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The King of Kings => The Desire of Ages => Topic started by: Richard Myers on February 12, 2016, 08:59:15 PM

Title: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on February 12, 2016, 08:59:15 PM

The Call by the Sea

     Day was breaking over the Sea of Galilee. The disciples, weary with a night of fruitless toil, were still in their fishing boats on the lake. Jesus had come to spend a quiet hour by the waterside. In the early morning He hoped for a little season of rest from the multitude that followed Him day after day. But soon the people began to gather about Him. Their numbers rapidly increased, so that He was pressed upon all sides. Meanwhile the disciples had come to land. In order to escape the pressure of the multitude, Jesus stepped into Peter's boat, and bade him pull out a little from the shore. Here Jesus could be better seen and heard by all, and from the boat He taught the multitude on the beach. 
     What a scene was this for angels to contemplate; their glorious Commander, sitting in a fisherman's boat, swayed to and fro by the restless waves, and proclaiming the good news of salvation to the listening throng that were pressing down to the water's edge! He who was the Honored of heaven was declaring the great things of His kingdom in the open air, to the common people. Yet He could have had no more fitting scene for His labors. The lake, the mountains, the spreading fields, the sunlight flooding the earth, all furnished objects to illustrate His lessons and impress them upon the mind. And no lesson of Christ's fell fruitless. Every message from His lips came to some soul as the word of eternal life. 
     Every moment added to the multitude upon the shore. Aged men leaning upon their staffs, hardy peasants from the hills, fishermen from their toil on the lake, merchants and rabbis, the rich and learned, old and young, bringing their sick and suffering ones, pressed to hear the words of the divine Teacher. To such scenes as this the prophets had looked forward, and they wrote:


          "The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali,
           Toward the sea, beyond Jordan,
           Galilee of the Gentiles,
           The people which sat in darkness
           Saw a great light,
           And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death,
           To them did light spring up." R. V.

     Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time.
     The discourse ended, Jesus turned to Peter, and bade him launch out into the sea, and let down his net for a draught. But Peter was disheartened. All night he had taken nothing. During the lonely hours he had thought of the fate of John the Baptist, who was languishing alone in his dungeon. He had thought of the prospect before Jesus and His followers, of the ill success of the mission to Judea, and the malice of the priests and rabbis. Even his own occupation had failed him; and as he watched by the empty nets, the future had seemed dark with discouragement. "Master," he said, "we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at Thy word I will let down the net." 
     Night was the only favorable time for fishing with nets in the clear waters of the lake. After toiling all night without success, it seemed hopeless to cast the net by day; but Jesus had given the command, and love for their Master moved the disciples to obey. Simon and his brother together let down the net. As they attempted to draw it in, so great was the quantity of fish enclosed that it began to break. They were obliged to summon James and John to their aid. When the catch was secured, both the boats were so heavily laden that they were in danger of sinking. 
     But Peter was unmindful now of boats or lading. This miracle, above any other he had ever witnessed, was to him a manifestation of divine power. In Jesus he saw One who held all nature under His control. The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 
     It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, "My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength." So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty. 
     Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.
     Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus. They had witnessed many of His miracles, and had listened to His teaching; but they had not entirely forsaken their former employment. The imprisonment of John the Baptist had been to them all a bitter disappointment. If such were to be the outcome of John's mission, they could have little hope for their Master, with all the religious leaders combined against Him. Under the circumstances it was a relief to them to return for a short time to their fishing. But now Jesus called them to forsake their former life, and unite their interests with His. Peter had accepted the call. Upon reaching the shore, Jesus bade the three other disciples, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left all, and followed Him. 
     Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter's boat for the work of the gospel had been richly repaid. He who is "rich unto all that call upon Him," has said, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over." Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded the disciple's service. And every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to "the exceeding riches of His grace." Ephesians 3:20; 2:7.
     During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope. 
     The deeper lesson which the miracle conveyed for the disciples is a lesson for us also,--that He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become "fishers of men." 
     They were humble and unlearned men, those fishers of Galilee; but Christ, the light of the world, was abundantly able to qualify them for the position for which He had chosen them. The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone. 
     Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus. 
     It is not the highest work of education to communicate knowledge merely, but to impart that vitalizing energy which is received through the contact of mind with mind, and soul with soul. It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world! Above all his companions, John the beloved disciple yielded himself to the power of that wondrous life. He says, "The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us." "Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace." 1 John 1:2; John 1:16. 
     In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.  {DA 250.3} 
     He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.
     God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 
     Men of the highest education in the arts and sciences have learned precious lessons from Christians in humble life who were designated by the world as unlearned. But these obscure disciples had obtained an education in the highest of all schools. They had sat at the feet of Him who spoke as "never man spake."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on February 13, 2016, 12:42:03 PM

Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.

Amen! But, at this point in his life, he did not understand he could not walk on water looking back at his friends. It took awhile for the disciples to learn of their continual need of Jesus and how it was that they could obtain this connection daily. Where are we in this process? Are we before, at, or after Peter's place when he clung to the feet of Jesus?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on May 13, 2016, 04:37:32 AM

In the culture of "Adventism" there are many traditional beliefs that have no foundation in the Word of God. One such belief is the disciples were not converted until after the cross. It is common to hear the human reasoning for this. "And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Luke 22:31,32.

This is the argument to oppose the fact that Peter had been previously converted, baptized, and ordained an apostle. It is true, he did not understand the Lamb had to die, but then neither did John the Baptist. Deception ran deep in God's church then, as it does today. But, there is clear light that all of the disciples except Judas had been converted prior to this statement made by Jesus regarding the re-conversion of Peter.

Why is this important to understand? Because there is another tradition in the Advent culture. It is not the same as once saved always saved, but it partakes of the same error. Often we will hear arguments that when one is converted it is not an "on again, off again experience." We understand why this would be said, but it is not true in the way many see it. Thus the issue is important for many do not understand what it means to be converted. This allows the great deception brought into the church to continue on. Here is the great error being taught and accepted by many in the church: When one sins a known sin, he does not have to be re-justified (re-converted). In other words, sin does not reveal a separation between man and God. One may sin a known sin and retain salvation (justification).

We need to clearly understand what it means to be converted. While the deception about Peter not being converted until after the cross may appear to be arguing for victory over sin in the convert, it is just the opposite. Because it does not depend upon Scripture for its support, it is just another deception working against the truth of the simplicity of the gospel message. Each of the disciples except for Jesus had been converted prior to the cross. Jesus chose the eleven to be apostles. He did not choose Judas. It is true they did not understand their continual need of Jesus in order to retain salvation, but as we see in today's reading, Peter had acknowledged his sinfulness and his need of Jesus when he exclaimed "depart from me; for I am a sinful man."

We are told he then "clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, 'Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.' It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ." This is what it means to be in a converted state. To renounce self and to trust in divine power. Divine power for what? To be a Christian. It is one thing to profess to follow Christ, it is altogether another matter to be actually walk after Him.

There are many today who are in a similar condition to the disciples prior to the cross. Having fallen in love with Jesus, they wander in and out of conversion. Why? Because they do not understand their continual need of Jesus in order be converted. Like the apostles prior to the cross, they have been deceived about their continual need of Christ and what it means to be converted. In simple terms, being converted means that self is kept under by the power of an indwelling Savior. When we make a full surrender to Jesus, the Holy Spirit takes possession of the heart and we become partakers of God's divine nature and escape the corruption that is in our flesh. Paul put it this way: "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 Corinthians 9:27.This can only be done when we are fully surrendered to Jesus and are partakers of His divine nature. "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 2 Peter 1:4.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 13, 2016, 06:27:25 AM

Amen and praise the Lord! I appreciate your thorough exploration of the important topic of conversion and justification. Humanity (self, the sinful nature, the carnal mind) is never going to "get better"--rather, it needs to be constantly crucified, constantly subordinated by the power of divinity made available to the weakest, most sinful of God's children--that comes to us through beholding Jesus Christ's loveliness, seeing our unlikeness to Him, and despairing of all self-dependence, allowing Him to give us a new heart and uphold us by His divine power! It is by the Holy Spirit that we are to live the Christian converted/justified life!

One of the issues with conversion is often the idea that it happened at one point, and it seems humiliating to think that one needs to be daily converted--but for the Apostle Paul it was a living reality! He declared plainly: "I die daily" (1 Corinthians 15:31).

Richard, you said: "We need to clearly understand what it means to be converted. While the deception about Peter not being converted until after the cross may appear to be arguing for victory over sin in the convert, it is just the opposite. Because it does not depend upon Scripture for its support, it is just another deception working against the truth of the simplicity of the gospel message. Each of the disciples except for Judas had been converted prior to the cross. Jesus chose the eleven to be apostles. He did not choose Judas. It is true they did not understand their continual need of Jesus in order to retain salvation, but as we see in today's reading, Peter had acknowledged his sinfulness and his need of Jesus when he exclaimed 'depart from me; for I am a sinful man.'" How true it is, though, that we are in CONTINUAL NEED of Jesus to retain conversion/salvation/abiding in Christ (and the evidence of that abiding, living faith is that He fills the new heart with all the fruits of the Spirit--not one will be missing.)

As I read this chapter this morning, a number of new songs came to my heart from a number of key paragraphs. One that especially spoke to me was the following:

"Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time." {DA 245.3}

Is it not phenomenal that we can have these very words spoken to our hearts in our most trying moments? What a treasure we have in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy! With such broad resources of inspiration and light, why need we drink of the fountains of the world, when the words of life are before us and inviting us to a continually higher experience! Truly it can be said, "Higher than the highest human thought can reach is God's ideal for His children. Godliness--godlikeness--is the goal to be reached." {Education, 18.3} And the words we need to ignite and encourage us in this heavenward way are provided us by His Spirit working upon our hearts. He gives us the very strength we need most at the times we most clearly realize our helplessness. Our only safety is in constant dependence upon Jesus! Hallelujah!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 08, 2016, 07:23:22 AM

I just love this chapter! I was blessed again in beholding Jesus this morning, and love the encouragement to advance in character today:

God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God.{DA 251.1}

What is that "much fruit"? It is the fruits of the Spirit--so that not one will be missing, leading to souls converted, and saved! If today you have love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance, know that Jesus wants to increase these in your experience, making them more abundant!

