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The King of Kings => The Desire of Ages => Topic started by: Mimi on July 19, 2007, 09:04:00 AM

Title: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Mimi on July 19, 2007, 09:04:00 AM: The Dedication

Listen to The Dedication

About forty days after the birth of Christ, Joseph and Mary took Him to Jerusalem, to present Him to the Lord, and to offer sacrifice. This was according to the Jewish law, and as man's substitute Christ must conform to the law in every particular. He had already been subjected to the rite of circumcision, as a pledge of His obedience to the law.
As an offering for the mother, the law required a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. But the law provided that if the parents were too poor to bring a lamb, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering, the other for a sin offering, might be accepted.
The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the "lamb without blemish and without spot." 1 Peter 1:19. His physical structure was not marred by any defect; His body was strong and healthy. And throughout His lifetime He lived in conformity to nature's laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws.
The dedication of the first-born had its origin in the earliest times. God had promised to give the First-born of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the first-born son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood, as a representative of Christ among men.
In the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the dedication of the first-born was again commanded. While the children of Israel were in bondage to the Egyptians, the Lord directed Moses to go to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and say, "Thus saith the Lord, Israel is My son, even My first-born: and I say unto thee, Let My son go, that he may serve Me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy first-born." Exodus 4:22, 23.
Moses delivered his message; but the proud king's answer was, "Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go." Exodus 5:2. The Lord worked for His people by signs and wonders, sending terrible judgments upon Pharaoh. At length the destroying angel was bidden to slay the first-born of man and beast among the Egyptians. That the Israelites might be spared, they were directed to place upon their doorposts the blood of a slain lamb. Every house was to be marked, that when the angel came on his mission of death, he might pass over the homes of the Israelites.
After sending this judgment upon Egypt, the Lord said to Moses, "Sanctify unto Me all the first-born, . . . both of man and of beast: it is Mine;" "for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the Lord." Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:13. After the tabernacle service was established, the Lord chose the tribe of Levi in the place of the first-born of all Israel to minister in the sanctuary. But the first-born were still to be regarded as the Lord's, and were to be bought back by a ransom.
Thus the law for the presentation of the first-born was made particularly significant. While it was a memorial of the Lord's wonderful deliverance of the children of Israel, it prefigured a greater deliverance, to be wrought out by the only-begotten Son of God. As the blood sprinkled on the doorposts had saved the first-born of Israel, so the blood of Christ has power to save the world.
What meaning then was attached to Christ's presentation! But the priest did not see through the veil; he did not read the mystery beyond. The presentation of infants was a common scene. Day after day the priest received the redemption money as the babes were presented to the Lord. Day after day he went through the routine of his work, giving little heed to the parents or children, unless he saw some indication of the wealth or high rank of the parents. Joseph and Mary were poor; and when they came with their child, the priests saw only a man and woman dressed as Galileans, and in the humblest garments. There was nothing in their appearance to attract attention, and they presented only the offering made by the poorer classes.
The priest went through the ceremony of his official work. He took the child in his arms, and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name "Jesus" on the roll of the first-born. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that it was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. The priest did not think that this babe was the One of whom Moses had written, "A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you." Acts 3:22. He did not think that this babe was He whose glory Moses had asked to see. But One greater than Moses lay in the priest's arms; and when he enrolled the child's name, he was enrolling the name of One who was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. That name was to be its death warrant; for the system of sacrifices and offerings was waxing old; the type had almost reached its antitype, the shadow its substance.
The Shekinah had departed from the sanctuary, but in the Child of Bethlehem was veiled the glory before which angels bow. This unconscious babe was the promised seed, to whom the first altar at the gate of Eden pointed. This was Shiloh, the peace giver. It was He who declared Himself to Moses as the I AM. It was He who in the pillar of cloud and of fire had been the guide of Israel. This was He whom seers had long foretold. He was the Desire of all nations, the Root and the Offspring of David, and the Bright and Morning Star. The name of that helpless little babe, inscribed in the roll of Israel, declaring Him our brother, was the hope of fallen humanity. The child for whom the redemption money had been paid was He who was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world. He was the true "high priest over the house of God," the head of "an unchangeable priesthood," the intercessor at "the right hand of the Majesty on high." Hebrews 10:21; 7:24; 1:3.
Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."
As Simeon enters the temple, he sees a family presenting their first-born son before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks poverty; but Simeon understands the warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply impressed that the infant being presented to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel, the One he has longed to see. To the astonished priest, Simeon appears like a man enraptured. The child has been returned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms and presents it to God, while a joy that he has never before felt enters his soul. As he lifts the infant Saviour toward heaven, he says, "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel."
The spirit of prophecy was upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words, he blessed them, and said unto Mary, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."
Anna also, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.
These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.
Mary pondered the broad and far-reaching prophecy of Simeon. As she looked upon the child in her arms, and recalled the words spoken by the shepherds of Bethlehem, she was full of grateful joy and bright hope. Simeon's words called to her mind the prophetic utterances of Isaiah: "There shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: and the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. . . . And righteousness shall be the girdle of His loins, and faithfulness the girdle of His reins." "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. . . . For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 11:1-5; 9:2-6.
Yet Mary did not understand Christ's mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, as well as a glory to Israel. Thus the angels had announced the Saviour's birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God was seeking to correct the narrow, Jewish conception of the Messiah's work. He desired men to behold Him, not merely as the deliverer of Israel, but as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand His mission.
Mary looked forward to the Messiah's reign on David's throne, but she saw not the baptism of suffering by which it must be won. Through Simeon it is revealed that the Messiah is to have no unobstructed passage through the world. In the words to Mary, "A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also," God in His tender mercy gives to the mother of Jesus an intimation of the anguish that already for His sake she had begun to bear.
"Behold," Simeon had said, "this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against." They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against.
"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.
At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.
In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on July 19, 2007, 12:01:00 PM: Amen! How can one read such truth and not be changed!! History will be repeated.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on July 24, 2007, 05:04:00 PM: "At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown."

Why did God allow Satan to live? Why did God permit His innocent to come to earth at the risk of losing Him? Here we have found the answer. A demonstration of both the love of God and the result of sin. At the cross, all witnessed the great love that God has for the sinner as well as the unfallen angels. Not only the love of God was seen, but also was manifested the result of sin. Satan, in view of the unfallen angels and the whole of creation killed the innocent Son of God. This is where sin leads.

Knowing the unfathomable love of God and the results of rebellion against God's law the whole universe is able to choose whom they will serve. The choice is not hard for those who have never fallen. But, it remains for us sinners to learn of God's love and to choose. We, too, must find our lesson at the foot of the cross. By beholding this unmatched love that God has for us while we are yet sinners, we shall become changed into His image from glory to glory(2 Cor. 3:18).
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Mimi on July 24, 2007, 05:26:00 PM: In these few paragraphs, it is interesting to read of Mary's reaction to Simeon's and Anna's words regarding her baby.

The Holy Spirit had visited her before conception. He also visited Joseph. Yet, they could not fully comprehend their baby's mission. She recalled the prophecies and still she was not sure.

Bless her!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on January 24, 2016, 10:05:45 PM: ....everyone passes judgment on himself.
In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 23, 2016, 07:52:19 PM: I love how good God is: "No truth essential to our salvation is withheld..." (DA 57.1). I love this book!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on April 23, 2016, 07:53:34 PM: Amen!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 23, 2016, 07:57:44 PM: Hallelujah! If we share the loveliness of Jesus--the loud cry can sound! Jesus desires us to lift Him up so high that we can, like Jonathan to David and John the Baptist in relation with Jesus, rise "to the height of self-abnegation." God is faithful! We need Jesus constantly! "The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save." (DA 57.1). I am so excited about sharing Jesus with others--and letting them realize that they need Jesus constantly in order to be able to bear the fruits of the Spirit. Because when we live by faith on the Son of God, the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives--not one will be missing! Hallelujah!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on July 19, 2016, 06:22:27 AM: Amen!! Such love!! And, opened before us in this chapter is revealed that God has emptied heaven to provide for our salvation. As we read yesterday, He risked His Son that we might be saved. Wonder O heavens and be astonished O Earth!!

And, even Satan, his evil angels, and all of the lost, with the redeemed will acknowledge the Truth! There is no excuse for sin! God provided a remedy that we all might be saved from sinning. That we might be transformed in character by beholding such love!

"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Let us see our need of this, and the effort being made moment by moment that we might be saved! What a God we serve!!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 19, 2016, 06:53:46 AM: I was moved by the same paragraph today, and even got to share a portion of it with the staff here at Camp Sagola where I am serving as a counselor:

That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

So true!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on July 20, 2016, 04:53:56 AM: ...."When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring. "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name?...for Thy judgments are made manifest."

Even though both groups are saying the same thing the motives of each group are entirely different.

Those that have been loyal are responding with hearts of obedience and love for their Creator and Saviour. They know what it means to fall upon the Rock and be broken. Self has been taken off it's throne and pride has been humbled. Not by some arbitrary force but because they have been drawn by God's love in complete surrender.

The rebellious ones are responding not from hearts of true repentance but because of the scenes of Calvary that will be presented. They can find no excuse for the choices they have made but there is no change of heart, no surrender, no love for the One who went to Calvary for them. Their surrender is a surrender of defeat. They finally admit to the truth because the truth is laid out for everyone to see and understand.

Which group will I be found in? Only if I am faithful in my daily walk with Jesus will I be found in the group that is loyal to Him. I can not live under a heavy burden of guilt for "yesterday" (unless there is something that has not been confessed) Nor can I live in "tomorrow". God gives me the strength for right "now" as moment by moment through out the day I walk with Him.

God has made it so easy for us. Why do we make it so complicated by our desire to be in charge?
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on October 14, 2016, 06:44:16 AM: Amen, Sister Doreen!! God has done all that we might know of His love. "Why do we make it so complicated by our desire to be in charge?" Man has been deceived about the Father's love. If we would spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ, we would learn of His love for us. And, once converted, we need to be reminded of His great love. Again, if we would take time to behold that love, we would be changed into the same character by the Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18)!

