SDARM Qtr. 3 1991 Bible Study

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    Sabba th B ib le Lessons

    DIETETIC REFORM AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH

    Lesson Titles Page

    1 Health a Part of Christianity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Appetite to Be Governed 83 Departure From Original Plan 114 Rules for the Use of Flesh Food 145 Lessons From the Exodus 176 Lessons From the Life of Elijah 217 Health Reform Under Difficulties 248 Flesh Food in the New Testament 279 Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

    10 Understanding a Warning 3311 God Is Testing His People 36

    12 A Test for God's People Now 3913 A Firm Stand Against Meat Eating 42

    Volume 6 6 Number 3

    Th e Sabbath Bible Lessons is published quarterly by the Seventh Day AdventistReform Movement General Conference, Sabbath School Department, 5248 HollinsRoad, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U. S. A.

    Annual subscriptions: U. S. A. $7.00. Other countries $8.00.

    It is printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U. S. A. Telephone (703) 366-9400.

    Send subscription requests and payments in United States currency to the addressbelow. Application to mail at second-class postage rate is pending at Roanoke,VA 24022-9998.

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    FOREWORD

    "Our habits of eating and drinking show whether we are ofthe world or among the number whom the Lord by His mightycleaver of truth has separated from the world."- Testimonies, vol.6, p. 372.

    " I t is possible for one to spoil his spiritual experience by anill-use of the stomach" (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 126). So wemake no apology for bringing this series of lessons Dietetic Reformand Spiritual Growth. We believe that most students will alreadyhave experimental knowledge of the truths presented. However,especially for those newly in the truth and for the interestedsouls, it is good to be familiar with the biblical bases of this aspectof health reform.

    "The health reform is as closely related to the third angel'smessage as the arm to the body; but the arm cannot take theplace of the body. The proclamation of the third angel's message,the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, is theburden of our work. The message is to be proclaimed with a loud

    cry, and is to go to the whole world. The presentation of healthprinciples must be united with this message, but must not in anycase be independent of it, or in any way take the place of it." -Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 75.

    While the message of health reform is not the gospel itself, ifwisely presented it can open the way for the gospel. Many havestrong religious views of their own and are unwilling to considerpresent truth, but are sick. Some simple counsels can prove agreat blessing and bring improvement in health.

    We should always remember that one who adopts the dieteticreform places himself in a position where he is better able to receivethe spiritual light. We have a duty to use every means to advancespiritually that we may have power from on high to bring souls toChrist while there is yet time. We must share with neighbors andfriends the precious blessings that we have received throughhealth reform.

    "Right physical habits promote mental superiority. Intellectual power, physical strength, and longevity depend upon immutable laws."-Ibid. , p. 29.

    The General Conference Sabbath School Department

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    Special Proj ect Offeringfor Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil

    Dear members of the Sabbath School around the world:We come to you with an appeal for a special offering in behalf of our

    Minas Field, Brazil.Minas Gerais (or just Minas), due to its economic power, is the second

    most important state of Brazil. I t has an area of 502,586 km 2 (nearly 200,000square miles) and a population of over 14 million. The state capital, BeloHorizonte, is the third largest city in Brazil, with a little over 3,000,000 peo-ple. The dominant economic activities in the state include primary or extrac-tive industries (agriculture, mining) and manufacturing industries.

    The'work of Reformation in the state of Minas began in the early 1940'sand was organized into a Field several years ago. We have several hundredmembers scattered all over the state. Th e great majority of our members arehumble and poor people. Our income in tithes and offerings is very limited.Sometimes there are not enough funds in the treasury to pay the wages ofthe workers. When this is the case, our workers are forced to do colporteurwork in order to support their families.

    We have our center of operation, with a chapel, in Belo Horizonte. Theproblem now is that our premises are getting too small for our needs. Evenour chapel is not big enough for the growing number of members and visitors.

    Thanks to the sacrifices made by the workers and members of our Field,especially by our local brethren, we have been able to secure a larger build-ing site on which we are planning to build a larger sanctuary. But in order tobegin construction we depend on the help of our brethren and friends through-out the world. Therefore, we appeal to you: Think about the work in Minas,Brazil, and plan ahead to make a special sacrifice at the end of this quarter,in behalf of our project.

    Everything indicates that we are living in the last days of this world'shistory, that the last repentant souls will be brought in very soon, and thatthe work of God on earth will be completed before long. After that, ourworldly treasures will be of no service. We will be blessed if we employ ourmeans in the cause of God now, while the door of God's mercy is still open.Remember that "God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).

    We thank you in advance for your generous help. May the richest bless-ings of God be with you!

    The Minas Field Conference Committee

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    Lesson 1 S ab bath , Ju ly 6 , 1 99 1

    HEALTH A PART OF CHRISTIANITY

    "Keep the work of health reform to t he f ro nt is the message I am instructedto bear. Show so plainly it s value that a widespread need for it will be felt.Abstinence from all hurtful food and drink is the fruit of true religion." - Tes-timonies, vol. 9, p. 113.

    KEY TEXT: "And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thoushalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearkenunto the commandments of the Lord thy God, which I command theethis day, to observe and to do them" (Deuteronomy 28:13).

    SPECIAL LIGHT FOR OUR TIMEo Sunday

    June 30

    1. What promise was m ade to the believers coming out of darkness, and whats ho ul d t he y do? Ephesi ans 5 :14 ; Isaiah 60:1.

    "The followers of Christ are to be the light of the world; bu t God does not bidthem make an effort to shine. He does not approve of any self-satisfied endeavor todisplay superior goodness. He desires that their souls shall be imbued with the principles of heaven; then, as they come in contact with the world, they will reveal thelight that is in them. Their steadfast fidelity in every act of life will be a means of ii-lumination."-The Ministry of Healing, p. 36.

    2. What p la n d id the Lord have for Israel and also fo r Hi s people now? Deuter-onomy 28:13.

    "Their [Israel's] obedience to the laws of God would make them marvels of pros

    perity before the nations of the world. He who could give them wisdom and skill in allcunning work would continue to be their teacher and would ennoble and elevate themthrough obedience to His laws. If obedient, they would be preserved from thediseases that afflicted other nations and would be blessed with vigor of intellect. Theglory of God, His majesty and power, were to be revealed in all their prosperity. Theywere to be a kingdom of priests and princes. God furnished them with every facilityfor becoming the greatest nation on the earth." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 222.

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    FOR OUR OWN SALVATION AND THAT OF OTHERSo Monday

    July 1

    3. What special instruction did the Lord give His disc iples and for what purpose? Matthew 5:14-16 .

    "God has called His church in this day, as He called ancient Israel, to stand as alight in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth, the messages of the first, second, andthird angels, He has separated them from the churches and from the world to bringthem into a sacred nearness to Himself. He has made them the depositaries of His lawand has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this time. Like the holyoracles committed to ancient Israel, these are a sacred trust to be communicated tothe world."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 455.

    "Wonderful is the work which God designs to accomplish through His servants,that His name may be glorified."-Ibid., vol. 6, p. 227.

    4. What is expected of a ll w ho enl is t i n the service of Jesus? Isa iah 43 :10-12 ;Matthew 28:20 .

    "In the preparation of a people for the Lord's second coming a great work is tobe accomplished through the promulgation of health principles. The people are to beinstructed in regard to the needs of the physical organism and the value of healthfulliving as taught in the Scriptures, that the bodies which God has created may be pre-sented to Him a living sacrifice, fitted to render Him acceptable service."-Testimonies,vol. 6, p. 224.

    GOOD HEALTH A BLESSING o TuesdayJuly 25. For what reason did Jesus say He had come, and how do we know tha t this

    was not to be understood only in a spiritual sense? John 10:10 ( las t part ) ;Matthew 14 :34-36 .

    "The people should be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is trans-gression of the laws of God. They should be taught the truth in physical as well as inspiritual lines that ' the fear of the Lord tendeth to life.' Proverbs 19:23."- Testimonies,vol. 6, pp. 224, 225.

    6. What scripture did Jesus use to outline the comprehensive nature of Hismission? What example of the fulfillment did He give tha t very evening?Luke 4:17-19 , 21, 3 8 - 4 0 .

    NO SUBSTITUTE FOR PRACTICAL WORKo Wednesday

    July 3

    7. What makes it quite clear tha t obedience to the divine plan will benefit

    health? Proverbs 4 :20-22 .

    "Not until the last sufferer had been relieved did Jesus cease His work. I t was farinto the night when the multitude departed and silence settled down upon the home ofSimon."-The Ministry of Healing, pp. 29, 30.

    8. How is the work of Jesus described by Pe te r? Act s 10:38.

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    "He [Christ] came to represent God to men, and of Him it is written that He wasanointed 'with the Holy Ghost and with power,' and 'went about doing good.' Acts10:38 . . . . This was the work He commissioned His disciples to do."-Christ's ObjectLessons, pp. 416, 417.

    "Thus in the night of spiritual darkness God's glory is to shine forth through Hischurch in lifting up the bowed down and comforting those that mourn.

