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Wally

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Lesson 4 *January 19-25





Worthy Is the Lamb



Commentary in Navy                  Inspiration in Maroon







So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants:  we have done that which was our duty to do.  Luke 17:10

Richard Myers

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #1 on: January 19, 2019, 08:05:02 AM »
Sabbath Afternoon

Read for This Week’s Study: Revelation 4, Ezek. 1:5–14, Revelation 5, Eph. 1:20–23, Heb. 10:12, Acts 2:32–36.

Memory Text: “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.” Revelation 5:5

Last week, we looked at Christ’s messages to His people on earth. Now John’s vision shifts from earth to heaven and focuses on the “things which must be hereafter” (Rev. 4:1)— the future.

The vision of chapters 4 and 5 takes place in heaven’s throne room. The scene of chapters 4 and 5 symbolically portrays God’s control of history and of the plan of salvation. Before the future is revealed, however, we are shown the centrality of Christ’s high-priestly ministry in heaven to His sovereignty over the affairs of the earth and to His redemption of the human race. In such a way, chapters 4 and 5 provide Heaven’s perspective on the meaning of future events recorded in the rest of the book.

One also may notice that while the messages to the seven churches were written in somewhat straightforward language, from now on the book employs even more symbolic language that is not always easy to interpret. This language is taken from the history of God’s people, as recorded in the Old Testament. A correct interpretation of Revelation requires a proper understanding of its symbolic language in light of the Old Testament.

Amen. And we might add that it is impossible to rightly interpret portions of the Book without an understanding of world history since we will find prophesies that involve what has happened as well as what will happen to not only churches, but nations and cities. But, the Bible is the source for interpretation of symbols being used. An understanding of the Hebrew Sanctuary and its services is necessary for we will often find it being used in the Book of Revelation. Lastly, as we have mentioned previously, the Book of Daniel is closely aligned with the Book of Revelation. It is now an "unsealed" Book that gives much light on the writings in the Book of Revelation.


* Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, January 26.
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: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #2 on: January 19, 2019, 08:51:29 AM »
Sunday   January 20
In the Heavenly Throne Room

Starting in Revelation 4:1, Jesus invites John to come up to heaven to be shown a panoramic survey of history from his time until Christ’s return.

 4:1   After this I looked, and, behold, a door [was] opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard [was] as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will show thee things which must be hereafter. 
 4:2   And immediately I was in the spirit; and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and [one] sat on the throne. 
 4:3   And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and [there was] a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. 
 4:4   And round about the throne [were] four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. 
 4:5   And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and [there were] seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. 
 4:6   And before the throne [there was] a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, [were] four beasts full of eyes before and behind. 
 4:7   And the first beast [was] like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast [was] like a flying eagle. 
 4:8   And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. 

 1:26   And above the firmament that [was] over their heads [was] the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the likeness of the throne [was] the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it. 
 1:27   And I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire round about within it, from the appearance of his loins even upward, and from the appearance of his loins even downward, I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and it had brightness round about. 
 1:28   As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so [was] the appearance of the brightness round about. This [was] the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw [it], I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake. 

 5:11   And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; 
 5:12   Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 
 5:13   And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 
 5:14   And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. 


Revelation 4:1–8, Ezekiel 1:26–28, and Revelation 5:11–14 describe heaven’s throne room. What do these verses teach us about the nature of the heavenly throne room?

The apostle looked through the open door into the heavenly temple and at the throne of God. The throne symbolizes God’s rule and governing authority over creation, while the rainbow around the throne signifies God’s faithfulness to His promises (Gen. 9:13–16; Isa. 54:9, 10). However, Satan, who usurped the dominion of this earth and is God’s adversary, has disputed divine authority. The central issue in the great controversy between God and Satan is about who has the right to rule.

Better said, is that Satan has made charges that God is unfair. He has lied about God's character and His government. It is up to us to understand the issue involved. What these charges are is the central issue involved in the great controversy between Christ and Satan. If we understand the issue, we are better able to understand the plan of salvation and the ultimate result of allowing Satan and sin to remain on this Earth for 6,000 years.

