The Desire of Ages--67--Woes on the Pharisees

[Richard Myers]

Amen! Even when Moses came down from the Mountaintop, and broke the tables of stone, he was not out of control. It was not self manifesting anger, but he was following the leading of the Holy Spirit when he threw the tables down. He was not Offended, but it was God who was offended. That was his concern. So we maybe also. In the middle of the storm, we may have peace that passes all understanding. We may follow deleting of the spirit, and not ourselves.

[Dorine]

"The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem."

And they reach even us today. As we listen to the words of Jesus in today's reading we see the almighty power of His love for the Jewish nation and yet we also see His utter abhorrence towards evil.

There are only two powers. Good or evil. God or Satan. No third way. We are either for Jesus or against Him. Making no decision is actually making a decision and that is for the side of evil. May we always choose the side of Jesus no matter the consequences. Just like those whose lives were changed for good from the words of Jesus that day in the temple may it do the same to those today who may be struggling in their walk with Christ.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Dorine! The words of Christ have power to break the spell of deception that keeps souls enslaved to destructive teachings and habits. Jesus loves all of us and desires us to experience the true greatness in the sight of heaven--true moral worth!

"'But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.' Again and again Christ had taught that true greatness is measured by moral worth. In the estimation of heaven, greatness of character consists in living for the welfare of our fellow men, in doing works of love and mercy. Christ the King of glory was a servant to fallen man." {The Desire of Ages, page 613, paragraph 4}

May we go forth to serve and bless those around us with Jesus in our hearts, for His presence kindles our faith and gives us joy and success. As we continually behold the loveliness of Jesus and yield completely to Him, all of the fruits of the Holy Spirit's presence will be manifest through our lives as we are made living channels of His great love to a world in need of healing grace, truth, and mercy! Praise God for how He transforms our characters by His grace!

[JimB]

The interest of the people in Christ and His work had steadily increased. They were charmed with His teaching, but they were also greatly perplexed.

It's interesting to me that they were drawn to Christ. They saw the loveliness of His character and truth of His teachings. I think it's in the Ministry of Healing that she talks about how the crowds He drew were so large there was no building in Palestine that could hold everyone. Love awakens love and it's not to understand why the people loved Christ. They watched Him, listened to Him and were changed as they beheld Him!

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Jim!

When Christ spoke His rebukes and warnings in the temple for the last time, He was expressing love and deep concern. He could not remain silent while the leaders of the people were themselves living in sin and leading others to perdition. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent" (Revelation 3:19). But Jesus' commendation of the poor widow who gave her all, and the manner and tone of His voice, awakened new thoughts and desires in the minds and hearts of those who were open to truth. If we do not resist His drawing, if we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, we will be led to Jesus in true repentance. We can praise God that instead of having old superstitions and traditions controlling the life, we may be transformed by the word of God meditated upon and practiced, whereby we become, through a full surrender to Christ, partakers of the divine nature!

"The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem." {The Desire of Ages, page 620, paragraph 3} 

Christ foresaw the result of His words. While many of the so-called wise and great men in high positions would harden their hearts against the light of truth and choose to be lost, Jesus knew that hearts that would receive warning and guidance would be prepared for their mission after His death and resurrection, finding courage and grace from His words that eventful day in Jerusalem. May we find the grace and strength today in Christ to go against the traditions and philosophies of our time that are antagonistic to the word of God--whether they are in society, the church, or in our own minds. We must bring all to the test of God's word, and by beholding the loveliness of Jesus as revealed in the word, we are to be wholly transformed into His likeness!

[Dorine]

"The Pharisees built the tombs of the prophets, and adorned their sepulchers, and said one to another, If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have united with them in shedding the blood of God's servants. At the same time they were planning to take the life of His Son. This should be a lesson to us. It should open our eyes to the power of Satan to deceive the mind that turns from the light of truth. Many follow in the track of the Pharisees. They revere those who have died for their faith. They wonder at the blindness of the Jews in rejecting Christ. Had we lived in His day, they declare, we would gladly have received His teaching; we would never have been partakers in the guilt of those who rejected the Saviour. But when obedience to God requires self-denial and humiliation, these very persons stifle their convictions, and refuse obedience. Thus they manifest the same spirit as did the Pharisees whom Christ condemned."

In my youth and ignorance I said these very words. The Lord in His mercy showed me differently. It can be a very hard and humbling lesson to learn but if our hearts are open to the leading of God we will see and understand things we couldn't before. God will work His will out in our lives when we surrender to Him. He doesn't promise smooth sailing all along the way but He does promise to be with us and see us through.

[Beacon]

  "Pharisees and Sadducees were alike silenced. Jesus summoned His disciples, and prepared to leave the temple, not as one defeated and forced from the presence of his adversaries, but as one whose work was accomplished. He retired a victor from the contest. The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem.[/color][[/color]/b]

There is a mighty power present when the Word of God is presented with Love and Compassion. Jesus never hid the truth or hesitated to denounce error but He spoke it with a great sadness and yearning empathy. What a great example for us. 


