SDA Sabbath School Lesson 5-First Quarter 2015-The Blessings of the Righteous

[Wally]

Lesson 5 *January 24-30

The Blessings of the Righteous

Sabbath Afternoon

Read for This Week’s Study: Proverbs 10:1–14, Matt. 19:19, Proverbs 11:1-12:28, John 3:16, Proverbs 13:1-35.

Memory Text: "Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked" (Proverbs 10:6, NKJV).

As the title suggests, this lesson looks at the blessings of the righteous. The Hebrew word zaddiq, for "righteous," is the key word in our texts. Zedeq (also translated "justice"), from which it is derived, appears in the introduction of the whole book: "The proverbs of Solomon . . . to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice [zedeq] . . ." (Prov. 1:1–3). What the book of Proverbs is telling us is that wisdom is righteousness, and "righteousness" means to walk according to God’s commands — to walk in faith and obedience to what the Lord has called us to be and to do. Righteousness is a gift, one that comes from God. The opposite is folly and unfaithfulness. Wisdom is justice, or righteousness; folly is sin and wickedness — and in the verses we will study, the contrast between them is stark.

*Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, January 31.

Sunday January 25

Righteousness Is Holistic

Read Proverbs 10:1–7. What various principles about life and faith are revealed here?

There is a story about a man in a boat who began to drill a hole under his feet where he sat. When people in the boat demanded that he stop, he responded: "This is none of your business. This is my place!" This absurd response is often the excuse used by the sinner to justify his or her behavior. "This is my life; it has nothing to do with you." Of course, anything we do or don’t do has an impact on others, especially on those nearest to us. Who hasn’t felt, in a big way, the results of other people’s actions, either good or bad?

The principle of unity between the spiritual-moral life and the physical-material life is dealt with in Proverbs 10:3-5. The main idea is that wickedness or moral deficiency does not pay, even if one is rich; and, second, that righteousness is always rewarding, in one way or another, even if one is poor.

In Proverbs 10:6-7, we see here an earlier expression of what Jesus said about how lust is adultery, or hatred akin to murder. Hiding our hatred behind our words doesn’t always work, either. Wicked thoughts are often betrayed in our body language and the tone of our voice. The best possible starting point for good relations with others is "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Lev. 19:18, NKJV; compare with Matt. 19:19, NKJV). As the texts also suggest, the impression you make for good can have a lasting influence on others. In the end we’re dealing with a certain amount of common sense: isn’t it better to have a good name than a bad one?

What important decision are you going to be making soon? If you haven’t already done so, consider carefully the impact that choice might have on others, for good or for evil.

Monday January 26

The Mouth of the Righteous

The mouth (with its components, the lips and the tongue) is the most important organ in the book of Proverbs. In the New King James Version of the book, the word "mouth" is used 50 times, "lips" occurs 41 times, and "tongue" 19. The use of this organ in speech is a particularly important theme in Proverbs 10–29.

The basic premise is crucial: our words are very powerful, either for good or for evil. The tongue can be the best or the worst gift that we’ve been given. This ambivalence about the tongue is one of the most important lessons in Proverbs. Indeed, the mouth generates life, but it also may bring death.

Read Proverbs 10:11–14. What is the contrast there between how the righteous person speaks and how the fool does?

In Proverbs 10:11 notice the expression the "well of life." It symbolically refers to qualities of wisdom. It is used in reference to the Lord (Ps. 36:9), the Source of life. The same image is used in relation to the sanctuary, from which the stream of water springs (Ezek. 47:1-2). Jesus uses this metaphor to illustrate the gift of the Spirit (John 4:14). So the comparison of the mouth of the righteous to "a well of life" amounts to relating it to God Himself.

What characterizes this mouth is the positive gift of "life." This quality tells us what the proper function of the mouth should be. It should be a force for good, not evil, a source of life, not death. What is being said here is seen also in James 3:2–12.

Remember, too, that it was through speech, through the "word of His power" (Heb. 1:3, NKJV), that God created the heavens and the earth. Speech, therefore, should serve only creative purposes.

Consider just how incredibly powerful words are. With your words you can fill people with self-confidence, cheer, and hope, or you can break them down and damage them as surely as if you attacked them physically. How careful are you as you wield the power of your tongue?

[Wally]

Tuesday January 27

The Hope of the Righteous

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them" (Prov. 11:3). What evidence do we have of the truth of this verse? What examples have you seen or heard about in which this spiritual truth has been revealed? By contrast, what things have you seen that mean that, so far at least, you have to take this text by faith?

Read Proverbs 11. Though it touches on so many topics, what are some of the great blessings that come to the faithful as opposed to what happens to the wicked?

The sense of a future and the value of what is not yet seen (see 2 Cor. 4:18) help motivate the righteous to live rightly. Because of their hope in the future, the righteous behave with humility, honesty, and compassion.