God's character has been maligned. God in His infinite wisdom has allowed this world and the entire universe to witness the result of Satan's rebellion and the cure for sin. Why? Because in order to eliminate the chance of sin every coming back into the universe, all of His creatures must see His character and the character of him who brought sin and suffering into being.


The purpose of the heavenly council that John saw gathered in the heavenly throne room was to affirm God’s rightful rule over the universe (Rev. 4:1–8, Rev. 5:11–14).

Read Revelation 4:8–11 and Revelation 5:9–14.

 4:8   And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. 
 4:9   And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, 
 4:10   The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 
 4:11   Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. 

 5:9   And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 
 5:10   And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. 
 5:11   And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; 
 5:12   Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 
 5:13   And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 
 5:14   And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. 


What can you learn about true worship in these passages? In chapter 4, why is the Lord God worthy of being worshiped, and, in Revelation 5:9–14, why is the Lamb worthy?

Revelation 4 gives a general description of the throne room in the heavenly temple and of the worship that repeatedly takes place there. While the worship in chapter 4 praises God’s creative power, chapter 5 celebrates the redemption provided by the slain Lamb. These chapters show that true worship recounts and celebrates God’s mighty acts of Creation and Redemption.

God, who created the world in six days, has the power and ability also to restore the world to its original condition and to turn it into the eternal home for His people, all of which He has promised to do.

But, does God have the power to restore man to His original character? If so, why do we not see this in the church today? Or do we? Jesus is calling the church to repentance? What does this say about His power to restore character in man to its holiness at creation? Here is a statement found in Ministry of Healing: "Our Lord Jesus Christ came to this world as the unwearied servant of man’s necessity. He “took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses,” that He might minister to every need of humanity. Matthew 8:17. The burden of disease and wretchedness and sin He came to remove. It was His mission to bring to men complete restoration; He came to give them health and peace and perfection of character." Pg 17.

Unless we begin to not only teach correctly the gospel of grace, but to live it, the world will not see the truth  in the clear light that God has designed. Now as in the days of Israel, the world sees hypocrisy in the church. As we preach "here are they that keep the commandments of God" we are not keeping God's commands. Instead, as the author of our lesson has stated, we are not walking in the light of God's law, but are in need of repentance. Sadly, many pastors do not believe conversion brings about a new life in Christ Jesus. They do not teach nor believe that when conversion takes place the Holy Spirit brings into the life all of the fruits of the Spirit, not one is missing. Thus we have the blind leading the blind and the result is that it is rare to find one who has truly been born again of the Spirit. Most are being buried alive when baptized.


Think about what the gospel teaches: the One who created not just us and our world, but the entire cosmos, also was the “Lamb who was slain” (Rev. 5:12, NKJV) for us. What amazing hope does this teaching present amid a world full of pain and turmoil?

What does the gospel teach?  Many are confused  because Christianity has misrepresented God and the gospel of grace.  In order for the world to really appreciate the goodness of God, we need to know why God allows bad things to happen to "good" people. This is the issue at hand. We believe and know that God is love. We also know that God is omnipotent, all powerful. Then, why does He not stop the horrible things happening to little children? Satan's charges against God are supported when ever professing Christians sin. Why is this? And, why does God allow bad things to happen to "good" people? A world full of pain, when God is omnipotent and could stop it needs an answer. And, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has been given that answer. Then let us not keep it a secret. Many don't understand, therefore they turn away from God who is revealed in the Bible.

God is just who He says He is. He is worthy to be worshiped. Then, we ought to explain to a world in pain why Satan's charges are lies, and why God allows time to continue while the pain continues. What is God doing in the "throne room" that allows the suffering to continue?

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: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #3 on: January 25, 2019, 09:06:11 PM »
Monday    January 21
The Heavenly Assembly in the Throne Room

The description of the elders in Revelation 4:4 shows that they are not angelic beings. The title “elders” in the Bible always is used for humans. In contrast to angels, who invariably stand in God’s presence, these elders sit on thrones. The white robes they wear are the attire of God’s faithful people (Rev. 3:4, 5). The victory crowns (from Greek stephanos, Rev. 4:4) on their heads are reserved exclusively for the victorious saints (James 1:12). All of these details suggest that the 24 elders are glorified saints.