A few days ago, the Holy Spirit taught me something about the Christian character as manifested in all the fruits of the Spirit in the life. We read in Romans: "So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). Faith is one of the fruits of the Spirit. What about love? "But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him." (1 John 2:5). True as well--we will receive more love by hearing the word of God that reveals the loveless of Jesus. We will have an increased joy in eating God's word like Jeremiah did: "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts." (Jeremiah 15:16). How true for all the fruits of the Spirit!

We need to behold the character of Christ to see these fruits manifested aright, and it is in personal, intimate communion with Jesus continually that our lives come to reflect Him more and more! I love Jesus, He is so wonderful, so kind, good, and pure! I pray that we may all be like Him and be in heaven soon.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on August 08, 2016, 09:20:08 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!! I love Jesus too!! His love for us is past our ability to comprehend. But, each day we may learn of Him, more and more.

You speak of the fruits of His Spirit, this is the work Jesus wants to do in each of us. When we are truly converted, we have perfection of Christian character. That is we are perfect at each stage of development. But, being perfect in moral character, while it denotes a pure and holy heart, it does not mean there is no room for growth. First the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. When we examine the young seedling popping up through the ground, we find perfection. There is no imperfection in the seedling. As it matures, it retains its perfection. So it was with Jesus. He was always perfect, yet He was not ready for Gethsemane when He was 12. "He learned obedience through the things He suffered." So it is with each child of humanity when he gives his whole heart to Christ. His motives are perfect, pure, and holy even though he may eat the wrong food, keep the wrong day, and dress without a knowledge of heavenly modesty. Jesus will make up for our lack of understanding. And, He will continue to educate us as to what it means to be modest in dress and deportment.

As we grow daily in grace, the fruits which are already in the life will indeed become more abundant. The love we have for Jesus will deepen. The love we have for people will expand. Day by day as we behold our Savior we will be growing more and more into His image. God has revealed the plan of salvation in His Word. Consider that not only is our character perfection progressive, but so are the temptations that come to us. God has promised He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. That is a conditional promise. We can see that because at times we are tempted beyond what we can bear. God's promises never fail. What then fails when we sin? We do. We did not remain connected to our Savior. How can He save us without our cooperation? He cannot. We must have Jesus in order to resist the smallest temptation. Who believes they can walk on water without Jesus?

So, as Pastor Sean has shared, day by day we will become more powerful in our witness of Christ, if we will continually draw strength from Christ. Then, the world will know there is a God in heaven, for they will see Him in you. There is a difference between the converted Christian and the unrepentant sinner. In the Book of Matthew, Jesus tells us:

 7:13   Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 
 7:14   Because strait [is] the gate, and narrow [is] the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 
 7:15   Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 
 7:16   Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 
 7:17   Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
 7:18   A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither [can] a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 
 7:19   Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 
 7:20   Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.   

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on November 03, 2016, 07:18:34 AM

     Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.
     Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus. They had witnessed many of His miracles, and had listened to His teaching; but they had not entirely forsaken their former employment. The imprisonment of John the Baptist had been to them all a bitter disappointment. If such were to be the outcome of John's mission, they could have little hope for their Master, with all the religious leaders combined against Him. Under the circumstances it was a relief to them to return for a short time to their fishing. But now Jesus called them to forsake their former life, and unite their interests with His. Peter had accepted the call. Upon reaching the shore, Jesus bade the three other disciples, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left all, and followed Him.
     Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs.

Did they believe Him?   Yes, they did, all except Judas. Do we believe Him? Do we understand, as did Peter, we are sinful by nature?  They understood they were evil by nature. We come into the world aligned with sin and Satan. We must be born again of the Spirit in order to do any good thing. Nicodemus was a Laodicean when he met with Jesus under cover of darkness. A Laodicean does not understand what is being said here. Many even think they come into the world in a neutral position. Such a deception. We must be converted, and even then we retain our sinful flesh. But, because Jesus has possession of the heart, it is cleansed, purified white as snow. Let this mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus. We then being partakers of God's divine nature are able to keep the body under, lest we be castaways.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 03, 2016, 08:01:25 AM

Amen, Richard! I appreciate how we can see in this chapter the sinful nature of humanity, and yet come to appreciate the power of grace to change the heart, so that the most sinful men can be transformed to become co-laborers with Christ--not by continuing in their sin, but by having the sinful nature crucified with Christ, kept under, and the mind and heart renewed and continually filled with the divine presence of the Holy Spirit! What a high and holy privilege we have in Jesus! He is the greatest educator, and we can learn of Him day by day in this wonderful "thoughtful hour" with Him!

 They were humble and unlearned men, those fishers of Galilee; but Christ, the light of the world, was abundantly able to qualify them for the position for which He had chosen them. The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone. 

True "higher education" only comes from Jesus. There is no elevation for the race apart from Him. I was reading today in Acts of the Apostles and it expressed a similar thought:

Jesus, whom Paul was about to present before the Greeks in Corinth as the Christ, was a Jew of lowly origin, reared in a town proverbial for its wickedness. He had been rejected by His own nation and at last crucified as a malefactor. The Greeks believed that there was need of elevating the human race, but they regarded the study of philosophy and science as the only means of attaining to true elevation and honor. Could Paul lead them to believe that faith in the power of this obscure Jew would uplift and ennoble every power of the being? {AA 244.2}

God's grace is not complicated--"Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). And yet beholding Christ, we see ever-new vistas of mental, spiritual, and moral growth. Continually we see our need of Jesus as we behold Him, and realizing that there is nothing good in us by nature, we cling to Him and desire, as did Peter, to be with Jesus. We cannot be separated from Him by sin for a moment and retain justification. We have no righteousness of ourselves--our only hope, strength, and efficacy is that which comes to us through Christ, and creates a new being in the image of God when the heart is fully yielded to Him! Such evidence that this full-faith surrender to Jesus is made will be manifest in all of the fruits of the Spirit in the life of the child of God--without one missing!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 29, 2017, 06:38:30 AM

There is so much beauty in this chapter revealing Jesus' loveliness and our continual need of Him! When we have Him in the heart and life, we are transformed!

     Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.

Do others see Jesus in you? They will if you are beholding Him and surrendering continually to Him! That is why it would be well for us to spend a thoughtful hour each day contemplating Him! What a blessing that we get to see Jesus in The Desire of Ages and the Gospel accounts! Hallelujah!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on January 29, 2017, 08:38:38 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean.  There was something that impressed me greatly as I read this morning. There are so many false teachings surrounding the gospel that involve the sanctification and justification of repentant sinners that we need to clarify what is the power of grace to transform the repentant sinner. Is it possible to obey God all the time? We live in sinful flesh, and will until Jesus comes. But, when the repentant sinners receive a new body, they will not receive a new character. That we must obtain here and now if we want to enter heaven.

There are passages in Scripture which to many who truly want to serve God seem to contradict other passages. This is often the case because false teachers have perverted them. There are three such cases presented in today's reading.

     Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."
     It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, "My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength." So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty.
     Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.

In each of these cases, the men are at different stages in their experience. Peter and Isaiah are at a beginning point, Daniel is far advanced. What caused all three to fall on their faces before God? Would it ever happen again in their lives when they were not sinning? Is it just because of unrepentant sin that causes such a reaction, or is it something else that causes such a response?

This truth is perverted to teach that man cannot keep God's law no matter where he is in his experience since he lives in fallen flesh. What is the true lesson for us to learn?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: JimB on January 29, 2017, 09:54:56 AM

Quote from: Richard Myers on January 29, 2017, 08:38:38 AM

Is it just because of unrepentant sin that causes such a reaction, or is it something else that causes such a response?

I had never considered this question before. Don't angels, although they may not claim to be a man undone, still fall before and worship Christ?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on January 29, 2017, 11:32:06 AM

That is a good question, Jim.   Even though they be holy, and do not live in sinful flesh, yet they see the contrast between them and God. Since the cross, they recognize the character of God more than before. They indeed do fall down and worship Him who gave His innocent Son to save sinful man.

The reason for my question is the statement in the Spirit of Prophecy concerning the deficiencies that God makes up for in the lives of repentant sinners. It has been used to excuse sin.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on April 26, 2017, 06:20:13 AM

There are so many made up excuses for sin, but in fact there is no excuse for sin. God has provided a remedy in His Son. One of the great deceptions to enter into professing Christianity is that the disciples were not converted until after the cross. This lie is to confuse as to what it means to be converted. We do not believe in once saved always saved, but many have been taught a form of it. They believe that when one is converted, they may sin and retain salvation (justification). Yet, many also believe the disciples were not converted when they left the upper room the night of
Christ's betrayal. There are two great deceptions working today to keep Laodiceans in their lost condition.

Peter is a good example that we might know he was converted prior to the cross, even though Satan has twisted the words of Jesus to make it appear he had not been converted.  "I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Luke 22:32. Peter had already been converted. Jesus saw his denial and was telling Peter when he was reconverted he would still have a ministry. Peter would stumble and fall, but he would deeply repent of his denial of Christ.

"Some assert that if a soul stumbles and falls, he can never regain his position; but the case before us contradicts this. Before his denial Christ said to Peter, “When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” In committing to his stewardship the souls for whom He had given His life, Christ gave to Peter the strongest evidence of His confidence in his restoration. And he was commissioned to feed not only the sheep, but the lambs—a broader and more delicate work than had hitherto been appointed him. Not only was he to hold forth the word of life to others, but he was to be a shepherd of the flock.  5BC 1152.

