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Wally

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Lesson 4 *January 19-25







Creation, a Biblical Theme



SABBATH AFTERNOON

Read for This week’s Study: Genesis 2, Matt. 19:4-6, Psalm 8,Job 38:1-21, 42:1-6, Isa. 45:18,Acts 17:22-31.

Memory Text: “Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water’” (Revelation 14:6, 7, NIV).

Genesis 1:1-2:3 is the foundation for many Creation texts found in Scripture. Some references to Genesis 1 are clear, others more indirect. The more indirect references often involve a repetition of certain words or ideas without directly quoting the text, such as 2 Corinthians 4:6: “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (NKJV). A direct reference, in contrast, is Hebrews 4:4: “For He has spoken in a certain place of the seventh day in this way: ‘And God rested on the seventh day from all His works’” (NKJV), a quote from Genesis 2:2.

This week we will look at various references that point back to the Genesis account and show how other Bible writers understood it as a literal depiction of human origins.

*Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, January 26.

SUNDAY January 20

Creation in Genesis 2

“These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens” (Gen. 2:4).

Genesis 1-2:3 is the first account of God creating our world. It forms the foundation of all the other truths that we, as Christians, believe.

But the Creation account doesn’t end there. From Genesis 2:3 to the end of the chapter, we are given more details, specifically regarding the creation of Adam and Eve. Thus, we should interpret Genesis 2:4 (above) as the introduction to a more detailed history of the creation of Adam and Eve, an act that is briefly summarized in Genesis 1:26-29. Some modern scholars have argued that a conflict exists between Genesis 1 and 2, but this would have been a surprise to Moses and the other biblical writers. If the stories were seen as conflicting, Moses would never have written them, especially so close together. The conflict isn’t with the texts; it’s with those who read a conflict into them.

Read Matthew 19:4-6. How does Jesus affirm the historical truth of Genesis 1 and 2?

In response to the Pharisees’ question about divorce, Jesus quoted from both Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, showing that He considered both to be discussing the same historical event, the Creation of the world and humanity. How much more proof do we need that Genesis 1 and 2 are harmonious accounts of Creation, the doctrine and teaching that forms the foundation of our existence and purpose? We are not here by chance, we are not here by fluke; we are beings made in the image of God—and the Genesis Creation account, as revealed in chapters 1 and 2, is God’s special revelation to us of our origins.

Read Genesis 2. How does it help us to better understand what it means to be human, to be made in the image of God, and to be given free will?

MONDAY January 21

Creation in the Psalms

Read Psalm 8. What links do you find with Genesis 1?

Read Psalm 104. Note how this psalm praises God for His goodness as seen in both Creation and providence. Identify the links with Genesis 1 in the following verses from Psalm 104: Vs. 2
Vss. 5-7 Vss. 7-9 Vs. 14 Vs. 19 Vs. 25

Note how the psalm’s topical sequence seems to be crafted to follow the topical sequence of Genesis 1. Poetic imagery is vividly presented throughout the verses, and its message clearly includes the power, wisdom, and goodness of God and the dependence of all the Creation on the Creator. Nothing in the psalm hints that the Genesis account was not to be taken literally.

Note the following examples from the Psalms that correlate with Genesis 1. Ps. 24:1, 2
Ps. 33:6 Ps. 74:16, 17 Ps. 89:11

The Psalms are full of praise for the Creator. Sometimes this is expressed in language reminiscent of Genesis 1, other times the language is more general; but in all cases, the description of Creation is consistent with Genesis 1 and reminds us of the foundational role of Genesis in our understanding of our origins as sons and daughters of God.
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

Wally

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #1 on: January 18, 2013, 01:45:52 PM »
TUESDAY January 22

Creation in the Book of Job

Read Job 38:1-21. Note the creation topics in the following verses. Vss. 4-7
Vss. 8-11 Vs. 12 Vs. 16 Vs. 19

It’s important to remember the context of the book of Job. Great tragedy struck, and Job was struggling to understand how this could happen to him, a faithful follower of God. In chapter 38 up through chapter 41, the Lord continues to talk about His creative power, all in response to Job’s pained questioning.