The number 24 is symbolic: it consists of two sets of 12, the number 12 in the Bible being a symbol of God’s people. The 24 elders could represent God’s people in their totality, from both the Old and New Testament times. The number 24 also mirrors the chiefs of the 24 divisions of priests who took turns serving in the earthly temple services (1 Chron. 24:1–19).

The fact that the 24 elders were never mentioned before in the Bible implies that they are a new group in the heavenly throne room. They perhaps are the ones who were raised from the dead at the time of Jesus’ death (Matt. 27:51–53).

If so, these 24 elders who ascended to heaven with Jesus become representatives of humanity, to witness the fairness in God’s actions in the realization of the plan of salvation. In Revelation 5:9, the 24 elders, along with the four living creatures (vs. 8), fall down in worship before the Lamb who was slain and yet lives. Together, they sing a new song, extolling the Lamb as the One who is worthy, because: “ ‘You were slain and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth’ ” (Rev. 5:8–10, NKJV).
Revelation 4:6–8 also mentions the four living creatures, or beings. Compare their description with the four living beings in Ezekiel 1:5–14 and Ezekiel 10:20–22 and with the seraphim in Isaiah 6:2, 3.

The four living creatures symbolize the exalted beings who serve God as His agents and the guardians of His throne (Ps. 99:1). Their wings point symbolically to their swiftness in carrying out God’s orders, and their eyes point to their intelligence. Their presence, together with the 24 elders and a myriad of angels around the throne (Rev. 5:11), shows that both heaven and earth are represented in the throne room.
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: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #4 on: January 25, 2019, 09:17:23 PM »
Tuesday   January 22
The Sealed Scroll


Read Revelation 5:1–4. In light of Isaiah 29:11, 12, what is the meaning of the sealed scroll, and why did John weep?

The Greek text indicates that the scroll was lying on the throne at the right hand of the Father. It waited for the One who was worthy to take it and “ ‘to loose its seals’ ” (Rev. 5:2, NKJV).

In the words of Ellen G. White, the sealed scroll contains “the history of God’s providences, the prophetic history of nations and the church. Herein was contained the divine utterances, His authority, His commandments, His laws, the whole symbolic counsel of the Eternal, and the history of all ruling powers in the nations. In symbolic language was contained in that roll the influence of every nation, tongue, and people from the beginning of earth’s history to its close.”—Ellen G. White, Manuscript Releases, vol. 9, p. 7.

In short, the sealed scroll contains the mystery of God regarding His plans to solve the sin problem and save fallen human beings. The full realization of that mystery will occur at the second coming of Christ (see Rev. 10:7).

Read Revelation 5:5–7. Why is Christ the only One in the whole universe worthy to take the sealed scroll and unseal it?

The crisis in the throne room is related to Satan’s rebellion. This planet, although created by God, has been under the dominion of the usurper, Satan. John’s tears expressed the longing of God’s people, since Adam, for salvation from the bondage of sin. The sealed scroll comprised God’s plan for resolving the sin problem. No doubt with His immeasurable power God Himself could realize that plan. However, the redemption of the fallen human race required something special, and that was Jesus, who did “overcome” and thus was worthy to open the book, to assume the lordship over this earth, and become our Mediator in the heavenly sanctuary.

Sadly, God's ways are far above our ways. His plan to resolve the sin problem included fallen man, and went beyond our salvation. We play an integral part in resolving the sin problem. You see, if you and I can obey God's commands, even without a Mediator, then what does that say to the unfallen worlds?  Why do angels fold their wings when we sing praised to Jesus in heaven? What do angels personally know of grace? How can God say there will never  be sin again after this problem in Earth is wrapped up? How can God leave His creatures with a free will and say there will never ever be another Lucifer? Well, this is what is going to happen. How can it be? We have been given the answer. It is sad that it will not be presented to us in this quarter. But, we have Bible scholars reading our lesson. Let one of them answer how this will be.