On the other hand, wicked people live only in the present; they are concerned only with what they see and with the immediate reward. They think of themselves before others and will resort to deception and abuse. For instance, the salespeople who deceive their customers might perhaps get an immediate reward with a higher price, but they ultimately could lose their customers and their business might fail (Prov. 11:3, 18).

Think about some of the decisions you have to make and how you go about making them. How much long-term planning (as in eternity) factors into your choices?

Wednesday January 28

The Truth of the Righteous

Read Proverbs 12:1-28 and focus on the theme of words, especially in the context of telling truth or telling lies. What message do we find here about honesty and lying?

Philosopher Sissela Bok has convincingly demonstrated how lying can be harmful for society. She writes: "A society, then, whose members were unable to distinguish truthful messages from deceptive ones, would collapse." — Lying: Moral Choice in Public and Private Life (New York: Pantheon Books, 1978), p. 19. Likewise, Augustine, as quoted in the introduction of Bok’s book, noted that "when regard for truth has been broken down or even slightly weakened, all things will remain doubtful." — Page xv.

Ellen G. White wrote: "Lying lips are an abomination to Him. He declares that into the holy city "there shall in no wise enter . . . any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie." Let truth telling be held with no loose hand or uncertain grasp. Let it become a part of the life. Playing fast and loose with truth, and dissembling to suit one’s own selfish plans, means shipwreck of faith. . . . He who utters untruths sells his soul in a cheap market. His falsehoods may seem to serve in emergencies; he may thus seem to make business advancement that he could not gain by fair dealing; but he finally reaches the place where he can trust no one. Himself a falsifier, he has no confidence in the word of others." — My Life Today, p. 331.

When we think of how powerful words are, we must think about lying as well, because most lies are told with words. Who hasn’t felt the sting, the betrayal, the sense of defilement when lied to? It’s not hard to imagine a society falling into total chaos when lying is the norm rather than an aberration from the norm.

There’s another angle, too: the effect of lying on the one who lies. Some people are so used to the practice that it doesn’t bother them; many people, though, do feel a sense of guilt, of shame, when they lie. Good for them, because that means there is still some receptiveness to the Holy Spirit.

Imagine, though, the danger for the one who lies but doesn’t even think twice about it.

When was the last time you lied? How did you feel when you did it?

[Wally]

Thursday January 29

The Reward of the Righteous

As we have seen in Proverbs, so much of the instruction and teaching given has been presented by contrasting two types of people. "The wise person does this, the fool does that." "The godly man does that, the wicked man does this."

Of course, in reality, there’s often a bit of wisdom and foolishness in all of us. With the exception of Jesus, we all are sinners, we all fall "short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23). Fortunately, we have the wonderful promise that comes in the next verse: though we are sinners, by faith we can be "justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 3:24).

In the end, all humanity is going to be in either one of two camps: people who are going to be saved or lost.

Read John 3:16. What two options does all humanity face?

Read Proverbs 13:1-25. How does this chapter contrast the experience and fate of the righteous with that of the wicked?

The wise are compared to a lasting lamp, while the wicked are compared to a lamp that will be put out (Prov. 13:9). The wise person will enjoy the good fruit of his or her work, while the sinner will reap evil (Proverbs 13:2, 25). Through their children (Prov. 13:22), the wise have a future even beyond themselves; the wicked, instead, will leave their wealth to strangers, even to the righteous (Prov. 13:22).

The point is that a life of faith and obedience to the Lord is better than a life of disobedience and folly.

Putting aside the big issue of the promise of eternal life, what are some of the immediate, day-to-day advantages that you have experienced through living a life of faith in Christ?

Friday January 30

Further Study: "It is not enough to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the church roll. . . . Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righteousness." — Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 312, 313.

"The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul. . . . The darkest chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed by bigoted religionists. . . . The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. . . . Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world. “The righteousness which Christ taught is conformity of heart and life to the revealed will of God." — Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, pp. 309, 310.

Discussion Questions:

    Discuss how our decisions impact others for good or for evil. Why is this an inescapable fact of life? This truth was first revealed in the story of the Fall, where even to this day the impact of Adam and Eve’s choice is felt in each of our lives. It might be tempting to try to measure the amount of good or bad our decisions might bring, but that’s risky, because we often don’t know the impact of our choices. Why, then, in light of God and His law, must we choose to do what’s right, regardless of what we fear the consequences might be?

    Proverbs makes a sharp distinction between the righteous and the fool, and from these verses we learn about what is right and wrong. Why, though, must we be very careful whom we judge as fools? On the other hand, how often have we been deceived by those whom we once thought were righteous?

[Richard Myers]

Sabbath Afternoon

Read for This Week’s Study: Proverbs 10:1–14, Matt. 19:19, Proverbs 11:1-12:28, John 3:16, Proverbs 13:1-35.