Read carefully Job’s response to the Lord in Job 42:1-6. Why did Job respond as he did, and what can we learn from his response that could help us to trust God in our own personal tragedy?
Job’s inability to explain features of the Creation led him to recognize the greatness of God and to trust Him, despite everything that had happened. We also find ourselves unable to answer many questions about the Creation, and Job’s example should encourage us to trust God, no matter what. Many questions about everything in life will remain unanswered, at least for now. We will have an eternity to get explanations for what now seems incomprehensible.

The point is that through the marvels of creation—which we today understand so much better now than Job ever could—we should learn to trust in God’s incredible love and power.

We, today, living after the Cross, have a view of the Creator also as our crucified Redeemer, something that Job never had, at least not as clearly as we do. How much more, then, should we trust in the Lord’s goodness toward us, knowing what He did for us?

WEDNESDAY January 23

Creation in the Prophets

“For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else” (Isa. 45:18).

Isaiah 45:18 emphasizes God’s intention to prepare a place for humans to live; thus, the fitness of the earth for life is not an accident.

Consider some of the features of the earth that make it a fit place for human life in contrast to the other planets in our solar system. First, water is present in abundance. There is some evidence of water activity on Mars, but there are no standing bodies of water on this or on any other planet aside from earth. Another unique feature of earth is the composition of the atmosphere, about 21 percent oxygen and 78 percent nitrogen. Other planets have atmospheres dominated either by carbon dioxide or by helium, but only earth has an atmosphere suitable for life. The range of temperatures on earth is suitable for terrestrial life, unlike any of the other planets in our solar system. This is due to a combination of factors, including our distance from the sun, the composition of our atmosphere, the mass of earth, and the speed of its rotation, which determines the length of days and nights. All these features, and more, make earth the only known planet suitable for sustaining life.

How do the following texts relate to the events described in Genesis 1? Isa. 44:24
Isa. 45:12 Jer. 51:15, 16 Amos 4:13 Jonah 1:9 Zech. 12:1

Think through the implications of our origins and why getting them right is so important to our understanding of who we are, why we are here, and what we can hope for in a world that, in and of itself, offers no hope at all.
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

Wally

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #2 on: January 18, 2013, 01:46:59 PM »
THURSDAY January 24

Creation in the New Testament

Read Acts 17:22-31. What were the circumstances of this sermon? After Paul had introduced his topic, what was the first topic he brought to these learned men? Vss. 24, 25. What does Paul say is the relationship between the Creator God and humans? Vss. 26-28.

The audience here no doubt included the two groups of philosophers known as Stoics and Epicureans. The Stoics affirmed the reality of design in nature, while the Epicureans denied it. Neither had a knowledge of the true God, but their arguments about design were similar to many of the arguments still discussed in our day.

The important point here is that, in his witness to these pagan thinkers and intellectuals, Paul reverts directly to the argument of the Lord as the Creator of all things and all humanity. Paul had little in common with these people; so, he went right to what they did have in common—the fact that they existed—and from that undeniable reality he sought to build his argument. Hence, we see Creation as, again, a crucial theme in Scripture.

Look at the following texts: Matthew 19:4-6, Mark 2:27, Luke 3:38, John 1:1-3, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Hebrews 4:4, James 3:9, 2 Peter 3:5, Jude 11, 14. What’s fascinating is that each one of these New Testament authors either directly or indirectly made reference to the Genesis Creation account, more evidence proving just how universally accepted the Genesis account of origins was to all the Bible writers.

Read Revelation 4:11 and 10:5, 6. What do the heavenly beings say about God’s creatorship?

Creation was not an accident but occurred by the will of God. The second passage contains a clear allusion to Exodus 20:11. Once again, as in John 1:1-3, John shows his familiarity with, and confidence in, the Creation story. How foolish for us to do anything less.

FRIDAY January 25

Further Study: The Bible is a book about God and His relationship to us humans and our world. The events of Creation week are unique and supernatural. They are outside the realm of scientific inquiry for at least two reasons. First, they are singularities. Singularities are events that occur only once. Science has a difficult time dealing with singularities, because they cannot be repeated and tested under differing circumstances. Second, the Creation events were supernaturally caused. They were not the natural result of the way God sustains the Creation but were special, direct acts of God. Science deals only with secondary causes, and does not—at least as now practiced—accept any explanation that depends on God’s direct action. Because the Creation events are unique and supernatural, they lie outside the reach of science.