In today's reading we see that Peter had made a full surrender prior to his calling into ministry. He beheld the glory of God and thus saw his own sinfulness and his dependence upon Christ.

     Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.
     Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus. They had witnessed many of His miracles, and had listened to His teaching; but they had not entirely forsaken their former employment. The imprisonment of John the Baptist had been to them all a bitter disappointment. If such were to be the outcome of John's mission, they could have little hope for their Master, with all the religious leaders combined against Him. Under the circumstances it was a relief to them to return for a short time to their fishing. But now Jesus called them to forsake their former life, and unite their interests with His. Peter had accepted the call. Upon reaching the shore, Jesus bade the three other disciples, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left all, and followed Him. 

Peter had been ordained by God before Jesus laid hands on Him in a formal ordination. Here we read he was not only called, but converted. And, three others accepted the call also. As we behold the glory of God, His character, we too may be converted and filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. Grace has power to transform our very nature.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 26, 2017, 10:33:13 AM

I am so thankful that Jesus looked down the ages and speaks to us today through the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy--what a blessing to look to Jesus and have Him speak to our hearts:

 Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time.

He speaks to me--and you!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 22, 2017, 03:40:07 AM

What a wonderful Savior who calls those who are willing to see their need, and who will imbue them mightily with His Spirit! Just think--there's NO LIMIT to what Christ can do with us when we are converted--fully surrendered to Him, experiencing a new heart and mind, and utterly dependent upon Christ continually to reveal all the fruits of the Spirit without one missing!!

He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on July 22, 2017, 06:29:37 AM

How I love the heart of Jesus. I love the picture that is painted of his power to transform lives.
....."When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."

This promise is not just for the disciples. It is for everyone that will answer His invitation to follow Him.

...."Continual devotion established so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on July 22, 2017, 07:42:52 AM

Amen Pastor Sean and Sister Dorine! What a privilege to be His disciples and to reflect His character!! By His grace we may do this today. Lord I believe, take away my "unbelief" that I would know of your presence and walk in the light of your love and grace!

When will be a reflection of His character? When we renounce our sinfulness and yield all to Him.

    It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.

Here is says after he was led to "self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power" that he was called into ministry. But, it is the same requirement for eternal life. Once again, we see that prior to the cross, and prior to his ordination, he had been converted. We do not believe in once saved always saved, neither do we believe in a form of this whereby a man remains converted even though he sins. No, a man, even the man Moses, can become unconverted by letting go of the hand of God. When we sin a known sin, we are not in a converted state. This is why we must die daily so that we will be partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4)daily.

What a God we serve!! Let us allow Him to create us into His image today, tomorrow, and every day!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 17, 2017, 06:31:18 AM

The more I have the opportunity to share the loveliness of Jesus as a disciple--as a minister of Christ--I am reminded of how important it is to help people to realize that the gospel is not merely information, it must be received as a character transformation--a transformation by grace through faith that leads Christ indwelling us to reveal all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! Without such a transformation, we have not experienced what Jesus intends for us to know by personal experience, that we in turn may impart of His loveliness of character to others!

"It is not the highest work of education to communicate knowledge merely, but to impart that vitalizing energy which is received through the contact of mind with mind, and soul with soul. It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world! Above all his companions, John the beloved disciple yielded himself to the power of that wondrous life. He says, 'The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.' 'Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.' 1 John 1:2; John 1:16." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 2}

May the vitalizing energy of "Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27) give you courage to impart what you receive morning by morning through communion with Him! This is why it would be well for us to spend a thoughtful hour with Jesus each day reflecting upon His love and life, so that we can share of the One who is altogether lovely! By beholding we become changed!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on October 17, 2017, 08:25:02 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean.  It is Christ that we need, and we need Him continually to continually do good. Without Him we can do no good thing. We find this illustrated again and again. Jesus is the answer to all of the problems in the church and in our lives:

     He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.
     God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

Yes, if we will allow the Holy Spirit to take possession of the heart, we will be empowered to "fulfill the requirements of God."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on January 12, 2018, 10:13:18 AM

In reference to the miracle of the fish caught in the net it is said....."But Peter was unmindful now of boats or lading. This miracle, above any other he had ever witnessed, was to him a manifestation of divine power. In Jesus he saw One who held all nature under His control. The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming. "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."

This has left such an impression on me this morning that I had to share it. When we like Peter understand who it is that we are in the presence of we too will fall to our knees in gratitude and humility. No wonder Peter said, "depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."


Since Jesus took on human nature we humans are in danger of taking Him for granted and treating Him in too common a way; as if we are equal to Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 12, 2018, 11:35:18 AM

Amen, sister Dorine! Jesus is fully God, and His condescension to take humanity upon Himself should lead us to appreciate more fully what it means that we have a divine-human Savior! He is fully God, our Creator, and at the same time our Brother! What love! Contemplating God's love is what enables us to love Him more as we surrender fully to Him, and then we are in turn enabled to bless others with the love that has wrought in our hearts a change of character from selfishness (the natural life of the flesh) to selflessness (true conversion by becoming a partaker of the divine nature). We are either manifesting one or the other of the two great principles of character, and all who are fully surrendered to Christ by a living-faith surrender will manifest all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing, as day by day we are enabled to do more good to bless others in the fruitful life of a Christian experience.

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 09, 2018, 03:54:37 AM

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

Promises like this encourage us to go to Christ, the source of wisdom and guidance, so that we can serve Him aright in ministry. Let us plead for His help and He will guide us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on April 09, 2018, 05:16:38 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!!  "Through a connection with Christ....." we can move mountains!!! What does it mean to have a connection with Christ? Is it a profession of faith? No, it is a living connection with Him. It is a full surrender to His grace. Grace surrounds us like the air we breathe. But, it must be seen and assimilated into the heart to have the connection being spoken of.

It would be well to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ. By beholding His grace we will make that connection with Him. By continual reaching out to Him through prayer and study we will maintain that connection and be transformed in character, His character. This is what the Bible means when it says to "buy" of Him "gold tried in the fire." It is His faith that works by His love (grace). If we will behold His life, we will gain "saving faith." Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word. Why? Because the Word is a revelation of Christ.

I love this statement found in this morning's reading: "It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world!" Imagine spending three whole years with Jesus!! What a privilege! And, what a privilege is ours to be able to do the same. Just because we cannot see Him, does not mean He is not here. He calls to us continually to open the door of the heart to Him. He wants to come in. Unless, He is already in the heart. One way or the other, where is Jesus? There are three answers? He has been driven away for good because the still small voice can no longer be heard, the heart has been hardened so much that it can no longer be impressed with our need of Him, or His love for us. Or, He is in the heart because we cling to Him because we love Him supremely. Or, He is standing at the door of the heart, knocking, pleading for entrance.

If He is standing at the door, then is not Jesus with you today! If he is in the heart, is He not with you today! Jesus will not leave us, nor forsake us, unless we hardern the heart so we can no longer choose to be with Him. Today will decide tomorrow to a great degree. Today, is the day of salvation. Let us choose to spend time with Him, communing with Him, learning of Him as did the disciples when He called them to be His disciples. So, He is calling you and me today!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on April 09, 2018, 06:18:26 AM

Such beautiful and humbling thoughts Richard. I have been meditating upon the same. Every day we are walking and talking with Jesus. No we may not actually see or hear Him but in one sense we do have an advantage over the disciples in that we have an understanding of His mission that they did not have until He was taken from them.

I was sharing with my daughter and grandson last evening my experience with spending time each morning reading the book of DA and the transformation that is taking place in my life because of it. It's a personal on-going journey and each day brings deeper meaning to the scriptures and discernment to my choices and decisions that day. Each day brings new revelations of His love and moves me to please Him by obedience to the light that He has given.

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

I may not be a man but I am a child of God and this promise is for me as well. This is what He will do for all who are open to His invitation to "Come and follow Me."

Pastor Sean I just realized that you quoted the exact same passage. Each morning as I am reading I am visualizing our group reading and wondering what words of inspiration is grabbing their attention. The Holy Spirit moves us in different areas but there are times when He brings us together with the same impressions and thoughts. That should tell us something of the importance God puts on that particular truth.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 05, 2018, 04:07:27 AM

Apart from Christ, even what we may profess to do in His service is fruitless. In what sense? Without a full surrender to Him and a continual union and communion of our souls with Jesus, we are severed from the Holy Spirit who alone can produce genuine love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, goodness, faith and temperance. Not one of these fruits of the divine nature will be missing when we live by faith on Christ. What a beautiful example of this is seen when the disciples experienced Jesus' presence with them on the lake at the time He called them to leave their nets and become fishers of men. To follow the call God has on our lives, we are in a continual need of Jesus to abide in our hearts by faith! 

"During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope." {The Desire of Ages, page 249, paragraph 2}
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 30, 2018, 02:28:10 AM

Love is wholly efficient for God to use us! When Christ's love fills our souls, we long to find creative ways to express that love in service and blessing of those around us. When we have Christ living in us by faith, all of the fruits of the Spirit are seen in our lives without one missing as we gladly follow in the path of obedience, counting duty a delight and sacrifice a pleasure! The path that before seemed shrouded in darkness becomes bright with the beams that come from Jesus, the "Sun of Righteousness" (Malachi 4:2). Jesus' light makes clear our soul darkness by nature (the flesh), and our continual need of His heavenly illumination for us to do any good thing (as we become partakers of the divine nature!). I cleave to Jesus today that He may work in and through me even more effectively, and that others may be encouraged to know the power of the living Savior! We can have a living testimony of His grace today! Will you join me in letting the love of Jesus work in and through you by His Spirit? There is no greater joy this side of heaven!

