagina-
tion pictures impending ruin before and bondage or death behind. Yet
the voice of God speaks clearly, 'Go forward.' We should obey this
command, even though our eyes cannot penetrate the darkness, and we
feel the cold waves about our feet. The obstacles that hinder our progress
will never disappear before a halting, doubting spirit. Those who defer
obedience till every shadow of uncertainty disappears and there remains
no risk of failure or defeat, will never obey at all. . . ." -Ibid., p. 290.
12. Why have we been instructed to study the past experiences of
sacred history? 1 Corinthians 10: 11.
NOTE: "The dealings of Providence bring to the unbelieving, dark-
ness and despair, while to the trusting soul they are full of light and
peace. The path where God leads the way may lie through the dCsert
or the sea, but it is a safe path." --Ibid., p. 290.
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a. God had called the sons of Jacob to become patriarchs, but they still
had to complete a work of confession and reunification. Their sojourn
in Egypt did that.
b. In prophecy, Egypt has been used as a symbol for France. The world
with her countless temptations and evils is likened to Egypt of old, and
the church today is called to retrace her steps from that direction. Read
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 217.
c. The people of Israel awakened the spirit of persecution in the enemy
of souls when they left Egypt, forsook her customs, and turned to God
and the obedience of His commandments. Likewise today, as the sincere
children of God respond to the call to come out of the world (spirit of
Babylon and Egypt) and the entanglements condemned by the Word
of God, they will meet with opposition and persecution.
d. Just as He sent judgments upon Egypt, God will for a time send
judgments tempered with mercy upon the present world, perchance
they may turn to Him. As we obey to separate from the cormptions of
the world, and remain a distinct people from those who have betrayed
the sacred tmst; the spirit and power of the Latter Rain will be visited
upon us, for it will come in conjunction with these judgments upon
the world.
e. There are many earnest truth seeking people in symbolic Egypt and
Babylon, and God will deliver them, but it is up to us to plead and work
for their deliverance.
f. The fantastic trying of their faith at the Red Sea and the furious
chase of the Egyptians, give us a parallel to the time of trouble such
as never was since there was a nation, when the people of God will be
sentenced to death by the enemies of God's holy law. However, as at
midnight the angel passed every Israelite door in Egypt, so again at mid-
night God will choose to deliver His people from that awful edict. Just
as Pharaoh was destroyed along with his army so God will unmask
Babylon and her works of iniquity.
g. The rehun of Jesus in glory will put an end to the great controversy,
but the battle between the forces of good and evil will surely increase
as the climax of events draws near.

Lesson No. 5 - Sabbath, February 3, 1962

GOD CALLS ISRAEL TO BE HIS PECULIAR PEOPLE
Key Text: "And he said, It is not the voice of them that shout for mas-
tery, neither is it the voice of them that cry for- being overcome: but
the noise of them that sing do I hear." Exodus 32: 18.
Questions
1. What purpose did God have from the beginning, in choosing Israel?
Exodus 19:3·6.
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 2. What work of sanctification was necessary before Israel was ready
to come into the presence of God? Exodus 19:9·11.
3. What effect did the proclamation of the covenant and the- ten com·
mandments have upon the children of Israel? Exodus 20:18·21.
4. What did Israel declare when the ten precepts were given them?
What was their response when Moses after forty days in the moun·
tains with God read the full text of the law and the covenant to thc
congregation? Exodus 24:3, 7, 8.
5. What very tragic expel'ience did Israel pass through shortly after
the law had been delivered to them on Mt. Sinai? Exodus 32: 1·10,
15·20.
NOTE: "They had witnessed the proclamation of the law in awful
majesty, and had trembled with terror before the mount; and yet only
a few weeks passed before they broke their covenant with God and
bowed down to worship a graven image."
"If Aaron had had courage to stand for the right, irrespective of con-
sequences, he could have prevented that apostasy." -Patriarchs and
Prophets, pp. 372, 323.
6. What significance is to be found in the breaking of the tables of
stone? What sign of encouragement did God give to those who
had remained faithful through the great apostasy? Exodus 34:1, 2.
NOTE: "The breaking of the tables of stone was but a representation
of the fact that Israel had broke nthe covenant which they had so re-
cently made with God. It is a righteous indignation against sin, which
springs from zeal for the glory of God, not that anger prompted by
self-love or wounded ambition, which is refered to in the Scripture,
'Be ye angry, and sin not.' Such was the anger of Moses." -Testimonies
to Ministers, p. 101.
7. From which tribe did God select the priests, who were to officiate
in the tabernacle? Whom did God choose to be the first high priest
of Israel,? Numbers 18:1, 2,
8. What position did Moses take at this time of crisis? What appeal
did he make on behalf of those who had repented. and those who
had not compromised with sin? Exodus 32:26·32.
NOTE: "Moses now commanded those upon his right hand, who had
kept themselves clear of idolatry to gird on their swords and slay all
who persisted in rebellion. . . . Without regard to position, kind-red, or
friendship, the ringleaders in wickedness were cut off; but all who re-
pented and humbled themselves were spared." -Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 324.

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 9. What is the only stand the faithful can take when the majority are
on the side of transgression? Of what were the supernatural events
at Mt. Sinai a symbol? Exodus 23:1-3.
NOTE: "Never since man was created had there been witnessed such
a manifestation of divine power as when the law was proclaimed from
Sinai. . . . Amid the most terrific convulsions of nature the voice of
God, like a trumpet, was heard from the cloud. . . . The mountain was
shaken from base to summit, and the host of Israel, pale and trembling
with terror, lay upon their faces upon the earth.
"If such manifestation~ of His power marked the place chosen for
the proclamation of God's law, how terrible must be His tribunal when
when He comes for the execution of these sacred statutes. How will
those who have trampled upon His authority endure His ~lory in the
great day of final retribution? The terrors of Sinai were to represent to
the people the scenes of the judgment." -Patriarchs and Prophets, pp.
340, 339.
10. What important responsibility is intrusted to those in leadership in
the church? 1 Thessalonians 3:6, 7, 14.
NOTE: "God has Eli, as a priest and judge of Israel, accountable for
the moral and religious standing of his people, and in a special sense
for the character of his sons. He should first have attempted to restrain
evil by mild measures; but if these did not avail, he should have sub-
dued the wrong by the severest means. He incurred the Lord's dis-
pleasure by not reproving sin and executing justice upon the sinner. He
could not be depended upon to keep Israel pure. Those who have too
l~ttle courage to reprove wrong, or who through indolence or lack of
interest make no earnest effort to purify the family or the church of
God, are held accountable for the evil that.. may result from their neglect
of duty. We are just as responsible for evils that we might have checked
in others by exercise of parental or pastoral authority as if the acts had
been our own." -Ibid., p. 578.
11. Through what means did Satan bring disunity among the leader-
ship in Israel? How did God manifest his displeasure over this?
Numbers 12:1·10, 11.
12. What important lesson may be learned from Israel's backsliding
and apostasies? Against whom was Satan really concentrating his
attacks?
ANSWER: "The very first effort of Satan to overthrow God's law-under-
taken among the sinless inhabitants of heaven-seemed for a time to be
crowned wi'th success. A vast number of the angels were seduced; but
Satan's apparent triumph resulted in defeat and loss, separation from
God, and banishment from heaven.
"\Vhen the conflict was renewed upon the earth, Satan again won a
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seeming advantage. By transgression, man became his captive, and
man's kingdom also was betrayed into the hands of the archrebeI. Now
the way seemed open for Satan to establish an independent kingdom,
and to defy the authority of God and His Son. Bilt the plan of salvation
made it possible for man again to be brought into harmony with God,
and to render obedience to His law and for both man and the earth to
be finally redeemed from the power of the wicked one." -Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 331.