The importance of this point is that one’s view of origins has important implications for one’s view of human nature and self-identity. Understanding our origins is so important that God had it placed as the first subject in the Bible, and the message of the Bible is based on the historicity of the Creation account. To claim that we can learn the true history of our world through science is to claim that it can be explained without appealing to any direct action by God, an error that has led to more error.

“Men will endeavor to explain from natural causes the work of creation, which God has never revealed. But human science cannot search out the secrets of the God of Heaven, and explain the stupendous works of creation, which were a miracle of almighty power, any sooner than it can show how God came into existence.”—Ellen G. White, The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 89.

Discussion Questions

    Creation is a dominant theme throughout the entire Bible. Is there any evidence that Bible writers had different views of Creation or that any of them had doubts about the veracity of any part of Genesis? Why is this answer important?

    What reasons do you think someone might give to justify the rejection of the idea that nature is designed?

    Jesus endorsed the authority of Moses (Luke 16:29-31), including the story of Creation (Mark 2:27, 28; Matt. 19:4-6). Given this background and the example of Jesus, what should be our attitude toward the story of Creation?

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: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #3 on: January 19, 2013, 03:44:07 PM »
SABBATH AFTERNOON

Read for This week’s Study: Genesis 2, Matt. 19:4-6, Psalm 8,Job 38:1-21, 42:1-6, Isa. 45:18,Acts 17:22-31.

Memory Text:   And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,  Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.  Revelation 14:6, 7

Genesis 1:1-2:3 is the foundation for many Creation texts found in Scripture. Some references to Genesis 1 are clear, others more indirect. The more indirect references often involve a repetition of certain words or ideas without directly quoting the text, such as 2 Corinthians 4:6:  For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.   A direct reference, in contrast, is Hebrews 4:4: For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works, a quote from Genesis 2:2.

This week we will look at various references that point back to the Genesis account and show how other Bible writers understood it as a literal depiction of human origins.

Amen!  The Bible is consistent whereas the lie is never.  If we will study for ourselves what God has given to us in the Bible, then we will not only learn of God, but we shall be better able to resist the false teachers who come bearing that which is mingled with error.

Isaiah
  28:7   But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble [in] judgment. 
  28:8   For all tables are full of vomit [and] filthiness, [so that there is] no place [clean]. 
  28:9   Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts. 
  28:10   For precept [must be] upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, [and] there a little: 
  28:11   For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 
  28:12   To whom he said, This [is] the rest [wherewith] ye may cause the weary to rest; and this [is] the refreshing: yet they would not hear. 
  28:13   But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, [and] there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken. 
  28:14   Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which [is] in Jerusalem. 
  28:15   Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves: 
  28:16   Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. 
  28:17   Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place. 
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: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #4 on: January 19, 2013, 04:31:16 PM »
SUNDAY January 20

Creation in Genesis 2


“These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens” (Gen. 2:4).


Genesis 1-2:3 is the first account of God creating our world. It forms the foundation of all the other truths that we, as Christians, believe.

But the Creation account doesn’t end there. From Genesis 2:3 to the end of the chapter, we are given more details, specifically regarding the creation of Adam and Eve. Thus, we should interpret Genesis 2:4 (above) as the introduction to a more detailed history of the creation of Adam and Eve, an act that is briefly summarized in Genesis 1:26-29. Some modern scholars have argued that a conflict exists between Genesis 1 and 2, but this would have been a surprise to Moses and the other biblical writers. If the stories were seen as conflicting, Moses would never have written them, especially so close together. The conflict isn’t with the texts; it’s with those who read a conflict into them.

Amen!!

Read Matthew 19:4-6.

 19:4   And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 
  19:5   And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 
  19:6   Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 


How does Jesus affirm the historical truth of Genesis 1 and 2?

In response to the Pharisees’ question about divorce, Jesus quoted from both Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, showing that He considered both to be discussing the same historical event, the Creation of the world and humanity. How much more proof do we need that Genesis 1 and 2 are harmonious accounts of Creation, the doctrine and teaching that forms the foundation of our existence and purpose? We are not here by chance, we are not here by fluke; we are beings made in the image of God—and the Genesis Creation account, as revealed in chapters 1 and 2, is God’s special revelation to us of our origins.