Each chapter we read is so very beautiful and full of Truth! Here is an example of what Sister Doreen stated about making things hard.

But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

How many are ready to glory in their trials? Why not? Because they have not seen the glory of the Lord, they have not beheld the loveliness of Jesus. Thus, the church remains in a Laodicean condition when they could be rejoicing as they contemplate the soon coming of Jesus. Soon, very soon "the cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil.

We do not have to wait until then. We may understand what happened at the cross now. We do not have to wait. The glory shining from the cross is open to our study now. And, if we would make this our study that we might know God, we would be transformed into His image from glory unto glory. It is a promise!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 14, 2016, 09:07:35 AM: Amen, sister Doreen and brother Richard! Following Christ is simple if we are continually dependent upon the grace He gives us. No, that does not mean that we will not face trials--rather, we will thank God that He allows them for our ultimate good and for our character to be more like Christ as we abide in Him. Let us remember that the strength we need comes from Christ, and that we are dependent upon Him.

But I marvel in today's reading that Christ became a dependent, helpless child--a little babe to be dedicated! All that needed to be done in accordance with the law had to be done FOR Him, for He did not exercise divine power in His own behalf in His life. Mary and Joseph were obedient and loyal Israelites, and they faithfully performed their part. I love how Simeon and Anna got to see Jesus and they were rejoicing in the knowledge of their Redeemer! So we also may rejoice in Jesus, with even more light than they had of His divine character!

The spirit of prophecy was upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words, he blessed them, and said unto Mary, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."
Anna also, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.
These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.

What a blessing that we have the Spirit of Prophecy to reveal to us Jesus right here every day as we read The Desire of Ages! What a blessing that we get to have our faces also lit up with the glory (character) of God as we contemplate His marvelous love, the matchless charms of His life. I appreciate that God has ever had witnesses of those who love and appreciate Jesus. You and I can be like Anna and Simeon, and by our testimony of faith in Jesus and who He is to us, others can be greatly encouraged and blessed!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 09, 2017, 06:58:54 AM: In our beautiful reading today we see that we need the Holy Spirit to be able to appreciate and discern the beauty and loveliness of Jesus, as it was for Simeon:

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

What a privilege was afforded to Simeon! But God is no respecter of persons--He would have gladly revealed this truth to the priest in the temple--had the priest been walking in the light of truth. Let us pray that we may be sensitive to the voice of God's Holy Spirit revealing Jesus to us in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. Let us see Jesus and exalt Him to others!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on January 09, 2017, 07:55:03 AM: Amen, Pastor Sean. We may be converted daily if we will see Jesus. As it was with Simeon and Anna, they understood because they wanted to see Jesus, so it may be with all who seek to see Jesus. When we see Him, we shall then have a standard that we may measure our own character by. Then, we shall understand who we are apart from Christ. Then, we shall fall upon the Rock and be broken. Then Christ can change us. The heart will be cleansed of pride.

"Behold," Simeon had said, "this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against." They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: JimB on April 06, 2017, 05:56:36 AM: Yet Mary did not understand Christ's mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, as well as a glory to Israel. Thus the angels had announced the Saviour's birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God was seeking to correct the narrow, Jewish conception of the Messiah's work. He desired men to behold Him, not merely as the deliverer of Israel, but as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand His mission.

My last few recent comments seem for some reason to be focused on education. Here is another example of why proper education is important. Even Mary, the mother of Christ, although willing to bear the burden, didn't understand Christ's mission. While she as a woman probably didn't attend school she was still educated in the ways of religion and tradition. This just shows how hard it is to let go when something has been taught to you from childhood. Reminds me of this verse...

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

At the same time it also shows God's mercy and patience in working with us. Leading us on little by little. Not revealing too much as to discourage us but enough that we can handle. We are told it took Mary many years to learn the lesson. I know God's mercy towards me of not understanding things that I should have understood years ago. We have a gracious and merciful God!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on April 06, 2017, 08:00:19 AM: Amen, Jim! What a merciful Savior! When we misunderstand truth, religious truth, it colors our attitude towards God. When Mary's Son hung on the cross, she lost faith in Him as the Messiah. Why? Because she did not understand Him to be her Savior. Why? Because the gospel truth had been perverted. Grace was not understood to be necessary for salvation. The Lamb did not need to die in order for man to be saved.

It is interesting, Jim, that I was moved to comment on the very same paragraph that you quoted. I so much appreciate hearing truth come from the lips of others. It adds to our understanding. My thought did not go to the mercy of God, but of the parallel between then and today in regards to the lack of understanding based upon the false teachings within the professing Protestant churches, including our own. Grace is everything, but Satan has perverted the teaching so that the power of grace is not understood. Man thinks he is just fine the way he is. There is no need to behold Jesus daily so that we may see His grace and be saved.....continually.

Speaking of Anna and Simeon "These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago."

The "great controversy" rages on, and is soon to close. But, many are being led away from the underlying principles of the battle. A good example was the teaching to the world church in the Sabbath School lessons on Job. It was far removed from the truth regarding the "great controversy." Even though the subject was brought up, it was not set on the foundation of truth. The suffering of Job was not discerned to be for his good. It was not seen that the controversy was revealed in the perfection of Job's moral character as revealed in the first chapter; A keeping of the law by fallen man which Satan said was not possible, thus Satan charged God as being unfair. Job's perfection revealed Satan to be a liar. The deception did not end with that being mis-taught. Satan continues his lie in defining sin. When Job was self righteous, as God said, Satan continues to teach that Job did not sin. Such deceptions, and they often are not discerned. :(

As man lives day by day, the common duties of life wear away his opportunity to regain a character which would fit him for heaven. He does not discern the fulfilling of prophecies which point to the soon coming of Christ. Religious leaders fail to see the need to spend a thoughtful hour a day feeding upon the Manna which came down from heaven. There is no spiritual life without partaking of the "Bread of Life." Grace is not given for tomorrow. We must come to the foot of the cross daily if we want to win in the battle of life.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 06, 2017, 09:02:55 AM: Amen, Jim and Richard! We need true education that begins at the foot of the cross--we need to behold the loveliness of Jesus, discern our great need of His divine help, and accept His grace to form perfect characters that may be fitted for heaven.

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

We need our spiritual vision to be enlightened by the Holy Spirit to even discern and appreciate the blessing to be had here in The Desire of Ages. How many do not see how special this book is, or how precious Jesus is as revealed in these chapters of His character? By beholding we become changed. If we chiefly value earthly good, money, power, or fame (as many of the Jews did at the time of Christ), then the lowly Jesus will not immediately attract our attention. But if we choose to behold Him and realize how much He loves us, and come to see the things of this life in proper perspective (as insignificant, small, and worthless without Jesus), then we can rejoice that God calls us to behold Him and become like Him in character. Let us pray that we may more fully appreciate all that Jesus is to us today, and speak to Him throughout the day that He would help us to discern spiritual things and the nature of what is taking place around us in God's plan for our good.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 02, 2017, 05:45:57 AM: This thought was just so amazing to me this morning--what condescension on the part of Christ!

The priest went through the ceremony of his official work. He took the child in his arms, and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name "Jesus" on the roll of the first-born. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that it was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. The priest did not think that this babe was the One of whom Moses had written, "A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you." Acts 3:22. He did not think that this babe was He whose glory Moses had asked to see. But One greater than Moses lay in the priest's arms; and when he enrolled the child's name, he was enrolling the name of One who was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. That name was to be its death warrant; for the system of sacrifices and offerings was waxing old; the type had almost reached its antitype, the shadow its substance.

This unconscious babe was the King of Kings! What an infinite sacrifice! What a risk our Heavenly Father took in entrusting Him to Joseph and Mary, and to come and suffer and die for us! What wondrous love is this! I am amazed as I think of how heaven must have viewed this--and since we have as it were a "front row" seat to the events that took place through reading The Desire of Ages, my earnest heart desire is to love Jesus more for all that He has done for me, and to let that love flow to others today and always! I choose to be "all in" for Jesus by surrendering my heart and life to Him anew today!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on July 02, 2017, 09:24:15 AM: There are revelations in these chapters that at times leave you speechless. I just want to bask in the warm embrace of the "Matchless Charms of Christ".

Thank you for your testimony of what our Saviour means to you Pastor Sean. It has a way of strengthening my faith and commitment in Him also.

I can't help but reflect today on the statement in this chapter that says..."We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom."...."From the manger to the cross the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender and to fellowship in suffering."

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on July 02, 2017, 10:00:12 AM: Amen, dear sister!! What love has been revealed! How can we not fall in love with our God! Yet some who are registered in Christian churches have not seen this great love.

These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

As Pastor Sean has pointed out, imagine a helpless baby being the King of Glory!! As we behold this love, our hearts go out to Him who gave all for us while we were yet sinners. Let us continue to behold this most wonderful love!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: JimB on September 27, 2017, 05:03:00 AM: Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

What a thought... that the priest not only didn't recognize Christ but wasn't looking for Him either. Especially after the visit of the wise men. But then Anna and Simeon come on the scene to make sure this King of a babe didn't go unnoticed. This reminds me a few years ago walking out of a service at church where God had obviously moved the hearts of a lot of the people present. As the people the left the service barely a word was heard and most were quiet and pondering what the words they just heard meant for themselves, then someone next to me broke the silence and said.... "why is everyone so quiet?" They didn't notice anything special nor understood why others were behaving differently. Let's not be in that state, let's keep our hearts humble and open to God even if He comes with a rebuke. He loves us so!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 27, 2017, 07:19:51 AM: Amen, Jim! We need to be in a continual attitude of prayer, of expectancy for God to reveal Himself to us, as was true for Anna and Simeon when Jesus was dedicated in Luke 2. We need to have a fuller, deeper appreciation of spiritual things! And we can clearly see how all things are revealed when we behold the cross of Christ:

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown. {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 2}

We are either manifesting love or selfishness moment-by-moment. We are either abiding in Christ, by whose grace and divine power selfless love flows through the renewed heart and mind, or we are manifesting unbelief and walking in the selfishness of the flesh. It is our choice--who will we behold? Jesus, or self? Christ offers us His grace as freely as the air and sunshine, but only those who appreciate His character by beholding Him and being in continual communion with Him will experience the salvation that His grace offers us. I choose to behold Jesus, and in Him I find that God's ways are ways of pleasantness, and that His path is best!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on September 27, 2017, 10:07:41 PM: Amen, Pastor Sean. We can better understand why it is that God allowed Satan to live. We see a demonstration of Satan's evil nature and God's unfathomable love! What a contrast!!