 "He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on September 30, 2018, 09:31:08 PM

Amen!  He who loves God most has seen His love most. It is the goodness of God that leadeth to repentance.

     Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, "My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength." So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty. 

We are saved by grace. Grace is God's greatness and majesty. Isaiah and Daniel beheld divine holiness, the glory of the Lord. We all may behold His glory, His greatness and majesty. It is God's desire that we receive a baptism of the Holy Spirit that we might fall on our faces as did Daniel and Isaiah. Grace is more than a word, it is the power that transforms sinners into saint.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on December 26, 2018, 06:00:01 AM

  "During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope.       

The deeper lesson which the miracle conveyed for the disciples is a lesson for us also,--that He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become "fishers of men." "

I love the inspiring lessons given to us through the Bible and SOP. They bring such courage to my soul when facing discouraging circumstances and supposed failures. That's the work of Satan but Jesus wants us to keep our eyes on Him so that we will not put obstacles in His way for the work He wants to do in us and through us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 26, 2018, 06:43:48 AM

Amen, Dorine! Jesus is ever at work to inspire our souls with faith and hope, to look above the questions and circumstances of commonplace life to the things that are spiritual and eternal. I love how John the Beloved disciple models to us a life of true sanctification, of being so in love with Jesus that meditating upon His loveliness became John's chief focus as Jesus transformed his character. May we also enjoy such an experience!!

"It is not the highest work of education to communicate knowledge merely, but to impart that vitalizing energy which is received through the contact of mind with mind, and soul with soul. It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world! Above all his companions, John the beloved disciple yielded himself to the power of that wondrous life. He says, 'The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.' 'Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.' 1 John 1:2; John 1:16." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 2}

May we remember if we give Bible studies or share truth that our highest work is not just to "get the information across," but, like Jesus to convey and impart the vitalizing energy found as our souls are imbued with His Spirit (and not one the the fruits of the Spirit will be missing if we are living by faith on the Son of God), and that will in turn have a transforming effect on the people we share Jesus with, so their hearts and minds may also partake of the divine nature! Let us go forth to impart this WONDROUS LIFE!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on March 22, 2019, 08:12:03 PM

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands  were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one."[/color]

There is much truth to the saying..." God does not necessarily call "the qualified" ( according to socially acceptable and recognized human Degrees and Titles ) He "Qualifies" the one's that He has called through the Power of the Holy Spirit and thus each one of us can be used for His Glory " IF WE ARE WILLING"  

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves.  It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."

The U.S. Marines have a motto that goes like this  "Semper Fidelis"  which means "always faithful" in Latin. When we become members of the family of God we also promise to Honor and Defend the One who died for us. We sing " Onward Christian Soldiers " Let us remember what a high honor we have been called to and be faithful to execute the commands of our Leader - Jesus Christ thereby bringing Honor & Glory to Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 23, 2019, 03:31:33 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

As we realize how sinful, weak, and erring we really are in the light of Calvary's cross, as we compare our lives to the divine, unchanging standard of God's holy law and the perfect example of Jesus, let us not despair to think that God cannot transform us fully into His image! It was sinners Christ came to save, and it is erring people that He loves to use in His service if we are willing to be made willing, and learn of Him! As we think of the transformation God brought about in His disciples, we can remember that God loves to do an infinite work through finite vessels. Then, the glory can only go to God, who alone can miraculously transform sinful, erring people into converted, consecrated agencies for sharing the gospel of His grace. Thus our great need is this vital connection with Christ, whereby every impulse of our nature is brought under the divine influence of the Holy Spirit; the heart and mind are renewed by divine grace as the Holy Spirit reveals through the fully surrendered soul love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance so not one of these fruits of the Spirit is missing! This miracle leads to a willing, affectionate obedience to do the will of God in any area to which God may call us. As Jesus called the disciples, so today He is calling you and me to serve Him and love Him with all the heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. With Christ on the throne of our hearts, this will be our delight!!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

May you be blessed to remember how Jesus has led in your life. He is working such great miracles in hearts yielded to Him!! Happy Sabbath!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on March 23, 2019, 06:51:55 AM

"Men of the highest education in the arts and sciences have learned precious lessons from Christians in humble life who were designated by the world as unlearned. But these obscure disciples had obtained an education in the highest of all schools. They had sat at the feet of Him who spoke as "never man spake."

Not everyone can afford to attend the worldly schools of highest education but the highest education one can receive is free to all. Admission requirements are to believe the lessons being taught and to follow the greatest professor the world has ever known. To witness rough common and uneducated men changed into self-controlled, caring and very knowledgeable men was a witness no one could deny. Jesus still uses such men. I can't help but think of Doug Bachelor.

If there are still areas in our lives that are not as they should be we need to spend time in the presence of God so that we too will be overwhelmed with the contrast between ourselves and the Majesty of heaven. We too will fall to our knees as did Peter and exclaim "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." This applies to women as well. I was impressed with how Peter hung on to Jesus as he said these words. Are we willing to hang on to Jesus as did Jacob and refuse to let go until we are blessed?

Once again I've been so blessed by the reading of this chapter and spending that thoughtful hour with Jesus. Happy Sabbath to all.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on March 23, 2019, 07:23:08 AM

Amen dear Sister!  When we spend time studying the life of Christ, we will then have a  true standard by which we may measure our character. We then will indeed fall on our faces and pray for wisdom and grace.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on March 24, 2019, 06:05:29 AM

"Jesus had nothing to do with the various subjects of dissension among the Jews. It was His work to present the truth. His words shed a flood of light upon the teachings of patriarchs and prophets, and the Scriptures came to men as a new revelation. Never before had His hearers perceived such a depth of meaning in the word of God."
[/b]
Isaiah 8:20 says,,,"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." We need to be led by the Spirit of God and not get caught up in controversy within the ranks of Christianity and more specifically within the ranks of our own church.  Remember that when the devil tempted Jesus, He was victorious base on the theme of  " IT IS WRITTEN " Then the Holy Spirit will guide the listener to a deeper understanding which leads to truth..

"Jesus met the people on their own ground, as one who was acquainted with their perplexities. He made truth beautiful by presenting it in the most direct and simple way. His language was pure, refined, and clear as a running stream. His voice was as music to those who had listened to the monotonous tones of the rabbis. But while His teaching was simple, He spoke as one having authority.This characteristic set His teaching in contrast with that of all others."

It has been my privilege to conduct several funeral services for families that were not of our faith and each time they heard a solid truth filled message several of the ones present came up to me after the service and told me they had never heard such a comforting message based on the Word of God. It was a humbling experience and made me realize even more what a wonderful treasure we hold in our hands when we and have opportunities to share with others God's truth filled messages. I encourage all you reading this blog day by day to adapt this motto. If God said it - I believe it, and that's good enough for me "

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on June 17, 2019, 05:28:21 PM

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one."
     
Jesus invites us to come - Just as we are and experience His Mercy, Grace & Forgiveness - Come Today and be Transformed before it's Too Late.

Verse #1
Just as I am, without one plea,                                         
But that thy blood was she'd for me,
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Verse #2
Just as I am, and waiting not,
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Verse #3
Just as I am, tho' tossed about,
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings within and fears without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Verse #4
Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind,
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Verse #5
Just as I am, Thou wilt recieve,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve,
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Verse #6
Just as I am, Thy love unknown,
Hath broken every barrier down;
Now to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 18, 2019, 02:06:56 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

As we come to Christ just as we are, we can be VERY ENCOURAGED to see what God's grace did for men like Peter and Elijah, and know that God is so willing to remove the dross of self from our lives so we can have the pure gold of Christ's loveliness wrought out in us by a living faith surrender. I am so thankful God leads us through situations that let us see our CONTINUAL NEED of Jesus so we learn to cultivate self-distrust and instead have complete confidence in Christ. Spending this precious time at the feet of Jesus--this is where the healing and transformation really takes place!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

As I was reading last night (and I re-read it this morning), I am struck by how God worked to purify Elijah's character, and I pray you will also be blessed by this thought:

"In Elijah we see the natural elements of his character revealed amid the spiritual life, commingling together in strange confusion; the grace of God and the impulses and passions of the natural man, each striving for the supremacy. The human is being tried in the furnace and the dross is revealed, impurity is brought to the surface, but the trial of Elijah is a scene that all Heaven was looking upon at that time with deep solicitude. The fine gold appears in his character, the dross is lost sight of and consumed. This must be our individual experience in God’s own way." – {The 1888 Ellen G. White Materials, page 490, paragraph 2}

I really relate to Elijah in a lot of ways. As I think of how it can be easy to ride the waves of emotion, I am SO THANKFUL that Elijah's experience is chronicled, and that we can learn from the lives of those who have struggled through experiences that have taught them their continual need of Christ. Elijah was not commissioned by God to flee from Jezebel, and Peter didn't need to deny Christ. But we can learn from how they fell under temptation, learned the lesson, and then overcame again as they experientially realized the grace of God and surrendered fully to Christ. Wherever you are in the character building experience, I pray that you will find hope to overcome all of your hereditary and cultivated tendencies that are unlike Jesus as you let Him work in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. The result is nothing short of a beautiful miracle--the weakest soul clinging to Jesus experiences a new heart and a new mind imbued with all of the fruits of the Holy Spirit without one missing, and is enabled to put self aside for the winning of souls. What could be more important than this final hour mission as Jesus is about to come in glory? Let us arise and shine by letting Jesus dispel the darkness of whatever we are struggling with, so we can have the joy of being in the center of the will of God!
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on June 18, 2019, 06:35:55 AM

Amen Pastor Sean. It is a continual battle against the flesh. We do not have and will not have "holy" flesh until Jesus comes. It is only through the indwelling Christ that we can resist the smallest temptation to sin. Therefore, all sinners, as Brother Beacon has pointed out, must come to Jesus just as we are. We have time to learn of Christ and our need of Him. God does not blot us out in  a moment. He loves us and is wise and gentle in bringing us up higher and higher. But, this does not mean that we are saved in sin. John puts it like this: "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1.