Lesson No. 6 - Sabbath, Fehl'Uary 10, 1962

THE REBELLION OF KORAH
Key Text: "And Moses said, Hereby ye shall know that the Lord hath
sent me to do all these works; for I have not done them of mine own
mind." Numbers 16:26.
Questions
1. What was specially significant about the rebellion of Korah? Who
did he gain as his closest sympathizers? Numbers 16:1-3.
NOTE: "They were successful in alienating two hundred and fifty
princes, men of renown in the congregatlion. With these strong and in-
fluential supporters they felt confident of making a radical change in
the government and greatly improving upon the administration of
Moses and Aaron." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 397.
2. What were some of the reasons which led many in Israel to sup-
port this rising?
ANSWER: "They were unwilling to submit to the terrible sentence that
they must all die in the wilderness, and hence they were ready to seize
upon every pretext for believing that it was not God but Moses who
was leading them and who had pronounced their doom. . . . Again they
were overcome by temptation." -Ibid., p. 396.
3. What privileges did Korah and his fellow conspirators claim had
been denied them? What point did they stress, however, when they
presented their complaints to Moses? Numbers 16:3.
NOTE: "Jealousy had given rise to envy and envy to rebellion. They had
discussed the question of the right of Moses to so great authority and
honor, until they had come to regard him as occupying a very enviable
position, which any of them could fill as well as he. And they deceived
themselves and one another into thinking that Moses and Aaron had
themselves assumed the positions they held."
"Korah and his fellow conspirators were men who had been favored
with special manifestations of God's power and greatness. They were
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of the number who went up with Moses into the mount and beheld the
divine glory. But since that time a change had come. A temptation slight
at first, had been harbored, and had strengthened as it was encouraged,
until their minds were controlled by Satan, and they ventured upon their
work of disaffection. Professing great interest in the prosperity of the
people, they first whispered their discontent to one another and then
to leading men of Israel. Their insinuations were so readily received that
they ventured still further, and at last they really believed themselves
to be actuated by zeal for God."
"The next work of the conspirators was with the people. To those
who are in the wrong, and deserving of reproof, there is nothing more
pleasing than to receive sympathy and praise. And thus Korah and his
associates gained the attention and enlisted the support of the con-
gregation. The charge that the murmurings of the people had brought
upon them the wrath of God was declared to be a mistake. They said
that the congregation were not at fault, since they desired nothing more
than their rights; but that Moses was an overbearing ruler; that he had
reproved the people as sinners, when they were a holy people, and the
Lord was among them." -Ibid., pp. 397, 396, 397.
4. What was Moses' reaction when confronted with this issue? Num-
bers 16:5.
NOTE: "Moses had not suspected this deep-laid plot, and when its
terrible significance burst upon him, he fell upon his face in silent
appeal to God. He arose sorrowful indeed, but calm and strong." -Ibid.,
p. 398.
5. How confident was Moses of God's leading hand in the existing
government of Israel? Numbers 16:4, 5, 6·11, 28-30.
6. Why did Moses make an individual appeal to Dathan and Abiram?
How did their response affect Moses? Numbers 16:12-15.
NOTE: "Dathan and Abiram had not taken so bold a stand as had
Korah; and Moses, hoping that they might have been drawn into the
conspiracy without having become wholly corrupted, summoned them
to appear before him, that he might hear their charges against him. But
they would not come, and they insolently refused to acknowledge his
authority." -Ibid., p. 399.
7. At what late stage did Moses intervene again? Numbers 16:23-27.
NOTE: ". . . Moses, accompanied by the seventy elders, went down
with a last warning to the men who had refused to come to him. . . .
The warning was obeyed, for an apprehension of impending judgment
rested upon all. The cluef rebels saw themselves abanduned by those
whom they had deceived, but their hardihood was unshaken. They
stood with their families in the door of their tents, as if in defiance
of the divine warning." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 400.
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 8. How did God unquestionably vindicate His servants and His cause?
Numbers 16:31-35.
NOTE: "As he ceased speaking, the solid earth parted, and the rebels
went down alive into the pit, with all that pertained to them, and 'they
as partakers in the sin.
"But the judgments were not ended. Fire flashing from the cloud
consumed the two hundred and fifty princes who had offered incense.
These men not being the first in rebellion, were to see their end, and
to have an opportunity for repentance; but their sympathies were with
the rebels, and they shared their fate." -Ibid." pp 400, 401.
9. How long did Israel remain convicted of the evil of their course?
ANSWER: "God had given overwhelming evidence that He was lead-
ing Israel. But Korah and his companions rejected light until they be-
came so blinded that the most striking manifestations of His power were
not sufficient to convince them; they attributed them all to human or
satanic agency. The same thing was done by the people, who the day
after the destruction of Korah and his company came to Moses and
Aaron, saying, 'Ye have killed the people of the Lord: Notwithstand-
ing they had had the most convinci.ng evidence of God's displeasure
at their course, in the destruction of the man who had deceived them,
they dared to attribute His judgments to Satan, declaring that through
the power of the evil one, Moses and Aaron had caused the death of
good and holy men. It was this act that sealed their doom. They had
committed the sin against the Holy Spirit, a sin by which man's heart
is effectually hardened against the influence of divine grace . . . and
those who deliberately reject this agency as satanic, have cut off the
channel of communication between the soul and Heaven:' -Ibid., p. 40.'5.
10. What does God require of His peop'le today? Micah 6:8; 1 Samuel
15:22, 23.
NOTE: "Do not the same evils still exist that lay at the foundation of
Korah's ruin? Pride and ambition are widespread; and when these are
cherished, they open the door to envy, and a striving for supremacy; the
soul is alienated from God, and unconsciously drawn into the ranks of
Satan. Like Korah and his companions, many even of the professed fol-
lowers of Christ, are thinking, planning, and working so eagerly for self-
exaltation that in order to gain the sympathy and support of the people,
they are ready to pervert the truth, falsifying and misrepresenting ~he
Lord's servants, and even charging them with the base and selfish mo-
tives that inspire their own hearts. By persistently reiterating falsehood,
and that against all evidence, they at last come to believe it to be
truth. While endeavouring to destroy the confidence of the people in the
men of God's appointment, they really believe that they are engaged in
a good work, verily doing God's service." -Ibid., p. 403.
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11. What has been foretold that we should expect in our day, and even
till the end of time? Romans 15:4.
NOTE: ''The apostle Paul plainly states that the experience of the Israel-
ites in their travels has been recorded for the benefit of those living in
this age of the world, those upon whom the ends: of the world are come.
We do not consider that our dangers are any less than those of the He-
brews, but greater. There will be temptations to jealousies and murmur-
ings, and there will be outspoken rebellion, as are recorded of ancient
Israel. There will ever be a spirit to rise up against the reproof of sins
and wrongs. But shall the voice of reproof be hushed because of this?
If so, we shall be in no better situation than are the various denomina-
tions in our land who are afraid to touch the errors and prevailing sins
of the people." -Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 358.
"We have evidence in God's word of the liability of His people to
be greatly deceived. There are many instances where what may seem to
be a sincere zeal for the honor of God has its origin in leaving the
soul unguarded for the enemy to tempt and to impress the mind with
a perverted sense of the real state of things. And we may expect just
such things in these last days, for Satan is just as busy now as he was
in the congregation of Israel. The cruelty and strength of prejudice are
not understood. . . . They saw the ground open and the leaders of re-
bellion go down into the bowels of the earth. This fearful exhibition
surely ought to have cured them and led them to the deepest repen-
tance for their abase of Moses." -Ibid., p. 353.
12. What should be our ans~er when we are confronted with those
who murmur, speak evil and disparagingly of those intrusted with
sacred office? Should we lend our sympathy to those who show signs
of rebellion? Romans 16: 17, 18.
NOTE: "There are ever to be found those who will sympathize with
those who are wrong. Satan had sympathizers in heaven, and took large
numbers of the angels with him. God and Christ and heavenly angels
were on one side, and Satan on the other. Notwithstanding the infinite
power and majesty of God and Christ, angels became disaffected. The
insinuations of Satan took effect, and they really came to believe that
the Father and the Son were their enemies and that Satan was their
benefactor. Satan has the same power and the same control over minds
now, only it has increased a hundredfold by exercise nad experience.
!\Ien and women today are deceived, blinded by his insinuations and de-
vices, and know it not. By giving place to doubts and unbelief in re-
gard to the work of God, and by cherishing feelings of distrust and creul
jealousies, they are preparing themselves for complete deception. They
rise up with bitter feelings against the ones who dare to speak of their
errors and reprove their sins" -Ibid., p. 328.
"\Vhile we are to love the souls for whom Christ died, we are to make
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no compromise with evil. We are not to unite with the rebellious and
call this charity. God requires His people in this age of the world to
stand for the right as nnflinchingly as did John in opposition to soul-
destroying errors." -Acts of Apostles, p. 555.