Memory Text: "Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked." Proverbs 10:6

As the title suggests, this lesson looks at the blessings of the righteous. The Hebrew word zaddiq, for "righteous," is the key word in our texts. Zedeq (also translated "justice"), from which it is derived, appears in the introduction of the whole book: "The proverbs of Solomon . . . to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice [zedeq] . . ." (Prov. 1:1–3). What the book of Proverbs is telling us is that wisdom is righteousness, and "righteousness" means to walk according to God’s commands — to walk in faith and obedience to what the Lord has called us to be and to do. Righteousness is a gift, one that comes from God. The opposite is folly and unfaithfulness. Wisdom is justice, or righteousness; folly is sin and wickedness — and in the verses we will study, the contrast between them is stark.

Amen!  Righteousness is life, sin is death.

[Richard Myers]

Sunday January 25

Righteousness Is Holistic

Read Proverbs 10:1–7.

10:1   The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son [is] the heaviness of his mother. 
 10:2   Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. 
 10:3   The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked. 
 10:4   He becometh poor that dealeth [with] a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. 
 10:5   He that gathereth in summer [is] a wise son: [but] he that sleepeth in harvest [is] a son that causeth shame. 
 10:6   Blessings [are] upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 
 10:7   The memory of the just [is] blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.

What various principles about life and faith are revealed here?

There is a story about a man in a boat who began to drill a hole under his feet where he sat. When people in the boat demanded that he stop, he responded: "This is none of your business. This is my place!" This absurd response is often the excuse used by the sinner to justify his or her behavior. "This is my life; it has nothing to do with you." Of course, anything we do or don’t do has an impact on others, especially on those nearest to us. Who hasn’t felt, in a big way, the results of other people’s actions, either good or bad?

The principle of unity between the spiritual-moral life and the physical-material life is dealt with in Proverbs 10:3-5. The main idea is that wickedness or moral deficiency does not pay, even if one is rich; and, second, that righteousness is always rewarding, in one way or another, even if one is poor.

In Proverbs 10:6-7, we see here an earlier expression of what Jesus said about how lust is adultery, or hatred akin to murder. Hiding our hatred behind our words doesn’t always work, either. Wicked thoughts are often betrayed in our body language and the tone of our voice. The best possible starting point for good relations with others is "Ye shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Lev. 19:18; compare with Matt. 19:19). As the texts also suggest, the impression you make for good can have a lasting influence on others.

We are either an influence for good or for evil. There is no middle ground.

In the end we’re dealing with a certain amount of common sense: isn’t it better to have a good name than a bad one?

What important decision are you going to be making soon? If you haven’t already done so, consider carefully the impact that choice might have on others, for good or for evil.

Sometimes thinking of what we do to others is more motivating than considering what we do to ourselves. How many mothers and fathers want to cause their children to miss heaven and suffer punishment for their sins? Wanting to help our children will not save us, but it can cause us to flee to Christ who can save us.

[Richard Myers]

Monday January 26

The Mouth of the Righteous

The mouth (with its components, the lips and the tongue) is the most important organ in the book of Proverbs. In the New King James Version of the book, the word "mouth" is used 50 times, "lips" occurs 41 times, and "tongue" 19. The use of this organ in speech is a particularly important theme in Proverbs 10–29.

The basic premise is crucial: our words are very powerful, either for good or for evil. The tongue can be the best or the worst gift that we’ve been given. This ambivalence about the tongue is one of the most important lessons in Proverbs. Indeed, the mouth generates life, but it also may bring death.

Read Proverbs 10:11–14.

10:11   The mouth of a righteous [man is] a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 
 10:12   Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. 
 10:13   In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod [is] for the back of him that is void of understanding. 
 10:14   Wise [men] lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish [is] near destruction. 

What is the contrast there between how the righteous person speaks and how the fool does?

It is the difference between conversion and a fallen nature. Out of the mouth of the unrepentant sinner comes a revelation of his carnal heart. "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh." Luke 6:45. There is no middle ground. We must be born of His Spirit if we are to be a blessing to others.

In Proverbs 10:11 notice the expression the "well of life." It symbolically refers to qualities of wisdom. It is used in reference to the Lord (Ps. 36:9), the Source of life. The same image is used in relation to the sanctuary, from which the stream of water springs (Ezek. 47:1-2). Jesus uses this metaphor to illustrate the gift of the Spirit (John 4:14). So the comparison of the mouth of the righteous to "a well of life" amounts to relating it to God Himself.

What characterizes this mouth is the positive gift of "life." This quality tells us what the proper function of the mouth should be. It should be a force for good, not evil, a source of life, not death. What is being said here is seen also in James 3:2–12.

Amen! And Jesus speaks of a well of life when speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well. It is indeed a gift of life. One that He wants us to impart to others after we first get it from Him. "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." John 4:14.

Remember, too, that it was through speech, through the "word of His power" (Heb. 1:3 KJV), that God created the heavens and the earth. Speech, therefore, should serve only creative purposes.