 "Israel as a nation had divorced herself from God. The natural branches of the olive tree were broken off. Looking for the last time upon the interior of the temple, Jesus said with mournful pathos, "Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see Me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord." Hitherto He had called the temple His Father's house; but now, as the Son of God should pass out from those walls, God's presence would be withdrawn forever from the temple built to His glory. Henceforth its ceremonies would be meaningless, its services a mockery. "
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[Richard Myers]

Amen Beacon!  As is God's way, we find in today's reading both warning and encouragement. Like you, I was impressed with this truth. "The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began."

There was a transformation of character at conversion, and a new history began.  Amen! The old life passed away and a new life began. Love, joy, and peace came when the Holy Spirit took possession of the heart. This is the gospel 101, it is the foundation of our faith. It is the understanding of baptism, repentance, and sanctification. What I especially appreciated was the next statement. "After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work." This included many priests. "With a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work."  Amen!!

How great is the work? It is the greatest ever given to man or angel. We are to witness the power of grace to turn sinners into saints. It is a work that will reveal there never will be tears, sorrow, pain, or death for eternity after our work is accomplished. Our part in this work is immeasurably small, God's part is immeasurably large. But, without our part the work would fail.

The suffering and death of Christ has power to keep repentant sinners, unfallen angels, and all of the universe from ever sinning again when the work is completed. How great is this work!!! How great ought to be our zeal!! Many lack this zeal because they do not understand the greatness of the work, nor even the plan of salvation for fallen man. This is in the process of change, for Jesus is pouring out His glory upon His church. Let us feed upon His grace that we might understand the wisdom and power that is available to all who will come to Jesus just as they are and learn of Him who gave all that we might live. Then we shall understand the greatness of the work we are involved in. Then we shall have a zeal that corresponds to the greatness of the work. The greatest ever given to man!

[Beacon]

"If Christ were on earth today, surrounded by those who bear the title of "Reverend" or "Right Reverend," would He not repeat His saying, "Neither be ye called masters: for One is your Master, even Christ"? The Scripture declares of God, "Holy and reverend is His name." Psalm 111:9. To what human being is such a title befitting? How little does man reveal of the wisdom and righteousness it indicates! How many of those who assume this title are misrepresenting the name and character of God! Alas, how often have worldly ambition, despotism, and the basest sins been hidden under the embroidered garments of a high and holy office!"


In our fallen nature self is always clamoring for attention. It is only by the infilling of the Holy Spirit that we will have the power to point others to Jesus and to direct all our Praise and Worship to Him.

"The Saviour continued:  "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." Again and again Christ had taught that true greatness is measured by moral worth. In the estimation of heaven, greatness of character consists in living for the welfare of our fellow men, in doing works of love and mercy. Christ the King of glory was a servant to fallen man. "

May our prayer ever be as it says in Psalm 139:23,24 "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts; and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. A True humble servant to God will ever be lifting the attention of men and women to our Heavenly Father and to Jesus our Wonderful Savior and not exalting himself or herself in any way shape or form. Our message must be...Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus - Look full in "His Wonderful Face and the things of will grow will grow strangely dim in the LIght of His Glory and Grace. 
 

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Beacon! Christ is the focus of all who have truly beheld His loveliness and surrendered fully to Him so He remains as an abiding witness in the soul temple!

"The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem." {The Desire of Ages, page 620, paragraph 3}

As Jesus spoke with certainty and power through the Holy Spirit, so we can speak with certainty of the imminent return of Jesus, and point souls to the nearness of His coming. Jesus is also preparing His people to stand during the time of trouble, and even today, moment-by-moment, we may have a genuine experience of the righteousness of Christ which imbues us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! A new history awaits each of us this Sabbath day--and we can put Christ's words into practice as we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and allow our every thought, motive, and impulse to be under the control (true freedom) of the Holy Spirit!! 

[Richard Myers]

In our fallen nature self is always clamoring for attention. It is only by the infilling of the Holy Spirit that we will have the power to point others to Jesus and to direct all our Praise and Worship to Him.

Amen Brother Beacon!  When we love Jesus supremely, the Holy Spirit takes possession of the heart and we are filled with the character of God, the fruits of the Spirit.

Jesus is also preparing His people to stand during the time of trouble, and even today, moment-by-moment, we may have a genuine experience of the righteousness of Christ which imbues us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing!

Amen Pastor Sean! It is the greatest of all miracles!  It is by beholding the loveliness of Jesus that we love Him supremely. But, this does not mean we are to not understand truth, the ways of God. Many are deceived about the responsibilities we have as Christians. Mercy and truth are not to be separated. We are to pattern our lives after the life of Jesus.