Lesson No. 7 - Sabbath, February 17, 1962

CAPTIVITY AND RESTORATION
Key Text: "And ye shall seek me, and find me, whe" ye shall search
for me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13.
Questions
1. What declaration does Isaiah make concerning the manner in which
God proceeded with Israel? Isaiah 63:7·10.
2. With what message was Jeremiah entrusted for the children of
Israel? Jeremiah 1:17·19.
3. What appeal did he ·make to both the leaders and the people, and
what was their reaction? Jeremiah 6:16.
4. For what reason did God forsake Israel and allow them to be
taken into captivtiy? Jeremiah 17:24·27.
5. What heathen nation was used by God to punish His people? How
long were they to be in captivity? Jeremiah 25:7-12.
6. Who was most responsible for the continued apostasy which led to
this drastic measure? 2 Chronicles 36:14-16.
7. What were the thoughts of God toward His people in spite of their
wandering away from His law? How did God urge Israel to walk,
so that their hardships would be lessened and they be eventually
restored to their homeland? Isaiah 55:9-12; Jeremiah 29:7-11.
8. When did God promise Israel that they would return? What condi-
tions were they required to fulfill so that their captivity would come
to an end? Jeremaih 29:4·7, 13-14.
9. What predictions did the false prophets make, that caused the
Chaldeans to become furious and Nebuchadnezzar to oppress Israel
more? Jeremiah 28:1·11.
10. Whcn did the dynasty of Judah over Israel cease and for what rea.
son? Ezra 21:25-27.
NOTE: "To the 'profane wicked prince' had come the day of final reckon.
ing. 'Remove the diadem,' thc Lord decreed, 'and· take off the crown.'
Not until Christ Himself should set up His kingdom was Judah again to
be permitted to have a king," -Prophets and Kings, p. 451.
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ll. Who was particularly interested in the prophecy concerning the
restoration of Israel? What duty were the people of God to ful·
fill before their prayers for freedom could be answered? Daniel
9: l·ll, 15·19.
12. When the time came for Israel's deliverance how did Satan seek to
hinder the fulfillment of prophecy? Who stirred up Cyrus to decree
liberty and restoration to Judah? Daniel 10:12·14. 2 Chronicles
36:22, 23.
13. What did the decree for restoration involve? Were the captive
Israelites given freedom to decide as to whether or not they would
return to their own land? EZ1'a 1:1·5.
NOTE: God will never accept homage or service which does not come
voluntarily from the giver. Man has been given the freedom to choose
whom' he will serve, The last message of mercy to the world is not a
message of force, but an invitation to all who will accept. The religion
which is inspired by Satan, constrains the conscience, oppresses the soul
into submission and thus may have been held captives to form and duties
which are not heaven-ordained.

Lesson No. 8 - Sabbaeth, February 24, 1962

ESTHER, MORDECAI AND HAMAN A TYPE
Key Text: "Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou has been honour-
able, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and
people for thy life." Isaiah 43:4.
Questions
1. What assurance does God give that He will lead His faithful chilo
dren under all circumstances? nomans 8:28; Isaiah 43: 1-4.
2. What are we told regarding those who accepted the call of Cyrus?
What parallel do we have of this expecf"nce in modern times?
ANSWER: "Under the favor shown them by Cyrus, nearly fifty thousand
of the children of the captivity had taken advantage of the decree per-
mitting their return, These, however, in comparison with the hundreds
of thousands scattered throughout the provinces of Medo-Persia, were
hut a mere remnant. The great majority of the Israelites had chosen to
remain in the land of their exile rather than undergo the hardships of
the return journey and the re-establishment of their desolated cities and
homes." -Prophets and Kings, p. 598.
"Those who sought to shut out the testimony of God's word they
could not regard as constitutig the church of Christ, 'the pillar and
ground of the truth', Hence they felt themselves justified in separating
from their former connection, In the summer of 1844 about flfty thou-
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sand withdrew from the churches." -Great Controversy, p. 376.
3. What further opportunity was given to those Israelites who had not
responsed to the first call to come out of Babylon? Ezra 6: 11-13.
NOTE: "A score or more of years passed by, when a second decree,
quite as favorable as the first, was issued by Darius Hystaspes, the mon-
arch then ruling. Thus did God in mercy provide another opportunity
for the Jews in the Medo-Persia realm to return to the land of their
fathers. The Lord foresaw the troublous times that were to follow during
the reign of Xerxes,-the Ahasuerus of the book of Esther,-and He not
only wrought a change of feeling in the hearts of men in authority, but
also inspired Zechariah to plead with the exile:; to return." -Prophets
and Kings, p. 598.
4. When and by whom was the third (last) decree given for the re-
obuilding and restoration of Jerusalem? Ezra 7:12-13. Zechariah
2:6-9.
NOTE: "About seventy years after the return of the first company of
exiles under Zerubbabel and Joshua, Artaxerxes Longimanus came to
the throne of Medo-Persia. The name of this king is connected with
sacred history by a series of remarkable providences. It was during his
reign that Ezra and Nehemiah lived and labored. He is the one who in
457 B.C. issued the third and final decree for the restoration of Jerusa-
lem. His reign saw the return of a company of Jews under Ezra, the
completion of the walls of Jerusalem by Nehemiah and his associates,
the reorganization of the temple services, and the great religious refor-
mations instituted by Ezra and Nehemiah. During his long rule he often
showed favor to God's people, and in his trusted and well-beloved Jew-
ish friends, Ezra and Nehemiah, he recognized men of God's appoint-
ment, raised up for a special work." -Ibid., p. 607.
5. What is the result of repeated rejection of God's call to repentance?
ANSWER: "It was those 'whose spirit God had raised' (Ezra 1:5) who
had returned under the decree of Cyrus. But God ceased not to plead
with those who voluntarily remained in the land of their exile, and through
manifold agencies He made it possbile for them also to return. The large
number, however, of those who failed to respond to the decree of Cyrus,
remained unimpressible to later influences; and even when Zechariah
warned them to flee from Babylon without further delay, they did not
heed the invitation." -Ibid., p. 599.
6. Was God pleased with the refusal of some of his people to separate
from the heathen nation and its practices? Who were the principal
men in the reformation and restoration at that time? Ezra 4:2;
Haggai 1:14; Ezra 2:1-2; Nehemiah 1:2; 5:14.
7. What did God allow to come upon the Jews who insisted in re-
maining in Babylon among the gentiles?
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ANSWER: "Meanwhile conditions in the Medo-Persian realm were
rapidly changing. Darius Hystaspes, under whose reign the Jews had
been shown marked favor, was succeeded by Xerxes the Great. It was
during his reign that those of the Jews who had failed of heed:ng the
message to flee were called upon to face a terrible crisis. Having re-
fused to take advantage of the way of escape God had provided, now
they were brought face to face with death." -Ibid.
8. Who did Satan use in an attempt to destroy the people of God still
in the realms of Chaldea? How did God intervene to save His
people? Esther 3:1-7; 2:15, 16.
NOTE: "Through Haman the Agagite, an unscrupulous man high in
authority in Medo-Persia, Satan worked at this time to counterwork
the purposes of God. Hanum cherished bitter malice against Mordecai,
a Jew. Mordecai had done Haman no harm, but had simply refused to
show him worshipful reverence. Scorning to 'lay hands on Mordecai
alone,' Haman plotted 'to destroy all the Jews that were throughtout the
whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai." -Ibid.
9. What strategy did Haman use in order to mislead King Ahasuerus
and induce him to sign the decree for the massacre of God's people?
Esther 3:8-11.
NOTE: "Misled by the false statements of Haman, Xerxes was induced
to issue a decree providing for the massacre of all the Jews 'scattered
ahroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces' of the Medo-
Persian kingdom. Verse 8. A certain day was appointed on which the
Jews were to be destroyed and their property confiscated. Little did the
king realize the far-reaching results that would have accompanied the
complete carrying out of this decree. Satan himself, the hidden instigator
of the scheme, was trying to rid the earth of those who preserved the
knowledge of the true GaeL" -Ibid.
10. In the face of this imminent crisis what challenge did Mordecai give
to Queen Esther and what was her response? Esther 5:1-17.
NOTE: "The crisis that Esther faced demanded quick, earnest action;
but both she and Mordecai realized that unless God should work mightily
in their behalf, their own eHorts would be unavailing. So Esther took
time for communion with God, the source of her strength. 'Go,' she di-
rected Mordecai, 'gather together all the Jews that are present in Shu-
shan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or
day: J also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto
the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.''' -
Ibid., p. 601.
ll. What strategy did Esther use to overthrow the plan of the wicked
Haman? Esther 5: 1-12.
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12. In what providential way did God turn the tide of events in favor
of His people? Esther 6:1-14.
13. How was Haman's b'eacherous design revealed to the king? What
was his fate? Esther 7: 1-10.
14. What counter measures were put into immediate effect for the sal-
vation of the Jews? Esther 8:1-17.
NOTE: "The events that followed in rapid succession,-the appearance
of Esther before the king, the marked favor shown her, the banquets of
the king and queen with Haman as the only guest, the troubled sleep
of the king, the p1.1blic honor shown Mordecai, and the humiliation and
fall of Haman upon the discovery of his wicked plot,-all these are parts
of a familiar story. God wrought marvelously f"r His penitent people;
and a counter decree issued by the king, allowing 'hem to fight for their
lives, was rapidly communicated to every part of the realm by mounted
couriers, who were 'hastened and pressed on by the king's command-
ment.' 'And in every province, and in every city, whithersoever the king's
commandment and his decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a
feast and a good day. And many of the people of the land became Jews;
for the fear of the Jews fell upon them.'
"On the day appointed for their destruction, 'the Jews gathered them-
selves together in their cities throughout all the provinces of the king
Ahasuerus, to lay hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could
withstand them; for the fear of them fell upon all people.' Angels that
excel in strength had been commissioned by God to protect His people
while they 'stood for their lives.''' -Ibid., p. 602.
This experience of Haman's attempt to destroy God's people from the
realm of the King of Persia will have its parallel in the near future when
Satan will use the powers represented by the dragon, the false proph-
et and the beast to unite in the making of a decree for the complete
destruction of Gods' people. (Revelation 13: 1-18; 17: 12-14.)