Well....not always. At least not directly. It was God that destroyed every living thing off the face of this earth except what was in the waters and on the ark. There are times when speech may not be creative. Reproof does not always work to bring about life. It is left with the sinner as to what he will do. Often Jesus spoke words that did not bring about a new birth, but cemented the sinner in his sin. When Moses told the Pharaoh to let His people go, God knew that he would not. It was not to bring about a conversion of the Pharaoh, but to reveal to the nations the power of God for His people.  Listen to Jesus when He speaks words that He knows will cause some to leave Him for good. From the Book of John:
" 6:53   Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 
 6:54   Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 
 6:55   For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 
 6:56   He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 
 6:57   As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 
 6:58   This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. 
 6:59   These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. 
 6:60   Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard [this], said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? 
 6:61   When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? 
 6:62   [What] and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? 
 6:63   It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life. 
 6:64   But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. 
 6:65   And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 
 6:66   From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Here is the explanation as to why Jesus spoke these words that were not creative for some.
"When he is truly connected with Christ, he will not be like those disciples who were offended because their own minds were not spiritual. They saw the truths that pleased them; but when they came to hear something they could not explain or reason out, because they were not in vital connection with Christ, they were offended. They turned away, and walked no more with him. It was better that these fruitless branches should reveal themselves while Christ was with them. It was for this reason that the words of Christ were spoken, that these disciples might be proved to be just what they were,--not of the faith, but among those that believed not. Just as long as they were with Christ, they revealed a spirit of unbelief. They found the words of Christ opposed to their ideas and maxims, and bore no fruit as branches of the Living Vine." The Review and Harald, November 16, 1897.

And in The Desire of Ages it is even made more clear. "When Jesus presented the testing truth that caused so many of His disciples to turn back, He knew what would be the result of His words; but He had a purpose of mercy to fulfill. He foresaw that in the hour of temptation every one of His beloved disciples would be severely tested. His agony in Gethsemane, His betrayal and crucifixion, would be to them a most trying ordeal. Had no previous test been given, many who were actuated by merely selfish motives would have been connected with them. When their Lord was condemned in the judgment hall; when the multitude who had hailed Him as their king hissed at Him and reviled Him; when the jeering crowd cried, "Crucify Him!"--when their worldly ambitions were disappointed, these self-seeking ones would, by renouncing their allegiance to Jesus, have brought upon the disciples a bitter, heart-burdening sorrow, in addition to their grief and disappointment in the ruin of their fondest hopes. In that hour of darkness, the example of those who turned from Him might have carried others with them." He speaks these words so that the disciples will leave. They are not words of creation, not for those who will reject them.

Consider just how incredibly powerful words are. With your words you can fill people with self-confidence, cheer, and hope, or you can break them down and damage them as surely as if you attacked them physically. How careful are you as you wield the power of your tongue?

Amen. The Word of God is as a two edged sword. "For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12. If we are not being led by the Spirit of God, then how do we know what others need to hear? We can speak the truth in love at the wrong time. If we fail to reprove sin, we may be responsible for the sin. But, if we reprove sin when we have not repented of our own sin, then we surely are not following the Spirit of God, for we are not in a converted condition and can do no good thing. "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam [is] in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." Matthew 7:3-5.Who can control the tongue? As we read in James, we know that we must be converted in order to keep the tongue from setting ablaze all that is around us. "Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell." James 3:5,6.

We are not safe for one moment unless we are abiding in Christ and He in us!

[JimB]

Richard, I do not know if this really applies to what you are showing but when reading this I thought of Christ's words to Judas when the disciples wanted him to join them.

While Jesus was preparing the disciples for their ordination, one who had not been summoned urged his presence among them. It was Judas Iscariot, a man who professed to be a follower of Christ. He now came forward, soliciting a place in this inner circle of disciples. With great earnestness and apparent sincerity he declared, "Master, I will follow Thee whithersoever Thou goest." Jesus neither repulsed nor welcomed him, but uttered only the mournful words: "The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head." Matthew 8:19, 20. Judas believed Jesus to be the Messiah; and by joining the apostles, he hoped to secure a high position in the new kingdom. This hope Jesus designed to cut off by the statement of His poverty.  {DA 293.2} 

The disciples were anxious that Judas should become one of their number. He was of commanding appearance, a man of keen discernment and executive ability, and they commended him to Jesus as one who would greatly assist Him in His work. They were surprised that Jesus received him so coolly.  {DA 294.1} 

[Richard Myers]

Yes, thank you, Jim.  The lesson's statement was not a good one. I may not have understood what was being said, but taking the statement as it read, I could not remain quiet.  "Speech, therefore, should serve only creative purposes."  In the end all that we say ought to be to God's glory. But, to say that in the manner we see here does not fit into my mind. Often there are things that must be said in an effort to awaken the sinner to his true condition. Revival and reformation begins with seeing our condemnation and need of Christ, our continual need of His grace.

If others see some merit in the statement, please share what it is.

[Richard Myers]

Tuesday January 27

The Hope of the Righteous

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them" (Prov. 11:3). What evidence do we have of the truth of this verse? What examples have you seen or heard about in which this spiritual truth has been revealed? By contrast, what things have you seen that mean that, so far at least, you have to take this text by faith?