    "All around us are heard the wails of a world's sorrow. On every hand are theneedy and distressed. I t is ours to aid in relieving and softening life's hardships andmisery.

    "Practical work will have far more effect than mere sermonizing. We are to givefood to the hungry, clothing to the naked, and shelter to the homeless. And we arecalled to do more than this. The wants of the soul, only the love of Christ can satisfy.I f Christ is abiding in us, our hearts will be full of divine sympathy. The sealed fountains of earnest, Christlike love will be unsealed."-Ibid., p. 417.

    HEALTH KNOWLEDGE A TRUST

    o ThursdayJuly

    4

    9. What examples show us what shou ld be o u r d u ty when we receive the knowle dg e o f t rue health reform? John 1 : 4 0 , 4 1 , 4 5 .

    "There is a message regarding health reform to be borne in every church . . . ."The subject of health reform has been presented in the churches; but the light

    has not been heartily received. Th e selfish, health-destroying indulgences of men andwomen have counteracted the influence of the message that is to prepare a people forthe great day of God."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 370.

    10. What is the reaction of so me to precious b le ss ings when i t i s r ev ea le d tha tsome self-denial is entailed? L uk e 4 :2 2, 2 8, 29.

    " I f the churches expect strength, they must live the truth which God has giventhem. I f the members of our churches disregard the light on this subject, they willreap the sure result in both spiritual and physical degeneracy. And the influence ofthese older church members will leaven those newly come to the faith. The Lord doesnot now work to bring many souls into the truth, because of the church members whohave never been converted and those who were once converted but who have backslidden. What influence would these unconsecrated members have on new converts?Would they not make of no effect the God-given message which His people are tobear?"- Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 370, 371.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo Friday

    July 5

    a. What special privilege is prophesied for our time?

    b. How is God to be glorified in and by Hi s followers?

    c. What e vid en ce in the New Testament shows the concern of God for thephysical health of His people?

    d. How does physi ca l h ea lt h r el at e t o salvation?

    e. What warning is given to those who are not willing to accept and teachhealth reform?

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    Lesson 2 S ab b at h, J u ly 13 , 1 9 9 1

    APPETITE TO BE GOVERNED

    "All who indulge the appeti te , waste the physical energies, and weaken themora l power, will sooner or later feel t h e r e tr ib u ti o n tha t follows the trans

    gression of physical law."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 161.

    KEY TEXT: "But he [Jesus] answered and said, I t is written, Man shall not live bybread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth ofGod" (Matthew 4:4).

    FALL AND RECOVERYD Sunday

    July 7

    1. On what points was Satan successful in overcoming the f irs t family in Eden?Genesis 3:6.

    "As our first parents lost Eden through the indulgence of appetite, our only hopeof regaining Eden is through the firm denial of appetite and passion. Abstemiousnessin diet and control of all the passions will preserve the intellect and give mental andmoral vigor, enabling men to bring all their propensities under the control of the higherpowers and to discern between right and wrong, the sacred and the common."- Testi-monies, vol. 3, p. 491.

    2. What exper ience should the believers make during the ant i typical day ofatonement? Leviticus 23:29; Joel 2:12--17.

    "W e should teach our children what the typical Day of Atonement signified andthat it was a special season of great humiliation and confession of sins before God.The antitypical day of atonement is to be of the same character. Everyone whoteaches the truth by precept and example will give the trumpet a certain sound. Youneed ever to cultivate spirituality, because it is not natural for you to be heavenlyminded. The great work is before us of leading the people away from wordly customsand practices, up higher and higher, to spirituality, piety, and earnest work for God."

    - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 520.

    CHRIST'S EXAMPLED Monday

    July 8

    3. How strongly w as C hr is t t em pt ed on this point, a nd w ha t made it possiblefor S atan to increase the intensity of the test? Matthew 4 : 1 - 3 .

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    "Christ thus entered upon His life of conflict to overcome the mighty foe, inbearing the very test Adam failed to endure, that, through successful conflict, Hemight break the power of Satan, and redeem the race from the disgrace of the Fall."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 272.

    4. W hat im portant t ru th was revealed in t he a ns w er given by Christ? What instruct ion was He repeating? Matthew 4:4 ; Deuteronomy 8:3.

    "Of all the lessons to be learned from our Lord's first great temptation none ismore important than that bearing upon the control of the appetites and passions. In allages, temptations appealing to the physical nature have been most effectual in corrupting and degrading mankind. Through intemperance, Satan works to destroy the mentaland moral powers that God gave to man as a priceless endowment. Thus it becomes im-possible for men to appreciate things of eternal worth. Through sensual indulgence,Satan seeks to blot from the soul every trace of likeness to God."- The Desire 0/ Ages,p.122.

    THE CREATOR'S FIRST MODIFICATION OF DIETD Tuesday

    July 9

    5. What was the diet p ro vi de d f or man in the beginning and what do weunderstand from this in modern language? Genesis 1:29.

    "The Lord will give His people wisdom to prepare from that which the earthyields, foods that will take the place of flesh meat. Simple combinations of nuts andgrains and fruits, manufactured with taste and skill, will commend themselves tounbelievers."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 269.

    6. What addition to the diet w as m ad e to counteract the influence of the Fall?What m ay we learn from th is? Genes is 3:18; P sa lm 1 04 :1 4 .

    "Fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared in a simple way, free from spice andgrease of all kinds, make, with milk and cream, the most healthful diet. They impartnourishment to the body, and give a power of endurance and a vigor of intellect thatare not produced by a stimulating diet."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 321.

    OCCUPATIONAL THERAPYD Wednesday

    July 10

    7. W h at i m po rt an t feature, the importance of which is only l at ely realized,was closely associated with the first modification of the diet? Genesis 3:19;Ecclesiastes 1:13.

    "Many have inquired of me, What course shall I take best to preserve my health?My answer is, Cease to transgress the laws of your being; cease to gratify a depraved

    appetite, eat simple food, dress healthfully, which will require modest simplicity,work healthfully, and you will not be sick."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 85.

    8. Wha t two things contribu ted to the moral depravity of Sodom? E ze kie l16:49 ( f ir s t part ) .

    "The reason the youth have so little strength of brain and muscle is because theydo so little in the line of usefullabor."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 96.

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    "Y ou have been blind to the power that the enemy had over your children.Household labor, even to weariness, would not have hurt them one-fiftieth part asmuch as indolent habits have done. They would have escaped many dangers had theybeen instructed at an earlier period to occupy their time with useful labor. Theywould not have contracted such a restless disposition, such a desire for change and togo into society."-Ibid., pp. 97, 98.

    B EN EF IT S O F ADEQUATE B UT L IG HT DIETD Thursday

    July 11

    9. What particularly did the Israelites notice with the manna, in contrast totheir experience when sitting by th e flesh pots? How long was it their customto sit there? Exodus 1 6:3 , 1 5, 31.

    "Had [the children of Israel] been willing to deny appetite in obedience to Hisrestrictions, feebleness and disease would have been unknown among them. Theirdescendants would have possessed physical and mental strength. They would havehad clear perceptions of truth and duty, keen discrimination, and sound judgment.But they were unwilling to submit to God's requirements, and they failed to reach thestandard He had se t for them, and to receive the blessings that might have been theirs."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 378.

    10. What is mentioned in the New Testament before drunkenness? How seriously was the sin of gluttony regarded in Old Testament times? Matthew11:19; Deuteronomy 21:18-21 .

    "Many professed health reformers are nothing less than gluttons. They lay uponthe digestive organs so great a burden that the vitality of the system is exhausted inthe effort to dispose of it. I t also has a depressing influence upon the intellect, for thebrain nerve power is called upon to assist the stomach in its work. Overeating, even ofthe simplest food, benumbs the sensitive nerves of the brain and weakens its vitality.Overeating has a worse effect upon the system than overworking; the energies of thesoul are more effectually prostrated by intemperate eating than by intemperate working."- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 412.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD

    FridayJuly 12

    a. What is expected of the people of God regarding their diet in the antitypicalday of atonement?

    b. How did Christ demonstrate the importance of controlling appetite?

    c. What change was made by God in the diet a ft er t he Fall?

    d. What else did God give men after the Fall to help preserve good health?

    e. What is a danger even fo r health reformers?

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    Lesson 3 S a bb at h, J ul y 20 , 1991

    DEPARTURE FROM ORIGINAL PLAN

    "With our first parents, intemperate desire resulted in the loss of Eden. Tem-perance in all things has more to do w ith o ur restoration to Eden than menrealize." - The Minis try o f Healing, p. 129.

    KEY TEXT: "And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, andthat every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5).

    STEPS DOWNWARDo Sunday

    July 14

    MEN ARE MULTIPLIED

    1. After Cain's ter r ib le crime, what did he do instead of seeking repentance?Genesis 4:16 .

    "Notwithstanding that Cain had by his crimes merited the sentence of death, amerciful Creator still spared his life, and granted him opportunity for repentance. ButCain lived only to harden his heart, to encourage rebellion against the divine authority, and to become the head of a line of bold, abandoned sinners. This one apostate,led on by Satan, became a tempter to others; and his example and influence exertedtheir demoralizing power, until the earth became so corrupt and filled with violence asto call for its destruction." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 78.