Lesson. No. 9 - Sabbath, March 3, 1962

JERUSALEM THE CENTRE OF THE GREAT CONFLICT
Key Text: "And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that
turn from transgression in Jacob. saith the Lord." Isaiah 59:20.

Questions
1. Through whom only Clln the terrible curse of sin be removed from
the universe? How have the prophets portrayed the great drama of
the ages and where it was to be centered? Acts 10:43; Isaiah 59: 1.
20; Titus 2: 13, 14.
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NOTE: "As the sinbearer, and priest and representative of man before
God, He (Christ) entered into the life of humanity, bearing our flesh and
blood. The life is in the living, vital current of blood, which blood was
given for the life of the world. Christ made a full atonement, giving His
life as a ransom for us. He was born without a taint of sin, but came into
the world in like manner as the human family. He did not have a mere
semblance of a body, but He took human nature, participating in the
life of humanity. . . . He could not have done this as God, but by com-
ing as man Christ could die. By death He overcame death. The death
of Christ bore to the death him who had the power of death, and
opened the gates of the tomb for all who receive Him as their personal
Saviour." -Letter 97, 1898 (Questions on Doctrine, p. 666).
2. What vision was John given of the church triumphant? Agaillst
whom did Satan concentrate his attack? How did the Jewish nation
sell itself to the service of the great rebel? Revelation 12: 1·5; John
19:15.
NOTE: "In making this choice they accepted him who from the beginnin~
was a liar and a murderer. Satan was their leader. As a nation they
would act out his dictation. His works they would do. His rule they
must endure," -Desire of Ages, p. 739.
3. When the majesty of heaven was born into this world, how was He
received by the chosen nation? Who did recognize Jesus at His
birth and gave Him honor? Matthew 2:1·8.
NOTE: "God committed these prophecies to the Jewish leaders; th~y
were without excuse if they did not know and declare to the people that
the Messiah's coming was at hand. Their ignorance was the result of sin-
ful neglect. The Jews were building monuments for the slain prophets
of God, while by their deference to the great men of earth they were
paying homage to the servants of Satan. Absorbed in their ambitious
strife for place and power among men, they lost sight of the divine
honors proftered them by the King of heaven," -Great Controverslf, p.
.'313,
4. How did providence direct the events so that Joseph and Mary
should go to Bethlehem at the right time? Was there any manifest
evidence in Jerusalem that Christ was expected?
ANSWER: "Caesar Augustus is made the agent for the fulfilment of
God's purpose in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She is
of the lineage of Davi,d, and the Son of David must be born in David's
city. . . . But in the city of their royal line, Joseph and Mary are Ufl-
recognized and unhonored . . ," -Desire of Ages, p. 44.
"All the people should have been watching and waiting that they
might be among the first to welcome the world's Redeemer. But 10, at
Bethlehem two weary travelers from the hills of Nazareth traverse tl}e
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whole length of the narrow street to the eastern extremity of the town,
vainly seeking a place of rest and shelter for the night. No doors are
open to receive them in." -The Great Controversy, p. 313.
5. Who besides the wise men from the East joyfully received the glad
tidings of the Saviour's birth? Luke 2:8·15.
NOTE: "An angel visits the earth to see who are prepared to welcome
Jesus. But he can discern no tokens of expectancy. . . . The angel
hovers for a time over the chosen city and the temple where the divine
presence has been manifested for ages; but even here is the same in-
difference. . . . In amazement the celestial messenger is about to return
to heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovers a group of
shepherds who are watching ther flocks by night, and, as they gaze into
the starry heavens, are contemplating the prophecy of a Messiah to come
to earth, and longing for the advent of the world's Redeemer. Here is a
company that is prepared to receive the heavenly messenger. And sud-
denly the angel of the Lord appears, declaring the good tidings of great
joy." -Ibid., p. 314.
6. What important lesson can we leal'll from the story of Bethlehem?
1 Corinthians 10:11, 12.
NOTE: "Oh, what a lesson is this wonderful story of Bethlehem! How it
rebukes our unbelief, our pride and self-sufficiency. How it warns us to
beware, lest hy our criminal indifference we also fail to discern the signs
of the times, and therefore know not the day of our visitation." -Ihid.,
p. 31.:5.
"I have been shown that the spirit of the world is fast leavening the
church. You are following the same path as did ancient Israel. There is
the same falling away from your holy calling as God's peculiar people.
You are having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. Your
concord with unbelievers has provoked the Lord's displeasure. You know
not the things that belong to your peace, and they are fast being hid
from your eyes. Your neglect to follow the light will place you in a more
unfavorable position than the Jews upon whom Christ pronounced a
woe." -Testimonies, vol. .5, p. 75.
7. Through what means was the life of the baby Jesus spared in the
massacre of the children of lerusalem? Matthew 2: 13-15; Hosea 11: 1.
8. "Vhere and under what conditions did Jesus first confl'Ont the prince
of darkness? On what points did Jesus overcome Satan? Matthew
4: 1·11.
NOTE: "When Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted, He was
led by the Spirit of God. He did not invite temptation. He went to the
the wilderness to be alone, to contemplate His mission and work. By
the wilderness to be alone, to contemplate His mission nad work. Bv
fasting and prayer He was to hrace Himself for the bloodstained path
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He must travel. But Satan knew that the Saviour had gone into the wild-
erness and he thought this the best time to approach Him." -Desire of
Ages, p. 114.
"When Jesus entered the wilderness He was shut in by the Father's
glory. Absorbed in communion with God, He was lifted above human
weakness. But the glory departed, and He was left to battle with tempta-
tion. It was pressing upon Him every moment. His human nature shrank
from the conflict that awaited Him. For forty days He fasted and prayed.
Weak and emaciated from hunger, worn and haggard with mental agony,
'His visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than
the sons of men.' (Isa. 52:14.) Now was Satan's opportunity. Now he
supposed that he could overcome Christ." -Selected Messages, vol. 2,
p.227.
9. What name was given our Saviour at His birth? Luke 1:35; 9:56.
NOTE: "In His humanity He was a partaker of the divine nature. In His
incarnation He gained in a new sense the title of the Son of God. Said
the angel to Mary, 'The power of the Highest shall overshadow thee:
therefore also that holy thing which shall be born out of thee shall be
called the Son of God' (Luke 1: 35). While the Son of a human being,
He became the Son of God in a new sense. Thus He stood in our
world-the Son of God, yet allied by birth to the human race." -Selected
Messages, vol. I, p. 226.
10. In their hatred and jealousy of Jesus what were the Jewish leaders
attempting to do? How has history been repeated in succeeding
generations? John 8:40.
NOTE: "The Sanhedrin had rejected Christ's message and was bent upon
His death; therefore Jesus departed from Jerusalem, from the priests,
the temple, the religious leaders, the people who had been instructed in
the law, and turned to another class to proclaim His message, and to
gather out those who sh!Juld carry the gospel to all nations.
"As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical au-
thorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every suc-
ceeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ's withdrawal
from Judea has been repeated. \\I'hen the Reformers preached the word
of God, they had no thought of separating themselves from the estab-
lished church; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light,
and those that bore it were forced to seek another class, who were long-
ing for the truth. In our day few of the professed followers of the Re-
formers are actuated by their spirit. Few are listening for the voice of
God, and ready to accept truth in whatever guise it may be presented.
Often those who follow in the steps of the Reformers are forced to turn
away from the churches they love, in order to declare the plain teach.
ing of the word of God. And many times those who are seeking for light
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are by the same teaching obliged to leave the church of their fathers,
that they may render obedience." -Desire of Ages, p. 232.
11. What could Jesus truthfully declare at the close of His Mission?
What was His last work before His crucifixon? John 17: 1-5.
12. How far were the Jewish leaders prepared to go in order to have
Christ condemned and put to death? What purpose did Satan have
in this? Matthew 26:3·5.
NOTE: Satan knew only too well the exact time set by prophecy for
the death of Jesus, and he hoped that if he could incite the murderous
mob to execute Christ during the passover days, he could thus under-
mobe to execute Christ during the passover days, he could thus under-
mine all confidence in the prophecies concerning Christ, and the plan
of salvation.
After the hymn, they went out. Through the crowded streets they
made their way, passing out of the city gate toward the Mount of Olives
. . . . Jesus said, in a tone of deepest sadness, 'All ye shall be offended
because of Me this night. . . The disciples listened in sorrow and amaze-
ment. . . . In the upper chamber Jesus said that one of the twelve
would betray Him, and that Peter would deny Him. But now His words
include them all.
13. Where was the conflict of the ages actually won? Matthew 26:3946.
NOTE: "The awful moment had come-that moment which was to de-
cide the destiny of the world. The fate of humanity trembled in the
balance. Christ might have even now refused to drink the cup ap-
portioned to guilty man. It was not yet too late. He might wipe the
bloody sweat from His brow, and leave man to perish in his iniquity.
He might say, Let the transgressor receive the penalty of his sin, and I
will go back to My Father. . . . He sees. the helplessness of man. He
sees the power of sin. The woes of lamentations of a doomed world rise
before Him. He beholds its impendinll; fate, and His decision is made. He
will save man at the cost to Himself. He accepts His baptism of blood,
that through Him perishing millions may gain everlasting life."-Desire
of Ages, p. 693.