Jesus is our Mediator that provides us with a period of probation where we can learn to quit sinning by clinging to Christ our only hope.

  In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on June 18, 2019, 06:55:07 AM

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient." {DA 250.3} 

These chapters in this book should bring such strength and courage to anyone who may feel unworthy of God's love. He poured out His life for all and as we humbly come to Him each day He will create in us new thoughts, motives and desires. He is no different today than when He lived on earth. When we read of what Jesus accomplished in the lives of the disciples and the promise to do the same for all who are teachable and obedient, it should fill us with humility and enthusiasm as we let Him do the work He wants to do in our lives.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on September 11, 2019, 04:41:41 AM

When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.

As I read these few words this morning I was deeply moved because I want my life to be such that others will know that I have been with Jesus. I want to be like Him in mind and character. All Jesus needs is a humble willing heart and He will do mighty things in our lives. What a testimony a changed life is to the world, of the power of God.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on September 11, 2019, 08:28:48 AM

Amen Dear Sister Dorine!  And how do we get this humble willing heart? This is the all important question. What must I do to be saved? How can I be changed, transformed in character? This answer is revealed in the change in Peter's heart as he beheld Christ.

This miracle, above any other he had ever witnessed, was to him a manifestation of divine power. In Jesus he saw One who held all nature under His control. The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 

It was not the miracle in and of itself that caused Peter to see his need of Jesus. It was the sense of his "uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity" that broke his heart. So it will be with all who behold the loveliness of Jesus. It would be well to spend a thoughtful hour each day witnessing the life of Christ.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 11, 2019, 10:00:22 AM

Amen, Brother Richard and Sister Dorine!

By beholding Christ we see our great need of Him as our Savior as we will see our own sinfulness in contrast. Such a revelation of our need of Jesus moves us to surrender all to Him, so we may become transformed in mind and character!

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 1}

Becoming like Jesus is a great miracle that happens in such a simple way--spending time with Him, contemplating His life and lessons, communing with Him in prayer, and sharing what we have learned of Him with others. May you have a transformational experience with Jesus who renews us by His will and word is my prayer! 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on December 05, 2019, 03:02:06 PM

"Continual devotion established so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."
 
"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves.  It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient...Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time."

Do you long to be a more consistent loyal messenger for Jesus? His promise to us is recorded in Matthew 7:7-12...

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on December 06, 2019, 06:36:09 AM

In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.  {DA 250.3}

What a Saviour. When Jesus has our hearts He is able to give us abilities we never knew were possible. As we walk in the path of His direction there is no limit to what He will do for us. The disciples are a perfect example of what God is desiring to do for each of us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 06, 2019, 01:52:56 PM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!

God loves to use humble instrumentalities that it may be evident that the power working in and through them is the result of His Spirit! As we see our great need, God will more than supply all our necessities!

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."  {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 3} 

To be teachable and obedient is not natural to fallen humanity. Fallen human beings are naturally proud and self-sufficient. How may we become teachable and obedient? It is the result of beholding the loveliness of Jesus in contrast to our sinfulness, and yet seeing our great need, being filled with hope that Jesus wants to use even you and me as His witnesses. Yielding the whole heart to Christ, we allow Him to recreate us into His image by a continual surrender of our will to Him. The witness for which He longs are hearts and minds fully imbued with His Spirit revealing the divine nature in the attributes of the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. All of these traits of character without one missing are manifest in a truly converted life--and that life has no limits, for it is a life connected to Jesus Christ, the Vine!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 02, 2020, 04:16:45 AM

Don't wait to make yourself better--come to Christ just as you are. As you behold Him in all of His exceedingly great loveliness, and as you see your sinfulness, let your heart yield unreservedly to His supernatural grace which has power to convert you into a new creature whose life is brought into harmony with the law of love by being imbued with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing. This is a great miracle, but it is available to all who look upon Christ and accept His Spirit to transform the soul into His image! Character is developed by degrees, and slowly, steadily, and without fail we are becoming like what we behold. Let us look continually to Christ so that what He has begun, He may complete by a mature revelation of His character in us so we may be safe to take directly to heaven when He comes so very soon! By His grace, all things are possible!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

The fruit Christ desires so much is a revelation of Himself in His people, that that image of His love may be reproduced in others! Let the light of His grace shine in your life today!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on March 02, 2020, 06:21:10 AM

Amen Pastor Sean!  Perfection of Christian character is a mystery in the church, but it ought not be. The thief on the cross obtained perfection of character and was promised that he would be in heaven with Jesus. Then, where is the growth of character? All of the fruits of the Spirit were given to the repentant thief, not one was missing. He was ready for heaven. But, God wants more from you and me. He wants a greater abundance of the fruits. Not more in number, but in strength of each fruit. He wants to make us more loving, more patient. He will not allow to be tempted beyond what we can bear, but He will allow us to be tempted at a higher level. This is the life of Christians, that we may more perfectly reflect our Savior's character. Yes, "more" perfectly, even though the character is already perfect. This is something foreign to our thinking that after obtaining perfection, there is room for more perfection. Perfect at each stage of development, just as the plant is perfect at each stage of growth. And at times, it is through suffering that we are strengthened, just as was Jesus. He learned obedience though the things He suffered, yet He was always obedient. Peter saw his sinfulness also.

We see this in today's reading as we contemplate the prayer of Daniel when he included himself in the prayer. Was it because Daniel was sinning he pleaded for forgiveness? No. He was already repentant. Then why include himself? Peter when aware of the majesty of Christ's character, had a standard by which he could better see his own deficiencies of character.

The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."
     It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, "My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength." So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on March 02, 2020, 04:50:49 PM

"When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy.

"Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty."

May our conversation in song and praise ever... be NOT I BUT CHRIST....

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.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 28, 2020, 05:32:31 AM

Covid-19 has brought a range of emotions for so many; fear, discouragement, frustration, loss, sadness, loneliness, and many other struggles are affecting people as we are all facing a world that is not the same. Jesus understands the struggles of every one of our souls. He Himself knew the difficulties we would face in the last days, but He has promised His presence with us! "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

The disciples also went through times of struggle and trial, and it was when they felt separated from Jesus that their hearts became discouraged. Oh, let us learn even in this global pandemic to allow Jesus to abide in our hearts and give us His joy even amid great tribulation! "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience" (James 1:2-3).

"During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope." {The Desire of Ages, page 249, paragraph 2}

Let us look above the present difficulty to Christ who knows no defeat, and to a Savior who will work all things together for good to them that love Him! As we yield the whole heart to Him, He fills us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! We gladly may go where He sends us in the joy of His abiding presence! Jesus has given us a commission and it will be fulfilled as we look to Him for guidance! "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen" (Matthew 28:18-20). Praise the Lord for such words of hope!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on May 28, 2020, 01:07:48 PM

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness."

Isn't that a GREAT PROMISE!! - Under the Guidance of the Holy Spirit 'WE CAN BE TRANSFORMED'...Into a fit vessel for God to use!!

"Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

Matthew 7:7-8 King James Version "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Is it not an AWESOME PRIVILEGE to be called to stand and witness for our Jesus at such a time as this!! 

Are You - Am I - Willing??

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on August 23, 2020, 06:45:07 AM

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves.  It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient...

Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time."

Do you long to be a more consistent loyal messenger for Jesus? His promise to us is recorded in Matthew 7:7-12...

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 23, 2020, 08:03:32 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

God sees the end from the beginning. It is so encouraging to remember that Jesus thought of us when He was in His ministry on earth!

"Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time." {The Desire of Ages, page 245, paragraph 3}

Let Jesus speak lasting peace to your heart--a peace that passes all understanding in the trials and tribulations of this moral life that will soon be swallowed up in glory by the coming of Jesus! As we yield the whole heart to Christ He cleanses us from sin by His atoning blood, imparts to us a living union and communion with Him by the Holy Spirit, and empowers us to happily obey God's law of love!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 18, 2020, 07:35:19 AM

Be encouraged! Connect your life in complete surrender to Jesus and press onward and upward in God's appointed plan for your life!

"During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope." {The Desire of Ages, page 249, paragraph 2}   

Christ will give a converted heart, filling us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we surrender fully and continually to Him and become partakers of the divine nature! Then like the disciples Jesus first called, we may be encouraged to go forward to win souls to His kingdom!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on November 18, 2020, 09:13:12 AM

Amen Pastor Sean! Jesus will make all who love Him supremely fishers of men!

The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone.
     Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.
     It is not the highest work of education to communicate knowledge merely, but to impart that vitalizing energy which is received through the contact of mind with mind, and soul with soul. It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world! Above all his companions, John the beloved disciple yielded himself to the power of that wondrous life. He says, "The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us." "Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace." 1 John 1:2; John 1:16.
     In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient. 
     He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good.

I encourage all to prayerfully re-read this statement of truth.  Then go to this week's Sabbath School lesson and teach what you have learned. There is great need for instruction by those who understand what is written. Don't take for granted that the leaders in our church are teaching the truth. Many are, but many more are not. If you are truly converted, then God has made you fishers of men and that work begins in the church. This coming Sabbath, your Sabbath School class needs to hear what we have just read. There are many, very many who Jesus wants to make fishers of men.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on November 19, 2020, 06:10:57 AM

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself.

They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient..

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 13, 2021, 03:28:53 AM

Happy Sabbath! Limitless and infinite possibilities of service to the glory of God are spread out before us as we surrender ALL to Him and let Christ come live in our hearts by grace through faith so that all of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives without one missing! The blood of Christ cleanses us from all sin as we confess and forsake our sins and choose Jesus on a moment-by-moment basis in the blessing of constant union and communion with Christ!