    2. What did he build contrary to th e instruction that the people were to spreadand fill the earth? Genesis 4: 17.

    "Upon receiving the curse of God, Cain had withdrawn from his father's household. He had first chosen his occupation as a tiller of the soil, and he now founded a city,calling it after the name of his eldest son. He had gone out from the presence of theLord, cast away the promise of the restored Eden, to seek his possessions and enjoyment in the earth under the curse of sin, thus standing at the head of that great classof men who worship the god of this world."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 81.

    o MondayJuly 15

    3. How wa s polygamy introduced? What crime was soon repeated? Genesis4 : 1 9 , 2 3 .

    "To the crime of murder, in which Cain had led the way, Lamech, the fifth indescent, added polygamy, and, boastfully defiant, he acknowledged God, only to draw

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    Less on 4 Sabba th , J u ly 2 7 , 1 9 91

    A FTER T HE FLOOD

    FLESH PERMITTED AS FOOD

    RULES FOR THE USE OF FLESH FOOD

    "Upon t he ir s e tt le m e nt in Canaan, the Israelites were p e rm i tt ed t he use ofan imal food, bu t unde r careful restrictions which tended to le ss en the evilresults ,"-The Ministry of Healing, pp. 3 11 , 3 1 2 .

    KEY TEXT: "It shall be a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all yourdwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood" (Leviticus 3:17).

    o SundayJuly 21

    1 . What was the condition of t he e ar th after the flood waters receded? Genesis8:13, 14.

    "The earth presented an appearance of confusion and desolation impossible todescribe. The mountains, once so beautiful in their perfect symmetry, had become broken and irregular. Stones, ledges, and ragged rocks were now scattered upon the surface of the earth. In many places hills and mountains had disappeared, leaving no tracewhere they once stood; and plains had given place to mountain ranges. These changeswere more marked in some places than in others."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 108.

    2. How many pairs of clean animals and how many of the unc lean animal s

    were d irec ted by the L or d i nto the ark? What were the only animals killedfor sacrif ice? Genesis 7:2.

    "At last an angel descended from heaven, opened the massive door [of the ark],and bade the patriarch and his household go forth upon the earth and take with themevery living thing. In the joy of their release Noah did not forget Him by whose gracious care they had been preserved. His first act after leaving the ark was to build analtar and offer from every kind of clean beast and fowl a sacrifice, thus manifesting hisgratitude to God for deliverance and his faith in Christ, the great sacrifice. This offering was pleasing to the Lord; and a blessing resulted, not only to the patriarch and hisfamily, but to all who should live upon the earth. "-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 105, 106.

    o MondayJuly 22

    3. W hat addition to the d ie t w as permit ted in t hi s t im e when vegetation wasyet to be fully reestablished? Genesis 9:2, 3.

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    "The diet appointed man in the beginning did not include animal food. Not tillafter the Flood, when every green thing on the earth had been destroyed, did manreceive permission to eat flesh." - The Ministry of Healing, p. 311.

    4. How may we know tha t this permission appl ies only to animals, birds andfishes classified as clean? What wonderful provision did the Lord make sotha t there was provision for sacrifices and food without killing off a species?Deuteronomy 1 4: 3; A ct s 10:14.

    "Beasts of every description, the fiercest as well as the most gentle, were seencoming from mountain and forest and quietly making their way toward the ark. Anoise as of a rushing wind was heard, and 10, birds were flocking from all directions,their numbers darkening the heavens, and in perfect order they passed to the ark.Animals obeyed the command of God, while men were disobedient. Guided by holyangels, they 'went in two and two unto Noah into the ark,' and the clean beasts by

    .sevens." -Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 97, 98.

    IDENTIFICATION OF CLEAN A ND U NC LE AN o TuesdayJuly 235. What general classification enabled the clean and unclean animals to be

    identified? Leviticus 11 :2 -8 ; Deuteronomy 14:3-8 .

    "Upon their settlement in Canaan, the Israelites were permitted the use of animalfood, but under careful restrictions which tended to lessen the evil results. The use ofswine's flesh was prohibited, as also of other animals and of birds and fish whose fleshwas pronounced unclean."-The Ministry of Healing, pp. 311, 312.

    6. What is the general classification of clean and u nc le an w it h r ef er en ce tofishes and birds? Levit icus 11:9-20; Deuteronomy 14:9-19 .

    "The Angel's prohibition included 'every unclean thing.' Th e distinction betweenarticles of food as clean and unclean was not a merely ceremonial and arbitraryregulation, but was based upon sanitary principles. To the observance of this distinction may be traced, in a great degree, the marvelous vitality which for thousands ofyears has distinguished the Jewish people."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 562.

    o WednesdayFAT AND BLOOD FORBIDDEN July 247. W ha t r ul e applied to the fat even before the dangers of cholesterol in diet

    were discovered? How long is this rule to apply? Leviticus 3:16 , 1 7; 7 :2 3.

    "O f the meats permitted, the eating of the fat and the blood was strictly forbidden."-The Ministry of Healing, p. 312.

    "You have used the fat of animals, which God in His word expressly forbids:[Leviticus 3:17 quoted]."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 61.

    8. W hat was the reason given for the prohibition of blood? Genesis 9:4; Leviticus 17:11-14 .

    "Only such animals could be used for food as were in good condition. No creaturethat was torn, that had died of itself, or from which the blood had not been carefullydrained, could be used as food."-The Ministry of Healing, p. 312.

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    RESULTS OF THE USE OF FLESHD Thursday

    July 25

    9. Although the average age of t he pa tr i archs up to the t ime of the Flood wasover 900 , what was it in the t ime of David? Genesis 5: 5, 8 , 11, 14, 17 ,27 ,3 1; P salm 9 0:1 0.

    "Men before the Flood lived many hundred of years, and when one hundred yearsold they were considered but youths. Those long-lived men had sound minds in soundbodies. Their mental and physical strength was so great that the present feeble generation can bear no comparison to them. Those ancients had nearly one thousand yearsin which to acquire knowledge. They came upon the stage of action from the ages ofsixty to one hundred years, about the time those who now live the longest have actedtheir part in their little short life time, and have passed off the stage. Those who aredeceived, and flattered on in the delusion that the present is an age of real progress,and that the human race has been in ages past progressing in true knowledge, areunder the influence of the father of lies, whose work has ever been to turn the truth ofGod into a l i e . " - T h e SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments],vol. 1, pp. 1089, 1090.

    "After the flood the people ate largely of animal food. God saw that the ways ofman were corrupt, and that he was disposed to exalt himself proudly against his Creator and to follow the inclinations of his own heart. And He permitted that long-livedrace to eat animal food to shorten their sinful lives. Soon after the flood the race beganto rapidly decrease in size, and in length of years." -Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 373.

    10. W h a t n at ur e, against which all have t o b at tl e, is strengthened particularlyby the use of f le sh as food? Galatians 5 :1 6, 1 7, 1 9 - 2 1 .

    "A diet of flesh meat tends to develop animalism. A development of animalismlessens spirituality, rendering the mind incapable of understanding truth."-Counselson Diet and Foods, p. 382.

    "The system must be nourished. Yet we do not hesitate to say that flesh meat isnot necessary for health or strength. If used it is because a depraved appetite cravesit. I ts use excites the animal propensities to increased activity and strengthens theanimal passions. When the animal propensities are increased, the intellectual andmoral powers are decreased. The use of the flesh of animals tends to cause a grossnessof body and benumbs the fine sensibilities of the mind."- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 63.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD Friday

    July 26

    a. What conditions were prevailing when God permitted flesh to be used forfood?

    b. What provision w as m ade by God for both sacrifice and food, and also thepreservation of the various s pe ci es o f c le an animals?

    c. What difference must be recognized i n an ima ls , fishes and birds?

    d. What fixed rule concerning the use of flesh is o fte n i gn ore d b y those whouse it?

    e. What is one of the most serious results from the use of flesh?

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    Lesson 5 S a bb a th , A u g us t 3, 1991

    LESSONS FROM THE EXODUS

    "The same God who gave the ch ild ren of Israel manna from heaven lives andreigns. He will give skill and understanding in the preparation of healthfoods."- Counsels on D ie t a nd Foods, p. 268.

    KEY TEXT: "And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul"(Psalm 106:15).

    IN THE WILDERNESSo Sunday

    July 28

    1. When Israel was led out from slavery i n E gy pt into t he b ar re n desert, what

    food was provided for th em a nd what was i t like? Exodus 16 :14-16 ; Numbers 11:7.

    "God was not unmindful of the wants of Israel. He said to their leader, 'I will rainbread from heaven for you.' And directions were given that the people gather a dailysupply, with a double amount on the sixth day, that the sacred observance of the Sabbath might be maintained. "-Patr iarchs and Prophets, p. 294.

