Author Topic: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need  (Read 30177 times)

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Al

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #20 on: July 04, 2013, 05:23:46 AM »
 
Quote
What is Laodicea’s evaluation of herself? What is our Lord’s assessment of her? How do you think a people could be so blinded to their true spiritual condition? In what ways might we be blind regarding our own spiritual condition?

As I was studying on Laodicea I came across this statement in the Counsels to Writers and Editors page 99.   "I am commissioned now to say to our brethren, Humble yourselves, and confess your sins, else God will humble you. The message to the Laodicean church comes home to those who do not apply it to themselves. They are neither cold nor hot, but lukewarm. Saith the Lord, "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold or hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth."  This was written to editors and contributors for the periodicals who it was stated did not think that the Laodicea message applied to them.

It seems to me that those who are rich and increased with goods would be the very last to think this message has any application for them. What does it mean to be rich and increased with goods? I would like to hear what others think on this.

We need to identify the problem before we can see if this has application for us personally.
Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.  {DA 328.3}

JimB

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #21 on: July 04, 2013, 06:58:27 AM »
It seems to me that those who are rich and increased with goods would be the very last to think this message has any application for them. What does it mean to be rich and increased with goods? I would like to hear what others think on this.

We need to identify the problem before we can see if this has application for us personally.

Al, before I give you my 2 cents on your question I just want to say something else. I don't know anyone who likes reproof or to be rebuked. It is not a pleasant thing especially if it's truth. But for some reason and I can't put my finger on it I'm enjoying these lessons this week. While I enjoyed last quarters lessons very much I think this quarter is special.

Now on your question, Al. As I understand things people can be rich and increased with good both temporally and spiritually. When all is well temporally. When money doesn't seem to be a problem and you can afford the extras life seems very good. It's very easy sit back and think it will always be that way. When I was reading the lessons this week my mind went back to the great depression of the 30's. When the markets crashed and rich men saw their "portfolios" disappear over night many committed suicide. They never imagined a day could come where they'd have nothing and they lost all hope of recovery. Satan pulled the rug out from underneath them and they had nothing solid to stand on.

We can also be rich and increased with goods spiritually. A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other. And believing that knowing the truth is enough they sit back and enjoy life and it's benefits. But we all know that knowing isn't enough. Even the world has a saying that says....  "now I know and knowing is half the battle". People may know that smoking cigarettes is literally killing them but that doesn't stop them from smoking. This knowledge needs to be applied to our personal lives. It needs to find practical application.

I was trying to keep this post short but one last thought. In college some courses will have 2 kinds of tests. Written and practical. In order to pass the course the student must pass both the written and practical tests.
By communion with God in nature, the mind is uplifted, and the heart finds rest.  {DA 291.1}

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #22 on: July 04, 2013, 02:46:50 PM »
Amen, Jim!  Al, you are right. Sometimes we see things so simply that we forget that others may not. The message from Jesus is very simply stated. Most understand it and make the application elsewhere, not thinking we need to see if it applies to us. What does it mean to be "rich and increased with goods"?

I think part of the answer is given in the text in context. "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked."  "and in need of nothing" helps us to better understand what is being said about those in the church who are in a lost condition. Maybe if we work backwards it will help. When Jesus speaks to us, is He not speaking of our spiritual condition? Yes. So, when He says that the Laodicean is "in need of nothing", what does He mean?  Complacent to say the least. But, we want to get to the very bottom of the truth. What is it that the Laodicean needs, that he does not have?  And in a spiritual sense, what do Seventh-day Adventists have that the world and other churches do not have? Why are we "rich"?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #23 on: July 04, 2013, 03:02:31 PM »
WEDNESDAY July 3

The Divine Remedy


There is hope for Laodicea, just as there is hope for all who are afflicted with spiritual apathy and in-difference. Our Lord has the divine remedy. The fact that the Lord speaks to this church shows that hope for the church exists if His people accept and follow His counsel .

Amen!!  The Laodicean message is full of hope. Jesus loves us. He does not treat us as "bastards". "If ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons." He rebukes us, then pleads with us to turn to Him.


Reflect on Jesus’ counsel in Revelation 3:18-19.