How do we learn to keep Jesus first and foremost in our Christian experience?

First we need to know Him personally. How can we trust someone with all we have and all we are without knowing Him? We can't. We will only keep Jesus first if we love Him supremely. Then we have to be reminded daily and we need to die to self daily. Thus, we need to spend time with Him daily. It would be good to walk and talk with Him all day. Why?

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: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #5 on: January 25, 2019, 09:25:00 PM »
Wednesday   January 23
Worthy Is the Lamb


Read Revelation 5:8–14 along with Ephesians 1:20–23 and Hebrews 10:12. Together, what are they saying that should give us great hope and comfort amid a world that, in and of itself, offers so little of either?

As Christ the Lamb approaches the throne, He takes the scroll. This act shows that all authority and sovereignty belong to Him (see Matt. 28:18, Eph. 1:20–22). At that moment, the whole universe acknowledges Christ’s rightful rule over earth. What was lost with Adam has been regained with Christ.

When Christ takes the scroll, it shows He holds the destiny of all humanity in His hands. The four living creatures and the 24 elders fall down before Him and worship, as they did in Revelation 5:9: “ ‘You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain’ ” (NKJV). By this act of adoration, the exalted angels and the representatives of redeemed humanity affirm Christ’s sacrifice on behalf of humanity. With His blood, He has paid the ransom for fallen human beings and offers them all the hope of redemption and the promise of a future we barely can imagine.

The four living creatures and the elders are now joined by the countless number of the angelic host surrounding the throne and directing praises to the Lamb that had been slain and now “lives to make intercession” for the fallen race (Heb. 7:25, NKJV). In unison, the occupants of the throne room exclaim with a loud voice: “ ‘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).

At this point all creation in heaven and on earth joins together in offering royal adoration both to the Father and Christ: “ ‘Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever!’ ” (Rev. 5:13, NKJV). Their praise is met with an “ ‘Amen’ ” by the four living creatures and the prostration of the 24 elders, thus concluding this rapturous veneration in the heavenly throne room.
Physicists speculate that one day the universe will burn out, collapse in on itself, or just rip apart. What a contrast to the future presented in the Word of God! How can we start rejoicing, even now, in the future that awaits us?

When we know Jesus as it is our privilege to know Him, we shall rejoice, and we shall praise Him. When we consider that this Earth is the lesson book of the universe, what an honor! Why ought we not rejoice as we contemplate the opportunities given to us to reflect the character of our Lord. He has been misrepresented. It is now time to rightly represent Him. He is pouring our His glory upon His church as He withdraws His Spirit from the world. From Ezekiel chapter 36.

 36:23   And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I [am] the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. 
 36:24   For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. 
 36:25   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. 
 36:26   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. 
 36:27   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]. 


What promises!!

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: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #6 on: January 25, 2019, 09:38:22 PM »

Thursday January 24
The Significance of Pentecost

In the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Acts 2:1–4 confirms one of the most decisive events in the history of the plan of salvation: the inauguration of Christ into His post-Calvary ministry as High Priest and King in the heavenly sanctuary (see also Acts 1:4–8; Acts 2:33). Through His high-priestly ministry at the right hand of the Father (Rev. 5:6, 7), Christ is able to carry out the plan of salvation to its ultimate realization. As our Mediator in the heavenly sanctuary, Jesus works to save us. Through Him, believers may have free access to God and receive forgiveness for their sins.

Amen! He is able to forgive our sins. But, the day will soon come when He will not Mediate for us. He will not forgive anymore sins. Why not? Because it would do not good. All we then be settled into the characters they have formed. The holy will remain holy, and the filthy will remain filthy. So, Jesus leaves the heavenly sanctuary never more to forgive one sin.


Read Acts 2:32–36 along with John 7:39. What hope and encouragement do you find in the fact that Jesus stands in heaven as our Priest and King?