Does God still send rain and sun to those who grow grapes to make wine? Do drug dealers live in expensive houses? Do crooked politicians wear expensive clothes, drive expensive cars, and live like kings? Do some of the righteous live as did Jesus with few worldly goods? Are some truly converted Christians today being persecuted, even killed?

Read Proverbs 11.

11:1   A false balance [is] abomination to the LORD: but a just weight [is] his delight. 
 11:2   [When] pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly [is] wisdom. 
 11:3   The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. 
 11:4   Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. 
 11:5   The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. 
 11:6   The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in [their own] naughtiness. 
 11:7   When a wicked man dieth, [his] expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust [men] perisheth. 
 11:8   The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead. 
 11:9   An hypocrite with [his] mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered. 
 11:10   When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, [there is] shouting. 
 11:11   By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. 
 11:12   He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. 
 11:13   A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. 
 11:14   Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors [there is] safety. 
 11:15   He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure. 
 11:16   A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong [men] retain riches. 
 11:17   The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but [he that is] cruel troubleth his own flesh. 
 11:18   The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness [shall be] a sure reward. 
 11:19   As righteousness [tendeth] to life: so he that pursueth evil [pursueth it] to his own death. 
 11:20   They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight. 
 11:21   [Though] hand [join] in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered. 
 11:22   [As] a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, [so is] a fair woman which is without discretion. 
 11:23   The desire of the righteous [is] only good: [but] the expectation of the wicked [is] wrath. 
 11:24   There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty. 
 11:25   The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. 
 11:26   He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing [shall be] upon the head of him that selleth [it]. 
 11:27   He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him. 
 11:28   He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch. 
 11:29   He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool [shall be] servant to the wise of heart. 
 11:30   The fruit of the righteous [is] a tree of life; and he that winneth souls [is] wise. 
 11:31   Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner. 

Though it touches on so many topics, what are some of the great blessings that come to the faithful as opposed to what happens to the wicked?

"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life."  A Christian is happy to put off his reward. On the other hand, peace that passes understanding and the fruits of the Spirit come in this life at conversion.

The sense of a future and the value of what is not yet seen (see 2 Cor. 4:18) help motivate the righteous to live rightly. Because of their hope in the future, the righteous behave with humility, honesty, and compassion.

Yes, it does help, but the only power to live righteously and to put off our great reward comes from Christ. It is for Him that we live. Heaven will not be gained by those who are motivated by gain, but by those who love God supremely and are motivated by His grace. It is for Him that we live.

On the other hand, wicked people live only in the present; they are concerned only with what they see and with the immediate reward. They think of themselves before others and will resort to deception and abuse. For instance, the salespeople who deceive their customers might perhaps get an immediate reward with a higher price, but they ultimately could lose their customers and their business might fail (Prov. 11:3, 18).

Think about some of the decisions you have to make and how you go about making them. How much long-term planning (as in eternity) factors into your choices?

And how much does the love of God motivate you? If you do not love God supremely, if you are not entirely dead to self, if you are not in a converted state born of His Spirit, then your motivation is not good enough to do good from the heart for God. We must be continually abiding in Christ to do any good thing. We are saved (changed) by grace, the acceptance of God's grace. It is the transforming power that changes sinners into saints. We do it for Jesus, not for self. Yes self gains eternal life and peace in this world, but our motivation that changes us is Jesus. That is why it would be well to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating His life and His great love for us while we were yet sinners.

[Richard Myers]

Wednesday January 28

The Truth of the Righteous

Read Proverbs 12:1-28 and focus on the theme of words, especially in the context of telling truth or telling lies.

12:1   Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof [is] brutish. 
 12:2   A good [man] obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn. 
 12:3   A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. 
 12:4   A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones. 
 12:5   The thoughts of the righteous [are] right: [but] the counsels of the wicked [are] deceit. 
 12:6   The words of the wicked [are] to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them. 
 12:7   The wicked are overthrown, and [are] not: but the house of the righteous shall stand. 
 12:8   A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised. 
 12:9   [He that is] despised, and hath a servant, [is] better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread. 
 12:10   A righteous [man] regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked [are] cruel. 
 12:11   He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain [persons is] void of understanding. 
 12:12   The wicked desireth the net of evil [men]: but the root of the righteous yieldeth [fruit]. 
 12:13   The wicked is snared by the transgression of [his] lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. 
 12:14   A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of [his] mouth: and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him. 
 12:15   The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise. 
 12:16   A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent [man] covereth shame. 
 12:17   [He that] speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. 
 12:18   There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise [is] health. 
 12:19   The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue [is] but for a moment. 
 12:20   Deceit [is] in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace [is] joy. 
 12:21   There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief. 
 12:22   Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight. 
 12:23   A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness. 
 12:24   The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute. 
 12:25   Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. 
 12:26   The righteous [is] more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them. 
 12:27   The slothful [man] roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man [is] precious. 
 12:28   In the way of righteousness [is] life; and [in] the pathway [thereof there is] no death.
What message do we find here about honesty and lying?