    2. In what ways could it be prepared to provide variety? How m an y w er e supplied with it ? Exodus 16:23 ,31 .

    "The people gathered the manna, and found that there was an abundant supplyfor all."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 295.

    THE MANNAo Monday

    July 29

    3. When the Lord p lanned t o t r ans fo rm t h is na tion of s laves into Hi s children,what food was deemed most conducive to their spiritual development?Psalm 78:24 , 25 (first part).

    "When the Lord led the children of Israel from Egypt, He purposed to establishthem in Canaan a pure, happy, healthy people. Let us study the plan of God, and seehow this was accomplished. He restricted their diet. To a large degree, He took fleshfood from them. But they hankered after the fleshpots of Egypt, and God gave themflesh, and with it the sure result ." -Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 406.

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    "The state of the mind has largely to do with the health of the body, and especially with the health of the digestive organs. As a general thing, the Lord did not provideHis people with flesh meat in the desert, because He knew that the use of this dietwould create disease and insubordination. In order to modify the disposition, and bringthe higher powers of the mind into active exercise, He removed from them the fleshof dead animals. He gave them angels' food, manna from heaven."-The SDA Bible

    Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, pp. 1112, 1113." I t was Christ Himself who had led the Hebrews through the wilderness, and haddaily fed them with the bread from heaven. That food was a type of the real breadfrom heaven. Th e life-giving Spirit, flowing from the infinite fullness of God, is thetrue manna."-The Desire of Ages, p. 386.

    4. What miraculous benefi ts derived from this food of heavenly origin? Deuter-onomy 8:4; Nehemiah 9:21 .

    "He [the Lord] brought the Israelites out of Egypt and undertook their training,that they might be a people for His own possession. Through them He desired to blessand teach the world. He provided them with the food best adapted for this purpose, notflesh, but manna, ' the bread of heaven.' I t was only because of their discontent andtheir murmuring for the fleshpots of Egypt that animal food was granted them, andthis only for a short time. Its use brought disease and death to thousands. Yet the restriction to a nonflesh diet was never heartily accepted. It continued to be the cause ofdiscontent and murmuring, open or secret, and it was not made permanent."-TheMinistry of Healing, p. 311.

    SUFFICIENT FOR PHYSICAL NEEDSo Tuesday

    July 30

    5. Although everyone had enough to eat, what was the objection raised bythose accus tomed to ea t till t he y w er e full? Exodus 16:3.

    "They were directed to gather daily an orner for every person; and they were notto leave of it until the morning. Some attempted to keep a supply until the next day,but it was then found to be unfit for food." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 295.

    6. W hat sin did Jesus mention connect ed wi th drunkenness? What caution isgiven in P ro v er bs a ga in st t h is sin? Matthew 2 4 :3 8 ; P ro v er bs 23:21.

    "Christ has left us here [Matthew 24:37-39; Luke 17:28-30] a most importantlesson. He would lay before us the danger of making our eating and drinking paramount. He presents the result of unrestrained indulgence of appetite. The moralpowers are enfeebled, so that sin does not appear sinful."-Counsels on Health, p. 24.

    AWAY FROM A F LE SH D IE To Wednesday

    July 31

    7. How many years was t he m a nn a provided for I s rae l and what was t h e r e su l tof this diet tha t they esteemed so lightly? E x od u s 1 6: 35 ; Joshua 5:12.

    "The wilderness wandering was not only ordained as a judgment upon the rebelsand murmurers, but it was to serve as a discipline for the rising generation, preparatory to their entrance into the Promised Land."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 407.

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    "[God] removed flesh food from [the children of Israel] in a great measure. Hehad granted them flesh in answer to their clamors, just before reaching Sinai, but itwas furnished for only one day. God might have provided flesh as easily as manna,bu t a restriction was placed upon the people for their good. I t was His purpose to supply them with food better suited to their wants than the feverish diet to which many ofthem had been accustomed in Egypt. The perverted appetite was to be brought into amore healthy state, that they might enjoy the food originally provided for man-thefruits of the earth, which God gave to Adam and Eve in Eden." -Counsels on Diet andFoods, p. 378.

    8. During the whole for ty yea rs , how m a ny t im e s and for how m a ny d ay s wasflesh provided to appease their lust? Exodus 16:12, 13; Numbers 11 : 1 82 0 , 3 2 .

    "At nightfall the camp [of Israel] was surrounded by vast flocks of quails, enoughto supply the entire company."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 295.

    "At the giving of the manna, just before Israel reached Sinai, the Lord had grantedthem flesh in answer to their clamors; bu t it was furnished them for only one day."-Ibid., p. 378.

    "[Numbers 11:31, R.V. quoted.] All that day and night, and the following day,the people labored in gathering the food miraculously provided. Immense quantitieswere secured. 'He that gathered least gathered ten homers. ' All that was not neededfor present use was preserved by drying, so that the supply, as promised, was sufficient for a whole month."-Ibid., p. 382.

    GOD'S PURPOSE FULFILLEDo Thursday

    August 1

    9. What was the immediate effect on those g ui lt y o f lusting for flesh? Psalm7 8 : 1 8 , 2 6 - 3 2 .

    "God gave the people that which was not for their highest good, because theypersisted in desiring it; they would not be satisfied with those things that would provea benefit to them. Their rebellious desires were gratified, but they were left to sufferthe result. They feasted without restraint, and their excesses were speedily punished.'The Lord smote the people with a very great plague.' Large numbers were cut downby burning fevers, while the most guilty among them were smitten as soon as theytasted the food for which they had lusted."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 382.

    10. What was the effect of flesh food in contrast with the plan of God? What lesson may be learned by all who wish to bet ter manage their appetites, lustsand passions? Psalm 106:14, 15; 1 C or in th ia ns 1 0: 6, 11.

    " I f the Israelites had been given the diet to which they had been accustomedwhile in Egypt, they would have exhibited the unmanageable spirit that the world isexhibiting today. In the diet of men and women in this age there are included manythings that the Lord would not have permitted the children of Israel to eat. The humanfamily as it is today is an illustration of what the children of Israel would have been ifGod had allowed them to eat the food and follow the habits and customs of the Egypt ians."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1102.

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    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo Friday

    August 2

    a. What was manna and h ow c ou ld it be prepared for variety?

    b. What blessings were to der ive f rom the manna?

    c. W hy w ere the people unsat i sf ied wi th a specific though adequate portioneach day?

    d. Compare the t ime the manna was given with the t ime when the quails weregiven, and explain what God w as trying to teach th em a nd us.

    e. What will be the result if we take the lesson to hear t?

    **

    **

    *

    (Continued from page 13)

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

    o FridayJuly 19

    a. What w as th e re su lt o f C ai n going out from the presence of the Lord?b. What resulted from polygamy and the disregard for life b oth h um an and

    animal?

    c. What clearly d em o ns tr at es t he poss ib i li ty of following the divine plan inthis dark period?

    d. How was Satan a bl e t o p er su ad e the sons of God a lso?

    e. What tangible warning was given to persuade the people while their proba-tion w as n ot closed?

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    "After [Elijah's] first appearance to Ahab, denouncing upon him the judgmentsof God because of his and Israel's apostasy, God directed his course from Jezebel'spower to a place of safety in the mountains, by the brook Cherith. There He honoredElijah by sending food to him morning and evening by an angel of heaven."- Testimo-nies, vol. 3, p. 288.

    4. What was the next step, and w hat w as h is diet now? 1 Kings 17:8-16 .

    "Those who are to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ are represented by faithful Elijah, as John came in the spirit of Elijah to prepare the way forChrist's first advent. The great subject of reform is to be agitated, and the public mindis to be stirred. Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turnthe people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, and their extravagance in dressand other things."- Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 62.

    THE GREAT CLIMAXo Tuesday

    August 6'1

    I

    5. For w h at g re at w or k was Elijah being prepared, and to what decision did hebring the people? 1 Kings 18: 17-21 .

    "Israel had voluntarily separated herself from Jehovah, yet the Lord in compassion still yearned after those who had been led into sin, and He was about to send tothem one of the mightiest of His prophets, through whom many were to be led back toallegiance to the God of their fathers."-Prophets and Kings, p. 116.

    6. After the people had been b ro u gh t t o a decision for God, and Elijah had slaineight hundred and fifty false prophets , w h at a rd uo u s duty did he then perform? 1 Kings 18:45 , 46.

    [Carmel to Jezreel is about twenty miles or thirty-two kilometers.]"A s [the king] journeyed toward the royal city through the darkness and the blind

    ing rain, Ahab was unable to see his way before him. Elijah, who, as the prophet ofGod, had that day humiliated Ahab before his subjects and slain his idolatrous priests,still acknowledged him as Israel's king; and now, as an act of homage, and strengthened by the power of God, he ran before the royal chariot, guiding the king to the en

    trance of the city."-Prophets and Kings, p. 158.

    THE REACTIONo Wednesday

    August 7

    7. After t he s tr ik in g events of the previous day, what reaction c am e i nt o theexperience of Elijah? What may w e l ea rn f ro m h is experience? 1 Kings 19: 1-4 .