Quote from: JimB on September 27, 2017, 05:03:00 AM
Let's not be in that state, let's keep our hearts humble and open to God even if He comes with a rebuke. He loves us so!!

Jim, what you say here is something that I just discussed with a fellow Christian. We were discussing Moses' sin and repentance. I was seeking to better understand where his understanding was. I was pointing out Moses' repentance was quick and deep. I had asked what it was that brought Moses to repentance. He answered "God's reproof." I replied condemnation of the broken law can save no one, it is grace that saves. I was the teacher, but I was being taught. He said that the reproof was grace. I contemplated his statement and saw he was correct. The Holy Spirit opened my mind to the fact that Moses was only alive after his sin because of grace. That God would speak to Moses of his sin and not take his life is indeed grace.

Yes, God's love is revealed even when the Spirit comes with reproof! Thank you for sharing. God has a way of confirming truth!

I was impressed with this truth this morning:

By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

And, everyone will close their own probation if they deny Jesus His rightful place in the heart, The life of Jesus is a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It is the most weighty trust and the highest honor to partake in the sufferings of Christ. Do we glory in our tribulation?
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on December 23, 2017, 06:11:45 AM: Just and true are thy ways, Thou King of Saints! It is our joy to know and follow thy ways, for they are the best. There is a way which seemeth right unto man, but the ways thereof are the ways of death. We want life, and to give honor and glory to God.

As I read this morning, I noticed that the first born from the beginning were to be dedicated to God. I recalled that it was not any first born, but the first born male. Why? Why were women being set aside for this role? We may not understand, but it is written, so it is not for us to question God's ways. We may ask God why, but we are to understand that God's ways are "just and true", even if we do not understand why.

We may find an answer in Scripture, but if we do not, we are to understand it is God's way and we are to follow it.

The dedication of the first-born had its origin in the earliest times. God had promised to give the First-born of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the first-born son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood, as a representative of Christ among men.

This first born son was to be the priest in the home, and a witness of our Savior. Why a witness? Because God's character has been maligned by Satan. We see the truth of who our God is at the cross.

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

Selfish we are by nature, but God has provided a remedy wherein we may be transformed in character. It is possible to keep the commands of God if we will make a full heart surrender to Christ. He will take possession of the sin polluted heart and cleanse it whiter than snow. We look forward to the day when He will give us new glorified bodies that are not composed of evil flesh. In the meantime, let us allow Christ to have the whole heart that we may keep the evil body (flesh) under as Paul taught. "I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." 1 Cor. 9:27.

Then, all, both male and female, may give honor and glory to God by being faithful witnesses of His character.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 23, 2017, 06:39:52 AM: Amen, Richard! God chose the first born son of each family to be a priest before Him (and which the Levites replaced after the apostasy at Sinai), and these were all to be typifying Christ; yet God also had consecrated women who served him in ministry in other ways--such as Anna, who was a prophetess. What a precious revelation we see in our reading today of the loveliness of Jesus, and how His love reigned in the heart of Anna, who longed to behold Him. We can praise God that each morning when we come to behold Jesus, read of His life and sacrifice, and meditate upon His loveliness of character that we also will be transformed, and our faces will shine with the light that streams from Calvary.

"Anna also, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord." {The Desire of Ages, page 55, paragraph 4}

May we have our faces lighted up today with the glory of God, His unselfish character that is always manifest in all of the fruits of the Spirit being seen in the life without one missing. This will be our experience as long as we surrender the WHOLE heart to Him so He can cleanse it completely from sin and abide there as a heavenly Guest. He will more than satisfy the deepest longings of the soul, for Jesus is truly the "Desire of all nations" (Haggai 2:7). I desire to be in continual communion with Jesus this Sabbath, and I pray you will experience such a joy in that fellowship that you will realize the reality that "heaven begins in the soul." {Heaven, page 171, paragraph 4}
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 20, 2018, 04:57:15 AM: Jesus loves us so much that He was willing to be treated as the lowest of humanity, to be born in a lowly manger, to live a self-sacrificing life of poverty, to sympathize and minister to suffering humanity, and then die an ignominious death. By His resurrection from the dead we are pledged with the power to obey God because Christ will live His resurrection life in us while also giving us the completeness of His death to sin in our place. We identify fully with Jesus and so become like Him in mind and character! We receive the perfect robe of His righteousness by faith--a faith that enters into our actual thoughts and feelings and allows us to be blessed with heaven's choicest blessings! Think of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden before sin--that is a picture of the kind of holy lives Jesus is creating in these last days because His children behold His agonized struggle the Garden of Gethsemane. Christ's garden of agony is the pledge of our being able to experience, even NOW through constant union and communion with Him in His opening providences and blessings, the joy of Eden's bliss! Let us thank God that He loves us SO SO SO MUCH! Now let us honor Him by walking in that blessing, and pressing heaven in humble, earnest, sincere prayer for the greatest blessings He desires to pour upon us! Praise God!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

We find in Christ our greatest happiness by loving Him with the whole heart, mind, soul, and strength. It is only those who are truly happy in Christ that are ready for marriage, for raising children, and for living the principles of heaven while still physically on this earth. Without the joyful union and communion of the soul with Christ, every blessing Jesus would desire to give us would be spoiled by the miasma of selfishness. But a truly converted heart will only exude selfless love, which is always manifest in all of the fruits of the Spirit so that not one is missing. Already by faith we are seated in heavenly places in Christ when we are truly converted. Christ's dedication as an infant (for He was perfect at each stage of His development, as we may be once we are converted) is the pledge of our complete deliverance from sin and the power He gives us to live lives WHOLLY CONSECRATED to His service. Live in His will and IT WILL EXCEED YOUR HIGHEST EXPECTATIONS!

"Higher than the highest human thought can reach is God's ideal for His children. Godliness--godlikeness--is the goal to be reached. Before the student there is opened a path of continual progress. He has an object to achieve, a standard to attain, that includes everything good, and pure, and noble. He will advance as fast and as far as possible in every branch of true knowledge. But his efforts will be directed to objects as much higher than mere selfish and temporal interests as the heavens are higher than the earth." {Education, page 18, paragraph 3}

Praise the Lord!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on March 20, 2018, 08:48:32 AM: Amen, Pastor Sean. What a self sacrificing, loving God we serve!!

Once again in our reading we see the "great controversy" being revealed. There is a fierce battle that surrounds us. Satan is doing all he can to attract us to the world and distract us from seeing this battle. He surrounds us with nets to entrap us. But, even more dramatic is the work of our Savior as He directs the angels to help us see Him more clearly every day. He knows what it is like, for He is our elder Brother who endured much more than we shall ever have to face.

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

Such simple, but powerful truth. What are we living for? If for Christ, then our lives will be a continual surrender to Him, that we might be partakers in the sufferings of Christ. No one enjoys suffering, but we may glory in it since we know it works for our good and God's glory as we abide in Christ and He in us through the Holy Spirit.

Then, the all important question must be answered; How is it that we may learn to abide in Christ continually that we might be brave soldiers enduring the hardship that will come?
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 15, 2018, 01:59:43 AM: To fall upon Christ is not the end of the story. Come to Jesus with all of your brokenness, your sin, and weakness and in humble faith claim His promise to reveal Himself to you, for to know Him is eternal life (John 17:3).

"'Behold,' Simeon had said, 'this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against.' They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against." {The Desire of Ages, page 56, paragraph 5}

I am thankful for how Jesus has brought me to see my need of Him, and He ever deepens His work. The beginning step is complete surrender, so that His Spirit manifests Himself in the soul--all of the fruits of the Spirit are seen without one missing, and we gladly follow every known duty, accepting every ray of light with gladness. Thank God that Simeon and Anna were ready to receive Jesus in His infancy. Are we ready to receive Him in all His glory? Jesus is about to come in the clouds of the sky, and we can only be ready for His coming in glory as we allow Him, the humble Savior, to transform our hearts from sin and selfishness to purity and holiness. This miracle of heart work He accomplishes in all who surrender fully to Him, motivated by His grace. By beholding His grace we are changed. I love how we can come to Christ just as we are and allow Him to work in us to will and to do of His good pleasure!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: JimB on June 15, 2018, 08:02:29 AM: Yet Mary did not understand Christ's mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, as well as a glory to Israel. Thus the angels had announced the Saviour's birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God was seeking to correct the narrow, Jewish conception of the Messiah's work. He desired men to behold Him, not merely as the deliverer of Israel, but as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand His mission.

I know better by now but for some reason I'm always surprised when I read these words. Even Mary the humble servant who took on her mission without question didn't fully understand her own Son's mission. It even took years for her to understand. I'm not trying to say that I am better but rather I am grateful for the example. While I can't use this as an excuse it does reveal that God is patient and long suffering even to His own who should know better. It's one thing for a stranger to not understand but it's totally another thing for a self-proclaimed Christian to not understand. I'm not necessarily talking about Christ's earthly mission as we can look back and see from a vantage point in history but what about other truths that the Lord wishes for you or me to understand today personally.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: JimB on September 10, 2018, 05:26:56 AM: "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Yet another look at the Father's love for us. How deep and wide it is! Nothing that is good for us is withheld. What a loving God we serve!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 10, 2018, 07:03:17 AM: Amen, Jim! We see that God reveals His character in giving us His beloved Son! All the lying excuses for sin are swept away in the glorious revelation of the cross of Christ!