Read Genesis 2.

  2:1   Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 
  2:2   And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. 
  2:3   And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. 
  2:4   These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 
  2:5   And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground. 
  2:6   But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. 
  2:7   And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. 
  2:8   And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. 
  2:9   And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. 
  2:10   And a river went out of Eden to water the garden; and from thence it was parted, and became into four heads. 
  2:11   The name of the first [is] Pison: that [is] it which compasseth the whole land of Havilah, where [there is] gold; 
  2:12   And the gold of that land is good: there is bdellium and the onyx stone. 
  2:13   And the name of the second river is Gihon: the same is it that compasseth the whole land of Ethiopia. 
  2:14   And the name of the third river is Hiddekel: that is it which goeth toward the east of Assyria. And the fourth river is Euphrates. 
  2:15   And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. 
  2:16   And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 
  2:17   But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. 
  2:18   And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. 
  2:19   And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. 
  2:20   And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. 
  2:21   And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 
  2:22   And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 
  2:23   And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 
  2:24   Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. 
  2:25   And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. 
 

 How does it help us to better understand what it means to be human, to be made in the image of God, and to be given free will?

Those who claim to believe the Bible is God's Word, do not if they believe in evolution. "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.   And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed." 2:7,8.  The Greek and Hebrew would have a hard time covering up this simple truth. Man was made by God from the dust of the Earth.  And, He breathed life into him.  False science has endeavored to make the Bible nothing but fables.

It is very sad to see some who profess to be Christians or Jews reject the simple truth about creation. God has given us a revelation of His character, the plan of salvation, and much more, including creation. When those who were created begin to question the  existence of their Creator, and devise so called "science" to refute His Word, it would be good if someone would gently point them to Jesus as their only hope of being reconciled to their Maker. As His witnesses, we are given that privilege. Some will be reached as we manifest His Spirit and share His truth.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Vicki

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #5 on: January 19, 2013, 05:18:29 PM »

Isaiah
  28:15   Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves

Oh, wow. Satan is indeed casting a "hellish shadow" and people are not discerning it.

While you hold the banner of truth firmly, proclaiming the law of God, let every soul remember that the faith of Jesus is connected with the commandments of God. The third angel is represented as flying through the midst of heaven, crying with a loud voice, "Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12). The first [creation], second, and third angels' messages are all linked together. The evidences of the abiding, ever-living truth of these grand messages, that mean so much to us, that have awakened such intense opposition from the religious world, cannot be extinguished. Satan is constantly seeking to cast his hellish shadow about these messages, so that the remnant people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time, and place; but they live, and are to exert their power upon our religious experience while time shall last.   {2SM 117.2} 

Ed posted that quote in another topic. I noted it in my quarterly before I read the memory verse for the week. It fits rather well.

Pause for a self-check to see if they are exerting their power on your religious experience.

Richard Myers

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #6 on: January 19, 2013, 06:30:20 PM »
Amen!   Our faith is from all of Scripture. Line upon line, precept upon precept, it all fits together. It all makes sense. When one wants to ignore part of it, change the meaning, they are daubing the foundation with untempered mortar. That wall will not stand, but will fall with those who daubed it with untempered mortar. How does God view the matter of false doctrine? It ties in with what Vicki just posted. " The first [creation], second, and third angels' messages are all linked together." 

"Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." Rev. 14:7,8.


Yes, there is creation in the first message and there is the false doctrine in the second. Babylon has "made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication."  Her unfaithfulness to God and His Word in that these religious ones teach things that did not come from God. A false gospel, evolution, and making women rulers over men are some of the false doctrines being taught in professing Christian churches. All of it "untempered mortar".
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: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #7 on: January 20, 2013, 04:12:48 AM »
MONDAY January 21

Creation in the Psalms


Read Psalm 8.

  8:1   To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm of David. O LORD our Lord, how excellent [is] thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens. 
  8:2   Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. 
  8:3   When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; 
  8:4   What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? 
  8:5   For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. 
  8:6   Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all [things] under his feet: 
  8:7   All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; 
  8:8   The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, [and whatsoever] passeth through the paths of the seas. 
  8:9   O LORD our Lord, how excellent [is] thy name in all the earth! 