  3:18   I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 
  3:19   As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 


What does Jesus mean when He talks about “gold refined in the fire,” being clothed in “white garments,” and our eyes being anointed with “eye salve”?

See also

1 Pet. 1:7
  1:7   That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 

Zech. 3:1-5
  3:1   And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. 
  3:2   And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: [is] not this a brand plucked out of the fire? 
  3:3   Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. 
  3:4   And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. 
  3:5   And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the LORD stood by. 

Rev. 19:7-9
  19:7   Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 
  19:8   And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 
  19:9   And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. 

Eph. 4:30
  4:30   And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.


“Jesus is going from door to door, standing in front of every soul-temple, proclaiming, ‘I stand at the door, and knock.’ As a heavenly merchantman, he opens his treasures, and cries, ‘Buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.’ The gold he offers is without alloy, more precious than that of Ophir; for it is faith and love.

“The white raiment he invites the soul to wear is his own robes of righteousness, and the oil for anointing is the oil of his grace, which will give spiritual eyesight to the soul in blindness and darkness, that he may distinguish between the workings of the Spirit of God and the spirit of the enemy. Open your doors, says the great Merchantman, the possessor of spiritual riches, and transact your business with me. It is I, your Redeemer, who counsels you to buy of me.”-Ellen G. White, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Aug. 7, 1894.

Ellen G. White quotes Revelation 3:20, saying of Jesus, “‘I stand at the door, and knock.’” Jesus knocks; He doesn’t break down the door and force His way in. What this means is that, in the end, regardless of what God is willing to do for us, we must make the choice to let Him in. Ask yourself, “How resistant am I to opening the door to Him?” If you are resistant, ask yourself, “Why?” What is holding you back? What sin, what indulgence, don’t you want to let go of, or what is it that you find so hard to let go of?

Praise God for the truth being made plain, simple, and straight. This is the truth. Why are not all converted? Because true conversion requires two things that most are unwilling to do. To surrender pride and to make a sacrifice. The only solution to this selfishness is Christ. The answer is always the same, we need Jesus. He tells us what to do. Buy of Him faith the works by love, His love. He tells us to buy of Him white raiment, His character. He offers to us, Eyesalve, that we might see. Yes, the blind, through Christ might be healed. It is such a hopeful message to hear of Christ still standing at the door of the blind, the naked, the wretched, pleading for entrance into the hearts of those who are rejecting Him. He loves us despite our woeful condition as a people. Here is His promise to us "Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.  And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them." Ezekiel 36:25-27.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #24 on: July 04, 2013, 07:36:03 PM »
Wednesday

how are we to buy? How are we to receive the remedy?
are we even seeing the remedy? And maybe we are seeing the remedy but are we seeing it with both eyes?
maybe  we think the remedy was bought for us and therefore we really ought not to trouble ourself with going to the true physician.
how do we overcome these? Maybe we say that the Lords knows the entry into our hearts! So how is it that He asks us to open?
can we reason together? Can we show each other the folly of our ways? The pitfalls...?

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #25 on: July 04, 2013, 08:05:23 PM »
How haughty we are! All others are babylon we say. And yet together with the 3 angels message the Lord specifically says   Revelation 18:4: 4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. Does this mean anything to us.
our time should be comparable to the times of the apostles for we shall see God and be changed! Are we ready to see God? Can we in our state comprehend this daunting picture for if we could see God even with a tiny speck of sin we'd surely die for the Lord is light and darkness flees away from Him. Only Jesus can lead us into seeing God. Clothed in His righteousness we will see the father.
1 John 2:1-11: 1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: [...] 10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. 11 But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. [...] 2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world. 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. 6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 7 Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. 8 Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. 9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.

now do we walk like He did? For only then will we know that we abide in Him
 

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #26 on: July 04, 2013, 08:25:49 PM »
Thursday

Song of Solomon 5:2-5: 2 I sleep, but my heart waketh: [it is] the voice of my beloved that knocketh, [saying], Open to me, my
sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, [and] my locks with the drops of the night. 3 I have put off my coat; how shall II put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? 4 My beloved put in his hand by the hole [of the door], and my bowels were moved for him. 5 I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dropped [with] myrrh, and my fingers [with] sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock.
How much delight do wd have in the one who loves us? If sincere we would have openned the door yesterday Do we ever remember that this is a heavenly merchantman? And that the goods are free? For He already paid the ransom?
Revel[color=red]ation 3:20: 20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. [/color]
  .