"In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest.' Revelation 15:3, 4." {The Desire of Ages, page 58, paragraph 1}

It strikes me that God is only allowing the great controversy to go on long enough for "every question of truth or error" to be "made plain." As we let Christ live out His life in us and overcome sin, God is glorified. He will have a people who stand before Him on this earth without a mediator who have experienced the power of God's grace in their lives. It will be seen that God's grace is powerful enough to transform sinners into saints, and then keep them from falling in the most trying time ever to take place in the history of the earth. That time is nearly upon us. It is well that we spend this thoughtful hour upon the life of Jesus, for this is where the power to be changed comes from--the light from the face of Jesus Christ! What wondrous love is this!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on September 10, 2018, 08:08:09 AM: Amen Jim and Pastor Sean!! What is religion all about? Why are those who love Jesus not taken immediately to heaven? Why must we who want to be Jesus today have to remain in this sin sick world? Why must the 144,000 go through a time of trouble such as never was?

"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good."

"Satan has charged God with being unfair, unjust. God is not unjust. He is not only just, but merciful to sinners as long as they have not hardened their hearts past the point of no return." " In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints."

We are part of the demonstration that God is love and God is just. We also prove that Satan is a liar and God's law can be kept through the power of His grace. But, not all on this Earth understand this, for spiritual things are spiritually discerned. Just as the priest to whom Baby Jesus was brought did not recognize Jesus as the Sent of God, so most in this world will not see God as both merciful and just. But, as with Simeon, there are a multitude who recognize the loveliness of Jesus and give their hearts fully to Him.

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged.

Not only did Mary and Joseph know, but so did Simeon and Anna acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God. Millions of others, both before and after, have seen God and have accepted the Gift of His Son. We testify that God is love and that His ways are perfect. Grace has cleansed our hearts can keep us from hurting God, others, and ourselves. What a miracle! What love manifested to a world soon to perish! When God's character has been fully revealed, then the universe will be safe from sin for eternity. What a plan God has put into operation! What wisdom and love has been revealed to all who seek to understand!

Sister Dorine has seen and expressed our understanding.

Quote from: Dorine on July 02, 2017, 09:24:15 AM

I can't help but reflect today on the statement in this chapter that says..."We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom."...."From the manger to the cross the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender and to fellowship in suffering."

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Amen!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on September 10, 2018, 08:17:49 AM: Amen Jim and Pastor Sean. May Christ be glorified in my life today. I sing His praises for His goodness to me. Through the good times and the tough I give Him thanks because I know He is working out His plans for my life.

"But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jer. 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

Let's live our lives today that we may demonstrate to our families first and all we come in contact with that we truly believe this promise.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on September 10, 2018, 08:28:54 AM: Quote from: Richard Myers on September 10, 2018, 08:08:09 AM

We are part of the demonstration that God is love and God is just. We also prove that Satan is a liar and God's law can be kept through the power of His grace. But, not all on this Earth understand this, for spiritual things are spiritually discerned. Just as the priest to whom Baby Jesus was brought did not recognize Jesus as the Sent of God, so most in this world will not see God as both merciful and just. But, as with Simeon, there are a multitude who recognize the loveliness of Jesus and give their hearts fully to Him.

How important it is for us to know our bibles and be studying with humble teachable hearts so that we will not be confused when Satan comes to us with His fancy theories.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on December 06, 2018, 06:00:30 AM: "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Wow, this passage leapt out at me this morning filling my heart with such awe. What joy there is found in spending a thoughtful hour with Jesus each day. When our thoughts are on subjects such as this Satan has no power over us. It's when we get distracted allowing earthly thoughts to consume us that we find ourselves weak in faith and separated from the power of God. Oh if only more of God's people were reading and studying they would be living their lives by faith and not by feelings and emotions. There would be unity in the home and in the church and we would be a special light to light the whole world. I'm so thankful that there is good news for all. God's church will revive and become a mighty force for God in lighting the world with the truths of His kingdom. That revival must start with us individually and spread out as waves of the ocean from shore to shore.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 06, 2018, 06:24:41 AM: As we learn of Christ, we can find victory and judge in our character (by that which we develop through His grace) that God is true, and that our fallen nature, false and deceptive as it is, may be fully crucified and we may become partakers of the divine nature (revealed in all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing). Overcoming every deceptive philosophy, every question of truth and error--is fully possible by beholding and experiencing the marvelous revelation of Jesus' loveliness of character.

"By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 3}
"In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest.' Revelation 15:3, 4." {The Desire of Ages, page 58, paragraph 1}
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on December 06, 2018, 09:25:09 AM: Amen!! Such deep and important truths! Why is it we do not hear them being preached from our pulpits and published on our presses? Why so few who spend a thoughtful hour each day contemplating the life of Christ?

These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

Does this mean God will not finish His work through our church? Absolutely not. Grace has power to save the whole world. Not all will receive God's grace, so many will not be saved. But, many in the church will be revived and finish the work entrusted to God's remnant church. What happens to those who will not be converted, transformed in character? They will be swept out. God will separate the wheat from the tares. We are seeing that process begin. It is His truth that will reveal the sheep from the goats. There will be a shaking brought about by the straight testimony which is revealed in the message to the Laodiceans.

We have seen Jesus and therefore we have seen our heavenly Father. What character, what love, what justice!! What a plan of salvation that can save a wretch like me! Praise our God!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 03, 2019, 06:10:06 AM: I was blessed to behold the loveliness of Jesus afresh this morning and think of how true it is that our greatest happiness is the result of loving an knowing God!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Let us love God with the whole heart and we will experience the blessing of all of the fruits of the Spirit being manifest in our lives--not one will be missing!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on March 03, 2019, 08:22:32 AM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

Where else can such strong - unselfish love be found for those who have gone astray??

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me[/size]."

All to Jesus I surrender -- All to Him I freely give-I will ever love and trust Him -In His presence daily live.
All to Jesus I surrender--Humbly at His feet I bow-worldly pleasures all forsaken-take me Jesus take me now.
All to Jesus I surrender-Make me Saviour wholly thine-Let me feel the Holy Spirit,Truly know that Thou art mine.
All to Jesus I surrender--Now I feel the sacred flame-Oh the joy of full salvation, Glory,Glory, to His name.

May the words of this song be our prayer for today and every day. What better way can we say Thank You Jesus.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: JimB on March 03, 2019, 08:34:50 AM: Amen Beacon! thank you for sharing this morning.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on March 03, 2019, 09:05:15 AM: Amen, amen, amen!! Such love! Wonder O heavens and be astonished O Earth!!

Why does this God of love allow bad things to happen to "good" people? It is a mystery to many. It is offered as an excuse to not study Scripture, to turn away from the Creator God. It is not a mystery to those who love and serve God. He will reveal the answer to all who come to Jesus and seek an answer. In today's reading we find the foundation of the issue.

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
The only way to keep the universe safe from future sin was to reveal His great love and to reveal the results of sin and rebellion. By allowing Satan to live, God then revealed His great love and allowed Satan to reveal who he really was and that sin ends with such violence as seen at the cross. The revelation of this controversy need be in order to secure the safety of the universe. Unfallen worlds and angels did not fully understand the issue until the cross. Now they see clearly the results of sin and the unfathomable love of God. Have we seen, have we hated sin? Satan continues that we might fully understand also. Do we know our Lord as it is our privilege to know Him? If so, sin will be hateful to us also.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 29, 2019, 08:23:51 AM: There is freedom in the universe--and that freedom is only sustainable when we use it in harmony with the law that governs the universe--the law of love. That law was broken in heaven when Lucifer sinned, and that law has been broken in our world and has brought woe, suffering and death. As we look to Christ, we see how it is possible by divine grace to be made partakers of His divine nature and to be able to have power to live in harmony with the law of love--the Ten Commandments--and reveal all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as long as we yield unreservedly to Christ and His will!

"By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 3}

Let us choose to keep our eyes on Jesus so that His character may be wrought out in us--a character of true freedom in love, rather than bondage and death in selfishness!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on May 29, 2019, 08:58:35 AM: Throughout His lifetime Jesus lived in conformity to nature's laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws... No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these gifts are for man to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.[/u] [/color][/b]

So the call today from our heavenly Father and from Jesus is the same as it has been from the beginning " Chose ye this day whom ye will serve. " We are Free Moral Agents. God does not force anyone to serve Him...but He has the yearning heart of a father and has done all that can be done to make provision to save us from eternal destruction. WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on May 29, 2019, 10:11:59 PM: Amen!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on November 15, 2019, 06:14:52 PM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed."[/b][/u]

When we pause to reflect on what God has provided for us and at such great sacrifice how can we resist His invitation... "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 --What Wondrous Love is This!! God has done "ALL" that can be done to demonstrate how much we are loved....How will YOU & I respond??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 16, 2019, 03:14:07 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon!! I gladly respond with the whole heart to Christ this Sabbath morning, so He can come and live in my heart and imbue me with His character! There is no greater happiness than loving Jesus, who first loved us!! Will you join me in this experience of complete surrender to Jesus because you see how much He loves you?

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

God is so good to us!! Let us unlearn the ways of selfishness, fear and unbelief by beholding the loveliness of Jesus, and letting Him live out His life in us!! When we know Him as it is our privilege to know Him, our life will be a life of continual obedience manifesting more fully each day all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing!! May this Sabbath bring you even closer to Jesus as you commune with Him! He loves you with a love that is infinite!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on November 16, 2019, 06:40:54 AM: "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death.