 Christ unsparingly condemned abuses, but He was careful not to lessen obligation. He rebuked the selfishness that extorted and misapplied the widow's gifts. At the same time He commended the widow who brought her offering for God's treasury. Man's abuse of the gift could not turn God's blessing from the giver.........    Christ's indignation was directed against the hypocrisy, the gross sins, by which men were destroying their own souls, deceiving the people and dishonoring God. In the specious deceptive reasoning of the priests and rulers He discerned the working of satanic agencies. Keen and searching had been His denunciation of sin; but He spoke no words of retaliation. He had a holy wrath against the prince of darkness; but He manifested no irritated temper. So the Christian who lives in harmony with God, possessing the sweet attributes of love and mercy, will feel a righteous indignation against sin; but he will not be roused by passion to revile those who revile him. Even in meeting those who are moved by a power from beneath to maintain falsehood, in Christ he will still preserve calmness and self-possession. 

[Dorine]

"To Moses God had said concerning His commandments, "Thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes." Deuteronomy 6:8. These words have a deep meaning. As the word of God is meditated upon and practiced, the whole man will be ennobled. In righteous and merciful dealing, the hands will reveal, as a signet, the principles of God's law. They will be kept clean from bribes, and from all that is corrupt and deceptive. They will be active in works of love and compassion. The eyes, directed toward a noble purpose, will be clear and true. The expressive countenance, the speaking eye, will testify to the blameless character of him who loves and honors the word of God."

I never tire of reading the beautiful truths that are in the word of God. He makes it so clear and inviting. Even a child can understand the simplicity of the gospel. God wants to free us from the slavery of sin and He constantly and lovingly presents the solution. Our characters will reveal who we belong to. It may not be seen immediately but in time it will. The true test of character is in whether we possess the complete gift of the Spirit. It's a package with not one of them missing.
The quote I chose today tells me that if I want victory and freedom from sin, I must have my mind and heart constantly submitted to God. That is what I want every moment. When I take my eyes off Jesus even for a moment my heart does not feel happy and if not given immediately back to God will show in my words and/or actions.  Are we always abiding in Christ so that we are walking the talk? Words are easy but living them is possible only through Christ.

[Beacon]

"The Christian who lives in harmony with God, possessing the sweet attributes of love and mercy, will feel a righteous indignation against sin; but he will not be roused by passion to revile those who revile him. Even in meeting those who are moved by a power from beneath to maintain falsehood, in Christ he will still preserve calmness and self-possession."
 
"Divine pity marked the countenance of the Son of God as He cast one lingering look upon the temple and then upon His hearers. In a voice choked by deep anguish of heart and bitter tears He exclaimed, 'O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!' This is the separation struggle. In the lamentation of Christ the very heart of God is pouring itself forth. It is the mysterious farewell of the long-suffering love of the Deity."

Let us join with King David as we reflect on the words above and also the thoughts of Psalms 25.  "Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths." We need to see our great need for Divine Guidance. Jesus said " Without Me Ye can do nothing " If we truly want to Be Like Jesus we must not let the activities of daily living crowd Him out. If we want real power to live from Him we must prioritize our time each day by putting Jesus first, Others second, Your self last. Then you will be filled with real JOY that will radiate His love out to others. 

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Beacon!

Jesus is speaking to us personally in what we read in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. He is calling to our hearts to experience His intimate love, to know His character, and to reflect that love in our moment-by-moment union and communion with Him that is only possible by faith which works by love! While many Pharisees and Sadducees would not yield to Christ, shrinking from the consequences that such a surrender may involve, the widow who loved God with her whole heart wanted to all that she could to further His cause. May we let Christ in so no matter what our tendencies in our fallen humanity, we may be transformed in character by becoming partakers of the divine nature!

 "The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem." {The Desire of Ages, page 620, paragraph 3}

As the gems of truth from Jesus are meditated upon and experienced, we will find joy in doing His will and being a blessing to others! 

[Dorine]

  "Jesus said of the poor widow, She "hath cast in more than they all." The rich had bestowed from their abundance, many of them to be seen and honored by men. Their large donations had deprived them of no comfort, or even luxury; they had required no sacrifice, and could not be compared in value with the widow's mite."

This is an amazing statement. It shows the importance of motive. What is our motive in giving? To gain respect and admiration of others? Or is it with a heart filled with love and admiration to our Saviour that we are willing and want to give our all to Him and for Him? That's the motive I pray for.

[Richard Myers]

"The Christian who lives in harmony with God, possessing the sweet attributes of love and mercy, will feel a righteous indignation against sin; but he will not be roused by passion to revile those who revile him. Even in meeting those who are moved by a power from beneath to maintain falsehood, in Christ he will still preserve calmness and self-possession."