Al

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #27 on: July 04, 2013, 08:44:25 PM »

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Al, before I give you my 2 cents on your question I just want to say something else. I don't know anyone who likes reproof or to be rebuked. It is not a pleasant thing especially if it's truth. But for some reason and I can't put my finger on it I'm enjoying these lessons this week. While I enjoyed last quarters lessons very much I think this quarter is special.

One thing I have realized over the years by both being a teacher and a student in Sabbath School is that I can gain more insights by getting people's two cents worth. I have been enjoying this lesson trying to make it practical so I can see if the shoe fits. Reproof goes against our nature and most of the time we don't like to see ourselves as being faulty especially if we are rich and increased with goods. I have been reproved many times during my Christian walk either by God's Word or by someone else administering the medicine. But the one point that helps us to take reproof is realizing that we are not perfect and admitting our weaknesses and desiring to be more like Christ.

Quote
Now on your question, Al. As I understand things people can be rich and increased with good both temporally and spiritually. When all is well temporally. When money doesn't seem to be a problem and you can afford the extras life seems very good. It's very easy sit back and think it will always be that way. When I was reading the lessons this week my mind went back to the great depression of the 30's. When the markets crashed and rich men saw their "portfolios" disappear over night many committed suicide. They never imagined a day could come where they'd have nothing and they lost all hope of recovery. Satan pulled the rug out from underneath them and they had nothing solid to stand on.


Here is a good point. I would have leaned more towards the spiritual definition but wealth and a life of ease certainly can affect the spiritual life. The great depression is a another illustration to help us realize how the things of this world are not permanent. We need to be content with what have. Money or riches are not evil but it takes a very special person who can use it wisely and still keep their trust and faith in God. 

Quote
We can also be rich and increased with goods spiritually. A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other. And believing that knowing the truth is enough they sit back and enjoy life and it's benefits. But we all know that knowing isn't enough. Even the world has a saying that says....  "now I know and knowing is half the battle". People may know that smoking cigarettes is literally killing them but that doesn't stop them from smoking. This knowledge needs to be applied to our personal lives. It needs to find practical application.

This is so true knowing is not the same as doing. There is a statement that I shared from Desire of Ages sometime back on this forum which said "The greatest deception of the human mind is that a knowledge of the truth constitutes righteousness." This would be like a smoker thinking he or she is not smoking because they have knowledge of its affects.  This could be the real root of being rich and increased with goods. 

Quote
I was trying to keep this post short but one last thought. In college some courses will have 2 kinds of tests. Written and practical. In order to pass the course the student must pass both the written and practical tests.

Very good illustration very glad to hear they have practical tests. How does it work in the real world. I heard a story of a man who had stacks of magazines on how to build things and he could talk about how to build a shed to a birdhouse but he has never had a hammer in his hands. He was rich and knowledge and proud of it. This is what I think you are saying about Laodicea condition but it could go much deeper. If  others have some other comments on what it means to be rich and increased with goods it might help give us some other perspectives.
Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.  {DA 328.3}

Al

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #28 on: July 04, 2013, 09:19:36 PM »
Amen, Jim!  Al, you are right. Sometimes we see things so simply that we forget that others may not. The message from Jesus is very simply stated. Most understand it and make the application elsewhere, not thinking we need to see if it applies to us. What does it mean to be "rich and increased with goods"?

Richard we have heard the Laodicea message for years there was a time when I would have applied this message to certain people in the church but now I am asking "is it I". Sometimes I need to simplify it myself so I can take a personal spiritual assessment. If we don't understand what it is saying then we lose the opportunity to change. When I teach class I have discovered that when you ask a question that this is the first time people have heard it so it takes time for them to process it. Some teachers get nervous and answer the question themselves not giving others a chance to add their input.  I find that many have some great insights that make the lesson a blessing for myself and others. 