It is character. A liar will get caught in his lies. Character is changed when one is born of the Spirit of God. Has our character been changed from sinner to saint? Or is the character still walking after the flesh? Jesus gives us His character when we are willing to die to self and live unto Him.

Let's look at the first verse in chapter 12. "Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish." It is true. Do you love instruction, do you appreciate being reproved? If not, what does it say about your character? I am not saying it is pleasant to see one's errors, but to not want to know truth is very revealing about our spiritual condition. To not appreciate moving from error to truth is very sad. Staying wrong is rather stupid, is it not? Why would someone not want to know if they are wrong? Does one have to be a Christian to want to be told he is wrong? Why would a heathen want to be told when he is wrong? Is it in his best interest to know? Then why do some professing Christians not want to be reproved for their wrongs?

Philosopher Sissela Bok has convincingly demonstrated how lying can be harmful for society. She writes: "A society, then, whose members were unable to distinguish truthful messages from deceptive ones, would collapse." — Lying: Moral Choice in Public and Private Life (New York: Pantheon Books, 1978), p. 19. Likewise, Augustine, as quoted in the introduction of Bok’s book, noted that "when regard for truth has been broken down or even slightly weakened, all things will remain doubtful." — Page xv.

Ellen G. White wrote: "Lying lips are an abomination to Him. He declares that into the holy city "there shall in no wise enter . . . any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie." Let truth telling be held with no loose hand or uncertain grasp. Let it become a part of the life. Playing fast and loose with truth, and dissembling to suit one’s own selfish plans, means shipwreck of faith. . . . He who utters untruths sells his soul in a cheap market. His falsehoods may seem to serve in emergencies; he may thus seem to make business advancement that he could not gain by fair dealing; but he finally reaches the place where he can trust no one. Himself a falsifier, he has no confidence in the word of others." — My Life Today, p. 331.

When we think of how powerful words are, we must think about lying as well, because most lies are told with words. Who hasn’t felt the sting, the betrayal, the sense of defilement when lied to? It’s not hard to imagine a society falling into total chaos when lying is the norm rather than an aberration from the norm.

Yes, when even the president of the United States openly lies in sworn testimony and escapes punishment, we can know that society is approaching what it was at the time of Noah.

There’s another angle, too: the effect of lying on the one who lies. Some people are so used to the practice that it doesn’t bother them; many people, though, do feel a sense of guilt, of shame, when they lie. Good for them, because that means there is still some receptiveness to the Holy Spirit.

It is character.

Imagine, though, the danger for the one who lies but doesn’t even think twice about it.

When was the last time you lied? How did you feel when you did it?

Which one of the ten commandments deals with this subject? And, there are degrees of lying. Some lies are more wicked than others. Why is this one placed in the ten commandments? Do motives have anything to do with how serious the lies are? Discuss in Sabbath School the deception that led Joseph's brothers to think they were in trouble for stealing his cup. "And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, Fill the men's sacks [with] food, as much as they can carry, and put every man's money in his sack's mouth. And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of the youngest, and his corn money. And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. As soon as the morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses. And when they were gone out of the city, [and] not [yet] far off, Joseph said unto his steward, Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost overtake them, say unto them, Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good? Is not this [it] in which my lord drinketh, and whereby indeed he divineth? ye have done evil in so doing." Gensis 44:1-5.

[Richard Myers]

Thursday January 29

The Reward of the Righteous

When studying today's lesson that centers on "the righteous", I want to remind our students of something that was posted in Lesson 3 of this quarter.

Discussion Questions:

    How can we be serious about the gravity of sin without falling into the trap of fanaticism?

And what is "fanaticism"? Why is it that this is the second time the term has been used without saying what it is?

This is important from my perspective because the great deception that has come into the church is that we may go to heaven without repenting of every single sin. Let me quote a popular false teacher that put's it into simple terms that we all can understand. He represents the deception quite well. "The monstrous teaching in the Seventh-day Adventist Church is that when one sins he must be re-justified." He is teaching that when we sin, we retain salvation. Well...the truth is that none are going to heaven who have any known sins that have not been confessed and forsaken. The wages of one sin is death, just as it was when Adam ate from the forbidden fruit. Yes, some consider this "fanatical". "We cannot meet Christ in peace with one sin unrepented of, unconfessed, and unforsaken. But John writes, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." RH, March 17, 1891.

As we have seen in Proverbs, so much of the instruction and teaching given has been presented by contrasting two types of people. "The wise person does this, the fool does that." "The godly man does that, the wicked man does this."

Of course, in reality, there’s often a bit of wisdom and foolishness in all of us.

That is an interesting comment. For what purpose was it made? There are five wise and five foolish virgins. Do the five wise have a bit of "foolishness" in them? How do we handle such a statement and why make it? What is being taught by stating such foolishness? And, let's follow the teaching a bit further to see what is being taught.

With the exception of Jesus, we all are sinners, we all fall "short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23).