What a beautiful thought to take with us throughout this day. The weakness of humanity is shameful when you compare the heart of Satan to the heart of God. But our weaknesses are made into strengths through abiding in Christ. Satan is a conquered foe. Christ is our Saviour and Redeemer. He is transforming our lives day by day as we surrender to His will. Although we should understand the intentions of the enemy, that should not be our focus. By beholding Christ we are drawn into a closer relationship with Him and the thoughts of wounding Him by disobedience crushes our hearts and keeps us focused on Him.

I don't know if I found this poem on TRO but this one deeply touched my heart.

Shall I Crucify Him?

Shall I crucify my Savior, When for me He bore such loss?
Shall I put to shame my Savior, Can I nail Him to the cross?

Are temptations so alluring, Do earth's pleasures so enthrall,
That I cannot love my Savior well enough to leave them all?

'Twas my sins that crucified Him; Shall they crucify Him yet?
Blackest day of nameless anguish, And my thankless soul forget?

O, the kindly hands of Jesus, Pouring blessings on all men!
Bleeding, nail scarred hands of Jesus, Can I nail them once again?

Shall I crucify my Savior, Crucify my Lord again?
Once, O once, I crucified Him, Shall I crucify again?

(Mrs. Frank A Breck)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 11, 2020, 06:12:00 AM: Jesus makes me happy--very happy. And when I spend time with Him, I get even happier. I am realizing that in these last days when many people are discouraged, depressed, or troubled in heart, that one of the greatest evangelism tools we have is HAPPINESS!! In other words, if you are SO HAPPY even if ALL YOU HAVE is Jesus, that speaks to other people's hearts who are trying to use other things to make them happy, which never truly satisfy. Because I have Jesus in my heart and He fills me with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as I happily and gladly obey His law of love, He moves me to share that happiness with others by being with them. May this be our experience is my prayer.

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Since our greatest happiness is found in loving Jesus, it follows that ANYTHING Jesus wants to give us as a gift from Him will make us EVEN HAPPIER! When I accepted the call from Jesus on my life to be a pastor on October 25, 2007, it made me so much happier to know my purpose in life and to have a direction to share the happiness of Jesus that I had found. Now that I have been a pastor since June 1, 2015, I can testify that being a pastor makes me even happier than accepting the call, and so this ongoing increase of happiness in Jesus and all He has for us is to continue through ALL ETERNITY!! As you have a unique calling and purpose from Jesus that only He can fulfill in and through you as your surrender completely to Him, and as you let Him write His story in your life and lead you as the Good Shepherd, you will be the happiest!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on February 11, 2020, 06:54:09 AM: Amen Pastor Sean. My thoughts were along the same lines as yours this morning. We should be the happiest of all people because of Jesus but so many do not know Him as described in these words you posted. It reminds me of the following quote several paragraphs before.

.....Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

When we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, spending quality time with Him each day, He will reveal all the fruits of the spirit in us which will bring happiness, harmony and peace to our lives and to the lives of others.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on February 11, 2020, 06:50:39 PM: "Jesus was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, God the Father gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these gifts are for man to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

So the call today from our heavenly Father and from Jesus is the same as it has been from the beginning " Chose ye this day whom ye will serve. " We are Free Moral Agents. God does not force anyone to serve Him...but He has the yearning heart of a father and has done all that can be done to make provision to save us from eternal destruction.

WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on May 08, 2020, 07:14:50 AM: In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.

God is love, and God is just. Bad things happen to good people all the time. But, God stands innocent. He knows how to set the universe on a safe foundation so that sin will never enter ever again! He allows evil to exist, but it is only for our good and the good of all who will love Him and keep His commandments.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 08, 2020, 11:17:21 AM: Amen, Brother Richard!! What a blessing that we can realize in our own experience how "all things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans 8:28). We can see in the rapidly changing landscape of our world the truth that Jesus is coming!! I used to say Jesus is coming soon, but a more accurate truth is that JESUS IS COMING!! We can lift up our heads and rejoice that His word is coming to fulfillment and that we will see Him coming!! Simeon and Anna, the two people in the temple who were ready to receive Jesus at His first advent, are a powerful witness of what God would have us to be: so filled wit all of the fruits of the Spirit whereby not one is missing and so in tune with the indications of providence that we are ready to receive every fresh revelation of God's prophetic truth leading up to the blessed hope, the second coming of Jesus!!!

"So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago." {The Desire of Ages, page 56, paragraph 1}

We may look at the world thinking things will just "get back to normal" after Covid-19 (which has not gone away yet), but we know that is not the case. The final events are rapid, the coming of Jesus is sure, and the seven last plagues will fall before Christ comes. This is a solemn reality. Read Revelation 16. The current world situation is just the tip of the prophetic iceberg as to what is ahead. We need not fear, though, for we were created to live with God in His presence, and it is as we live in total union and communion with Him by a living faith surrender that sin not only becomes hateful to us, but we gladly give the final gospel message that uplifts Christ in His loveliness in a way that hearts can truly respond to Him and be converted! What a precious privilege we have each day to point others to the only lasting hope in our world: Jesus Christ!!! Let us not be planning for a long time to be on this earth, but align our whole purpose on the coming of Christ!! Jesus is coming!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on May 08, 2020, 04:37:15 PM: "By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself."

I'm so glad to be part of the family of God. We are so blessed and so privileged. Hubby and I were discussing in worship tonight the wonderful truths we have taken for granted through out our life time. We have said all the right things and believe them but if they are not embedded in our hearts and minds it is not a saving relationship we have with Jesus. I want to be listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, trusting and obeying His commands. There's a lost world out there that needs Jesus. We are His hands, His feet, His mouth, His eyes to search for them and bring them to Him. There is truly much joy in serving Jesus.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on May 08, 2020, 04:39:42 PM: "...The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death.

John 3:16 says. 'For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."[

What greater invitation of Redeeming Love, could undeserving mankind every receive??
Are you willing to say " THANK YOU JESUS "??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 03, 2020, 04:13:04 AM: God knows our thoughts. But it is as we see Jesus, that our thoughts become clear. We realize that in and of ourselves, apart from God, our "best" thoughts are still selfish and evil, for by nature we are separated from God. But when we yield the whole heart to Christ and accept His grace by the power of His blood to transform the heart and the mind, He imbues us with the Holy Spirit so all the attributes of the divine nature will be manifest in and through us. Then the thoughts He implants from His word will bear fruit to His glory from a character that is fashioned after the divine similitude. Oh, let us more fully appreciate the power of right thinking and acting when Christ the hope of glory lives in us!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Let us be thankful that the greatest happiness that can be found in this world or in the world made new is from loving Jesus. As we realize this, it will refocus our priorities and prayers, guiding us to choose what is enduring. Let us guard jealously the hours for prayer and Bible study so we can behold the loveliness of Jesus and become like Him in whom our hope of eternal life is centered!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on August 03, 2020, 09:24:58 AM: "No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

Where else can such strong - unselfish love be found for those who have gone astray??

"But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life."

"So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God.

Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago."

What will your response, my response be today?? Perhaps this song reflects what Jesus is looking for.

#330 in SDA Hymanl--- "Take My Life and Let It Be"

1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
At the impulse of Thy love.

2
Take my feet, and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Always, only, for my King.

3
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.
Take my silver and my gold:
Not a mite would I withhold;
Not a mite would I withhold.

4
Take my will, and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine;
Take my heart, it is Thine own,
It shall be Thy royal throne.
It shall be Thy royal throne.

5
Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself, and I will be,
Ever, only, all for Thee.
Ever, only, all for Thee.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on August 03, 2020, 09:42:47 PM: Amen Pastor Sean and Brother Beacon!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on October 29, 2020, 05:14:55 AM: ....."Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."
Who can resist such love and mercy? Only the proud and self-centered heart. As we humble ourselves before Him this morning may we realize just how much He cares for us and all mankind. Let's go forth today with renewed commitment to seek for those who need to hear this life changing love story."
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on October 29, 2020, 06:24:13 AM: "...The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death.

John 3:16 says. 'For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."
What greater invitation of Redeeming Love, could undeserving mankind every receive?? Are you, am I willing to say " THANK YOU JESUS "? Are we willing to surrender "ALL" to Him?

1
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 29, 2020, 07:27:03 AM: Amen, Sister Dorine and Brother Beacon!

Love Jesus. Be happy in surrender to Him in affectionate obedience. Let Him live out His life in you. He gives us a new heart and a new mind as we behold His loveliness of character, and in continual union and communion with Him He imbues us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Let us abide in Christ continually and learn how to be more like Jesus day by day!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on January 23, 2021, 06:04:41 AM: "The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the "lamb without blemish and without spot." 1 Peter 1:19. His physical structure was not marred by any defect; His body was strong and healthy. And throughout His lifetime He lived in conformity to nature's laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws."

As we look to Jesus He reveals blemishes in our lives that need surrendering, healing and purifying. He patiently and gently works in our hearts to bring us into conformity to His will so that we may become living sacrifices acceptable to God. When we make an earnest, humble effort to obey, He instantly provides the power and help needed. How many souls are suffering because they do not understand this? We have a testimony to give and a hope to share with them.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on January 23, 2021, 06:41:29 AM: "Throughout His lifetime Jesus lived in conformity to nature's laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws... No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift.

The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save.

Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these gifts are for man to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven.