Quote
I think part of the answer is given in the text in context. "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked."  "and in need of nothing" helps us to better understand what is being said about those in the church who are in a lost condition. Maybe if we work backwards it will help. When Jesus speaks to us, is He not speaking of our spiritual condition? Yes. So, when He says that the Laodicean is "in need of nothing", what does He mean?  Complacent to say the least. But, we want to get to the very bottom of the truth. What is it that the Laodicean needs, that he does not have?  And in a spiritual sense, what do Seventh-day Adventists have that the world and other churches do not have? Why are we "rich"?

You have posed some other questions by asking questions. If we don't know what the riches are then how do we know what we need? "And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick." Luke 5:31 I wonder if the being whole is the same as being rich and increased with goods?  Another point take for example the Pharisee who pays his tithe and goes to church and prays every day or maybe twice a day and even fasts twice a week. I wonder if this spiritual leader thinks he is complacent? JimB has offered some good thoughts on being "rich" but we still need to get some others ideas to help us identity the condition better. What are your thoughts?    
 
Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.  {DA 328.3}

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #29 on: July 04, 2013, 10:42:29 PM »
If sincere we would have opened the door yesterday Do we ever remember that this is a heavenly merchantman? And that the goods are free? For He already paid the ransom?

Yes and no. wigina, Saul of Tarsus was sincere in his desire to serve God, but he set about to persecute those he deemed worthy of death because they followed Jesus. Many are not sincere, but the five foolish virgins are sincere, but being sincere will not get their lamps filled with oil. They must act on their sincerity. It may be that many are in a Laodicean condition which would allow for sincerity. Al asked the question what does it mean to be rich and increased with goods. While it seems a simple thing, I am thinking that maybe many do not understand?

Let's look at what Jim said

We can also be rich and increased with goods spiritually. A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other. And believing that knowing the truth is enough they sit back and enjoy life and it's benefits. But we all know that knowing isn't enough.

I think Jim has answered Al's question. Seventh-day Adventists are God's chosen people not because they live the truth, but because they have been entrusted with His truth.  And as a people we know it. How many other Christians know the Sabbath is the seventh day and it is still binding? How many really understand that the Lamb of God is Jesus and He had to die as shadowed forth in the Hebrew sanctuary? How many know that eating pig is harmful? How many know that eating cow is harmful? How many know that drinking cow milk is harmful and causing cancer? How many know that the righteousness of Christ will not cover one unconfessed and unforsaken sin? How many know that God sent a prophet in our day? Shall I go on? There is no need to. What Jim has said is true. "A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other." This is why we believe we are rich and increased with goods, spiritual goods, God's truth. I have a library of inspired books that few in the world have. They are in my native tongue, written in our day so that I can understand them without any difficulty. Rich is an understatement.

So, Jesus tells us that we think we are rich with these goods, but He added an important thought "and in need of nothing." Jim addressed this when he said that knowing the truth is not enough. He said that some fit this description "believing that knowing the truth is enough."  They do not know they need anything else. How very sad! Such a deception. Actually, they think they know the truth, but while they understand some doctrinal matters, not being converted, they lack spiritual discernment. So even with the light shining brightly, they do not understand the gospel message. They therefor believe they are converted when in fact they have not been. Such a deception!

Al points out that if we have not searched our own hearts and come to the conclusion we need Jesus all the time, every minute of every day, then the Laodicean message has not done its work in our own lives and we remain miserable, blind, and naked. The righteousness of Christ is not a robe that we wear until we see our need and flee to Christ for His grace.

We have only one more day to wrap up this week's lesson. So far, our discussion has been very good. Pastor Finley opened the door. We are so appreciative of this week's lesson.

Brother Al, I am sure that you have more to add to your thought about what it means to be rich and increased with goods. Share with us before time runs out on this week's lesson.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #30 on: July 04, 2013, 11:10:33 PM »
THURSDAY July 4

A Relentless Love

Compare Revelation 3:20 to Song of Solomon 5:2-5.

 3:20   Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 

  5:2   I sleep, but my heart waketh: [it is] the voice of my beloved that knocketh, [saying], Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. 
  5:3   I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? 
  5:4   My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him. 
  5:5   I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers [with] sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock. 


What similarities do you find in both instances? What do these passages reveal about God’s love?