 What links do you find with Genesis 1?

"who hast set thy glory above the heavens."
"When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained"
"For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet."


Read Psalm 104.

104:1   Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. 
  104:2   Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain: 
  104:3   Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind: 
  104:4   Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire: 
  104:5   Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever. 
  104:6   Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. 
  104:7   At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. 
  104:8   They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. 
  104:9   Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth. 
  104:10   He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills. 
  104:11   They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst. 
  104:12   By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches. 
  104:13   He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works. 
  104:14   He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; 
  104:15   And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart. 
  104:16   The trees of the LORD are full [of sap]; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted; 
  104:17   Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees [are] her house. 
  104:18   The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies. 
  104:19   He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. 
  104:20   Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. 
  104:21   The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. 
  104:22   The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. 
  104:23   Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening. 
  104:24   O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 
  104:25   So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 
  104:26   There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein. 
  104:27   These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season. 
  104:28   That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good. 
  104:29   Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. 
  104:30   Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth. 
  104:31   The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works. 
  104:32   He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke. 
  104:33   I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. 
  104:34   My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD. 
  104:35   Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD. 
 


 Note how this psalm praises God for His goodness as seen in both Creation and providence. Identify the links with Genesis 1 in the following verses from Psalm 104: Vs. 2  Vss. 5-7 Vss. 7-9 Vs. 14 Vs. 19 Vs. 25

  104:2   Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain: 

  104:5   Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever. 
  104:6   Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. 
  104:7   At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. 

  104:7   At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. 
  104:8   They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. 
  104:9   Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth. 

  104:14   He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; 

  104:19   He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. 

  104:25   So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 


Note how the psalm’s topical sequence seems to be crafted to follow the topical sequence of Genesis 1. Poetic imagery is vividly presented throughout the verses, and its message clearly includes the power, wisdom, and goodness of God and the dependence of all the Creation on the Creator. Nothing in the psalm hints that the Genesis account was not to be taken literally.

Note the following examples from the Psalms that correlate with Genesis 1.

Ps. 24:1, 2
  24:1   A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. 
  24:2   For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods. 

Ps. 33:6
 33:6   By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 

Ps. 74:16, 17
  74:16   The day is thine, the night also is thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun. 
  74:17   Thou hast set all the borders of the earth: thou hast made summer and winter. 

Ps. 89:11
  89:11   The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine: as for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them.   


The Psalms are full of praise for the Creator. Sometimes this is expressed in language reminiscent of Genesis 1, other times the language is more general; but in all cases, the description of Creation is consistent with Genesis 1 and reminds us of the foundational role of Genesis in our understanding of our origins as sons and daughters of God.

Amen!  How important is this to us who live in fallen flesh! If Adam and Eve needed a Sabbath day's rest to remember what God had given them, to learn of His power and love for them through all of creation, to remember that they too, were the works of His love and power, then how much more us who are fallen from grace!

Monday's lesson bring out the truth that we need to know, "the dependence of all the Creation on the Creator."  That includes man. Our problem stems from not understanding we are dependent on God for all we have and all we are. We depend upon Christ for our very breath. Let's consider the importance of this for a moment. We read that Peter walked on water.....for a moment.  We also read that after three and a half years of close intimacy with Jesus, Peter denied His Lord. Yet, Jesus had warned Peter of his betrayal. Why is it that one so honored by Jesus would deny Him?  And, how is it with us? Would we do such a thing? Would we crucify Jesus afresh, more than once?

Peter and the disciples had a problem that manifested itself often during their ministry with Christ. It revealed itself the night of the Lord's last supper with them. When they walked into the upper room that night, self was alive in each of them. They were vying for the highest place. Not one of them was prepared to partake of the Passover supper. What was the problem? They needed to be re-converted. They did not understand that they needed Jesus all the time. They did not know their need of Jesus. They thought they could walk in the light of His love and law independent of God. Peter thought he could walk on water without keeping his eyes upon Jesus.