His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

So the call today from our heavenly Father and from Jesus is the same as it has been from the beginning " Chose ye this day whom ye will serve. " We are Free Moral Agents. God does not force anyone to serve Him...but He has the yearning heart of a father and He has done all that can be done to make provision to save us from eternal destruction. WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Philip T on January 24, 2021, 08:30:25 AM: "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

In Christ life on earth and death on the cross we see God's hatred for sin. "All men sin and fall short of the glory of God." Yet God loved man so much that his he sent his Son to die for us showing his love for man is greater than his hatred for sin. What a loving and kind God we serve, how can we not love and be obedient to Him with such love being manifested towards us.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 24, 2021, 09:19:12 AM: Amen, Sister Dorine and Brother Beacon! And Brother Philip, in you comment you shared how "All men sin and fall short of the glory of God," which is very close to the Scripture which says that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Thankfully, Jesus disproved Satan's charge that the law cannot be obeyed, for Jesus as a man never sinned by the grace offered to us in the word of God and through the power of the Holy Spirit. May we know that even though our past life is faulty, Christ will impute and impart His righteousness to us so He can keep us from falling into sin and reveal all of the fruits of the Spirit through us with out one missing! Then obedience which comes from loving and knowing God is our highest delight!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Let us walk in true happiness in obedience today in doing God's will!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 21, 2021, 04:19:10 AM: Where is the greatest happiness to be found in this life and in the life to come? It is found in knowing and loving God! All God's invitations are really for our best good, and we can trust Him to lead us continually! "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself" (Matthew 22:37-39). When Jesus was dedicated by His parents, Simeon prophesied of what would take place, and we can be thankful that God offered His Son to implant the love He calls us to render back to Him! Only by love is love awakened!

"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Let us behold the loveliness of Jesus, believe fully upon Him, yield continually our whole heart to Him, and let Him cleanse us from all sin by His atoning blood as we humbly confess to Him our sins in true repentance. Then as the Holy Spirit renews our souls, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be seen in our lives, and we can be a blessing to others for Christ as we walk in willing obedience to God's law of love!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on April 21, 2021, 07:27:40 AM: ....."These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.

So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago."

May we go forth today to greet the world with the joy of Jesus in our hearts. No matter what adversity we might be facing He is there and will see us through as we continually keep our focus on Him. This will be a stronger witness to the power of God available to all who receive Him than many sermons preached.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Philip T on April 21, 2021, 07:46:15 AM: After sending this judgment upon Egypt, the Lord said to Moses, "Sanctify unto Me all the first-born, . . . both of man and of beast: it is Mine;" "for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the Lord." Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:13. After the tabernacle service was established, the Lord chose the tribe of Levi in the place of the first-born of all Israel to minister in the sanctuary. But the first-born were still to be regarded as the Lord's, and were to be bought back by a ransom.
Thus the law for the presentation of the first-born was made particularly significant. While it was a memorial of the Lord's wonderful deliverance of the children of Israel, it prefigured a greater deliverance, to be wrought out by the only-begotten Son of God. As the blood sprinkled on the doorposts had saved the first-born of Israel, so the blood of Christ has power to save the world.

This statement is powerful, The blood put on the doorpost and Lentil represented Christ blood spilled on Calvary and saved the first born of Israel, so the blood shed on Calvary saves every repentant sinner today. That is every repentant sinner in the world. We need to surrender all to Jesus, Letting His love flow in and threw us to those around us.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on April 21, 2021, 08:13:51 AM: ""Jesus was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift."

"The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, God the Father gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these gifts are for man to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven.

"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

So the call today from our heavenly Father and from Jesus is the same as it has been from the beginning " Chose ye this day whom ye will serve. " We are Free Moral Agents. God does not force anyone to serve Him...but He has the yearning heart of a father and has done all that can be done to make provision to save us from eternal destruction.

WHAT WILL "OUR" RESPONSE BE??
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on April 21, 2021, 08:46:52 PM: Amen Brother Beacon, favor upon favor, gift upon gift!! Yes, He loves us more than we know!!

Amen Brother Philip! The blood of Jesus will cleans us from all sin if we truly repent. And that repentance is a gift from God's grace. And, we also see here, that there are false teachers among us who teach that God does not destroy. He destroyed all of the first born of Egypt.

Amen Sister Dorine, the wise will understand! Spiritual things are spiritually discerned.

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

What Pastor Sean has shared impressed me also. "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed.

It was the coming of Christ that revealed the hearts of both those who were evil and those who were sanctified.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 17, 2021, 03:57:14 AM: Happy Sabbath!! What a joy to receive true happiness from Jesus! Looking to Him, surrendering to Him, abiding in Him, we will find the true source of happiness--His presence in our souls! When Christ abides within us, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest--not one missing! As love leads to affectionate obedience to God's law, we will gladly obey the law of God from a heart renewed by the Holy Spirit up to every known statute of His truth! What a joy to grow more like Jesus and point others to Him!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Christ is willing to live out His life in you, and make you a true witness of His character! Will you let Jesus do in and through you what He so longs to to? Surrender all and cooperate with Him by the Holy Spirit to taste and see that He is truly good!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on July 17, 2021, 06:03:12 AM: "By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself."

We may recoil at the thought of being part of putting Christ to death but when we sin we are just as guilty as those who drove the nails in our Saviour's hands and feet. But God in His great mercy will forgive and deliver us from evil if we give Him our whole hearts. As we interact with others we are revealing to them who we represent. Do our attitudes show that we stand on the side of Jesus? Spending this thoughtful hour each day with Jesus brings us into harmony with Him and He produces in us the beautiful fruits of the Spirit that draw souls to Jesus.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on July 17, 2021, 07:08:18 AM: "The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

It is with great joy we celebrate another wonderful Sabbath day according to God's command, rejoicing in Jesus, His greatest gift to mankind

John 3: 16,17 says....For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on October 12, 2021, 03:56:33 AM: "That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

Why would anyone believe the lies of Satan? What has he done for the happiness of man? What sacrifice has he made to bring comfort and joy to humanity? Does he fulfill any promise he makes for the betterment of man? Yet the world listens to his accusations against our God, the only true God that went to the cross so that each one of us may have eternal life if we so choose. He does not force. He allows us to weigh the evidence and decide for ourselves who we will serve. What a gentle, loving, precious Saviour we serve and our greatest happiness is in loving Him.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 12, 2021, 06:01:41 AM: Amen, Sister Dorine!

Do you want to be happy? Love Jesus!! How? By beholding Jesus and trusting Him!

Remember that for all of us, happiness is the result of holiness and conforming our will to God's will!

It is like Jesus is saying right to our human family: "His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

We can love Jesus with the whole heart as we yield the whole heart to Him! Then He fills us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we go where He leads us to go in the path of life!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on October 12, 2021, 09:02:15 AM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift.

The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save.

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven."

"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."[/b]

Today Jesus is once again knocking on the door of our hearts. He has done "ALL" that He can to show us Mercy, Grace and Forgiveness!!

What will my answer, your answer be??

1
Open my eyes that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit Divine!
2
Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear.
3
Open my mouth and let me bear
Tidings of mercy everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with Thy children thus to share.
4
Open my mind that I may read
More of Thy love in word and deed;
What shall I fear while yet Thou dost lead?
Only for light from Thee I plead.

Words and Music by Clara H. Scott
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on October 12, 2021, 08:25:31 PM: Amen my dear friends!!

Our greatest happiness will be found in loving Him!

The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Quote from: Dorine on October 12, 2021, 03:56:33 AM
His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

Quote from: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 12, 2021, 06:01:41 AM
"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

Quote from: Beacon on October 12, 2021, 09:02:15 AM
His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on January 06, 2022, 09:14:00 PM: "Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good."

"But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

"It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11."

"It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work.

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift."

What greater gift could God the father give us than Jesus? Do we really think about the sacrifice involved!! As we begin this new year, let us once again take time for Spiritual Introspection and humbly ask Jesus to help us have deeper, closer, walk with Him so that others, along with us, may be drawn more fully to the foot of the cross.

All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

Lyrics:Judson W. Van de Venter (1855-1939)
Music:Winfield Scott Weeden (1847-1908
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on January 07, 2022, 04:13:43 AM: Amen dear brother! God has given to us His Son! And, He has given to us the truth. And He loves sinners with a love stronger than death. He who loves the truth will love Jesus with the whole heart. Jesus came to remove the rubbish that surrounded the truth and to call us to surrender all. All who do so will glory in tribulation knowing that tribulation will work for our good and God's glory.

By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.
In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on January 07, 2022, 06:29:23 AM: "These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life."

God can not give light to a selfish heart for the heart is focused on self not Christ. As we behold Him, meditate on His word and pray earnestly for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit we are changed in character and prepared to receive all that the Lord desires to do for us and in us. Our lives will reveal all the fruits of the Spirit which is a witness to true conversion.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Philip T on January 07, 2022, 06:41:34 AM: The priest went through the ceremony of his official work. He took the child in his arms, and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name "Jesus" on the roll of the first-born. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that it was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. The priest did not think that this babe was the One of whom Moses had written, "A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you." Acts 3:22. He did not think that this babe was He whose glory Moses had asked to see. But One greater than Moses lay in the priest's arms; and when he enrolled the child's name, he was enrolling the name of One who was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. That name was to be its death warrant; for the system of sacrifices and offerings was waxing old; the type had almost reached its antitype, the shadow its substance.

Do we go through our religious life the same way as the Priest did, walking along on automatic not stopping to dwell upon Christ, reading, praying, contemplating up Christ, establishing a close one on one relationship with Jesus? This paragraph is striking to me, if we do not have a close relationship with Christ, we go through life on automatic, we become like the priest, and will not be ready for Christ 2nd Advent when He comes in the clouds of glory just as the priest were not ready for His 1st Advent. Let us take time every day to draw close to our Savior.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 07, 2022, 07:33:54 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon, Brother Richard, Sister Dorine and Brother Phil!

It is a choice. God chose to send His Son because He loves us, and we can choose to look to His greatest manifestation of the gift of Himself at the cross, and by beholding His love, we can be fully transformed in character! Look and live! All of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest in our lives without one missing as long as we are fully surrendered to Christ and living up to all the light He has shown us!

"At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 2}

Let us appreciate the great love manifested in Christ toward us and go forth to bless others as He has first blessed us! "We love Him, because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19). Would you be willing to let God use you to proclaim the everlasting gospel of His grace in the context of the Three Angels' Messages of Revelation 14 because of what Christ has done for you?
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on April 03, 2022, 08:43:57 PM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

"It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11."

"It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld."

"No miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed.

Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift.

"The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

John 3:16,17 SAYS..."For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

What will "OUR" response be to this awesome demonstration of Divine Love?