The lesson got to the point, did it not?  How do these verses define "gold tried in the fire"?


The evening meal in the Middle East was and still is extremely important. When the work of the day was over and the men returned from the fields for the evening meal, the entire family gathered around the table. In most instances the extended family lived together. The number at the evening meal often would be quite large. Grandfather and grandmother, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, nephews and cousins, adults and children might be present. In this grand reunion after a hard day’s work, stories were told, experiences shared, and counsel given. It was a time of fellowship. It was a time of warmth and family intimacy. Jesus longs to have fellowship like this with us, as well.

How does Christ’s promise in Revelation 3:21 reveal His heartfelt desire for each one of us?

3:21   To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. 


The book of Revelation mentions God’s throne more than 40 times. This is more than any other book of the Bible. At God’s throne, we join in with the heavenly chorus and joyously proclaim: “ ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing’ ” (Rev. 5:12, NKJV). He promises that we can participate in this grand festive scene of rejoicing once the long saga of sin ends.

Christ uses His greatest motivation for His indifferent end-time people. The greatest motivation to wake us from spiritual slumber is Jesus’ endless love, for He longs to spend all eternity with us. If that is not enough to shake us out of our spiritual apathy, what is? If that is not enough to bring us to our knees, seeking revival, what will?

It is sad, but for some it is not enough. So, God gave us more. "Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.  Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy." Jude 21-24.  The message in Revelation 14 that we are to take to the world mentions fire and brimstone. Shall we hide this truth from the world?  We put Jesus in the center of this message, speak of His love, but it would be unloving and unkind to hide the justice of God from the sinner.


His love has provided eternity for us. We have royal blood running through our veins. We are sons and daughters of the King of the universe. We can reign with Him, seated upon His throne forever.

Christ longs to be in fellowship with you. How much do you want to be in fellowship with Him? The answer is simple. How much time do you spend in prayer and fellowship with the Lord? What does your answer tell you about yourself and, perhaps, just how lukewarm you might be?

Amen!! By beholding we shall become changed. It would be well to spend a thoughtful hour each day contemplating the life of Christ, especially the closing scenes where we see the sacrifice He made that we might know of His love.  Are we doing that each day?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #31 on: July 04, 2013, 11:30:38 PM »
I am sure we are on the same wave length, I was thinking of sincerity on these lines

1 John 2:6: 6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

how do we treat each other and how do we treat others? Can there be a comparison made between what I do and maybe someone like Philip or barnabas?
increased with goods or ''seemingly '' increased with goods! Those nominal Adventists who only come for the ''D'' in SDA someone once said D here stands for devine service, can they quote from scripture? Can some of us quote from scripture like the waldensians commited entire books to memory? Sometimes it really is 'seemingly rich'' to me!

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #32 on: July 05, 2013, 12:52:01 AM »
Yes, wigina, there is such a thing as nominal Seventh-day Adventists.  The Laodicean message is addressed to them.  But, there is a danger that we will think it applies to all others, but not to me. This is where it gets difficult. How do we know if it applies or does not apply to ourselves? It does not apply to all in the church. Not all are blind and naked. Some know their need and have died to self and are alive to Christ. These are not Laodiceans. Have we searched our own hearts to see if it applies? Surely it would be wise to do so. Then, how does one know if it applies to himself? How about this as a  preliminary test. I refuse to think that it might and do not ask God to search my heart as did David. Does that work for you, wigina? Are we on the same page? "Nominal" being those who have a name, but whose hearts are far from God, and refuse to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Al

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #33 on: July 05, 2013, 07:43:05 AM »
The first thing I notice in this message to Laodicea that it is written to the church. The very first warning is against being lukewarm not being cold or hot. And because of this condition the angels says these kind of people will be vomit in his mouth and will be spit out. This is a very strong expression. 
Lukewarm is defined as being as church members who are rich and increased with goods having need of nothing. They don't know they are wretched and miserable, poor. blind and naked.

A similar religious group are also identified in Matthew 7:21-23  "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

They make reference to their good works which they feel gives them some entitlement to enter the kingdom of heaven. Then Christ says to them "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." This is very similar to being lukewarm and being spit or vomited out of the mouth of God. 