Lesson No. 10 - Sabbath, March 10, 1962

THE APOSTOLIC CHURCH AND ANTICHRIST
Key Text: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether
they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the
world." 1 John 4:1.
Questions
1. Who was the founder of the first Christian Church? What power
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 and responsibility was invested in God's church? Matthew 16:18,
19.
NOTE: "Alone upon a mountain near the Sea ~f Galilee, Jesus had spent
all night in prayer for these chosen ones. At the dawn -He called them
to Him, and, with words of prayer and instruction, laid His hands upon
their heads in benediction, setting them apart to the gospel work. Then
He repaired with them to the seaside, where in the early morning a
great multitude had already begun to assemble." -Mount of Blessing,
p. 12.
"The world's Redeemer has invested great power with His church. He
states the rules to be applied in cases of trial with its members. After
He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says:
'Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound
in heaven: and whatsoever (in church discipline) ye shall loose on
earth shall be loosed in heavenl Thus even the heavenly authority rati-
fies the discipline of the church in regard to its members when the Bible
rule has been followed." -Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 428.
The expression "gates of hell" symbolize the grave where the dead
are laid to rest, but it also bears direct reference to Satan who is the door
to sin and final death. Through faith in Jesus, the church which now is
fighting the good fight of faith will become the church triumphant.
2. From what source did the first Christian Church derive her power?
What was the secret of the rapid spread of the gospel throughout
the then known world? John 16:13; Acts 2:4; 4:31-33.
NOTE: "A~ter the descent of the Holy Spirit, the disciples were so
filled with love for Him and for those for whom He died, that hearts
were melted by the words they spoke and the prayers they offered. They
spoke in the power of the Spirit; and under the influence of that power,
thousands were converted." -Acts of the Apostles, p. 22
3. What reaction followed the powerful witnessing in the lives and
acts of the first Christians? What course did the disciples pursue
when attempts were made to stop their work?
ANSWER: "In the history of prophets and apostles, are many noble
examples of loyalty to God. Christ's witnesses have endured imprison-
ment, torture, and death itself, rather than break God's commands. The
record left by Peter and John is as heroic as any in the gospel dispen-
sation. As they stood for the second time before the men who seemed
bent on their destruction, no fear or hesitation could be discerned in
their words or attitude. And when the high priest said, 'Did we not
straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and,
behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to
bring this Man's blood upon us,' Peter answered, 'We ought to obey
God rather than men.' It was an angel from heaven who delivered them
from prison and bade them teach in the temple. In following His direc-
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lions they were obeying the divine command, and this they must con-
tinue to do at whatever cost to themselves." -Acts of the Apostles, p. 81.
4. What testimony did the Christians bear in Jerusalem? What truth
spoken by Jesus did the disciples treasure? How well were they
armed for their work? Acts 2:40, 47; John 15:18.20; Philippians 1:29.
NOTE: "Those only who are constantly receiving fresh supplies of grace,
will hav.e power proportionate to their daily need and their ability
to use that power. Instead of looking forward to some future time when,
through a special endowment of spiritual power, they will receive a
miraculous fitting up for soul winning, they are yielding themselves daily
to God, that He may make them vessels meet for His use. Daily they are
improving the opportunities for service that lie within their reach.
Daily they are witnessing for the Master wherever they may be, whether
in some humble sphere of labor in the home, or in a public field of
usefulness." -Acts of the Apostles, p. 55
5. What were some of the methods which Satan and his instruments
used to impede the progress of the church? What does Paul have
to say in regard to this class of believers? 2 Timothy 3:12.
NOTE: "The great adversary now endeavored to gain by artifice what he
had failed to secure by force. Persecution ceased, and in its stead were
substituted the dangerous allurements of temporal prosperity and world-
ly honor. Idolaters were led to receive a part of the Christian faith, while
they rejected other essential truths. They professed to accept Jesus as
the Son of God and to believe in His death and resurrection, but they
had no conviction of sin and felt no need of repentance or of a change
of heart. With some concessions on their part they proposed that Christ-
ians should make concessions, that all might unite on the platform of
belief in Christ." -The Great Controversy, p. 42.
6. Forseeing as he did grave dangers confronting the early church what
timely warning did Paul give? Acts 20:28, 29; Colossians 2:4·8.
NOTE: "Satan therefore laid his plans to war more successfully against
the government of God by planting his banner in the Christian church.
If the followers of Christ could be deceived and led to displease God,
then their strength, fortitude, and firmness would fail, and they would
fall an easy prey.
"Now the church was in fearful peril. Prison, torture, fire, and sword
were blessings in comparison with this. Some of the Christians stood firm,
declaring that they could make no compromise. Others were in favor
of yielding or modifying some features of their faith and uniting with
those who had accepted a part of Christianity, urging that this might
be the means of their full cOllversion. That was a time of deep anguish
to the faithful followers of Christ. Under a cloak of pretended Christ-
ianity. Satan was insinuating. himself into the church. to corrupt their
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faith and turn their minds from the word of truth." -The Great Con-
troversy, p. 42.
7. What clear warning did the apostle give in regard to the apostasy
in the church and the rise of the papacy? 2 Thessalonians 2:3-7.
NOTE: The apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, fore-
told the great apostasy which would result in the establishm.ent of the
papal power. He declared that the day of Christ should not come, 'ex-
cept there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed,
the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that
is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the
temple of God, showing himself that he is God.' And furthermore, the
apostle warns his brethren that 'the mystery of iniquity doth already
work.' 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4, 7. Even at that early date he saw, creep-
ing into the church, ermrs that would prepare the way for the develop-
ment of the papacy.
8. What further warning did John the apostle give in regard to the
rise of the papacy? 1 John 2:18·19.
NOTE: According to the reports of the apostle John the spirit of anti-
christ was beginning to be manifested even in his days. The word "anti-
christ" itself suggests an element from among the Jews who were most
bitter in their opposition tu the apostles of Christ. It is quite possible
that the 70 who walked no more with Jesus organized themselves into
a group, or joined with others, who hated and opposed the gospel of
Jesus Christ. Read Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 132.
9. What warning was given the believers of the first Christian church,
against false teachers and what were some identification marks? By
what means is it possible for the professed believers to actually
deny Christ? 1 John 4: 1·4.
NOTE: "No one can truly confess Christ before the world unless the
mind and spirit of Christ live in him. It is impossible to communicate
that which we have not. The cunversation and the deportment should be
a real and visible expression of grace and truth within. If the he!lrt
is sanctified, submissive, and humble, the fruits will be seen· outwardlv
and will be a most eflectual confession of Christ. W ordsand profe;.
sion are not enough. You, my sister, must have something more than
this. You are deceiving yourself. Your spirit, your character, and your
actions do not show a spirit of meekness, self-denial, and charity. Words
and profession may express much humility and love; but if the con-
duct is not regulated daily by the grace of God, you are not a partaker
of the heavenly gift, you have not forsaken all for Christ, you have not
surrendered yuur own will and pleasure to become His disciple." -Test-
monies, vol. 3, p. 332.