===========================

I’ve wandered far away from God,
Now I’m coming home;
The paths of sin too long I’ve trod,
Lord, I’m coming home.
Coming home, coming home,
Nevermore to roam;
Open wide Thine arms of love;
Lord, I’m coming home.
2
I’ve wasted many precious years,
Now I’m coming home;
I now repent with bitter tears,
Lord, I’m coming home.
3
I’m tired of sin and straying, Lord,
Now I’m coming home;
I’ll trust Thy love, believe Thy word;
Lord, I’m coming home.
4
My soul is sick, my heart is sore,
Now I’m coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore:
Lord, I’m coming home.
5
My only hope, my only plea,
Now I’m coming home;
That Jesus died, and died for me;
Lord, I’m coming home.
6
I need His cleansing blood, I know,
Now I’m coming home;
O wash me whiter than the snow;
Lord, I’m coming home.

Lyrics & Music : William James Kirkpatrick (1838-1921)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 04, 2022, 04:32:22 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon!

We find in Christ the only One who can truly discover to us our deepest thoughts and motives, and when we see how sinful we are, we are given the glorious promise of forgiveness and character restoration to His image as we yield the whole heart to Christ to cleanse and purify. When Christ comes into our hearts, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen without one missing, and we are empowered to obey God's law of love up to all the light He has revealed as we affectionately do so because He first loved us!

"'That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.' In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

Since true happiness is the result of holiness, it also follows that God is ever seeking to increase our happiness as we grow in God's grace and love and overcome through His power!

"Higher than the highest human thought can reach is God's ideal for His children. Godliness--godlikeness--is the goal to be reached. Before the student there is opened a path of continual progress. He has an object to achieve, a standard to attain, that includes everything good, and pure, and noble. He will advance as fast and as far as possible in every branch of true knowledge. But his efforts will be directed to objects as much higher than mere selfish and temporal interests as the heavens are higher than the earth." {Education, page 18, paragraph 3}

May you ever keep the heavenly realities before you, that Christ the hope of glory may live out His life through you in ways that exceed your highest expectations!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on April 04, 2022, 06:13:26 AM: In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.

What a dreadful day that will be for those who allow pride and selfishness to control their lives. But I think of those who have humbly followed in the footsteps of Jesus. It means surrender, affliction, trials and temptations but also joy and peace and contentment because they know Jesus and want to spend eternity with Him. Let's never get weary of sharing this wonderful truth. God will use us to bring souls to Him for healing and a place in His kingdom.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on April 04, 2022, 10:02:33 AM: Thank you my brothers and sister! What a joy it is to read of your thoughts! Let us continue to "press together" learning and sharing the light being shed upon us. So much to understand!

By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

The most weighty trust and the highest honor Christ can bestow upon us is to share in His sufferings. In so doing, we glorify the One gave all that we might not only live, but have the same joy and rewards He has gotten in seeing precious souls redeemed!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on June 29, 2022, 08:11:29 PM: Thank you brother Richard for your kind and supportive remarks. It was encouraging to me and to know that what I have been sharing is inspiring and encouraging to others and I'm thankful God is able to use me, but as always , the Praise Belongs To Him who is working through the Holy Spirit on each of us, and having said that....

Brother Sean, It is so wonderful to see your post yesterday. I have missed your posts and have been praying for you that the Lord would hold you steady in whatever circumstances were preventing you from posting. It's good to have you back--Praise the Lord.

==========================================================

"God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld."

"No miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed."

"Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift."

"The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says...

"All these are for man."

"Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven."

"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

Have you ever tried to imagine the conversation that took place between God the Father, and Jesus the Son just before He left Heaven to commence His earthly journey?? What was that final Hug & Embrace like? Jesus left knowing full well the Risk, The Ungratefulness He would face. He foresaw the rejection by His own people and the horrible cruel ending of His earthly journey on the Cross of Calvary. The challenge of putting together a team of contentious men who after their conversion would continue on with the work of spreading the Good News??

He did for " YOU " & "ME" and for "ALL" who accept His "Invitation" for "ETERNAL LIFE"

May our Prayer be the same as expressed in the words of this hymn below.

==============================

Not I, but Christ be honored, loved, exalted,
Not I, but Christ be seen, be known and heard;
Not I, but Christ in every look and action,
Not I, but Christ in every thought and word.
Oh, to be saved from myself, dear Lord,
Oh, to be lost in Thee,
Oh, that it may be no more I,
But Christ that lives in me.
2
Not I, but Christ to gently soothe in sorrow,
Not I, but Christ to wipe the falling tear;
Not I, but Christ to lift the weary burden,
Not I, but Christ to hush away all fear.
3
Christ, only Christ, no idle word e’er falling,
Christ, only Christ, no needless bustling sound;
Christ, only Christ, no self-important bearing,
Christ, only Christ, no trace of I be found.
4
Not I, but Christ my every need supplying,
Not I, but Christ my strength and health to be;
Christ, only Christ, for spirit, soul, and body,
Christ, only Christ, live then Thy life in me.
5
Christ, only Christ, ere long will fill my vision,
Glory excelling soon, full soon I’ll see;
Christ, only Christ, my every wish fulfilling,
Christ, only Christ, my all in all to be.

Lyrics:Mrs. Ada A. Whiddington (1891)
Music:Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843-1919)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 30, 2022, 04:34:18 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon! Praise the Lord for the blessing of being able to uplift Jesus who alone deserves all glory and honor! Your posts are a blessing and encouragement, and we need to encourage one another and exhort one another in the Lord!

As I was blessed to be at the Michigan Camp Meeting and traveling afterward during a lot of June, I had not been posting for a time, but I am happy to be back in the Upper Peninsula where I pastor and after a blessed conversation with Brother Richard, I decided to post again! God is so gracious!

What a gift Jesus is to us, and thankfully He can restore us into His image of unselfishness! God's healing power to renew our hearts and minds is so powerful that He can keep us from falling as we trust in Him day by day! Let us choose to yield to Christ and overcome sin through Him! He will give us the desire and capacity for serving Him in true conversion so all of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest in our lives as we are empowered to obey God from the new heart!

"By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 3}

May we all pass judgment on ourselves in the way of saying, "I surrender all" rather than choosing to go our own way. God is gracious to woo us and win us to His purity and power! In the midst of the greatest suffering and trials of this life we can have the peace that passes all understanding because we can recognize Christ living in us, the hope of glory!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on June 30, 2022, 03:48:59 PM: In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.

But even though the lost utter those words they are not words of repentance or sorrow for sin. If given another chance they would go on living just as they always had. They speak words of truth but hate them. Time is running out and there are many who would turn from their wicked ways if only they would see a sermon in shoes. May our lives reflect the life of Jesus because we are spending that thoughtful hour each day with Him and maintaining our relationship with Him throughout the day.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on September 23, 2022, 08:00:39 PM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

"It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11.

"It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death..."

"His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering."

"It unveiled the purposes of men." Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him."

"The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom."

"In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood."

"Thus everyone passes judgment on himself. "

Therefore, we need to honestly ask ourselves, with an open heart, the question...What is "OUR" Attitude/Commitment towards Christ??

===============================

1
I’ve wandered far away from God,
Now I’m coming home;
The paths of sin too long I’ve trod,
Lord, I’m coming home.
Coming home, coming home,
Nevermore to roam;
Open wide Thine arms of love;
Lord, I’m coming home.
2
I’ve wasted many precious years,
Now I’m coming home;
I now repent with bitter tears,
Lord, I’m coming home.
3
I’m tired of sin and straying, Lord,
Now I’m coming home;
I’ll trust Thy love, believe Thy word;
Lord, I’m coming home.
4
My soul is sick, my heart is sore,
Now I’m coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore:
Lord, I’m coming home.
5
My only hope, my only plea,
Now I’m coming home;
That Jesus died, and died for me;
Lord, I’m coming home.
6
I need His cleansing blood, I know,
Now I’m coming home;
O wash me whiter than the snow;
Lord, I’m coming home.

Lyrics/Music by William James Kirkpatrick (1838-1921)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on September 25, 2022, 08:34:11 PM: Amen Brother Beacon!! God loves us, else why would He take the risk of losing His innocent Son!!!

"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

He allows Him to suffer and us also, for our good and His glory!!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on December 20, 2022, 08:01:39 PM: "God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work.

No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed.

Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save.

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, "All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven."

"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

"ARE WE" Willing to Trust & Obey??
=======================
1
When we walk with the Lord
In the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way;
While we do His good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey,
For there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.
2
Not a shadow can rise,
Not a cloud in the skies,
But His smile quickly drives it away;
Not a doubt or a fear,
Not a sigh or a tear,
Can abide while we trust and obey.
3
Not a burden we bear,
Not a sorrow we share,
But our toil He doth richly repay;
Not a grief or a loss,
Not a frown or a cross,
But is blest if we trust and obey.
4
But we never can prove
The delights of His love,
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor He shows,
And the joy He bestows,
Are for them who will trust and obey.
5
Then in fellowship sweet
We will sit at His feet,
Or we’ll walk by His side in the way;
What He says we will do;
Where He sends, we will go,
Never fear, only trust and obey.

Lyrics:John Henry Sammis (1846-1919)
Music:Daniel Brink Towner (1850-1919)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on December 21, 2022, 05:41:03 AM: "These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life. So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

God has promised to take care of those who love Him. As we receive from God we in turn share those blessings with others in need. It's a beautiful plan that God has in place. Let's learn from the lessons of the past and the counsel for today by spending quality time each day in God's word and in prayer. May we spend time in silence so that we may hear Him speak to us. In doing so Christ will be the motivation for all we do and say through out the day.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 21, 2022, 06:03:47 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

At some point, EVERYONE will confess that God's ways are true and right. Why not start now, and enjoy the love experience His life offers you in Christ? As we yield our wills to Christ, He gives us new hearts and minds that are filled with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we abide in Him in true obedience to His commandments! The best time to come to Christ is RIGHT NOW and to stay vitally connected to Him by letting His thoughts, motives, purposes and experiences become ours by union and communion with Jesus!