These people are very religious they use the Lord's name and they foretell future events and do mighty works for God. One main element that is lacking in their experience is they did not know Christ as a personal friend. Christ said "I don't even know who you are."

Being rich and increases with goods includes a great wealth of knowledge of the truth as mention by JimB.  But there is also an a abundance of good works "increased with goods." I think of the Pharisee who also made reference to his good works which in his mind made him feel superior to others. He had no love in his heart for Christ and esteemed himself better than others. His religion was one of externals. It is very easy to become satisfied with our attainments but still be missing the most important thing.

Richard if you don't mind we could come back to your list you gave from last week's lesson. A person can avoid listing to rock music, and eating cheese and read their bible every day and still be lukewarm. But the danger is here that we can easily think that doing all the right things constitutes conversion. So when you say they are not converted they say yes we are look at our good works.

Lukewarm could include have a abundance of spiritual truth as well many outward reforms in our lives but the reforms are central and not Christ.  A person can observe all the forms of religion and even be zealous and maintain the doctrines of the church and still be lukewarm.

I don't want to make this post to long and I am sure this still leaves us with some other thoughts. So before the day is over it might be good to spend some time on what it means to be wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Richard discussed this on Tuesdays lesson and some good points were made and other questions were asked. 

I think also of the publican in Luke 18:13 "And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner." Is this your experience? How did the publican come to see himself in this light?
 







Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.  {DA 328.3}

Al

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #34 on: July 05, 2013, 07:58:14 AM »
Wednesday

how are we to buy? How are we to receive the remedy?

This is a good question. We are asked to buy in Revelation 3:18 and this is also mentioned in Isaiah 55:1 "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Isaiah 55:1

Why does God use the word "buy"? In Revelation we are to realize that we are poor, blind and naked so we can buy and in Isaiah we need to be thirsty before we can buy.
Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him.  {DA 328.3}

Mimi

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #35 on: July 05, 2013, 08:27:03 AM »


I don't want to make this post to long and I am sure this still leaves us with some other thoughts. So before the day is over it might be good to spend some time on what it means to be wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Richard discussed this on Tuesdays lesson and some good points were made and other questions were asked. 


" What is it that constitutes the wretchedness, the nakedness, of those who feel rich and increased with goods? It is the want of the righteousness of Christ. In their own righteousness they are represented as clothed with filthy rags, and yet in this condition they flatter themselves that they are clothed upon with Christ's righteousness. . . . They may be crying, " The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are we," while their hearts are filled with unholy traffic and unrighteous barter. The courts of the soul temple may be the haunt of envy, pride, passion, evil surmising, bitterness, and hollow formalism. Christ looks mournfully upon His professed people who feel rich and increased in the knowledge of the truth, and who are yet destitute of the truth in life and character."   {OHC 349.4}


We can also be rich and increased with goods spiritually. A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other. And believing that knowing the truth is enough they sit back and enjoy life and it's benefits. But we all know that knowing isn't enough.

I think Jim has answered Al's question. Seventh-day Adventists are God's chosen people not because they live the truth, but because they have been entrusted with His truth.  And as a people we know it. How many other Christians know the Sabbath is the seventh day and it is still binding? How many really understand that the Lamb of God is Jesus and He had to die as shadowed forth in the Hebrew sanctuary? How many know that eating pig is harmful? How many know that eating cow is harmful? How many know that drinking cow milk is harmful and causing cancer? How many know that the righteousness of Christ will not cover one unconfessed and unforsaken sin? How many know that God sent a prophet in our day? Shall I go on? There is no need to. What Jim has said is true. "A person can know (or posses) truth and even try to live like it. They can even have many friends who also know the truth and support each other." This is why we believe we are rich and increased with goods, spiritual goods, God's truth. I have a library of inspired books that few in the world have. They are in my native tongue, written in our day so that I can understand them without any difficulty. Rich is an understatement.

So, Jesus tells us that we think we are rich with these goods, but He added an important thought "and in need of nothing." Jim addressed this when he said that knowing the truth is not enough. He said that some fit this description "believing that knowing the truth is enough."  They do not know they need anything else. How very sad! Such a deception. Actually, they think they know the truth, but while they understand some doctrinal matters, not being converted, they lack spiritual discernment. So even with the light shining brightly, they do not understand the gospel message. They therefor believe they are converted when in fact they have not been. Such a deception!