John tells us: "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." 1 John 2:1. Notice what John says first before he encourages us that we still have  Mediator. Do you hear this from the pulpit?  He writes to us saying "sin not." Do you know that Jesus' work in the Most Holy Place is to bring His church to a place where they cease sinning? If not, why don't you know this? Did John err in writing that we might sin not? No, he did not err.


The exaltation of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary was followed by the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. Revelation 5:6 mentions the seven Spirits that are “sent out into all the earth” (NKJV). As we saw in an earlier lesson, the seven Spirits denote the fullness of the activity of the Holy Spirit in the world. At Christ’s enthronement the Spirit is sent to the church. This sending of the Holy Spirit is one of Christ’s first acts as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit meant that Jesus had appeared before the Father and that God had accepted His sacrifice on behalf of humanity.

“Christ’s ascension to heaven was the signal that His followers were to receive the promised blessing. . . . When Christ passed within the heavenly gates, He was enthroned amidst the adoration of the angels. As soon as this ceremony was completed, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in rich currents, and Christ was indeed glorified, even with the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring was Heaven’s communication that the Redeemer’s inauguration was accomplished. According to His promise, He had sent the Holy Spirit from heaven to His followers as a token that He had, as priest and king, received all authority in heaven and on earth, and was the Anointed One over His people.”—Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 38, 39.


Read Hebrews 4:16 and Hebrews 8:1. What hope and encouragement do you find in the assurance that Jesus, as Priest and King, has received all authority in heaven and on earth? How does believing this truth help you deal with everyday situations in your life and with the uncertainty of the future?[/quote]

We hope that the church will yield to the Holy Spirit so that Jesus can finish His work of preparing a people to stand without a Mediator and go through a time of trouble such as never was. We are not yet there. Many  in the church do not believe they can live without sinning. How can this change?
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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  • Posts: 44592
  • Grace, more than a word, it is transforming power
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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #7 on: January 25, 2019, 10:02:02 PM »
Friday   January 25

Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “ ‘To My Father, and Your Father,’ ” pp. 829–835, in The Desire of Ages; “The Gift of the Spirit,” pp. 47–56, in The Acts of the Apostles.

The message of Revelation 4 and 5 is particularly important to the people of God living at the close of earth’s history. The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost marked the beginning of the preaching of the gospel to all the world; the central message was about Jesus, who had been exalted as Priest and King at the right hand of the Father. This truth about Jesus was the heart of the early Christians’ belief (Heb. 8:1) and the cornerstone of their preaching (Acts 2:32, 33; Acts 5:30, 31). It also was their motivation and the source of their faith and courage in the face of persecution and difficult life situations (Acts 7:55, 56; Rom. 8:34). As a result, many people responded to their preaching. From that time on, the kingdom of God manifested itself, and keeps on doing so, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

We never must forget that it is only the good news of salvation in Christ that can reach and transform human hearts and lead people to respond to the call of the eternal gospel to fear God, give Him glory, and worship Him (Rev. 14:7). Our only hope is in our Savior, who is our Priest and King in the heavenly sanctuary. He is with His people, and He always will be with them until the very end (Matt. 28:20). He holds the future in His hands.

Amen! What does it mean to "fear God" and to "give Him glory"? How can we give glory to our God? When He pours out His glory upon us, then we will reflect that glory in our lives, in our character. When the Holy Spirit takes possession of the heart when we are converted, He brings with Him all of the fruits of His Spirit, not one is missing.


Let us, therefore, never forget that keeping the essence of the gospel in mind will bring full success in preaching the final message to lost and suffering humankind. Nothing else we preach is more important than the Cross and what it teaches us about God.

Better to live what we preach than to preach it from pulpits and not live it.


Discussion Questions:

    One day we will be in heaven praising and worshiping the Lord for His goodness, His power, and especially His grace. What are ways that, even now, we can get in practice for the time when that great day comes? That is, how can we worship with grateful hearts and praise God now for all that He has done and will do

Do we even remember all that God has done for us? How often do we thank Him? How often to turn to Him right when a problem comes up? Or do we first attempt to solve the problem by ourselves? Maybe we ought to get in the habit of walking and talking with Him today?