    "But a reaction such as frequently follows high faith and glorious success waspressing upon Elijah. He feared that the reformation begun on Carmel might not be

    lasting; and depression seized him. He had been exalted to Pisgah's top; now he wasin the valley. While under the inspiration of the Almighty, he had stood the severesttrial of faith; but in this time of discouragement, with Jezebel's threat sounding in hisears, and Satan still apparently prevailing through the plotting of this wicked woman,he lost his hold on God. He had been exalted above measure, and the reaction was tremendous. Forgetting God, Elijah fled on and on, until he found himself in a drearywaste, alone."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 161, 162. .

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    8. What miraculous provision was made by the Lord for the p hy si ca l n ee d o fHis servant? How long was he sustained by this? 1 Kings 19:5-8 .

    "Did God forsake Elijah in his hour of trial? Oh, no! He loved His servant no lesswhen Elijah felt himself forsaken of God and man than when, in answer to his prayer,fire flashed from heaven and illuminated the mountaintop. And now, as Elijah slept, asoft touch and a pleasant voice awoke him . . . . God had sent an angel from heavenwith food for His servant.

    " 'And he arose, and did eat and drink;' and in the strength of that food he wasable to journey 'forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God,' where hefound refuge in a cave."-Prophets and Kings, p. 166.

    W RI TT EN F OR OUR LEARNINGo Thursday

    AugustS

    , 9. What lesson should we learn before the t ime of Jacob' s t roub le shal l come

    upon us? Isaiah 33:15, 16.

    "The Lord has shown me repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to make anyprovision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble . . . . Then will be the time forus to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and water willbe sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger; for God is able tospread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would send ravens to feed us,as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven, as He did for the Israelites."-Early Writings, p. 56.

    10. W h a t t hr ee dist inct s teps seen in the diet of Elijah i l lu s tr a te the experienceof t rue Reformers? What preparat ion should be m ade for the final trials?Psalms 15:1-5 ; 91:1, 2, 11.

    Answer:First step: the diet consisted of bread, flesh and water.Second step: bread, oil and water. No flesh.Third step: bread and water only, provided by heavenly agencies.

    "From Elijah's experience during those days of discouragement and apparentdefeat there are many lessons to be drawn, lessons invaluable to the servants of Godin this age, marked as it is by general departure from right. The apostasy prevailingtoday is similar to that which in the prophet's day overspread Israel."-Prophets andKings, p. 170.

    .. REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD Friday

    August 9

    a. Why should we be particularly familiar with the life and experience of Elijah?

    b. How did God protect and prepare Elijah for his great work?c. What simple diet gave E li jah the physical strength for the e ve nt s o n M ou nt

    Carmel and the j ou rn ey t o Jezreel?

    d. What lesson may we learn from the experience of Moses and o f E li jah?

    e. What part icular lesson will help in the t ime of trouble?

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    Lesson 7 Sabba th , Augus t 17 , 19 91

    HEALTH REFORM UNDER DIFFICULTIES

    "When [God's people] break aw ay from all health-des troying indulgences,they will have a clearer perception of what consti tutes t rue godliness. A won- Iderful change will be seen in the religious experience." - Counsels on D ie t a nd

    Foods, p. 34.

    KEY TEXT: "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himselfwith the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank:therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might notdefile himself" (Daniel 1:8).

    KNOWLEDGE INCREASED IN OUR TIMEo SundayAugust 11

    1. What was prophesied concerning the knowledge in general, and of the prophe cies in particular? Daniel 12:4 ( last part ).

    "As we near the close of this world's history, the prophecies recorded by Danieldemand our special attention, as they relate to the very time in which we are living.With them should be linked the teachings of the last book of the New Testament Scriptures."-Prophets and Kings, p. 547.

    2. W he n w as the book of Daniel to be unsea led? How may this tim e be identified? Daniel 12:4 (second part).

    "The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion ofthe prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days . . . . The book of Daniel is nowunsealed, and the revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants ofthe earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days. "-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 105.

    PROBLEM OF DIETo Monday

    August 12

    3. When Daniel a nd h is companions were taken captive to Babylon, what wasone of their first problems? Daniel 1:5, 8 (first part).

    "At the very outset of their career there came to [Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael andAzariah] a decisive test of character. I t was provided that they should eat of the foodand drink of the wine that came from the king's table. In this the king thought to give

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    them an expression of his favor and of his solicitude for their welfare."-Prophets andKings, p. 481.

    "Those who will not eat and drink from principle, will not be governed by principle in other things."-Healthful Living, p. 76.

    4. Instead of compromis ing, how did they meet the problem in a way that Godcould bless? Daniel 1:8 ( las t part ), 9.

    "Even a mere pretense of eating the food or drinking the wine would be a denial of[the Hebrew youth's] faith. To do this would be to array themselves with heathenismand to dishonor the principles of the law of God."-Prophets and Kings, p. 481.

    o TuesdayA POPULAR OPINION August 13

    5. What sincere objection w as r ai se d by the officer-in-charge w ho fea re d forhis life? Why would a similar objection be raised even in modern times?Daniel 1:10.

    " 'God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eu-nuchs,' and the request that he might not defile himself was received with respect. Yetthe prince hesitated to grant it. 'I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meatand your drink,' he explained to Daniel; 'for why should he see your faces worse likingthan the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head tothe king.' "-Prophets and Kings, p. 483.

    "Like many at the present day, he thought that an abstemious diet would renderthese youth pale and sickly in appearance and deficient in muscular strength, whilethe luxurious food from the king's table would make them ruddy and beautiful, andwould impart superior physical activity."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 31.

    6. What test was arranged for a shor t period? Daniel 1 : 11 - 1 4 .

    "Daniel then appealed to Melzar, the officer in special charge of the Hebrewyouth, requesting that they might be excused from eating the king's meat and drinking his wine. He asked that the matter be tested by a ten days' trial, the Hebrew youthduring this time being supplied with simple food, while their companions ate of theking's dainties.

    "Melzar, though fearful that by complying with this request he would incur thedispleasure of the king, nevertheless consented; and Daniel knew that his case waswon."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 483, 484.

    7. What foods are signified by the t er m " pu ls e" (in the AV), "herbs" (in theRV)? Daniel 1:12, 16.

    Jr

    THE RESULTS FROM T HE F IR ST TESTo Wednesday

    August 14

    [From zero'im, the Hebrew word meaning "plants," "vegetables."]"The mind must invent, work, and wrestle, in order to give hardness and vigor

    to the intellect; and if the physical organs are not kept in the most healthful conditionby substantial, nourishing food, the brain does not receive its portion of nutrition towork. Daniel understood this, and he brought himself to a plain, simple, nutritiousdiet, and refused the luxuries of the king's table." -Fundamentals of Christian Education,pp. 226, 227.

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    8. What was the resul t of the test? Daniel 1:1 5, 1 6.

    "As a result, Daniel and his associates were permitted to continue their simplediet during their entire course of training."-Prophets and Kings, p. 484.

    BENEFITS FROM SIMPLE DIET

    D Thursday

    August 159. How were the results of this test even more spec tacu la r ly confirmed three

    years later? What grades did these students gain in c o mp a ri so n w it h theothers? Daniel 1:17-20.

    "When the time came for the youth in training to be tested, the Hebrews wereexamined, with other candidates, for the service of the kingdom. But 'among them allwas found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.' Their keen comprehension, their wide knowledge, their choice and exact language, testified to the unim

    paired strength and vigor of their mental powers. 'In all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all themagicians and astrologers that were in all his realm;' 'therefore stood they before theking.' "-Prophets and Kings, p. 485.

    10. F or w h at reason did the Lord cause th i s nar ra t ive to be included with Daniel 'sprophecies in the Bible? 1 C or in th ia ns 1 0: 11 ; R om an s 1 5: 4.

    "As the Lord cooperated with Daniel and his fellows, so He will cooperate withall who strive to do His will. And by the impartation of His Spirit He will strengthen

    every true purpose, every noble resolution. Those who walk in the path of obediencewill encounter many hindrances. Strong, subtle influences may bind them to theworld; but the Lord is able to render futile every agency that works for the defeat ofHis chosen ones; in His strength they may overcome every temptation, conquer everydifficulty."-Prophets and Kings, p. 487.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD FridayAugust 16

    a. What is th e m ost important knowledge in our day?

    b. What is on e of the f ir st p ro b le m s w he n visiting or being away from home orf ro m G od 's people?

    c. What popular opinion still prevails and why?

    d. What significant resul t confirmed the purpose of the faithful young men?

    e. What outs tanding resul t confirmed the divine plan for our living?

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    Lesson 8 S a b ba th , A u gu st 2 4 , 1991

    FLESH FOOD IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

    "We a re h ea lth reformers, seeking to come back, as far as possible, to theLord's original plan o f t em p er an ce . Te mp er an ce does not consist merely inabstaining from intoxicating liquors and tobacco; i t extends farther than this.I t mus t regulate wha t we eat," - Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 406.