When we read the words in context, Paul is speaking of the work of the law in pointing out sin and our need of grace. None, not one has not sinned, past tense. Therefore all need God's forgiving grace and forgiveness. Does that mean we all continue sinning? God forbid! But, the lesson makes it appear that we continue falling short of God's glory because we continue in sin because we are sinners.

The text states it this way: "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."


Are we always coming short?

It makes me very sad to think of how many will fall short of the Bible standard. If we knew that in just one year from now, the Lord would come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, what a feeling of solemnity would rest upon us! How earnestly we should strive to prepare for His coming, that, clothed in the wedding garment, we might go in unto the marriage supper of the Lamb.-- Manuscript 12, 1904. 

What is the connection between "falling short" and salvation?

God has given His people positive instruction, and has laid upon them positive restrictions, that they may obtain a perfect experience in His service, and be qualified to stand before the heavenly universe and before the fallen world as overcomers. They are to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. Those who fall short of making the preparation essential will be numbered with the unthankful and the unholy. BLJ 66

Those who have not worked in full consecration to God have lost much themselves, and have not been able to communicate to the church correct principles of Christianity. Self has not been hid in Christ. Those who handle sacred things are not growing in grace and in the knowledge of the deep truths of the Word of God, attaining to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. They fall short of the divine measure. Some have preached in the desk, but have failed to reach the people, because they have not had the sanctifying power of Christ in their own hearts. They have not come in personal contact with the people, and they have not been benefited as they might have been. Not all have presented Christ as the great Center to whom all must come, realizing that He is the Author and Finisher of their redemption, their all in all. The result of their labor makes it manifest that they have not the deep personal experience they should have, but need deeper piety and unselfish devotion to the work.--Ms 12, 1891. 

What is the glory of God and what does it mean to give "glory to God"? 

The power of an ever-abiding Saviour is greater now than ever before, because the emergencies are greater; and yet we are weak in spiritual life and experience. Oh, how much we have lost as a people by our lack of faith! We have suffered loss to our own souls, and have failed to reveal to others, by our words and in our character, what Christ is and will be to everyone who comes to him believing. He is "made unto us wisdom and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption." To give glory to God is to reveal his character in our own, and thus make him known."  ST, October 17, 1892. If you have time, read the whole article.


Fortunately, we have the wonderful promise that comes in the next verse: though we are sinners, by faith we can be "justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 3:24).

Who is "justified freely by His grace"?

In the end, all humanity is going to be in either one of two camps: people who are going to be saved or lost.

Read John 3:16.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 

What two options does all humanity face?

Read Proverbs 13:1-25.

 13:1   A wise son [heareth] his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke. 
 13:2   A man shall eat good by the fruit of [his] mouth: but the soul of the transgressors [shall eat] violence. 
 13:3   He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: [but] he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. 
 13:4   The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat. 
 13:5   A righteous [man] hateth lying: but a wicked [man] is loathsome, and cometh to shame. 
 13:6   Righteousness keepeth [him that is] upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner. 
 13:7   There is that maketh himself rich, yet [hath] nothing: [there is] that maketh himself poor, yet [hath] great riches. 
 13:8   The ransom of a man's life [are] his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke. 
 13:9   The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 
 13:10   Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised [is] wisdom. 
 13:11   Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. 
 13:12   Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but [when] the desire cometh, [it is] a tree of life. 
 13:13   Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. 
 13:14   The law of the wise [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. 
 13:15   Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors [is] hard. 
 13:16   Every prudent [man] dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open [his] folly. 
 13:17   A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador [is] health. 
 13:18   Poverty and shame [shall be to] him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured. 
 13:19   The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but [it is] abomination to fools to depart from evil. 
 13:20   He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. 
 13:21   Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed. 
 13:22   A good [man] leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner [is] laid up for the just. 
 13:23   Much food [is in] the tillage of the poor: but there is [that is] destroyed for want of judgment. 
 13:24   He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 
 13:25   The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want. 


How does this chapter contrast the experience and fate of the righteous with that of the wicked?

Yes, we understand the contrast and the fate of both, but where the deception lies is in defining the "righteous" and the "wicked". Who are the righteous, and why are they called "righteous" since the lesson says that we all come short of God's glory?

The wise are compared to a lasting lamp, while the wicked are compared to a lamp that will be put out (Prov. 13:9). The wise person will enjoy the good fruit of his or her work, while the sinner will reap evil (Proverbs 13:2, 25).

But, the lesson teaches we are "all" sinners.

Through their children (Prov. 13:22), the wise have a future even beyond themselves; the wicked, instead, will leave their wealth to strangers, even to the righteous (Prov. 13:22).

The point is that a life of faith and obedience to the Lord is better than a life of disobedience and folly.

But then, in reality is it true that often there is "a bit of wisdom and foolishness in all of us"? How does the foolishness enter the life?

Putting aside the big issue of the promise of eternal life, what are some of the immediate, day-to-day advantages that you have experienced through living a life of faith in Christ?