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Let us go forth to be a blessing today in all the ways of God's providential leading!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on February 13, 2021, 05:54:34 AM

"The deeper lesson which the miracle conveyed for the disciples is a lesson for us also,--that He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become "fishers of men."

Let this thought enlarge our understanding and imagination to where our faith will not fail but will take hold of Christ in every seemingly hopeless situation.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on February 13, 2021, 06:35:28 AM

"If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions,

He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels....

..If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.."

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God.

Will you join with me in telling Jesus that we are 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!

Lyrics:Judson W. Van de Venter (1855-1939)
Music:Winfield Scott Weeden (1847-1908)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on February 13, 2021, 08:08:27 AM

I am always amazed and blessed as I read your posts. The Holy Spirit is leading us into unity of doctrine!

What is the subject of today's reading? Is it not the desire of Jesus to make us fishers of men? It is His work to do so. He came to teach us how it is that we can join in His work of saving the lost. I would like to pick just one paragraph as we usually do, but today I cannot. It is too important that we get the whole message that we might be able to not only be fishers of men, but are able to teach others how to be used by God to save the lost.

  God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him.

We see this in today's reading that He had called the eleven, but that does not mean they were immediately fishers of men or that they were even converted. Did they love God with the whole heart when Jesus chose them? We know that they often did not, as we saw at the last supper when all were vying for the highest place, and later that night all forsook Him.

So, we now see that Jesus chose them that He might "educate them for His service."  But, it required something on the part of those whom He chooses. They must "yield themselves to Him."  They all did except for Judas who He did not call. But, it did not happen in one day or even a few. It took some time for them to be consistent in their yielding. They must first see that they were evil by nature and needed Jesus all the time, not just part of the time.

Isaiah, Daniel, and Peter all experienced this, and so must we, and all who are to become fishers of men.

    The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 

Jesus cannot come until He has a people who reflect His character and cease sinning. In order for this to happen, He needs fishers of men who will teach as He taught.

     It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.  Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus.

Not only self-renunciation, but we must come to see our "dependence upon divine power" in order to do any good thing and be fishers of men who will be dependent upon divine power also. This divine power will not only keep us from sinning and bringing reproach upon Jesus, it will provide for our needs, all of them. Not our wants, but our needs to do the work we are called to do.

    Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs.

Do we believe this? When in a hard spot and we do not know which way to turn to feed our families or pay the gas bill, do we believe God will provide? Or has "unbelief" caused us to fear?  How does "unbelief" enter into the mind of those seeking to serve God? We let our minds wander away from Jesus. If we would keep our focus on God, then we would not fail Him.

     During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power.

It takes time to be trained by Jesus to become successful fishers of men. Christ is patient as we see He was with His disciples. After three and a half years, they still did not understand Jesus had to die to pay the price for their sins. Peter attempted to stop Jesus from going to Jerusalem to die after these three and a half years of training. Yet, even though they all forsook Him, He did not forsake them. Neither will He be impatient with us. He is long-suffering with us, as we all can testify. He came to save us, not to destroy us. He is daily encouraging us. And, He wants us to be successful fishers of men, no matter who we are, where we come from, or how we have been educated. It is the heart that He wants, all of it. Then He will make fishers of men even if uneducated.

    He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become "fishers of men." 

And not only you and me, but when we are fishing for the souls of men, who is it that convicts them of sin, righteousness, and judgment? Is it not the power of God, the Holy Spirit opening the mind of sinners to truth, to the Truth? It is God that reveals His character of love to those we are fishing for. And, we are to be His witnesses of that power to change sinners into saints. We must live what it is that we are preaching to the fish we seek to save. We must reveal His character to a world soon to perish.

     When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.

My dear brothers and sisters who are reading what we post, be encouraged that Jesus will continue to train you as He did His disciples. If we will continue learning of Him, He shall continue revealing Himself to us. And, by beholding His glory, His character, we shall be transformed into His image (His character). It is an intellectual and a spiritual truth that be beholding we become changed. The mind will adapt itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell. This is a Biblical truth. "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord." 2 Cor. 3:18.

Even conversion takes time. It is the end of a long protracted process of wooing by the Holy Spirit that ends in loving God with all we have and all we are. Be encouraged that God will continue until we are a light on a hill revealing the love that God has for all who are yet sinners.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 11, 2021, 03:36:04 AM

Grace from God takes us as we are, and grace from God transforms us into His image! By beholding the loveliness of Jesus, the heart and mind are brought into union and communion with God through complete surrender to Christ so that all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing may be manifest in and through the life that is hid with Christ in God! What wondrous love that God is willing to use us and make us like Him in mind and character so we can gladly obey God's law of love!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

The fruits of the Spirit as well as souls redeemed are the fruit of letting God work out His purpose through us! May this be your experience today on a moment-by-moment basis in Jesus' surrender wrought out through your life!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on May 11, 2021, 05:21:44 AM

Amen Pastor Sean. I too was impressed with these inspiring words.

I was also encouraged by the following quote.

During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope.

We need to live in the presence of Jesus moment by moment every day to experience the love, joy and peace that comes from following Him. That's exactly what happens every morning as we follow Him in our reading for the day. His love, grace and power are so evident that it sweeps away the cobwebs of doubt and discontent. He is our all in all and we can rejoice in our joys and tribulations because we know He is leading us in the path that is best for us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on May 11, 2021, 07:02:25 AM

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His co-laborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself."

"They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good."

"During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success."

"So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur.

But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on May 11, 2021, 09:06:30 PM

We are in unity of Spirit and doctrine. If we will cling to Jesus, we can move mountains if God wants us to! When we know Him as it is our privilege to know Him, we shall love Him as Peter did when he would not let Him go. We remember it was Jacob that refused to let Him go also.

Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.

Let us renounce self that we might be about our Father's business!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on August 06, 2021, 04:48:07 AM

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."

We have all the evidence needed to have complete trust in Jesus. Like Peter and other bible characters we should fall at the feet of Jesus daily recognizing our sinful natures compared to the ultimate purity of Jesus and although feeling totally unworthy of His grace we hang on to Him tightly realizing our great need of Him.  Then we will be ready for Jesus to make us successful fishers of men by His power. We must let down the net but He controls the results.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on August 06, 2021, 05:52:49 AM

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time."

"They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men."

"The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties."


"It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself.  Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured.

"They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus. In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God."

"The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."

According to Bible Prophecy we are now living in the "Time of the End" and God is looking for and needing men & women to proclaim with Holy Boldness earth's last warning message. The question we need to ask ourselves is...Are we willing to be teachable and obedient messengers for Jesus the One who went to Calvary for us?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Philip T on August 06, 2021, 08:30:04 AM

   But Peter was unmindful now of boats or lading. This miracle, above any other he had ever witnessed, was to him a manifestation of divine power. In Jesus he saw One who held all nature under His control. The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 06, 2021, 01:29:16 PM

Praise the Lord for these posts!!

Let God use you just as you are as you let Him change you into the image of who He is--selfless love!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

May you rejoice in Jesus constantly! He knows what is best for your life! Surrender all to Him and He will guide you continually!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on August 06, 2021, 09:55:57 PM

Amen Pastor Sean, precisely my thoughts!!

Is it not amazing any more that we are truly understanding  what the Holy Spirit is speaking to us? I am not amazed any more. I expect that you all are being taught by God, not by man. God will empower us to give honor and glory to Him if we will give Him the whole heart. How do we give honor and glory to God? We manifest His character no matter what others may say. This is our great desire, to vindicate His character of love and justice. Have a blessed Sabbath to all who take time to read in this forum where we are learning daily more and more of the character of our Savior and His (and our) heavenly Father.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on October 31, 2021, 11:36:22 PM

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured ."

"They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus. In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves."

"It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God."

"The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."

According to Bible Prophecy we are now living in the "Time of the End" and God is looking for and needing men & women to proclaim with Holy Boldness earth's last warning message. The question we need to ask ourselves is...Are we willing to be teachable and obedient messengers for Jesus the One who went to Calvary for us?

May this song below be "Our Prayer".

"Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
For me, You were mocked and crucified;
For me, willingly You bled and died.
Lord, my life and love I willingly outpour
And will serve You evermore.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
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.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 01, 2021, 05:39:03 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

Praise the Lord for God's grace! What would life be like without grace? Without grace, we would perish! Oh, what wondrous love in how Jesus takes us as we are but does not leave us the way He finds us! As we behold the loveliness of His character, we can rejoice to surrender fully to Him and be truly converted, so that all of the fruits of the Spirit without on missing will be in our lives! Then we can truly affectionately obey God as He invites us to in His law because He first loved us!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

Jesus will bear much fruit through us--not just our characters reflecting Him, but others coming to Christ in true conversion! May you let others see Jesus at work in your heart and life today by the power of the Holy Spirit!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on November 01, 2021, 07:14:22 AM

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one."

This chapter is full of promises that will inspire all who believe to trust our Lord completely. We are so blessed and privileged to be partakers of His divine nature. When we like Peter realize our own helpless, unworthy condition compared to the perfect life of Jesus we too will fall at His feet in humble surrender and gratitude. I am truly blessed this morning through the reading of this chapter again. To be taught by Jesus is the highest form of education for this world and the next.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on November 01, 2021, 09:08:00 PM

Amen my dear friends! God loves us and by His grace give us power to reflect His character. What a miracle!! And, He is bringing us into not only unity of Spirit, but unity of doctrine!

  In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.  {DA 250.3}
     He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on January 26, 2022, 08:14:14 PM

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured ."


"The mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God."


"The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness."

"Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character."


"Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced."