    KEY TEXT: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to theglory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).

    NEW TESTAMENT RESTRICTION

    o SundayAugust 18

    1. When the question of ceremonial law and the use of flesh threatened to divide the church, what was done? What was the decision of the f i rs t genera lconference? Acts 1 5 : 1 , 2 , 2 0 , 2 8 , 2 9 .

    "In the church at Antioch the consideration of the question of circumcision resulted in much discussion and contention. Finally, the members of the church, fearingthat a division among them would be the outcome of continued discussion, decided tosend Paul and Barnabas, with some responsible men from the church, to Jerusalem tolay the matter before the apostles and elders. There they were to meet delegates fromthe different churches and those who had come to Jerusalem to attend the approaching festivals. Meanwhile all controversy was to cease until a final decision should begiven in general council. This decision was then to be universally accepted by the dif-ferent churches throughout the country."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 190.

    "This question was warmly discussed in the assembly. Intimately connected withthe question of circumcision were several others demanding careful study."-lbUi., p. 191.

    2. How did this decision (Acts 15:29) harmonize with the fundamental lawthat preceded it? Leviticus 3:17; Genesis 9:4.

    "Again, the Gentiles were accustomed to eat the flesh of animals that had beenstrangled, while the Jews had been divinely instructed that when beasts were killed forfood, particular care was to be taken that the blood should flow from the body; otherwise the meat would not be regarded as wholesome. God had given these injunctions tothe Jews for the purpose of preserving their health."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 191.

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    PAUL SETS A WORTHY EXAMPLEo Monday

    August 19

    SPIRITUAL CONSIDERATIONS

    3. In order to be sure that he did not offend any, what was the good examplese t b y P au l? 1 Corinthians 8:13.

    "Paul's life was an exemplification of the truths he taught, and herein lay his power.His heart was filled with a deep, abiding sense of his responsibility, and he labored inclose communion with Him who is the fountain of justice, mercy, and truth. He clungto the cross of Christ as his only guarantee of success. The love of the Saviour was theundying motive that upheld him in his conflicts with self and in his struggles againstevil as in the service of Christ he pressed forward against the unfriendliness of theworld and the opposition of his enemies."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 507.

    4. For what reason did he take such a position? What impression is made byeating only tha t which God created for man's food? 1 Corinthians 8:8; 10:31.

    o TuesdayAugust 20

    5. When P au l w ro te to the Corin th ians , how do we know that he was not discussing a dietetic problem but a spir i tual one? 1 Corinthians 8:4; 10:27,28.

    "One [of the questions before the assembly] was the problem as to what attitudeshould be taken toward the use of meats offered to idols. Many of the Gentile convertswere living among ignorant and superstitious people who made frequent sacrifices and

    offerings to idols. The priests of this heathen worship carried on an extensive merchandise with the offerings brought to them, and the Jews feared that the Gentile convertswould bring Christianity into disrepute by purchasing that which had been offered toidols, thereby sanctioning, in some measure, idolatrous customs."- The Acts of the Apos-tles, p. 191.

    6. Although idols w er e i n reality nothing but a material image, what did Paul advise i f anyone felt it was offensive to God to eat things offered to them? 1 Cor inth ians 8:7 , 10-13 .

    "Better err on the side of the people than altogether away from them, for there ishope in that case that you can carry the people with you, but there is no need of error oneither side."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 211.

    USING ONLY WHAT IS KNOWN TO BE GOODo Wednesday

    August 21

    7. What is t he b es t course to take i f there is any doubt concerning food or drink?Romans 14:21-23 .

    8. As we are what w e e at , what par t of our nature is strengthened by the use off lesh food and animal products? Romans 13:14.

    "Weare composed of what we eat, and if we subsist largely upon the flesh of deadanimals we shall partake of their nature."- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 61.

    "A diet of flesh meat tends to develop animalism. A development of animalismlessens spirituality, rendering the mind incapable of understanding truth."-Counselson Diet and Foods, p. 382.

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    CARING FOR THE T EM PL E O F GODo Thursday

    August 22

    9. What will be the sentence pronounced on those who eat foods that bring dise as es u po n t he " te m pl e of God"? 1 Corin thians 3: 17.

    "To the church of Christ in all ages is addressed the solemn and fearful warning,' I f any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God isholy, which temple ye are.' 1 Corinthians 3:17."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 362.

    10. What example did Paul se t with reference t o appet it e and carnal desires? 1Corinthians 9:27.

    "The body is a most important medium through which the mind and the soul aredeveloped for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of soulsdirects his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers. Hissuccess here often means the surrender of the whole being to evil. The tendencies ofthe physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will surely workruin and death. The body is to be brought into subjection to the higher powers of thebeing. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under thecontrol of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear swayin the life. Intellectual power, physical stamina, and the length of life depend upon im-mutable laws. Through obedience to these laws, man may stand conqueror of himself,conqueror of his own inclinations, conqueror of principalities and powers, of 'the rulers of the darkness of this world,' and of 'spiritual wickedness in high places.' Ephesians 6: 12."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 488, 489.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo FridayAugust 23

    a. What rest r ic t ion in the New Testament regarding the use of flesh is generallyoverlooked?

    b. What was Paul 's att i tude to the use of flesh in his diet?

    c. What two prob lems concerning flesh foods are closely allied and cannot be

    considered ful ly a lone?d. What should be done when there is a question on the use of any part icular

    item of food?

    e. What basic principle should govern all the die tary habi ts of Christians?

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    Lesson 9 Sabba th , A u g u s t 3 1 , 1 9 9 1

    RIGHTLY DIVIDING

    THE WORD OF TRUTH

    "The t ime had c om e fo r an entirely new p ha se o f work to be entered upon by

    the church of Christ. The door tha t many of the Jewish converts had closedagainst the Gentiles w as n ow to be thrown open." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 136.

    KEY TEXT: "And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for aman that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation;but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean" (Acts 10:28).

    UNDERSTANDING THE CONTEXTo SundayAugust 25

    1. What experience of Peter is often used to justify the eating of any kin d offlesh food? Di d Peter actually e at o r understand tha t he should? Acts 1 0 : 1113, 17 (first part).

    "Some have urged that this vision [of the sheet and its contents] was to signifythat God had removed His prohibition from the use of the flesh of animals which hehad formerly pronounced unclean; and that therefore swines' flesh was fit for food.This is a very narrow and altogether erroneous interpretation, and is plainly contradicted in the Scriptural account of the vision and its consequences."- The Story of Re-demption, p. 285.

    2. What gives u s th e p ro pe r c on te xt of this lesson, and fo r what was God preparing Peter? Ac ts 10 :1 -4 .

    "Immediately after this interview with Cornelius the angel went to Peter, who,very weary and hungry from journeying, was praying on the housetop. While prayinghe was shown a vision."- The Story of Redemption, p. 284.

    SETTING OF PETER'S VISIONo Monday

    August 26

    3. What d id Corne lius do i n r es po ns e t o h is o wn vision? W he re w er e t he se m enabout the sixth hour? Acts 1 0 : 5 - 9 (first part).

    "Cornelius was gladly obedient to the message, and sent messengers at once toseek out Peter, according to the directions of the angel. The explicitness of these di-rections, in which was even named the occupation of the man with whom Peter was

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    then making his home, evidences that Heaven is well acquainted with the history andbusiness of men in every grade of life. God is cognizant of the daily employment of thehumble laborer, as well as of that of the king upon his throne."-The Story of Redemp-tion, p. 284.

    4. Where was Peter and for what purpose? What physical need took h is a t ten

    tion, and how did this give force to the vision shown him? Acts 9:9 (lastpart); 10:10.

    PETER IS LED BY GODo Tuesday

    August 27

    5. What in the vision caused Peter to objec t? Did he underst and i t as a simplelesson, teaching that they could eat anything? Acts 10:14-17 (first part).

    "This vision conveyed to Peter both reproof and instruction. It revealed to himthe purpose of God-that by the death of Christ the Gentiles should be made fellowheirs with the Jews to the blessings of salvation. As yet none of the disciples hadpreached the gospel to the Gentiles. In their minds the middle wall of partition, brokendown by the death of Christ, still existed, and their labors had been confined to theJews, for they had looked upon the Gentiles as excluded from the blessings of the gospel. Now the Lord was seeking to teach Peter the world-wide extent of the divineplan."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 135, 136.

    6. What in the providence of God c au se d h im to realize the import of the lesson? Acts 10:17 (last par t ) -19.

    "Even while he [Peter] pondered over the vision, it was explained to him [Acts10:17-20 quoted]. . . .

    " I t was a trying command to Peter; but he dared not act according to his own feelings, and therefore went down from his chamber and received the messengers sent tohim from Cornelius. They communicated their singular errand to the apostle, and, ac-cording to the direction he had just received from God, he at once agreed to accompany them on the morrow. He courteously entertained them that night, and in the

    morning se t out with them for Caesarea, accompanied by six of his brethren, whowere to be witnesses of all he should say or do while visiting the Gentiles; for he knewthat he should be called to account for so direct an opposition to the Jewish faith andteachings."- The Story of Redemption, p. 286.