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10. How did John the Revelator portray the apostasy which gradually
entered the first Christian church? What remedy did Christ offer?
Revelation 2:4·5.
11. What was it that for a time hindered the development of the
papacy? What prepared the way for its development? 2 Thess·
alonians 2: 8·9.
NOTE: "It was apostasy that led the early chl)rch to seek the aid of
the civil government, and this prepared the way for the development
of the papacy-the beast. Said Paul: 'There shal'l come a falling away,
. . . and that man of sin be revealed.' 2 Thessalonians 2:3. So apostasy
in the church will prepare the way for the image to the beast." -Great!
Controversy, p. 443.
"What was the origin of the great apostasy? How did the church first
depart from the simplicity of the gospel? By conforming to the practices
of paganism, to facilitate the acceptance of Christianity by the heathen.
The apostle Paul declared, even in his day, 'The mystery of iniquity
doth already work.' 2 Thessalonians 2:7. During the lives of the apostles
the church remained comparatively pure. But 'toward the latter end of
the second century most of the churches assumed a new form; the first
simplicity disappeared, and insensibly, as the old disciples retiree} to
their graves, their children, alnog with new converts, . . . came for-
ward and new-modeled the cause.''' -Ibid., p. 384.

Lesson No. 11 - Sabbath, ,March 17, 1962

THE DRAGON-PAGAN ROME; THE BEAST-
PAPAL ROME
Key Text: "And he shall speak great words against the most High, and
shall weal'- out the saints of the most High, and think to change times
and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times
and the dividing of time." Daniel 7:25.
Questions
1. What description does the l»:ophet Daniel give of the power which
in Revelation is referred to as the dragon? Daniel 7 :7.
NOTE: The fourth universal power was born at the end of the Grecian
empire, and came into its own about 161 B.C. As to the nature of its
working, prophecy accurately foretold that in tyranny and oppression,
Rome both in its pagan and papal forms would be without parallel.
Its power though at present clothed in another garb and appearing
subdued, is still at work. Whole countries are enslaved to its dogmas.
The voice of the dragon has not yet been silenced. A historian wrote:
"The world may pass. but Rome remains." Only in eternity will a cor-
~32-
rect report be given of the many millions, who have been treated worse
than beasts and been put to death for the faith of Jesus.
2. Who in actuality is the power which operates through the "great
dragon?" Revelation 12:9, 12.
NOTE: Lncifer, also called Satan, has placed his throne in Rome, and
from there he rules over all who will give him their allegiance.
3. For how long did prophet .John see that pagan Rome would con
tinue to exercise her power? Revelation 17: 10.
NOTE: It is important that wp establish firmly in our minds, the truth
that the Bible is its own interpreter. The king with whom we are con-
cerned, according to this vision of John, is the one which "is not yet
come; and when he cometh he must continue for a short space." "Of
this one it is said that his destiny was to go 'into perdition.'''
4. What was Satan's design in gaining control of an empire? Revela-
tion 12:13.
NOTE: "The history of the early church testified to the fulfillment of
the Saviour's words. The powers of earth and hell arrayed themselves
against Christ in the person of His followers. Paganism foresaw that
should the gospel triumph, her temples and altars would be swept away;
therefore she summoned her forces to destroy Christianity. The fires of
persecution were kindled. Christians were stripped of their posessions,
and driven from their homes. They endured a great fight of afflictions.'
They 'had trials of cruel mockings and scourging, yea, moreover of bonds
and imprisonment.' Great numbers sealed their testimony with their
blood. Noble and slave, rich and poor, learned and ignorant, were alike
slain without mercy." -Great Controvetsy, p. 39.
5. What class of men are given special mention in the Bible honor
roll of the faithful? Hebrews 11:36·40.
NOTE: "Under the fiercest persecution, these witnesses for Jesus kept
their faith unsullied. Though deprived of every comfort, shut away from
the light of the sun, making their home in the dark but friendly bosom of
the earth, they uttered no complaint. With words of faith, patience, and
hope, they encouraged one another to endure privation and distress.
The loss of every earthly blessing could not force them to renounce their
belief in Christ. Trials and persecution were but steps bringing them
nearer their rest and their reward." -Ihid., p. 41.
6. Did prophecy foresee the change that Pagan Rome would undergo
in order to continue her satanic work? What do the 10 kingdoms
symbolized by the 10 crowns represent? Daniel 7:19·20.
NOTE: "Little by little, at first in stealth and silence, and then more
openly as it increased in strength and gained control of the minds of
men, the mystery of iniquity carried forward its deceptive and blasphem-
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ous work. Almost imperceptibly the customs of heathenism found their
way into the Christian church. The spirit of compromise and conformity
was restrained for a time by the fierce persecutions which the church en-
dured under paganism. But as persecution ceased, and Christianity en-
tered the courts and palaces of kings, she laid aside the humble sim-
plicity of Christ and His apostles for the pomp and pride of pagan
priests and rulers; and in place of the requirements of God, she sub-
stituted human theories and traditions. The nominal conversion of Con-
stantine, in the early part of the fourth century, caused great rejoicing;
and the world, cloaked with a form of righteousness; walked into the
church. Now the work of corruption rapidly progressed. Paganism, while
appearing to be vanquished, became the conqueror. Her spirit con-
trolled the church. Her doctrines, ceremonies, and superstitions were
incorporated into the faith and worship of the professed followers of
Christ." -Ibid., p. 49.
When the time came for the so-called new faith to be introduced in
the Pagan empire, and to infiltrate the same in the pagan rituals, the
Pagan empire was already at the stage of disintegration, and the coun-
tries which had been held under its dominion hitherto, now sought free-
dom, but already the wine of her erroneous worships and teachings had
been deeply enough embedded in their religious services. In the year
476 A.D. the Roman Empire capitulated and another power was already
in the ascendancy.
"The spirit of concession to paganism opened the way for a still fur-
ther disregard of Heaven's authority. Satan, working through uncon-
secrated 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, 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 honor 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 honor of the
resurrection of Christ. Religious services were held upon it; yet it was
regarded as a day of recreation, the Sahhath heing still sacredly oh-
served." -Ibid., p. 52.
7. When paganism gave place to the pap'acy what were the inevitable
consequences to the true children of God? Daniel 7 :21.
NOTE: "In the sixth century the papacy had become firmly established.
Its seat of power was fixed in the imperial city, 'md the bishop of Rome
was declared to be the head over the entire church. Paganism had given
place to the papacy. The dragon had given to the heast 'his power, and
his seat, and great authority.''' -lhid., p . .54.
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 8. What drastic changes did the Roman Church make shortly after
her ascendancy to power? What experience did the church of God
pass through whilst under the oppression of Rome? Daniel 7:24, 25.
NOTE: Prophecy predicted that the papal dominion would last for a
certain period of time, 1260 days. A parallel prophecy puts it as 42
months which comp\lted in days would again add up to this number,
allowing 30 days to the month. Again it is referred to as "time, times
and the dividing of time," meaning one year plus two years, plus
half a year. Converting these years into days would again add up to
1260 days. Now these days are prophetic days, hence each day stand-
ing for a year. The whole period referred to in the prophecy then
amonnts to 1260 literal years.
Constantine the Great introduced the observance of the first day of
the week about the time of his acceptance of the Christian faith. How-
ever, for many years the seventh day Sabbath continued to be ob-
served with some measure of sacred regard.
When in 538 the bishop of Home claimed the civil authority as well
as the ecclesiastical, this power symbolized by the "little horn" made
the claim that it had the right to change the rest day of Sabbath to Sun-
day and went even further by enforcing Sunday sacredness.
9. What changes were prophecied to take place during the papal
regime? Revelation 12:9·12; 13:3.
NOTE: ". . . The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in 538 A.D.
and ended in 1798. At that time a French army entered Rome and
made the pope a prisoner and he died in exile. Though a new pope was
soon afterward elected, the papal hierarchy was never since been able to
wield the power which it before possessed." -G1"eat Contmve1"sy, p. 266.
However, the deadly wound began to heal when the papacy was re-
established, though with less of its former power, when the new pope
was elected in 1800.