Amen Brother Beacon!  No hot anger, no hatred of the individual, but calm self-possession for all who are abiding in Christ. There is such a thing as "righteous indignation" when we see Satan oppressing the innocent, especially children.

Jesus character is both merciful and just. We are not to give up on either. We must understand and present both.

Pastor Sean quoted a statement I was impressed with: "They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands." Christ had to lead the people away from lies which had dwarfed their lives.

 In the parables which Christ had spoken, it was His purpose both to warn the rulers and to instruct the people who were willing to be taught. But there was need to speak yet more plainly. Through their reverence for tradition and their blind faith in a corrupt priesthood, the people were enslaved. These chains Christ must break. The character of the priests, rulers, and Pharisees must be more fully exposed.

Many were more than dwarfed, they were "enslaved." What and who had enslaved them? Traditions in the religion and the religious leaders. So it is today. There were faithful leaders in that day, and their are faithful leaders in the church today. But, multitudes in the church are just as enslaved as were the Jews when Christ came to them and they knew Him not. Let us be as was Christ, and present both the mercy and justice of God.

[Beacon]

"The Christian who lives in harmony with God, possessing the sweet attributes of love and mercy, will feel a righteous indignation against sin; but he will not be roused by passion to revile those who revile him. Even in meeting those who are moved by a power from beneath to maintain falsehood, in Christ he will still preserve calmness and self-possession."

This is only possible if we surrender to Jesus anew every day and receive a new in-filling of spiritual power which will enable us to have and show that we have been recharged with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. And as Pastor Sean & Bro. Richard like to say  " Without One Missing " We must plug in to God's Word every day and drink deeply from the Fountain of Life every morning and thereby recharge our spiritual batteries for Jesus said..." Without Me Ye Can Do Nothing " 

[Dorine]

  It is the motive that gives character to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral worth. Not the great things which every eye sees and every tongue praises does God account most precious. The little duties cheerfully done, the little gifts which make no show, and which to human eyes may appear worthless, often stand highest in His sight. A heart of faith and love is dearer to God than the most costly gift. The poor widow gave her living to do the little that she did. She deprived herself of food in order to give those two mites to the cause she loved. And she did it in faith, believing that her heavenly Father would not overlook her great need. It was this unselfish spirit and childlike faith that won the Saviour's commendation.

A true sacrificial gift. Christ shows here what heaven considers great. I love the part where it says "And she did it in faith, believing that her heavenly Father would not overlook her great need."  Is this the kind of faith we live by? This is dearer to God than the most costly gift.

[Beacon]

"Not the great things which every eye sees and every tongue praises does God account most precious. The little duties cheerfully done, the little gifts which make no show, and which to human eyes may appear worthless, often stand highest in His sight. A heart of faith and love is dearer to God than the most costly gift."

"Jesus said,  he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." Again and again Christ had taught that true greatness is measured by moral worth. In the estimation of heaven, greatness of character consists in living for the welfare of our fellow men, in doing works of love and mercy. Christ the King of glory was a servant to fallen man. "

I.E. The other day on my way to a dental appointment I pulled into the huge parking lot nearest my bank...I was on a tight time frame and things needed to click along smoothly but as I parked my van I noticed an older man standing in the next row over who just kept turning around and around. I knew immediately that most likely he had forgotten where he parked. I was in a hurry but the thought flashed through my mind...WWJD "What Would Jesus Do" I was impressed to help him, so I went to him and asked him if I could help him with anything....wasn't that would Jesus would do? He was so very thankful!! Sometimes little things are big things especially at times like that. I still arrived at my appointment on time.   PTL :-)

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

When we learn to value what Jesus does, we also will be encouraged to be a humble servant and see the joy of His will in every situation!

The truth Jesus spoke before the religious leaders and also His commendation of the poor widow who gave her all is an encouragement for us today to lay hold of the word of God at a time when soon that will be all we have. "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away" (Mark 13:35).

"The gems of truth that fell from Christ's lips on that eventful day were treasured in many hearts. For them new thoughts started into life, new aspirations were awakened, and a new history began. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, these persons came to the front, and fulfilled their divine commission with a wisdom and zeal corresponding to the greatness of the work. They bore a message that appealed to the hearts of men, weakening the old superstitions that had long dwarfed the lives of thousands. Before their testimony human theories and philosophies became as idle fables. Mighty were the results flowing from the words of the Saviour to that wondering, awestruck crowd in the temple at Jerusalem." {The Desire of Ages, page 620, paragraph 3}

As we fill our hearts and minds with God's word, we find moral courage to stand for the right in the most trying situations. We need a living experience in the faith of Jesus--a faith rooted solely in God's word and bringing forth the fruits of genuine faith: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness, faith, and temperance! Not one of these attributes of the divine nature will be missing in our lives as we abide in Jesus! By the Holy Spirit, our lives are made supernaturally consistent by His grace to do the will of God!