    PREJUDICE BROKEN DOWNo Wednesday

    August 28

    7. What d i rec t inst ruc t ion was given Peter to remove any doub ts? Who gavethis instruction? Acts 10:20.

    "How carefully the Lord worked to overcome the prejudice against the Gentilesthat had been so firmly fixed in Peter's mind by his Jewish training! By the vision ofthe sheet and its contents He sought to divest the apostle's mind of this prejudice andto teach the important truth that in heaven there is no respect of persons; that Jewand Gentile are alike precious in God's sight; that through Christ the heathen may bemade partakers of the blessings and privileges of the gospel.

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    WHAT PETER SAID HE LEARNED

    "While Peter was meditating on the meaning of the vision, the men sent fromCornelius arrived in Joppa and stood before the gate of his lodginghouse. Then theSpirit said to him, 'Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down,and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.' " - The Acts of the Apostles,pp. 136, 137.

    8. What incident in the ministry of Jesus reveals the popular att i tude of theJews to the Gentiles? Matthew 15:26 ,27 .

    "The same agencies that barred men away from Christ eighteen hundred yearsago are at work today. The spirit which built up the partition wall between Jew andGentile is still active. Pride and prejudice have built strong walls of separation between different classes of men. Christ and His mission have been misrepresented,and multitudes feel that they are virtually shut away from the ministry of the gospel.But let them not feel that they are shut away from Chris t ."-The Desire of Ages, p. 403.

    o ThursdayAugust 29

    9. When Peter went with the men and met Cornelius, what did he tell him thatshows he understood the lesson given h im o n the rooftop? Acts 10:28,34,47.

    "The time had come for an entirely new phase of work to be entered upon by thechurch of Christ. The door that many of the Jewish converts had closed against theGentiles was now to be thrown open."-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 136.

    "The disciples, upon hearing this account, were silenced, and convinced thatPeter's course was in direct fulfillment of the plan of God, and that their old prejudicesand exclusiveness were to be utterly destroyed by the gospel of Christ."- The Story ofRedemption, p. 291.

    10. How was this lesson shared with the others a t the f ir st general conferencemeeting? Acts 15:7-9.

    "He [Peter] recounted his vision, in which God had presented before him a sheetfilled with all manner of four-footed beasts and had bidden him kill and eat. When he

    refused, affirming that he had never eaten that which was common or unclean, theanswer had been, 'What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.' Acts 10:15."Peter related the plain interpretation of these words, which was given him al-

    most immediately in his summons to go to the centurion and instruct him in the faithof Christ. This message showed that God was no respecter of persons, but acceptedand acknowledged all who feared Him."-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 193.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo FridayAugust 30

    a. What two visions must be related?b. What experience c am e t o Peter while yet doubting the purpose of his vision?

    c. What events made the real meaning of the vision c lea r t o P et er ?

    d. W ha t w as the meaning of the expression: "common" or "unclean"?

    e. How did Peter clearly state the purpose of God?

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    Lesson 10 S a b ba th , S e p te m b e r 7, 1991

    UNDERSTANDING A WARNING

    "Every v ar ie ty o f error will be brought out in the mysterious working of Satan, which w ou ld , if i t were possible, deceive the very elect, and turn themfrom the t ru th . " -The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments), vol. 7, p. 952.

    KEY TEXT: "And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed,which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which isthe fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat" (Genesis1:29).

    B EWAR E O F FAL SE TEACHERSo Sunday

    September 1

    1. What warning was given Timothy concerning certain false doctrines introduced in the early church and particularly by the Gnostics? 1 Timothy 4:1-5 .

    "From the light given me of the Lord, men will arise speaking perverse things.Yea, already they have been working and speaking things which God has never revealed, bringing sacred truth upon a level with common things. Issues have been andwill continue to be made of men's conceited fallacies, not of truth. The devisings ofmen's minds will invent tests that are no tests at all, that when the true tes t shall bemade prominent, it shall be considered on a par with the man-made tests that havebeen of no value. We may expect that everything will be brought in and mingled with

    sound doctrine, but by clear, spiritual discernment, by the heavenly anointing, wemust distinguish the sacred from the common which is being brought in to confusefaith and sound judgment and demerit the great, grand, testing truth for this t ime."- T h e SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1064.

    2. What s imi lar warning is given by Jude against false teachers with theirteachings from t he s am e source? Jude 12, 13.

    "But unless the truth is enthroned in the heart, and a thorough transition takesplace from darkness to light, those who handle sacred responsibilities are ministers of

    darkness, blind leaders of the blind."- Testimoniesto

    Ministers, p. 81.

    EVIL MEN BECOMING WORSE AND WORSEo Monday

    September 2

    3. What effect do the deceptions that these false teachers teach others haveupon themselves? Philippians 3:18, 19.

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    "Those who transgress the laws of God in their physical organism will not be lessslow to violate the law of God spoken from Sinai. Those who will not, after the light hascome to them, eat and drink from principle instead of being controlled by appetite, willnot be tenacious in regard to being governed by principle in other things. The agitation of the subject of reform in eating and drinking will develop character and will un-erringly bring to light those who make a 'god of their bellies.' "-Counsels on Health, p. 39.

    4. How is this teaching described in i ts t ru e nature? 1 Timothy 4:1 (last part).

    "Weare living in a time when every phase of fanaticism will press its way inamong believers and unbelievers. Satan will come in, speaking lies in hypocrisy.Everything that he can invent to deceive men and women will be brought forward.

    "Just in proportion as men lose their sense of the need of vital religion, so theybecome filled with common, earthly ideas, which they exalt as wonderful knowledge."-Medical Ministry, p. 114.

    SATAN TRIES TO PERVERT MARRIAGE AND DIETD TuesdaySeptember 3

    5. Wha t two par ts of God's original plan given in E de n d o S a ta n a n d h is a ge nt salways t ry t o p er ve rt ? 1 Timothy 4 :3 (first part).

    " I t was Satan's studied effort to pervert the marriage institution, to weaken itsobligations and lessen its sacredness; for in no surer way could he deface the image ofGod in man and open the door to misery and vice."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 338.

    "Although the health reform is not the third angel 's message, it is closely connected with it. Those who proclaim the message should teach health reform also. I t isa subject that we must understand, in order to be prepared for the events that areclose upon us, and it should have a prominent place. Satan and his agents are seekingto hinder this work of reform, and will do all they can to perplex and burden thosewho heartily engage in it. Yet none should be discouraged at this, or cease their efforts because of it." -Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 77.

    6. W hat things were c re at ed a nd specifically d es ig na te d t o b e u se d as food form an an d beast? Genesis 1:29-31 .

    [Note: In 1 Timothy 4:3 the word "meat" (in the KJV) is from the Greek word"bromata" meaning food, and not only flesh meat as some translations would imply.]

    "God gave our first parents the food He designed that the race should eat. I t wascontrary to His plan to have the life of any creature taken. There was to be no death inEden. The fruit of the trees in the garden, was the food man's wants required. Godgave man no permission to eat animal food until after the flood." -Counsels on Diet andFoods, p. 373.

    "He intended that the race should subsist wholly upon the productions of theearth; but now that every green thing had been destroyed, He allowed them to eat theflesh of the clean beasts that had been preserved in the ark."-Patriarchs and Prophets,p.107.

    "In the directions given through Moses it was forbidden to eat any unclean thing.The use of swine's flesh, and the flesh of certain other animals, was prohibited, as likely to fill the blood with impurities, and to shorten l i fe ."-The Desire of Ages, p. 617.

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    GOD'S PURPOSE RESTOREDD Wednesday

    September 4

    7. What prophecy shows that there will be a return to the original plan, andflesh will not be eaten e ithe r by man or beast? Isaiah 11:6-9; 65:25.

    "Again and again I have been shown that God is trying to lead us back, step bystep, to His original design-that man should subsist upon the natural products of theearth. Among those who are waiting for the coming of the Lord, meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part of their diet. We should ever keepthis end in view, and endeavor to work steadily toward it."-Counsels on Health, p. 450.

    8. What dietary change should be expected as God's people approach the borders of the heavenly Canaan? Psalm 78:24; Isa iah 33:16.

    "By precept and example make it plain that the food which God gave Adam in hissinless state is the best for man's use as he seeks to regain that sinless state."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 135.

    THE DIVINE PLAND ThursdaySeptember 5

    9. Why were unclean animals created? What animals alone were acceptable assacrifice or for food? Leviticus 11: 2, 9 , 13.

    "The animals were created to serve man, bu t he has no right to cause them painby harsh treatment or cruel exaction." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 443."Only clean and precious animals, those which would best symbolize Christ, were

    accepted as offerings to God."- The Signs of the Times, July 15, 1880.

    10. What w as t he r es ul t in the spir i tual life when flesh was used as food for evenshort periods of time, like the o ne d ay and thirty days dur ing the Exodus?Psa lm 106:14 , 15.