"In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? ... for Thy judgments are made manifest.' Revelation 15:3, 4." {The Desire of Ages, page 58, paragraph 1}

While all the loyal and rebellious will all come to the same conclusion in the end, how much joy we can bring to the heart of God as we enter into the fellowship of the mystery of His love today and abide in His will! Then we are ready for eternity, for we have heaven in our hearts through Christ!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on December 21, 2022, 11:11:23 AM: Amen my brothers and sister! So much in today's reading! It took me a long time to understand the most weighty trust and the highest honor God has bestowed upon us is to partake in the sufferings of our Savior. For the young today how much greater for you to learn this now instead of waiting many years like me.

By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on March 16, 2023, 08:05:30 PM: "Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good."

"But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11.

"It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death."

"His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld."

"No miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift."

"The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

Our response should be nothing less than ..." All To Jesus I Surrender - All to Him I Freely Give."Let's focus on what will last for all eternity!

=======================
1
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

Lyrics:Judson W. Van de Venter (1855-1939)
Music:Winfield Scott Weeden (1847-1908)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on March 17, 2023, 05:25:27 AM: "Anna also, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord. These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life. So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

May we follow Jesus once again and learn from His life and teachings how we are to live.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 17, 2023, 06:40:38 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

Do you believe you can be like Jesus? Well, that is what God desires and designs for each of us to become like! By beholding we become changed, and as we behold His loveliness of character, surrender the whole heart to Him, in true repentance confess and forsake our sins, and abide in His love, we are changed by the Holy Spirit who comes to live in our lives, manifesting through the converted soul all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing in harmony with God's law of love! What an amazing gift salvation is, knowing the spotless Lamb of God came to take our sins and transform our characters to prepare us for heaven!

"The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the 'lamb without blemish and without spot.' 1 Peter 1:19. His physical structure was not marred by any defect; His body was strong and healthy. And throughout His lifetime He lived in conformity to nature's laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws." {The Desire of Ages, page 50, paragraph 3}

When we appreciate more fully all that Christ has done for us and is even now doing for us in heaven as our High Priest, we will become more and more fruitful for His everlasting kingdom that cannot be moved!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on March 17, 2023, 07:48:21 AM: Amen my dear brothers and sister! We see the love of the Father as we did yesterday. And, we see the faithfulness of Jesus to do His Father's will despite the rejection of it by most. And, we see again that Christ came to reveal their great love that we might be transformed and made fit for heaven. Again and again we are shown that God has power to keep us from sin.

He had already been subjected to the rite of circumcision, as a pledge of His obedience to the law.

Which all Jews were to do. And when we are baptized, do we pledge to obey His law of love? Satan says we can't keep it, thus God is unfair. God is not unfair. We can keep His commandments, all of them if we will love the Lord our God with all of the heart and our neighbor as ourselves.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 12, 2023, 06:02:34 AM: God’s love for each of us is infinitely deep! We will experience the greatest level of happiness in knowing and loving Him!

“‘That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’ In the light of the Saviour’s life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father’s heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are ‘thoughts of peace, and not of evil.’ Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.” {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

By daily beholding afresh the loveliness of Jesus, let us come to more fully appreciate the value that Christ’s sacrifice places on each of us, yield our entire heart to him, and allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with all of the attributes of the divine nature! Not one of the fruits of the Spirit will be missing from our lives as long as we choose to continue to abide in union and communion with Christ as our living Savior! Such a vital connection with our God imputes and imparts to us His righteousness by faith so that we are enabled to obey God‘s holy law and live faithful in the sight of a holy God at this very moment and also through the time of trouble when Jesus ceases His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary so that He can come and take us home as our King! Praise God!
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on June 12, 2023, 09:21:34 AM: At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.
In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on June 12, 2023, 09:29:36 AM: Amen Pastor Sean. There is no greater truth!

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan's kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

It will come as a shock to many that the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on September 06, 2023, 08:41:37 PM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

" It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11."

" It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

" No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says..",

"All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

Jesus gave "ALL" to redeem us . What are "WE" willing to give Him??

========================
1
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

Lyrics:Judson W. Van de Venter (1855-1939)
Music:Winfield Scott Weeden (1847-1908)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on September 07, 2023, 05:12:25 AM: "Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God's act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. "There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ."
As Simeon enters the temple, he sees a family presenting their first-born son before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks poverty; but Simeon understands the warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply impressed that the infant being presented to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel, the One he has longed to see. To the astonished priest, Simeon appears like a man enraptured. The child has been returned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms and presents it to God, while a joy that he has never before felt enters his soul. As he lifts the infant Saviour toward heaven, he says, "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel." The spirit of prophecy was upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words, he blessed them, and said unto Mary, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."

When we live each day acknowledging we are in the very presence of God and study with a devoted, surrendered heart, hungering to know Jesus better, the Holy Spirit will reveal to us depths of understanding that the casual "Christian" cannot comprehend. Someday soon we will all express the fairness and glory of God. I choose to be in the group that knows Jesus as my personal Friend and Saviour.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on September 07, 2023, 05:38:33 AM: Amen my dear friends! God loves us!! By beholding Jesus, we will know we are the desire of the Father's heart and thus have spiritual discernment! Knowing God's character is everything.

Mary looked forward to the Messiah's reign on David's throne, but she saw not the baptism of suffering by which it must be won. Through Simeon it is revealed that the Messiah is to have no unobstructed passage through the world. In the words to Mary, "A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also," God in His tender mercy gives to the mother of Jesus an intimation of the anguish that already for His sake she had begun to bear.

Yes, Israel including the mother of Jesus, had been deceived about the gospel message. When their Messiah came they knew Him not and hung Him on the cross thinking the real Messiah would rule from an earthly throne. The Lamb that was slain from before the foundation of the Earth was laid was turned into and offering that entitled the sinner to heaven and eternal life. Even John the Baptist believed that Jesus did not have to die that our sins would be forgiven.

"That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

It is indeed true that our greatest happiness is in knowing and loving our great God who suffered watching His only innocent Son suffer when living in this dark spot in the universe.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 07, 2023, 08:27:56 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon, Sister Dorine, and Brother Richard!

It's no secret! Our greatest happiness will be found in knowing and loving God! No wonder Satan invents unnumbered schemes and distractions to try to get us to miss out on the real joy and purpose of life! Let God fill you with His thoughts from His word, and in complete surrender to Jesus go forward in faith to let the Holy Spirit reveal through you all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as He empowers you to obey the law of God up to the light He has revealed!

“That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” In the light of the Saviour's life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are 'thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me." {The Desire of Ages, page 57, paragraph 1}

What a wonderful Savior we have in Jesus! When He is truly Lord of our lives, we can experience the greatest pleasure in doing His will, having fellowship with Christ in His sufferings and yet being fully sustained by the presence of God in each situation! The purest joy springs from the deepest humiliation, for the strongest and noblest characters are built on the foundation of patience, love and submission to God's will! "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore" (Psalm 16:11).
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on December 02, 2023, 08:03:28 PM: "The gift of Christ reveals the Father's heart."

"It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jeremiah 29:11.

"It declares that while God's hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death."

"Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed."

"Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift." The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save."

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."

What Grand Empowerment has been offered to us - What will our "choice" be!!!

=======================
1
Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch; like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
2
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!
3
The Lord hath promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.
4
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.

Lyrics:John Newton (1725-1807)
Music:Traditional American melody
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 03, 2023, 05:19:58 AM: Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Lucifer's rebellion, the incarnation of Jesus to save us and His sacrificial death, His resurrection and promise to save us to the uttermost has not changed the reality of God's character. What God has done simply reveals to the universe the two great contrasting principles--selfishness and selflessness. We get to choose whether we will side with Lucifer by simply living out our fallen nature in rebellion, or whether we will abide in Christ in true surrender and let all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing be revealed in our lives in true conversion so we can experience true obedience to God's law and face the judgment with courage. Let's choose the way of Christ!

"In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? ... for Thy judgments are made manifest.' Revelation 15:3, 4." {The Desire of Ages, page 58, paragraph 1}
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Beacon on February 26, 2024, 10:59:53 PM: "Having undertaken our redemption, Jesus will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work."

"No truth essential to our salvation is withheld."

"No miracle of mercy is neglected."

"No divine agency is left unemployed." "

"Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift."

"The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save." "

"Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven."

"His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me."
That is the type of person I want to follow and proclaim. How about "YOU" ?
==============================

1
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.
2
Oh, let me feel Thee near me;
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
3
Oh, let me hear Thee speaking,
In accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion,
The murmurs of self-will;
Oh, speak to reassure me,
To hasten, or control;
Oh, speak, and make me listen,
Thou Guardian of my soul.
4
O Jesus, Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be;
And Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Oh, give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.
5
Oh, let me see Thy footmarks,
And in them plant mine own;
My hope to follow duly
Is in Thy strength alone.
Oh, guide me, call me, draw me,
Uphold me to the end;
And then to rest receive me,
My Savior and my Friend.

Lyrics:John Ernest Bode (1816-1874)
Music:Arthur Henry Mann (1850-1929)
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Dorine on February 27, 2024, 06:50:12 AM: "In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.

Oh if only souls today could understand what Christ has provided for each one. If they will only just give Him their full surrender He will provide for their every need and abundant blessings will overflow their lives. Our dear Saviour grows more precious to me each day. He fills my heart with joy and peace and love for those that do not know Him. Which nature are we feeding from day to day? I want less of earthly cares to dominate my thoughts and more of Jesus and my home in heaven and what I can be doing to minister to others.
Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--5--The Dedication
Post by: Richard Myers on February 27, 2024, 07:37:11 AM: Amen my brother and sister. Don't we all want to be happy! And what will make us the happiest? Knowing and loving God.

In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God's government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:3, 4.