Amen. In my mind, this sums it up.
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #36 on: July 05, 2013, 09:24:35 AM »

A similar religious group are also identified in Matthew 7:21-23  "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

They make reference to their good works which they feel gives them some entitlement to enter the kingdom of heaven. Then Christ says to them "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." This is very similar to being lukewarm and being spit or vomited out of the mouth of God. 

These people are very religious they use the Lord's name and they foretell future events and do mighty works for God. One main element that is lacking in their experience is they did not know Christ as a personal friend. Christ said "I don't even know who you are."

Being rich and increases with goods includes a great wealth of knowledge of the truth as mention by JimB.  But there is also an a abundance of good works "increased with goods." I think of the Pharisee who also made reference to his good works which in his mind made him feel superior to others. He had no love in his heart for Christ and esteemed himself better than others. His religion was one of externals. It is very easy to become satisfied with our attainments but still be missing the most important thing.

Richard if you don't mind we could come back to your list you gave from last week's lesson. A person can avoid listing to rock music, and eating cheese and read their bible every day and still be lukewarm. But the danger is here that we can easily think that doing all the right things constitutes conversion. So when you say they are not converted they say yes we are look at our good works.

Lukewarm could include have a abundance of spiritual truth as well many outward reforms in our lives but the reforms are central and not Christ.  A person can observe all the forms of religion and even be zealous and maintain the doctrines of the church and still be lukewarm.

I don't want to make this post to long and I am sure this still leaves us with some other thoughts. So before the day is over it might be good to spend some time on what it means to be wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Richard discussed this on Tuesdays lesson and some good points were made and other questions were asked. 

I think also of the publican in Luke 18:13 "And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner." Is this your experience? How did the publican come to see himself in this light?

Amen, Al.   The publican was not in a Laodicean condition even though his church was. You ask about last week's lesson on Malachi where I commented about one group in the church who reject great light. Let's look at that comment which you wanted to return to. Actually while the part you referenced was about one group, the point I made involved both groups who are unconverted, not just those who oppose obedience.


There are two forks in the road, not just one. On the one road is dry formalism, or even Phariseeism. The other road more traveled is rock music, dancing, chicken, and cheese and a love, love, love that is full of hypocrisy.  God expects us to walk in the light of His counsel. "The Lord expected the chosen nation and its leaders to obey His commands."

The liberals see the Phariseeism, the conservatives see the liberal rejections of obedience. There are two forks in the road and the Laodicean church does not see both forks. Satan cares not which fork is taken. It is never good enough to see the error on one side. This is what makes up Laodicea. It is so easy for the liberal to see the conservative who is a Pharisee. It is so easy for the conservative to see the liberal who says he is saved in his sin. But, the majority do not see their own sin, thus Laodicea. The road more traveled is the teaching that one is saved in sin. That one unknown sin does not reveal a separation from God and the need to be re-justified. But, the greater danger and more cloaked lie is that of the Pharisee who believes his "good works" will save him when in fact the heart is not fully given to God and the good works are not pure and holy, but defiled by selfishness. The only ones who will enter heaven will be those who are filled with the Spirit of God. If converted, they are born of His Spirit and will manifest His Spirit, all of the fruits of His Spirit, not one will be missing. Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. How many are teaching this? How many sermons have preached this? How many books have you read that say this? If none, then we certainly are in a Laodicean condition. For this is the gospel message and it is "milk" not "meat". 

Shame on the Pharisees and shame on the Nicolaitanes. With the light so brightly shining on our path, there is no excuse at this late date to be so deceived. Go to the Bible for yourselves. Cease seeking the wisdom of man and drink from the pure fountains opened for sinners. Buy of Jesus gold tried in the fire, white raiment, and eye salve. Jesus will heal us.  Then an end will come to the evil in this world. Until it does, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is responsible for all of the suffering and death that continues in this world. It ought to have ended many years ago. Jesus weeps......and stands at the door knocking. 
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Richard Myers

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #37 on: July 05, 2013, 09:46:49 AM »
FRIDAY July 5

There have been only a few times in my Christian life where I have been so encouraged as I am now. One was when Pastor Wilson addressed the World Church on the last Sabbath of the Atlanta General Conference Session. He called for revival and reformation. Now, we have Pastor Finley doing the same in our Sabbath School lesson. And,  now there is enough time to get to the very foundation of the Laodicean condition and the solution to it. I hope that many of you recognize what this means to the church, to the world, and to Jesus.