    "By departing from the plan divinely appointed for their diet, the Israelites suffered great loss. They desired a flesh diet, and they reaped its results. They did notreach God's ideal of character or fulfill His purpose. The Lord 'gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.' Psalm 106:15. They valued the earthly abovethe spiritual, and the sacred preeminence which was His purpose for them they didnot attain." - The Ministry of Healing, p. 312.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD Friday

    September 6

    a. What may we learn from the part icular warnings given in 1 Timothy 4?

    b. What effect does false doctr ine have even on those who advocate it?

    c. Besides the Sabbath, what o ther gifts from Eden are objects of Satan's opposition?

    d. What i s a lw ay s the purpose of God when His plans have been perverted?

    e. What is the effect on the spiri tual life of departing from the divine plan?

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    Lesson 11 Sabbath , Septem ber 14 , 1991

    GOD IS TESTING HIS PEOPLE

    "The Lord in His providence brings men where He can t es t t he ir moral powersand reveal their motives of action, that they may improve what is right inthemselves and pu t away that which is wrong."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 85.

    KEY TEXT: "Then said the Lord unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heavenfor you; and the people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day,that I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law, or no" (Exodus 16:4).

    PRIMARY TESTS FAILEDD Sunday

    September 8

    1. What test of loyalty was placed in the midst of the garden of Eden near bythe tree of life? What similar tests exist even today? Genesis 2:9, 16 , 17.

    "Every man has been placed on trial, as were Adam and Eve in Eden. As the treeof knowledge was placed in the midst of the garden of Eden, so the Sabbath commandis placed in the midst of the decalogue."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Com-ments], vol. I, p. 1106.

    2. W ha t te ste d the loyalty of Cain an d Abel? Genesis 4:3-7 ; Leviticus 17: 11;Hebrews 9:22.

    "These brothers were tested, as Adam had been tested before them, to provewhether they would believe and obey the word of God. They were acquainted withthe provision made for the salvation of man, and understood the system of offeringswhich God had ordained. They knew that in these offerings they were to express faithin the Saviour whom the offerings typified, and at the same time to acknowledge theirtotal dependence on Him for pardon; and they knew that by thus conforming to thedivine plan for their redemption, they were giving proof of their obedience to the willof God."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 71.

    FURTHER TESTS

    D Monday

    September 9

    3. What did the Lord reveal to Moses concerning His purpose in giving themanna? Exodus 16:4, 23, 24 .

    "God requires that His holy day be as sacredly observed now as in the time ofIsrael. The command given to the Hebrews should be regarded by all Christians as an

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    injunction from Jehovah to them. The day before the Sabbath should be made a dayof preparation, that everything may be in readiness for its sacred hours. In no caseshould our own business be allowed to encroach upon holy time . . . . Many carelesslyput off till the beginning of the Sabbath little things that might have been done on theday of preparation. This should not be. Work that is neglected until the beginning ofthe Sabbath should remain undone until it is past."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 296.

    4. What tes t w a s - a n d still is-closely associated with the test on appet it e?E xo du s 1 6: 27 , 28.

    "In regard to the fruit of the tree of knowledge, the restriction was made, 'Yeshall not eat of it, . . . lest ye die' [Gen. 3:3]. Of the Sabbath, God said, Ye shall not de-file it, but keep it holy . . . . As the tree of knowledge was the test of Adam's obedience, so the fourth command is the test that God has given to prove the loyalty of allHis people."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1106.

    FLESH FOOD AS A TESTD Tuesday

    September 10

    5. Even when granted permission to use flesh as food, what restrictions weregiven that tested obedience? Genesis 9:3-5; Leviticus 7:23, 24.

    "Before this time God had given man no permission to eat animal food; He in-tended that the race should subsist wholly upon the productions of the earth; but nowthat every green thing had been destroyed, He allowed them to eat the flesh of the

    clean beasts that had been preserved in the ark."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 107.

    6. W hat decision from the first general conference of the Christian church recognized the restr ict ions in the use of flesh as food? Acts 15:29.

    CHRIST WAS TESTEDD Wednesday

    September 11

    7. In w hat way was Christ tested on the point of appetite, and what really increased the intensity of this test? Matthew 4:2-4 .

    "Man was created a free moral agent. Like the inhabitants of all other worlds, hemust be subjected to the test of obedience; but he is never brought into such a positionthat yielding to evil becomes a matter of necessity. No temptation or trial is permittedto come to him which he is unable to resist."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 331, 332.

    8. For what o ther t e st s did the first victory prepare Him? What l es son may welearn from this? Matthew 4:5-10 .

    TESTS BEFORE DESTRUCTIOND

    ThursdaySeptember 12

    9. How were the antediluvians tested before the earth was des troyed by theFlood? Hebrews 11:7.

    "While Noah was giving his warning message to the world, his works testified ofhis sincerity. I t was thus that his faith was perfected and made evident. He gave the

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    world an example of believing just what God says. All that he possessed, he investedin the ark. As he began to construct that immense boat on dry ground, multitudescame from every direction to see the strange sight and to hear the earnest, ferventwords of the singular preacher. Every blow struck upon the ark was a witness to thepeople." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 95.

    10. What is to be repeated before the world is again dest royed? What tests fromthe w o rl d f or the people of God may be expected to precede this? Matthew24:37-39 ; 2 Peter 3 :5 -7 , 1 0 -1 2 .

    "Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of fleshfoods, tea and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites becleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are notgood. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Hima perfected people."- Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 153, 154.

    REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD Friday

    September 13

    a. What purpose did the L or d h av e in t e st ing Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel?

    b. What further t es ti ng w as n ee de d f or Hi s chosen people?

    c. On what points were the children of Israel tested on the way to Canaan?

    d. How and why was Christ tested?

    e. What does God give the people before He executes judgment on them?

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    Lesson 1 2 S a b ba t h, S e p te m b e r 21 , 1991

    THE SANCTUARY TRUTHS

    A TEST FOR GOD'S PEOPLE NOW

    "God will bring you over the ground again and again unt il w i th humble heartand subdued mind you bea r the test that He inflicts and are wholly sanctifiedto His service and work. T he n you may win immortal life." - Testimonies, vol.4, p. 214.

    KEY TEXT: "For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day,he shall be cut off from among his people" (Leviticus 23:29).

    D SundaySeptember 15

    1. What t ru th is a tes t for the believers living a t a part icular t ime? W h a t t r ut h sare a tes t for our t ime? 2 Peter 2:12; Revelation 14 :6 -9 ; 18:1-3 .

    "There are many precious truths contained in the Word of God, but it is 'presenttruth' that the flock needs now. I have seen the danger of the messengers running offfrom the important points of present truth, to dwell upon subjects that are not calculated to unite the flock and sanctify the soul. Satan will here take every possible advantage to injure the cause."-Early Writings, p. 63.

    2. W hat part icular subjects are the t ru th s t ha t apply in our time? Hebrews 8:1;

    P sa lm s 7 3: 17 ; 7 7: 13 .

    "But such subjects as the sanctuary, in connection with the 2300 days, the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, are perfectly calculated to explain the pastAdvent movement and show what our present position is, establish the faith of thedoubting, and give certainty to the glorious future. These, I have frequently seen, werethe principal subjects on which the messengers should dwell."-Early Writings, p. 63.

    DAY OF ATONEMENT, A DAY OF FASTINGD Monday

    September 16

    3. What was the most impor tant service of t he s an ct ua ry r i tua l? Levi ticus23:27.

    "Once a year, on the great Day of Atonement, the priest entered the most holyplace for the cleansing of the sanctuary. The work there performed completed theyearly round of ministration."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 355.

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    "Every man was to afflict his soul while the work of atonement was going forward. All business was laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel spent the dayin solemn humiliation before God, with prayer, fasting, and deep searching of heart."-Ibid.

    4. What especially had to b e d on e by the people during this day, and what wasthe penalty for noncompliance? What is the significance of this in our day?Leviticus 23:29.

    "For certain things, fasting and prayer are recommended and appropriate. In thehand of God they are a means of cleansing the heart and promoting a receptive frameof mind. We obtain answers to our prayers because we humble our souls before God."-Counsels on Diet and Foods, pp. 187, 188.

    IN THE ANTITYPICAL DAY OF ATONEMENT

    D Tuesday

    September 175. What t ime now corresponds wi th the Day of Atonement under the ol d cove

    nant? What is God's call in this antitypical Day of Atonement and what isthe response of many? Danie l 8 :1 4; I sa ia h 2 2 : 1 2 - 1 4 .

    "In the typical system, which was a shadow of the sacrifice and priesthood ofChrist, the cleansing of the sanctuary was the last service performed by the highpriest in the yearly round of ministration. It was the closing work of the atonement-aremoval or putting away of sin from Israel. I t prefigured the closing work in the ministration of our High Priest in heaven, in the removal or blotting out of the sins of Hispeople, which are registered in the heavenly records ." -The Great Controversy, p. 352.

    6. As it is not practicable to be fast ing for this length of time, what correspondsto this experience? Luke 5:35; Joel 2 :12 , 13.

    "The