All of creation is dependent upon God. Yet, selfish man thinks he can live without being connected to Christ, without being filled with His Spirit. So, we are indeed studying creation this quarter, but it is for an important reason. It is not just to be able to argue with the unbeliever over creation versus evolution. No, we need to understand who God is and our dependence upon Him that we might do any good thing. Without a new heart filled with His presence through the Holy Spirit, we do not possess eternal life, we are not converted, we can do no good thing. "If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." Romans 8:9. We are wholly dependent upon His Spirit for life.

Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Mark W

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #8 on: January 20, 2013, 05:05:08 AM »
It is very sad to see some who profess to be Christians or Jews reject the simple truth about creation. God has given us a revelation of His character, the plan of salvation, and much more, including creation. When those who were created begin to question the  existence of their Creator, and devise so called "science" to refute His Word, it would be good if someone would gently point them to Jesus as their only hope of being reconciled to their Maker. As His witnesses, we are given that privilege. Some will be reached as we manifest His Spirit and share His truth.

I must agree when we see so many professed followers of God embracing evolution. I found this chart a while back when preparing for a presentation and thought I would share for those that might not have seen it.


Richard Myers

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #9 on: January 20, 2013, 07:38:15 AM »
Thanks Mark. That explains what I have been trying to say about accepting the Bible as truth. Those who reject Scripture are seen in the chart. It is very sad, but it tells us just what Revelation 14 says. Babylon has fallen. The harvest field is white. And, there are many in these religions noted in the chart that are looking for a church that believes the Bible just as it is written. They are looking for a "thus saith the Lord" as the reason for their beliefs.

On the chart, Seventh-day Adventists would be 100%....unless you count some who are spoken of in last Friday's lesson. "But the infidel supposition, that the events of the first week required seven vast, indefinite periods for their accomplishment, strikes directly at the foundation of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. It makes indefinite and obscure that which God has made very plain. It is the worst kind of infidelity; for with many who profess to believe the record of creation, it is infidelity in disguise.”

Yes, there are some in the church, but it would not be accurate to call them Seventh-day Adventists. The term used was "infidel".  These are not my words, but I agree with them.
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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #10 on: January 20, 2013, 08:33:17 PM »
TUESDAY January 22

Creation in the Book of Job


Read Job 38:1-21

  38:1   Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, 
  38:2   Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? 
  38:3   Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. 
  38:4   Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. 
  38:5   Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? 
  38:6   Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; 
  38:7   When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 
  38:8   Or who shut up the sea with doors, when it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb? 
  38:9   When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddlingband for it, 
  38:10   And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors, 
  38:11   And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed? 
  38:12   Hast thou commanded the morning since thy days; and caused the dayspring to know his place; 
  38:13   That it might take hold of the ends of the earth, that the wicked might be shaken out of it? 
  38:14   It is turned as clay to the seal; and they stand as a garment. 
  38:15   And from the wicked their light is withholden, and the high arm shall be broken. 
  38:16   Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea? or hast thou walked in the search of the depth? 
  38:17   Have the gates of death been opened unto thee? or hast thou seen the doors of the shadow of death? 
  38:18   Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth? declare if thou knowest it all. 
  38:19   Where is the way where light dwelleth? and as for darkness, where is the place thereof, 
  38:20   That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof? 
  38:21   Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born? or because the number of thy days is great? 

Note the creation topics in the following verses. Vss. 4-7
Vss. 8-11 Vs. 12 Vs. 16 Vs. 19

It’s important to remember the context of the book of Job. Great tragedy struck, and Job was struggling to understand how this could happen to him, a faithful follower of God. In chapter 38 up through chapter 41, the Lord continues to talk about His creative power, all in response to Job’s pained questioning.

I agree that we must remember the context of the Book of Job. But, before we look at the context, let's look at a most important principle that is so very often overlooked by most teachers in Christian churches.  How does chapter 38 begin? While it is not enough to tell us the complete context, it is enough for us to understand that most who teach the Book of Job have done so erroneously. What does God think about those who teach error, even if unknowingly? Here is what He says in verses one and two: "Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?"  Don't pass over this thinking it not important. It not only helps to understand the context, but it also makes a point that all need to understand. God was not pleased with Job or anyone who "darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge." What does this mean? It means that those who "darkeneth His counsel by speaking things that are "without knowledge" are doing wrong. Many will object to my assertion, but they cannot sustain their objection when we understand the passage in its correct context. As I said, many are in error because they have listened to some who fail to teach this in the correct context. They have darkened God's Word without knowledge by so doing.