Lesson No. 12 - Sahbath, March 24, 1962

UNITED STATES IN PROPHECY
Key Text: "And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast,
that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many
as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed." -Reve.
lation 13:15.
Questions
1. Upon what unique Book may we depend for the exact record of
the history of the nations of this world? What should the leaders
-35-
 of the nations know, particularly those who are entrusted with the
spiritual care of men? Jeremiah 18:6·10.
NOTE: "The history of nations speaks to us today. To every nation
and to every individual God has assigned a place in His great plan.
Today men and nations are being tested by the plummet in the hand
of Him who makes no mistakes. All are by their own choice deciding
their destiny, and God is overruling all for the accomplishment of His
purposes." -Prophets alld Kings, p. 536.
"The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living. . . . The
Bible, and the Bible only, gives a correct view of those things. Here are
revealed the great final scenes in the history of our world, events that
already are casting their shadows before, the sound of their approach
causing the earth to tremble and men's hearts to fail them for fear." -
Ihid., p..537.
2. What are we told regarding the past, pTesent and future history of
the nations? Where in the light of prophecy are we today in earth's
history? What predictions did Christ make about the signs of His
secong coming? Revelation 1: 1·3; 22: 10.
NOTE: "The prophecies which the greart: I AM has given in His word,
uniting link after link in the chain of events, from eternity in the past
to eternity in the future, tell us where we are today in the procession
of the ages and what may be expected in the time to come. All that
prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has
been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assUl'ed that all
which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order." -Ibid., p. 536.
3. What was revealed to John in vision regarding the character and
work of the last beast to come to power? Describe John's impl·es·
sion of this beast's rise, development lind the final part that it is
to play in the closing of earth's history? Revelation 13: 11.
NOTE: "But the beast with lamblike horns was seen 'coming up out
of the earth.' Instead of overthrowing other powers to establish itself,
the nation thilS represented must arise in territory previously unoccupied
and grow up gradually and peacefully. It could not, then, arise among
the crowded and struggling nationalities of the Old World-that tnrbu-
lent sea of 'peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.' It must
be sought in the Western Continent.
"What nation of the New World was in 1798 rising into power, giv-
ing promise of strength and greatness, and attracting the attention of
the world? The application of the symbol admits of no question. One
nation, and only one, meets the specifications of this prophecy; it points
unmistakably to the United States of America. . . . A prominent writer,
describing the rise of the United States, speaks of 'the mystery of her
coming forth from vacancy.' and says: 'Like II silent reed we grew into
-36-
empire.'-G. A. Townsend. . . . A European journal in 1850 spoke of
the United States as a wonderful empire, which was 'emerging,' and
amid the silence of the earth daily adding to its power and pride.' " -
Great Controversy, p. 440.
4. What appearance did this nation have when she began to establish
her independence? What was the secret of her rapid development?
Where did those who were oppressed and persecuted for the truth's
sake find refuge? Revelation 12: 15, 16.
NOTE: "'And he had two horns like a lamb.' The lamblike horns indi-
cate youth, innocence, and gentleness, fitly representing the the charac-
ter of the United States when presented to the prophet as 'coming up'
in 1798. Among the Christian exiles who first fled to America and
sought an asylum from royal oppression and priestly intolerance were
many who derermined to establish a government upon the broad foun-
dation of civil and religious liberty. Their views found place in the
Declaration of Independence, which sets forth the great truth that 'all
men are created equal' and endowed with the inalienable right of life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.' And the Constitution guarantees
to the people the right of self-government, providing that representatives
elected by the popular vote shall enact and administer the laws. Free-
dom of religious faith was also granted, every man being permitted to
worship God according to the dictates of his conscience. Republicamsm
and Protestantism became the fundamental principles of the nation.
These principles are the secret of its power and prosperity. The op-
pressed and downtrodden throughout Christendom have turned to this
land with interest and hope. Millions have sought its shores, and the
United States has risen to a place among the most powerful nations of
the earth." -Ibid., p. 441.
5. What is pl'Ophecied about the power this last beast is to exer·
cise, and to what other power is it likened? What position will this
second beast (United States) take? What will it decree to the in:·
habitants of the world? Revelation 13: 12.
NOTE: "The lamb-like horns and dragon voice of the symbol point to
a striking contradiction between the professions and the practice of the
nation thus represented. The 'speaking' of the nation is the action of
its legislative and judicial authorities. By such action it will give the lie
to those liberal and peaceful principles which it has put forth as the
foundation of its policy. The prediction that it will speak 'as a dragon'
and exercise 'all the power of the first beast' plainly fortells a develop-
ment of the spirit of intolerance and persecution that was manifested
by the nations represented by the dragon and the leopardlike beast. And
the statement that the beast with two horns 'causeth the earth and them
which dwell therein to worship the first beast' indicates that the au-
thority of this nation is to be exercised in enforcing some observance
which shall be an act of homage to the papacy." -Ibid., p. 442.
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 6. What solemn truth has prophecy given us, showing the stand the
protestant churches will take and all others who will support the
false pretense that Sunday, the first day of the week has replaced
the Biblical Sabbath? How will they be called? Even though
Protestant and other Christian churches are separate from the
Catholic Church (first beast), what example do they follow? Ezekiel
16:44. Revelation 17:1·6.
NOTE: "Babylon is said to be 'the mothel' of harlots.' By her daughters
must be symbolized churches that cling to her doctrines and traditions,
and follow her example of sacrificing the truth and the approval of God,
in order to form an unlawful alliance with the world. The message of
Revelation 14, announcing the fall of Babylon must apply to religious
bodies that were once pure and have become cormpt. Since this message
follows the warning of the judgment, it must be given in the last days;
therefore it cannot refer to the Roman Church alone, for that church
has been in a fallen condition for many centuries. Furthermore, in the
eighteenth chapter of the Revelation the people of God are called upon
to come out of Dabylon. According to this scripture, many of God's
people must still be in Babylon. And in what religious bodies are the
greater part of the followers of Christ now to be found? Without doubt,
in the various churches professing the Protestant faith. At that time of
their rise these churches took a noble stand for God and the truth, and
His blessing was with them." -Ibid., p. .382.
7. What supernatural manifestations will be witnessed by the in·
habitants of the world in the near future? To what extent will
scientific and spiritualistic manifestations deceive Christians, and
other nations? Revelation 13:13.
NOTE: "The miracle-working power manifested through spiritualism
will exert its influence against those who choose to obey God rather than
men. Communications from the spirits will declare that God has sent
them to convince the rejectors of Sunday of their e-rror, affirming that
the laws of the land should be obeyed as the law of God. They will
lament the great wickedness in the world and second the testimony of
religious teachers that the degraded state of morals is caused by dese-
cration of Sunday. Great will be the indignation excited against all who
refuse to accept their testimony." -Ibid., p. 590.
8. What experience should the remnant have in order to endUl'e the
fearful time of Satan's supernatural manifestations? How will Satan
succeed in presenting his doctrines convincingly in the last days?
2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10; 2 Corinthians 11: 13·15.
NOTE: "Many endeavor to aCCOUl.t for spiritual manifestations by at-
tributing them wholly to fraud and a slight of hand on the part of the
medium. But while it is tme that the results of trickery have often been
palmed off as genuine manifestations, there have been, also, marked
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exhibitions of supernatural power. The mysterious rapping with which
modern spiritualism began was not the result of human trickery or
cunning, but was the direct work of evil angels, who thus introduced
one of the most successful of soul-destroying delusions. Many will be
ensnared through the unbelief that spiritualism is a merely human im-
posture; when brought face to face with manifestations which they
cannot but regard as supernatural, they will be deceived, and will be
led to accept them as the great power of God." -Ibid., p. 553.
"We must examine well the foundation of our hope, for we shall have
to give a reason for it from the Scriptures. This delusion will spread,
and we shall have to contend with it face to face; and unless we are
prepared for it, we shall be ensnared and overcome. But if we do what
we can on our part to be ready for the conflict that is just before us,
God will do His part, and His all-powerful arm will protect us. He
would sooner send every angel out of glory to the relief of faithful
souls, to make a hedge about them, than have them deceived and led
away by the lying wonders of Satan." -Early Writings, p. 88.