    Read Revelation 4:11 and 5:9. In what roles do we see the Father and the Son here, and how are both roles central not just to the plan of salvation but also to why God is so worthy of our worship? How is the Sabbath, and what it teaches, an expression of these two wonderful truths about our God?

God is creator of heaven and Earth. This is part of the last warning message to go to the world. The Sabbath is a memorial of God's creation and was given to man that we might know of God's love, and of His creative power. It was easy for God to create Adam from the dust of the ground. But, God by Himself cannot re-create sinners in His image. It takes our cooperation in order for man to be re-created. Our part is immeasurably small, His part is immeasurably large. But, without our part, God cannot succeed. So, since His part is so very large that we cannot measure it, maybe it would be good to know what He has created in the past? And, to know that He allowed His innocent Son to come to this dark spot in the universe to suffer and die for us while we were yet sinners. But, not in an ordinary manner came He. He came as a helpless Babe subject to the weakness of man to fight the battle of life as humanity must fight it at the risk of failure and eternal loss!

Wonder and be astonished O Earth! Herein is love!!
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

colporteur

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #8 on: February 01, 2019, 04:55:30 PM »
 There is disagreement as to who the 24 elders are. The quarterly and Uriah Smith say they are redeemed from the earth. Some are saying that Mrs. White says they are representatives from other worlds. I'm thinking she said that about the sons of God that met with the Lord regarding Job. Not sure she says that about the 24 elders or that they are one and the same.
It's easier to slow a fast horse down than to get a dead one going.

Richard Myers

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #9 on: February 01, 2019, 06:21:38 PM »
Thanks, cp. If it is in the Spirit of Prophecy, then let them show it.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Marelis

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #10 on: February 02, 2019, 02:07:15 AM »
There is disagreement as to who the 24 elders are. The quarterly and Uriah Smith say they are redeemed from the earth. Some are saying that Mrs. White says they are representatives from other worlds. I'm thinking she said that about the sons of God that met with the Lord regarding Job. Not sure she says that about the 24 elders or that they are one and the same.
My understanding is that the 24 elders are the sons of God spoken of in the book of Job. They come into the presence of God (for "meetings" which seem to be about things pertaining to planet Earth) and return to their own "planets." Revelation 4 describes them as wearing crowns (?because they are rulers/representatives in their corner of the universe?) Heavenly government meetings, if you will. It seems unlikely that they are redeemed from the earth. In the book of Job they witnessed the creation of Earth. In Revelation 5:5 they are in the holy place in the heavenly court before the Father, but the Son is not present. That is because they are waiting for the ascension of Christ, and hence cannot be the firstfruits at Christ's resurrection. Furthermore, we know from the last chapter of Desire of Ages that Sr White writes: "As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed." It would seem that the 24 elders are angelic beings because they are in such close proximity to the throne of God. The four beasts of Revelation 4 and 5 are the same six-winged seraphim of Isaiah chapter 6. Satan thought he could join the sons of God as recorded in Job. They are angelic beings. 
"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."  Ps 16:11

Marelis

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #11 on: February 02, 2019, 02:50:39 AM »
Sorry to post more, but it is a beautiful subject. The elders are again mentioned in Revelation chapter 7. The elders are here listed group in order around the throne with all the angels and the beasts, who are also angels. It would seem that they are angelic beings.

11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,
12 Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

The elders are with other angelic beings. Then there is a separate group of beings around the throne:

9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands...

An elder then asks John, 13 "What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?" John answers, 14 " Sir, thou knowest. " The elder answered, "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." The elder is not one of the redeemed humans.

These are breathtakingly beautiful words and chapters. It is beyond me how anyone could ever read them and not be moved by them or impressed that they are inspired words. We long to be there. 
"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."  Ps 16:11

Wally

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #12 on: February 02, 2019, 03:29:29 AM »
There is disagreement as to who the 24 elders are. The quarterly and Uriah Smith say they are redeemed from the earth. Some are saying that Mrs. White says they are representatives from other worlds. I'm thinking she said that about the sons of God that met with the Lord regarding Job. Not sure she says that about the 24 elders or that they are one and the same.