What is the context? Continue reading before and after, then the context will be understood if one will do so prayerfully seeking to honor God and laying self in the dust.  It is better to see one is wrong and correct their understanding than to remain in a wrong position and continue to lead others astray.

God continues to speak to Job in the same manner through the rest of chapter 38 and  then all through chapter 39.  But, in chapter 40 God comes to the point. He no longer questions Job, but makes a very plain statement that none need misuderstand. "Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said, Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.  Then Job answered the LORD, and said, Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further." Job 40:1-5.  Job got the message and ceased speaking about things he knew nothing of. He understood what God had said. It is those who refuse to acknowledge what God said that still have a problem and continue to darken God's Word by speaking of something they do not know of. How often do we teach something that we are not sure of? Too often. Reproach is brought up God and His Word by so doing. Just look at the professing Christians that are teaching evolution or some form of it. God is not happy about it.


Read carefully Job’s response to the Lord in Job 42:1-6.

 42:1   Then Job answered the LORD, and said, 
  42:2   I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. 
  42:3   Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. 
  42:4   Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. 
  42:5   I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. 
  42:6   Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. 


Why did Job respond as he did, and what can we learn from his response that could help us to trust God in our own personal tragedy?

Why did Job respond as he did? Why did he repent? What had he done that needed repentance?


Job’s inability to explain features of the Creation led him to recognize the greatness of God and to trust Him, despite everything that had happened. We also find ourselves unable to answer many questions about the Creation, and Job’s example should encourage us to trust God, no matter what. Many questions about everything in life will remain unanswered, at least for now. We will have an eternity to get explanations for what now seems incomprehensible.

Job's problem was not one of lacking knowledge. It was a moral lapse. He was having a battle against Satan and let go of Jesus. There are some lessons for us to learn from Job's experience. The author has presented us with the opportunity to learn the lesson. The questions asked need to be answered from a correct understanding of what God inspired, not from a false understanding of the Book of Job.


The point is that through the marvels of creation—which we today understand so much better now than Job ever could—we should learn to trust in God’s incredible love and power.

That is true. But, the lesson goes much deeper than understanding the marvels of creation. Creation must be understood in the context of the plan of salvation and the gospel message. If we only come to understand that the earth was created in six literal days, but fail to grasp the gospel message, then we will fail of attaining to everlasting life. Job repented, but not of a misunderstanding. He repented of sin.


We, today, living after the Cross, have a view of the Creator also as our crucified Redeemer, something that Job never had, at least not as clearly as we do. How much more, then, should we trust in the Lord’s goodness toward us, knowing what He did for us?

Amen! The author brings into our lesson the cross. And this is vitally connected to the lesson to be learned in the Book of Job. If we fail to understand Job's sin, then we have not prayerfully studied the Book with the aid of the Holy Spirit.  The author brought us right to the place where we could see there is more to Job than most have understood. Let us not draw up short of learning the lesson. Those who have not read of the matter here at the Remnant-online, please share with us what it was that Job repented of?
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.

Wally

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #11 on: January 21, 2013, 03:43:43 AM »
It is very sad to see some who profess to be Christians or Jews reject the simple truth about creation. God has given us a revelation of His character, the plan of salvation, and much more, including creation. When those who were created begin to question the  existence of their Creator, and devise so called "science" to refute His Word, it would be good if someone would gently point them to Jesus as their only hope of being reconciled to their Maker. As His witnesses, we are given that privilege. Some will be reached as we manifest His Spirit and share His truth.

I must agree when we see so many professed followers of God embracing evolution. I found this chart a while back when preparing for a presentation and thought I would share for those that might not have seen it.



Very interesting statistics, Mark; sad, but interesting.  Where did you find that chart?  I'm preparing a sermon on the subject of creation, and I'd like to use the chart.

Thanks
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

Mimi

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #12 on: January 21, 2013, 04:59:19 AM »
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

colporteur

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #13 on: January 21, 2013, 09:41:06 AM »
The chart is very interesting. However sadly is its revealing, it does not show the full dimension of the problem. For instance, JWs all believe in evolution they just will not admit it because they have a mixed breed theology. They believe much the same as the apostates at La Sierra. They believe that God created pond scum and then it evolved over millions of years.   