GIVE CHEERFULLY FOR FOREIGN MISSIONS

Plan Your Next Week's 13th Sabbath School Offering

Lesson No. 13 - Sabbath, March 31, 1962

UNITED STATES IN PROPHECY
( Continued)
Key Text: "Righteousness cxalteth a nation: but sin is a reproaeh
to any people." Proverbs 14:34.
Questions
1. What will confront the faithful remnant before the second coming
of Jesus? What fate will those have to meet who have not been
sanctified by the truth? 2 Thessalonians 2: 11, 12.
NOTE: "It was by satanic aid that Pharoh's magicians were enabled to
counterfeit the work of God. Paul testifies that before the second ad-
vent of Christ there will be similar manifestations of satanic power.
The coming of the Lord is to be preceded by 'the working of Satan
with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness
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of unrighteousness.' 2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10. And the apostle John, de-
scribing the miracle-working power that will be manifested in the last
days, declares: 'He doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come
down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceiveth them
that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had
power to do.' Revelation 13:13, 14. No more impostures are here fore-
told. Men are deceived by the miracles which Satan's agents have power
to do, not which they pretend to do." -Great Controversy, p. 553.
2. What else will Satan do through the beast, which is to deceive
many? What will it demand the inhabitants of the earth to do in
favor of the first beast? Revelation 13:14.
NOTE: "As spiritualism more closely imitates the nominal Christianity
of the day, it has greater power to deceive and ensnare. Satan him--
self is converted, after the modern order of things. He will appear in
the character of an angel of light. Through the agency of spiritualism,
miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and many undeniable
wonders will be performed. And as the spirits will profess faith in the
Bible, and manifest respect for the institutions of the church, their work
will be accepted as a manifestation of divine power." -Ibid., p. 588.
"I saw the rapidity with which this delusion was spreading. A train
of cars was shown me, going with the speed of lightning. The angel
bade me look carefully. I fixed my eyes upon the train. It seemed that
the whole world was on board, that there could not be one left. Said
the angel, 'They are binding in bundles ready to burn.' Then he showed
me the conductor, who appeared like a stately, fair person, whom all
the passengers looked np at and reverenced. I was perplexed and asked
my attending angel who it was. He said, 'It is Satan. He is the con-
ductor in the form of an angel of light. He has taken the world captive.
They are given over to strong delUSions, to believe a lie, that they may
be damned. This agent, the next highest in order to him, is the engi-
neer, and other of his agents are employed in different offices as he
may need them, and they are all going with lighting speed to perdi-
tion." -Early Writings, p. 88.
3. To what principles, once held dear to them, did the United States
owe their prosperity? Which nation will make the image to the
(papal) beast? Proverbs 14:33, 34; Revelation 13: 14 (first part).
NOTE: But what is the 'image to the beast'? and how is it to he
formed? The image is madc by the two-horned beast, and is an image
to the beast. It is also called an image of the beast. Then to learn what
the image is like and how it is to be formed we must study the charac-
teristics of the beast itself-the papacy.
"When the early church became corrupted by departing from the
simplicity of the gospel and accepting heathen rites and customs, she
lost the Spirit and pow!'r of God; and in order to control the con-
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sciences of the people,' she sought the support of the secular power.
The result was the papacy, a church that controlled the power of the
state and employed it to further her own ends, especially for the pun-
ishment of 'heresy.' In order for the United States to form an image of
the beast, the religious power must so control the civil government that
the authority of the state will also be employed by the church to ac-
complish her own ends.
"Whenever the church has obtained secular power, she has em-
ployed it to punish dissent from her doctrines. Protestant churches
that have followed in the steps of Rome by forming' alliance with
worldly powers have manifested a similar desire to restrict liberty ·of
conscience. An example of this is given in the long-continued per-
secution of dissenters by the Church of England. During the sixteenth
and seventeenth centuries, thousands of monconformist ministers were
forced to flee from their churches, and many, both of pastors and
people, were subjected to fine, imprisonment, torture, and martyrdom."
-Great ControL1ersy, p. 443.
4. What two events will hasten the closing scenes? What will con·
stitute the last call to mankind before probation closes? What will
the apostatized churches do when they witness the power which
attends the call? Revelation 13: 15.
NOTE: "I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the
Sabbath. They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the com-
mencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost
as we wenth forth and proclamied the Sabbath more fully. This en-
raged the churches and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute
the Sabbath truth. And at this time God's chosen all saw clearly that
we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with
us. I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land.
The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments upon them,
and they rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that
then the evil would be stayed." -Early Writings, p. 33.
"Those who honor the Bible Sabbath will be denounced as enemies
of law and order. as breaking down the moral restraints of society,
causing anarchy and corruption, calling down the judgments of God
upon the earth.. Their conscientious scruples will be pronounced ob-
stinacy, stubborness, and contempt of authority. They will be accused
of disaffection toward the government. Ministers who deny the obliga-
tion of the divine law will present from the pulpit the duty of yielding
obedience to the civil authorities as ordained of God. In legislative halls
and courts of justice, commandment keepers will be misrepresented
and condemned. A false coloring will be given to their words; the
worst construction will be put upon their motives.' -Great Controve'rsy,
p.592.

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 5. What important point should be un~erstood in regard to the identifi-
cation of the true remnant? When will the death decree be issued
against those who refuse to receive the mark of the beast? Revela-
tion 18:4·6; 13:16.
NOTE: "Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As
the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord will
work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who
consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified
rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary
institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth
with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The sins
of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the ob-
servance of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism,
the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power-all will be un-
masked. By these solemn wamings the people will be stirred. Thou-
sands upon thousands will listen who have never heard words like these.
In amazement they hear the testimony that Babylon is the church,
fallen because of her errors and sins, because of her rejection of the
truth sent to her from heaven. As the people go to their former teach-
ers with the eager inquiry, Are these things so? the ministers present
fables, prophesy smooth things, to soothe their fears and quiet the
awakened conscience. But since many refnse to be satisfied with the
mere authority of men and demand a plain 'Thus saith the Lord: the
popular ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their
authority is questioned, will denounce the message as of Satan and stir
up the sin-loving multitudes to revile and persecnte those who pro-
claim it." -Great Controversy, p. 606.
6. At what stage will the Loud Cry commence? Will the Loud Cry
come before or after the image of the beast will be enforced by the
decree?
ANSWER: "As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds
of the people are called to God's downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The
power attllnding the message will only madden those who oppose it.
The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts to shut away the
light lest it should shine upon their flocks. By every means at their com-
mand they will endeavor to suppress the discussion of these vital ques-
tions. The church appeals to the strong arm df civil power, and, in this
work, papists and Protestants unite. As the movement for Sunday en-
forcement becomes more bold and deCided, the law will be invoked
against commandment keepers. They will be threatened with fines and
imprisonment, and some will be offered positions of influence, and other
rewards and advantages, as inducements to renounce their faith. But their
steadfast answer is: 'Show us from the word of God our error'-the same
plea that was made by Luther under similar circumstances. Those who
are arraigned before the courts make a strong vindication of the truth.
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and some who hear them are led to take their stand to keep all the com-
mandments of God. Thus light will be brought before thousands who
otherwise would know nothing of these truths." -Great Controversy, p.
607.
7. When may we say that men will actually receive the mark of the
beast?
ANSWER: "If the light of truth has been presented to you, revealing
the Sabbath of th9 four commandment, and showing that there is no
foundation in the Word of God for Sunday observance, and yet you
still cling to the false Sabbath refusing to keep holy the Sabbath which
God calls 'My holy day,' you receive the mark of the beast. When does
this take place? When you obey the decree that commands you to cease
from labor on Sunday and worship God, while you know that there
is not a word in the Bible showing Sunday to be other than a com-
mon working day, you consent to receive the mark of the beast, and
refuse the seal of God." -Review and Herald, July 13, 1897.
8. What will those who voluntarily uphold the first day of the week
do? Against whom will the death decree be issued? What will the
American nation virtually be doing by issuing the Sunday observ-
ance laws? Revelation 13:16.
NOTE: "Important arC;' the lessons to be learned from the experience
of the Hebrew youth on the plain of Dura. . .. Especially will the wrath
of man be aroused against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth
commandment; and at last a universal decree will denounce these as
deserving of death." -Prophets and Kings, p. 512.
"By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation
of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from right-
eousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to
grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the
abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of
this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its
Constitution as a protestant and republican government, and shall make
provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then
we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of
Satan and that the end is near.
"As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples
of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a
sign to us that the limit of God's foreberance is reached, that the
measure of our nation's iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy
is about to take her flight, never to return. The people of God will
then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress which
the prophets have described as the time of Jacob's trouble. The cries
of the faithful, persecuted ones ascend to heaven. And as th blood
of Abel cried from the ground, there are voices also crying to God
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from martyrs' graves, from the sepulchers of the sea, from mountain
caverns, from convent vaults: 'How long, 0 Lord, holy and true, doest
Thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth."
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 451.
9. What protective armor will be withdrawn from those who at that
time of crisis will take their stand to observe the true Sabbath
and reject the Sunday edict? What are we told regarding the fury
of the dragon, and when will this be literally fulfilled? Revelation
13:17; 12:17.
NOTE: "As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom
against commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of govern-
ment and abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the peo-
ple of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together
in companies, dwelling in the most desolate and solitary places. Many
will find refuge in the strongholds of the mountains. Like the Christians
of the Piedmont valleys, they will make the high places of the earth
their sanctuaries and will thank God for 'the munitions of rocks.' Isaiah
33:16. But many of all nations and of all classes, high and low, rich
and poor, black and white, will be cast into the most unjust and cmel
bondage. The beloved of God pass weary days, bound in chains, shut
in by prison bars, sentenced to be sluin, some apparently left to die of
starvation in dark and loathsome dungeons. No human ear is open to
hear their moans; no human hand is readly to lend them help." -Great
Controversy, p. 626.
"The trying experiences that came to God's people in the days of
Esther were not peculiar to that age alone. The revelator looking down
the ages to the close of time, has declared, 'The dragon was wroth with
the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which
keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus
Christ.' Hevelation 12:17. Some who today are living on the earth will
see these words fulfilled. The same spirit that in ages past led men to
persecute the true church, will in the future lead the pursuance of a
similar course toward those who maintain their loyalty to God. Even
now preparations are being made for this last great conflict." -Prophets
and Kings, p. 605.

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-Notes-

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-Notes-

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