"He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

The "CALL BY THE SEA" Is still being made to each of us in our current generation. Our daily prayers should express, with humility, the wonderful privilege extended to each of us, to be called upon by our Saviour to extend to those who have not heard "THE GOOD NEWS " about God's Wonderful Forgiving and Empowering Love and Grace. Will you join with me in saying.. Here Am I Lord - Send Me?  

Earthly pleasures vainly call me,
  I would be like Jesus;
Nothing worldly shall enthrall me,
  I would be like Jesus.
    Be like Jesus, this my song,
  In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus, all day long!
    I would be like Jesus.
2
He has broken every fetter,
  I would be like Jesus;
That my soul may serve Him better,
  I would be like Jesus.
3
All the way from earth to glory,
  I would be like Jesus;
Telling o’er and o’er the story,
  I would be like Jesus.

Lyrics:James Rowe (1866-1933)
Music:Bentley DeForest Ackley (1872-1958)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on January 27, 2022, 05:16:29 AM

"Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman's boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time."

Oh such peace enters my heart as I read these words this morning. In His divinity He saw and knew you and me way back then. He knew our trials and temptations and as He spoke to the people on the shore that day He is also speaking to each of us. He wants us to know Him, trust Him, love Him and share what we have learned from the Master teacher. It's not alone what we say that will win hearts but it's how we live our life. Does it reflect the image of the One we represent?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 27, 2022, 05:57:22 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!! Hallelujah for Jesus who is speaking to us today!!

Don’t look at yourself and give up! Look at your Savior, and look up! He sees infinite potential with your life! As you trust Him, surrender the whole heart to Hin, and live by grace through faith upon Him as an all-powerful Savior, He can transform you into His image and equip you for eternal service! The result of such a miraculous transformation of character is that all of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in your life, and not one will be missing!

“God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God.” {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

Bearing much fruit to the glory of God—winning many souls to Jesus—there is no greater joy this side of heaven! May you today go forth by the power of the great commission, in consecrated service to Jesus! As our heavenly high priest, He is about to return as our victorious King! 😊🙏

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on January 27, 2022, 11:04:22 AM

It is such a blessing to find my friends sharing the power of grace to transform us daily into the image of God. Why do I sound like a broken record? Because for 35 years I have not heard this coming from human lips.  Even today, I am surprised that after presenting the power of grace to transform sinners into saints, how difficult it is help others see this wonderful truth. Like Jesus in attempting to share with His disciples that the Lamb must suffer and die that they might live, too must be patient for many cannot bear too much at one time.

     They were humble and unlearned men, those fishers of Galilee; but Christ, the light of the world, was abundantly able to qualify them for the position for which He had chosen them. The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone.
     Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.  

Yes, their character was changed, His character was "imparted" to them. Such a miracle!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on April 23, 2022, 08:02:34 PM

"The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ."

"This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools."

"It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone."

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work."

"In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men.""

"The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties."

"It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself."

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher."

Is it your desire and mine to be co-laborers with Jesus? To be empowered by the Holy Spirit, and to proclaim God's Final Message of Invitation, before the door of mercy will forever closed?

"NOW IS THE TIME " TO STAND -UP FOR JESUS!  AS TRUE SOLDIERS OF THE CROSS "

==================
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  Ye soldiers of the cross;
Lift high His royal banner,
  It must not suffer loss:
From vict’ry unto vict’ry
  His army shall He lead,
Till every foe is vanquished
  And Christ is Lord indeed.
    Stand up for Jesus
Ye soldiers of the cross;
Lift high His royal banner,
  It must not, it must not suffer loss.
2
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  The trumpet call obey;
Forth to the mighty conflict
  In this His glorious day.
Ye that are men, now serve Him
  Against unnumbered foes;
Let courage rise with danger.
  And strength to strength oppose.
3
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  Stand in His strength alone;
The arm of flesh will fail you;
  Ye dare not trust your own.
Put on the Gospel armor,
  And, watching unto prayer,
Where duty calls, or danger,
  Be never wanting there.
4
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  The strife will not be long:
This day the noise of battle,
  The next the victor’s song;
To him that overcometh
  A crown of life shall be;
He, with the King of glory,
  Shall reign eternally.

Lyrics:George Duffield (1818-1888)
Music:Adam Geibel (1855-1933)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on April 24, 2022, 07:30:41 AM

Amen my dear brother! If we wish to be teachers, we must first be good students taught by Jesus Himself. Such a privilege!  Jesus wants to give us a character like His.

    God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on July 19, 2022, 08:00:16 PM

"The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust."

"Then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ."

"This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools."

"It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone."

"They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable."

Men whom He could educate for His work.

"In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men."

"The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties."

"It was such men that Jesus called to be His co-laborers."

"He gave them the advantage of association with Himself."

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher."


"When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."


"Now they were enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

"The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools."

"It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone."
     
"They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men.

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher. "

"When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."

Could it not also be said of us today?  "If We Were Willing"  to spend at least one hour a day of our time with Jesus? Remember my dear brothers and sisters in Jesus..He who fails to prepare, prepares to fail. We must not let the things of this world crowed out our time with Jesus. "Jesus said..." Without Me Ye Can Do Nothing."

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


1
Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the morning hours;
Work while the dew is sparkling,
Work ’mid springing flowers;
Work when the day grows brighter,
Work in the glowing sun;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man’s work is done.
2
Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the sunny noon;
Fill brightest hours with labor,
Rest comes sure and soon.
Give every flying minute,
Something to keep in store;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man works no more.
3
Work, for the night is coming,
Under the sunset skies;
While their bright tints are glowing,
Work, for daylight flies.
Work till the last beam fadeth,
Fadeth to shine no more;
Work, while the night is darkening,
When man’s work is o’er.

Lyrics:Anna Louisa Walker Coghill (1836-1907)
Music:Lowell Mason (1792-1872)
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 20, 2022, 04:41:13 AM

Praise the Lord, and amen, Brother Beacon!!

When you go through a difficult season, remember who is right there to help you look up--it is Jesus!! He desires to inspire your heart with faith, hope and love and empower you to do more than you thought was possible because the Holy Spirit will imbue your soul with His very divine nature!! All of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be in your life and character as long as you stay connected to the Source of life--Jesus Christ and Him crucified!! Then affectionate obedience becomes the focus of life--to do as much as possible in harmony with the present truth for this time (proclaiming the three angels' messages while living in preparation for translation)!

"During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope." {The Desire of Ages, page 249, paragraph 2} 

Don't listen to Satan who wants you to stay away from Christ because of your past sins. Look up to Christ and move forward in faith in His providential leadings!! Jesus has great plans for you that will glorify His name and clothe you in humility!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on July 20, 2022, 09:14:59 AM

What amazing truth is revealed in this chapter!!  The subject? How Christ develops character in those who love the Lord our God with the whole heart. My brothers have shared how they have seen this. I liked this:

 God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

There is no reason to be discouraged. Jesus is inspiring us to love and follow Him!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on October 14, 2022, 08:17:23 PM

"Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God."

"The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness."

 "Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character."

"Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views."

"His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced."

"He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

Lord Jesus...I pray that...By Your Holy Spirit, You will enable me to be a true Fisher of Men!!

================================
1
Would you be free from your burden of sin?
  There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o’er evil a victory win?
  There’s wonderful power in the blood.
    There is power, power, wonder-working power,
  In the blood of the Lamb;
There is power, power, wonder-working power,
    In the precious blood of the Lamb.
2
Would you be free from your passion and pride?
  There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Come for a cleansing to Calvary’s tide,
  There’s wonderful power in the blood.
3
Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow?
  There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Sin-stains are lost in its life-giving flow,
  There’s wonderful power in the blood.
4
Would you do service for Jesus your King?
  There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you live daily His praises to sing?
  There’s wonderful power in the blood.

Lyrics & Music by Lewis Ellis Jones (1865-1936)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on October 15, 2022, 04:44:12 AM

Amen dear Brother!!  There is indeed power in the blood. How does this work? When the sinner brought his innocent lamb and ran the knife across his throat, he understood that the warm blood running across his hands pointed the suffering and death of Jesus. That warm blood was to be the point of self surrender as the sinner understood Jesus would die because of his sins. That warm blood was understood to be the blood of Jesus on account of our sins. Such love for us while we were yet sinners.

   Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus. 

Amen!! We too will become like Jesus in "mind and character" if we will learn of Him who gave all that we might live.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on October 15, 2022, 04:51:27 AM

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.  {DA 250.3}      He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one."

We may look to Jesus for the same transformation that we witness in the disciples. God's power and desire to do the same for those who forsake all for Him is with us now and to the end. If any are holding back through fear or discouragement, look up and cling to Jesus just as Peter did when he realized his own unworthiness. Jesus takes the unpromising and makes them fishers of men. We may see and have the same experience if we too are teachable and obedient. Another amazing chapter to uplift the soul and bring courage to all.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 15, 2022, 06:19:53 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon, Brother Richard, and Sister Dorine!!

Happy Sabbath!! When we have Jesus living in us by surrendering fully to Him, what will take place in our lives?

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Jesus will reveal through us all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we are truly converted and yield fully to His divine grace! Christ in us the hope of glory will be blessing others through us as we grow in His love! Rejoicing in the Lord may be our continual experience of victory as we overcome in Him!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on January 09, 2023, 08:01:29 PM

"In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men."

"The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties."

"It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers."

"He gave them the advantage of association with Himself."

"Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured."
 
"They had become like Him in mind and character."

"Men then took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus."

Can that be said about "US? " Are "WE" sitting at the feet of Jesus Every Day? A car will not start unless the battery is "Charged" I want Jesus to walk with me - How about you??

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


1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose,
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
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.
6
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.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879)
Music:Henri Abraham Cesar Malan (1787-

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 10, 2023, 04:16:14 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon! What a blessing it is to be "fully charged" by communing with Jesus each day so we can do His will as He leads us!