It's easier to slow a fast horse down than to get a dead one going.

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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

Mimi

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #15 on: January 21, 2013, 05:15:49 PM »
Sure.  :)
  For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89 

Mark W

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #16 on: January 21, 2013, 05:49:30 PM »
A quick question if I may. When you read the response that God had towards Jobs rambling in Tuesdays lesson, it makes you have to think as to whether or not to listen to what Job had to say. All scripture is inspired by God but yet God was in essence saying Job, you have not a clue as to what your talking about. I just ask this for I referenced Job 26:7 a while back and you start wondering was what Job stated in his ramblings to be taken that seriously? I ask this with a inquisitive mind and not intending to cast doubt. Just trying to approach it using the right hermeneutical principles.

Richard Myers

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #17 on: January 21, 2013, 07:12:47 PM »
Mark, you are good student!  You ask a very good question about Job's words in Scripture. Before we go to Job, let's look at your question in general.  You said "All scripture is inspired by God but yet God was in essence saying Job, you have not a clue as to what your talking about." Do we treat all that we read in Scripture as inspired counsel? No. There are words uttered by false prophets, witches, unbelievers, Jezebel, and even Satan himself. Are there truths uttered by false teachers in the Bible? Yes. But, there are also lies uttered by the same teacher.  We must distinguish between the one being quoted and the inspired author of the Book. Job did not write the Book, Moses did. Moses was inspired, not Job.

Now to your concern about verse 26:7. I have often thought of the truth spoken by Job that we quote all the time. Yes, Job spoke truth that we quote as inspired counsel. I do not know how to anwswer your concern, Mark. You will have to find another who has been shown an answer, I have not.  All that Job said was not truth, but, some was.  You have done the good part, in not arguing with God, as many will do. You have accepted just what God said and therefore you have rightly understood that Job was speaking foolishness at times. You will be greatly blessed if you do not quit here. While I cannot tell you how to divide the truth from the error in what Job said, I can tell you that the Book of Job has some very important lessons that the author of our Sabbath School lesson has opened the door to. He told us to look at the context. We must do that. His understanding of the context appears to be wrong. We are not dealing with creation in the Book of Job, we are dealing with the gospel message of justification and sanctification.  God uttered truth about creation and we may use that, but we must look at the truth in its context.

The question remains, what was Job's great sin? It was not just speaking without knowledge. It was far worse. We must get the context right or else we may not teach from the Book with any authority.
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Wally

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Re: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #18 on: January 22, 2013, 03:18:44 AM »
A quick question if I may. When you read the response that God had towards Jobs rambling in Tuesdays lesson, it makes you have to think as to whether or not to listen to what Job had to say. All scripture is inspired by God but yet God was in essence saying Job, you have not a clue as to what your talking about. I just ask this for I referenced Job 26:7 a while back and you start wondering was what Job stated in his ramblings to be taken that seriously? I ask this with a inquisitive mind and not intending to cast doubt. Just trying to approach it using the right hermeneutical principles.

There are other texts that hint at what Job was saying, although they don't come out and say it as plainly as Job.  Isa. 44:24 is one.  Thus saith the Lord, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the Lord that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself.  Zech. 12:1, is another.  The burden of the word of the Lord for Israel, saith the Lord, which stretcheth forth the heavens, and layeth the foundation of the earth.

One principle to keep in mind when studying a particular passage, is whether or not it is in harmony with what we know as truth from the rest of Scripture.  For example:  when the serpent said to Eve, "thou shalt not surely die," we know that that was not an inspired statement, since it contradicted God's statement to Adam and Eve.  Moses, an inspired prophet, simply wrote the story as it happened.  A similar situation happened when false prophets in Israel contradicted the true prophets.
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: First Quarter--2013--SDA SS LESSON 4--Creation, a Biblical Theme
« Reply #19 on: January 23, 2013, 01:02:53 PM »
Amen!

Where we have confirmation, we can know. But, where Job says something that is not spoken of elsewhere, it is hard to say that it is inspired when he was mixing truth with error.
Jesus receives His reward when we reflect His character, the fruits of the Spirit......We deny Jesus His reward when we do not.