I was somewhat surprised that the author was so dogmatic about the identification of the 24 elders, since we're not told exactly who they are, either in Scripture or the SOP.  Anything we may come up with is pure conjecture.  I like to think they are part of the group which was resurrected with  Jesus, but I don't know, and I  wouldn't push that idea.  Given the fact that there an unknown number of unfallen worlds (millions, billions ? ? ?), it seems that 24 would be an very small number to represent all of them.  I believe t his is one of those areas in which we'll just have to wait until heaven to find out.
So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants:  we have done that which was our duty to do.  Luke 17:10

Marelis

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #13 on: February 02, 2019, 04:07:07 AM »
I'm looking at Revelation 5:8 where it says that the elders are holding bowls of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.

"Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints."

Here the elders are fit to handle the prayers of the saints.

Then over in Revelation 8:3.4 we are told that "angels" offer incense with the prayers of the saints upon the golden altar before the throne:

3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.
4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand

It seems reasonable to deduce that the elders are a high order of angelic beings who are fit to handle the prayers of the saints. It would be hard to imagine that redeemed humans could perform this sacred duty. What are your thoughts?
"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."  Ps 16:11

Richard Myers

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #14 on: February 02, 2019, 07:39:01 AM »
Thank you for sharing your thought, Marelis. I am confused over the thought that the 24 elders are "angelic" yet the ones Job spoke of. I agree that those spoken of in Job were the Sons of God who were the "Adams" of other worlds, but not "angels."  Can you share your thoughts on this?

Wally may be right, that we do not have enough information to know, but if we do then it would be good to understand.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

colporteur

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #15 on: February 02, 2019, 07:54:18 AM »
 
In the lesson he is equally dogmatic that the 144,000 is a symbolic number. Is the number 7 regarding the 7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 last plagues, 3 angels, 4 angels, and 4 beasts symbolic ? My observation has been the number has seldom if ever been anything symbolic without any literal application. Mrs. White said 144,000 " in number."  Why would she add " in number" when we all know that it is a number? He said that 144,000 stands for the totality of God's saved people. Question, why would a literal number not also have a symbolic application? It need not be one OR the other. The 7 last plagues are not only literally 7 in number but they symbolize complete wrath unmingled with mercy.  While the quarterly contributor was dogmatic about the 144,000 being a symbol why was he not equally dogmatic opposing the  false idea that some SDAs believe the 144,000 and the great multitude are one and the same ?  No where in Scripture is there any indication that the road to heaven is wide and that an innumerable amount of people in the end will be saved living. Several verses state just the opposite. Even were there no martyrs in the end (and there will be very many) the number of saved would not be like the sands of the sea, innumerable, which no man could number.
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colporteur

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #16 on: February 02, 2019, 08:59:04 AM »
 the next lesson deals with 144,000 and the great multitude
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Brian M

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #17 on: February 02, 2019, 10:59:44 AM »
If the 24 Elders are angelic beings or representatives of the unfallen worlds, what do we do with this:

Rev 5:9  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Are angels or the unfallen ever described as "redeemed"?
Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. Psalm 119:18

colporteur

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #18 on: February 02, 2019, 11:08:40 AM »
If the 24 Elders are angelic beings or representatives of the unfallen worlds, what do we do with this:

Rev 5:9  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Are angels or the unfallen ever described as "redeemed"?

Seems like one would have to fall in order to be redeemed.
It's easier to slow a fast horse down than to get a dead one going.

Brian M

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Re: SDA Sabbath School Lesson 4--1st Quarter 2019--Worthy Is the Lamb
« Reply #19 on: February 02, 2019, 11:25:08 AM »
Seems like one would have to fall in order to be redeemed.

That's what make me think they are the ones who were raised at Christ's resurrection.

"He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming" DA 834:2
Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. Psalm 119:18