Further Study: “A revival and a reformation must take place under the ministration of the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation are two different things. Revival signifies a renewal of spiritual life, a quickening of the powers of mind and heart, a resurrection from the spiritual death. Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices. Reformation will not bring forth the good fruit of righteousness unless it is connected with the revival of the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed work, and in doing this work they must blend.”-Ellen G. White, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Feb. 25, 1902.

“The counsel of the True Witness is full of encouragement and comfort. The churches may yet obtain the gold of truth, faith, and love, and be rich in heavenly treasure. ‘Buy of me gold that thou mayest be rich, and white raiment that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.’ The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ that may be wrought into the character. Purity of heart, purity of motive, will characterize everyone who is washing his robe, and making it white in the blood of the Lamb.”-Ellen G. White, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, July 24, 1888.


Sadly, this is not what is believed by Laodicea. "True righteousness wrought into the character."  Not just outward obedience. "Purity of heart, purity of motive."  Show me the preaching and teaching of man where it is said.  Now, not just in the last generation. So very sad!! But, I am so encouraged because these passages where chosen in an effort to awaken a sleeping church to its condition. Pastor Finley must understand the true nature of conversion and thus the true meaning of the message in Revelation chapter three to the Laodicean church. As encouraging as is the message from Jesus, is the teaching of Pastor Finley. As we close this week's lesson, the first in this new quarter, say a prayer of thanksgiving for the faithful God has in His church.

I will leave Pastor Finley's closing questions for others to answer. Let us hear from some of the hundreds that are being blessed by reading this week's lesson. It is easy to register. Just click on "register" at the top of the page. We want to hear from you. We have members from around the world. Many are reading from around the world. Let us "press together" as we near the end. Share what God is teaching you. It will be a blessing for you and an encouragement for us all.


Discussion Questions:

    What is so dangerous about being lukewarm? Why can it lead us so easily to spiritual self-deception?

    Why do some Christians seem so radiant and others so indifferent? Is it a matter of different personality types, or is there something deeper? If so, what?

    Discuss with your class ways in which to avoid becoming spiritually indifferent. How can we keep our spiritual experience vibrant and growing? What are things that we can do as a church body, as a whole, to protect ourselves from becoming “lukewarm”?

    Why do you think God would rather have us “cold” than “lukewarm”? Why isn’t being lukewarm better than being flat-out cold? Hint: what’s more comfortable, being lukewarm or being cold?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #38 on: July 05, 2013, 12:11:06 PM »
The path is narrow and very very rarely travelled. The journey is lonely if you love company! The way is full of thorns and briar! Yet will I steadfastly abide. Tears well and sometimes they fal when I imagine that twas me on that cross, that He carried a burden alien to Him, that He accepted to die at the hands of His creation!
wonderful love cannot express this action! It is therefore wigh humility that I approach the throne. And I die in Him everyday. He knows my pastures and always leads me out of trouble. My precious redeemer!
The glory of angels we cannot behold except that Jesus expressly permit for if any look at an holy being wuth even a little speck of sin, we die how much more God?? Therefore I ask Him to cover me completely with His righteousness. Do you? Pray kets get iut of this laodocean state and build the Holy mount and let Him make for himself a remnant,

wigina

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Re: Third Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 1--Revival: Our Great Need
« Reply #39 on: July 05, 2013, 12:34:34 PM »
lukewarm  gives the Lord a hard timetime deciding what to do with us. Make us permanent hot or cold. In this state we assume we know yet like the Pharisee we mock God by fist clenching and chest thumping. Laodecia is such that we cannot reproove error if we cannot do this now when the angels still holr the four winds what about when they are let lose?
Jesus reprimanded Peter 3 times but Judas was only the does it ring a bell