And what of the times of foolishness? Do you recall the pain and suffering, both practical and spiritual? The thief on the cross will be in heaven. So, what is the standard of righteousness? Who will be in heaven? What does it mean to be righteous before God? We all indeed are sinners, but what is the difference between those who are truly converted, who keep the commandments of God, and the wicked who do not keep the commandments of God? Are we going to make an excuse for sin, thus putting ourselves in with those who are "righteous"? Or, do we understand that to be "righteous" is to be fully surrendered to Jesus and have the power of His Spirit to cleanse us from all sin?

[Richard Myers]

Friday January 30

Further Study: "It is not enough to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the church roll. . . . Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righteousness." — Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 312, 313.

"The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul. . . . The darkest chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed by bigoted religionists. . . . The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. . . . Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world. “The righteousness which Christ taught is conformity of heart and life to the revealed will of God." — Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, pp. 309, 310.

Amen!  Is this fanatical? It appears to be saying that the righteous do not sin. Instead they walk in the light of God's counsel by the power of the indwelling Savior. In other words, they are fully surrendered and are allowing Christ to guide them in all that they do (conformity of heart and life). This is indeed a narrow road that few will agree to. Where is the foolishness? There is none in those who are conforming to the life of Christ.

Discussion Questions:

    Discuss how our decisions impact others for good or for evil. Why is this an inescapable fact of life? This truth was first revealed in the story of the Fall, where even to this day the impact of Adam and Eve’s choice is felt in each of our lives. It might be tempting to try to measure the amount of good or bad our decisions might bring, but that’s risky, because we often don’t know the impact of our choices. Why, then, in light of God and His law, must we choose to do what’s right, regardless of what we fear the consequences might be?

Yes, but we cannot do what is right unless we are fully surrendered to Christ and are partakers of His divine nature.

    Proverbs makes a sharp distinction between the righteous and the fool, and from these verses we learn about what is right and wrong. Why, though, must we be very careful whom we judge as fools? On the other hand, how often have we been deceived by those whom we once thought were righteous?

We now have to think about why we believed them to be "righteous". What is the standard by which we can know the righteous from the wicked? "If possible, even the very elect will be deceived." But, it is not possible because they have the Spirit of God leading them. Who are the righteous? Yes, we must be careful who we judge as "righteous" or "fools".  How can we tell? What does the Bible say about judging the teacher? And what does the Bible say about trusting the teaching of the teacher? How can we know those who are sent of God to teach His truth?

[Richard Myers]

As I was considering today's lesson, I recalled the title for this week, The Blessings of the Righteous. It blended nicely with the burden that I was attempting to share this week. It is the answer to how it is that we can tell the righteous from the unrepentant.  I would like to explore this a little more so that we can share in our Sabbath School this Sabbath. We want to address the lesson title directly in light of the distinction between the righteous and the wicked.

The Bible is our Counselor. We find in this quarter's study at least two statements that provide answers to the blessing that came to my mind first. There are others, but this one is such a blessing. It is found in Proverbs 3:2. "For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee." What is this great blessing that comes to the righteous, when does it come, and through what channel does it come?

[JimB]

And what does the Bible say about trusting the teaching of the teacher? How can we know those who are sent of God to teach His truth?

It looks like your are looking for something in particular pertaining to teachers. I'm not sure I have an answer for that but I have one that I believe pertains to everyone. Teacher or not.

Gal 5:22  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Gal 5:23  Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Gal 5:24  And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

[Richard Myers]

Amen, Jim. The Bible does not leave us to wonder how we can tell who is sent of God, or as you say who is converted (righteous). "Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither [can] a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." Matthew 7:16-20.

Yes, I know this is considered "fanatical" by many, but it is the truth, it is Biblical. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, nor can an evil tree bring forth good fruit.  This is an amazing statement for many to consider who have been greatly deceived by false teachers. Even the Apostle Paul had been greatly deceived in what it meant to be "righteous". But, he learned, and so can we. The fruits of the Spirit are seen in the life of the truly converted Christian as long as he maintains his connection with Christ. Not one of the fruits Jim shared are missing.

So, my last question in today's lesson, was more directed, but still involving the fruits of the Spirit. They are indeed the blessings of the Righteous. Did you notice the blessing mentioned in Proverbs 3:2 is one of the fruits Jim quoted from Galatians, peace. It ought to be very hard to get through this week's lesson without naming each of the fruits of the Spirit as the blessings of righteousness. When Jesus comes into the heart, He brings with Him each one of the fruits of the Spirit. They remain as long as the Spirit remains in possession of the heart and mind. It is why Christians abiding in Christ are said to be "walking in the Spirit". Look at these individual fruits again. Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance which is self-control. Are these blessings in your life? If not, if some are missing, then Jesus is standing at the door of your heart knocking. He loves us and wants to give us the blessings of the righteous. He wants to impart His righteousness to us.

One last quote to bring home the truth about what Jesus wants to give us in regards to one of these fruits. "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7.