While there is no competition in the kingdom of God, there is continually more available to all who come unto God by Christ Jesus. Rather than seeking to excel someone else who has different talents and capacities for service, we get to yield the whole heart to Christ and let Him pour into and through our souls all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing, enabling us to affectionately obey God from the new heart up to the light He has revealed to us! The converted soul having such an experience will grow and be a witness to invite others to go "all in" for Jesus, so He can manifest through them the unique traits of character and gifts for the furthering of His kingdom! Let us work together as a loving family to further God's purposes of restoring the human race to holiness and hastening the coming of Jesus by giving the everlasting gospel to our world in this present time, helping to finish the final movements of the great controversy between Christ and Satan! Christ is longing for the manifestation of His own character in His people, and when He has a ripe crop of souls who will not turn from Him ever again--a people who can safely go through the time of trouble such as never was--then He will finish His work as High Priest and come to take His children home as their King! Hallelujah!!

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Praise the Lord that God will multiply workers for His kingdom as we ourselves yield to Him all we have and are! Then we can accept the loving call to repentance in Revelation 3:14-22 and give the present truth message of Revelation 14:6-12! Jesus is coming again! Let's help that day come even sooner by doing our part with the very love Christ has lavished upon us!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on January 10, 2023, 05:09:08 AM

Amen dear brothers! The harvest field is white. Let us pray that Jesus sends workers into his  Vineyard.In today's reading we see a marked change, a transition in these 4 men.What brought this about? They all saw that they were evil by nature.Until we see how evil we are, We are not prepared to do the Lord's work.When we die to self and come to Jesus just as we are, He then imparts His character to us. Our character is not as filthy rags any longer.

     The deeper lesson which the miracle conveyed for the disciples is a lesson for us also,--that He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become "fishers of men."
     They were humble and unlearned men, those fishers of Galilee; but Christ, the light of the world, was abundantly able to qualify them for the position for which He had chosen them. The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on January 10, 2023, 06:14:47 AM

"In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient."  {DA 250.3}

The Holy Spirit is speaking to each soul. "Give me your heart that I may live my life through you." We are witnessing what God accomplished in the lives of His disciples because of their open and teachable spirit. We also read that He will do the same for you and me. God never changes. If our faith is weak we are to ask......
(Luke 11:9)  "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
(Luke 11:10)  "For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened".

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on April 06, 2023, 12:38:16 AM

"The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing."

"He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth."

"In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ."

"The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace."

"The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ."

"This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone."

Are "WE" willing to sit at the feet of Jesus and obtain with humility the fruit of wisdom so that He can use us to reach those lost in sin??

====================
1
I need Thee, precious Jesus!
  For I am full of sin;
My soul is dark and guilty,
  My spirit dead within:
I need the cleansing fountain,
  Where I can always flee:
The blood of Christ most precious,
  The sinner’s perfect plea.
2
I need Thee, precious Jesus!
  For I am very poor;
A stranger and a pilgrim,
  I have no earthly store:
I need the love of Jesus,
  To cheer me on my way,
To guide my doubting footsteps,
  To be my strength and stay.
3
I need Thee, precious Jesus!
  I need a friend like Thee;
A friend to soothe and comfort,
  A friend to care for me:
I need the heart of Jesus,
  To feel each anxious care,
To bear my every burden,
  And all my sorrow share.
4
I need Thee, precious Jesus!
  I need Thee day by day,
To fill me with Thy fulness,
  To lead me on my way;
I need Thy Holy Spirit,
  To teach me what I am;
To show me more of Jesus,
  To point me to the Lamb.
5
I need Thee, precious Jesus!
  And hope to see Thee soon,
Encircled with Thy glory,
  And seated on Thy throne;
There with Thy blood-bought people,
  My joy shall ever be
To praise Thee, precious Jesus,
  To gaze, my Lord, on Thee.

Lyrics:Frederick Whitfield (1829-1904)
Music:Lowell Mason (1792-1872)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on April 06, 2023, 06:07:13 AM

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

Who wouldn't want to have a character such as this? Why are so many satisfied with crumbs when they can have access to the whole bakery? We are so narrow minded and selfish but Jesus came to enlighten man and to elevate the life above earthly thinking and influence. There are no words to accurately describe the joy, peace and gratitude that a soul converted to Jesus has. And the proof of that conversion? a life filled with love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. And best of all is that not one of them will be missing. Jesus came to show humanity how this becomes a reality in each life. What a wonderful Saviour.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 06, 2023, 02:28:03 PM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

Let this sink in as you realize how God treats you, and what He can do in and through you as you come to Him in full surrender!

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 251, paragraph 1}

By complete surrender to Christ, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest in the life without one missing, but even that experience can grow and deepen in God's love! From love to God, it is possible to obey God up to the light that He has revealed of His law! Praise the Lord!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on April 06, 2023, 07:06:54 PM

Amen my three friends!! Are we filthy or do we reflect the character of Christ?  Today we can better understand that this side of the second coming, we live in sinful flesh. We are evil by nature. But, God promises to transform sinners into saints. He will "impart" His righteous character to all who love Him supremely. If we take our eyes off of Jesus for one minute, what will we do? That's right, sin. Then when in the presence of Jesus what would we do? Just as did Peter, Daniel, and all who have discovered we can do no good thing unless filled with the Spirit of God.

The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour's feet, exclaiming, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord."
     It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, "My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength." So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God's greatness and majesty. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on July 02, 2023, 06:32:52 AM

Continuing after my last post.

     Peter exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;" yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.
     Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus. They had witnessed many of His miracles, and had listened to His teaching; but they had not entirely forsaken their former employment. The imprisonment of John the Baptist had been to them all a bitter disappointment. If such were to be the outcome of John's mission, they could have little hope for their Master, with all the religious leaders combined against Him. Under the circumstances it was a relief to them to return for a short time to their fishing. But now Jesus called them to forsake their former life, and unite their interests with His. Peter had accepted the call. Upon reaching the shore, Jesus bade the three other disciples, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left all, and followed Him.  

So, what is the lesson for us today? Do we want to reflect His character to a world that is soon to perish? "Fear God and give glory to Him" is our message. What does it mean to "give glory to God"? It means to reflect His character.

     God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

Then the great question must be "what must I do that I will yield my heart wholly to God?" We cannot trust someone we do not truly know. Then how can I know God to the point I will trust Him with all I have and all I am?  What does the Bible tells to do? Over and Jesus tells us that we must drink His blood and eat His flesh. God tells us through Paul "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord." 2 Cor. 3:18.

We have all seen reflections in glass or in a mirror, not of ourselves but of other things or people. Thus, not seeing Jesus face to face, but as looking into a glass we can see a reflection of our Master. As we do this, what will happen to us? It is a promise. It is the answer to the great question "what must I do to be saved (transformed from sinner to saint)?"  By beholding His glory which is His character you will be changed into the same image (character). Who does this transformation? What did we just read? Changed into the same image  "by the Spirit of the Lord." Why do we always ask for the Spirit before we begin reading the Bible? Because we want to have understanding of what we are reading. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to open  our minds to the truth of what we read. And, it is the work of the Holy Spirit to cleanse your heart from all sin, to make your heart and mind perfect, holy. We will still live in this vile evil fallen flesh, but empowered by the Holy Spirit we will reveal all of the fruits of the Spirit, not one will be missing (DA 676).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on July 02, 2023, 07:41:42 AM

"Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. "

Are " We " Willing to pray and surrender " ALL " to Jesus??

PS - I want to thank all of you who have prayed for my health recovery. God Bless you All.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 02, 2023, 07:55:22 AM

Amen, Brother Richard and Brother Beacon!! Praise the Lord for God's healing power in your life, Brother Beacon! I have been praying for you!

What is Jesus' goal for you? He desires for you to become like Him in mind and character. While He gave you a unique individuality and personality, He yearns for you to experience the living connection He has with the Father so you also can reveal the grace of unselfish courtesy to all, inviting others into His heavenly kingdom whereby all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will flow through your life in true obedience to God's law of love! Will you let Him do that? He asks for a full surrender--all you have and are from the heart--so that His atoning blood will remove your sins and the Holy Spirit will transform you in mind and character from glory to glory!

"Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,—men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 1}

May it be said of each of us that we have been with Jesus!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on July 02, 2023, 09:21:53 PM

Brother Beacon, it is such a blessing to see your post today!!  We have missed you! God is so very GOOD!!! Many of my friends are suffering. Jesus is coming very soon. Fire, floods, earthquakes, crime, corruption, immorality, all the world is falling apart.

Let us look up for our redemption draweth nigh!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on September 27, 2023, 04:55:39 AM

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him."

"The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties."

"Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously."

" It is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God."

 "The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness."

"Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character."

"Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views."

"His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced.

"He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."


I pray that this is  the goal that each of  us reading this may have in our hearts..
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on September 27, 2023, 05:16:09 AM

"Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter's boat for the work of the gospel had been richly repaid. He who is "rich unto all that call upon Him," has said, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over." Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded the disciple's service. And every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to "the exceeding riches of His grace." Ephesians 3:20; 2:7.

When doubts and fears assail us we need to remember this story. For every sacrifice we make, the Lord abundantly supplies our needs and the spiritual blessings that follow are numberless. We become a partner with Jesus in the saving of souls. There is no higher honour. When the disciples learned this they became mighty workers for God.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on September 27, 2023, 06:43:28 AM

Amen my dear brother and sister!  God wants to bless us much more than we realize.

Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,--men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world's most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world's great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour's training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.....
 
     God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 27, 2023, 07:35:40 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon, Sister Dorine, and Brother Richard!

Love is like fire, and when it burns in the heart, it will ignite the lives of those touched by the constraining love of Jesus. "For our God is a consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:29).

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

Christ longs to impart His very life, character and experience to us. As we surrender unreservedly to Him, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will flow in and through our lives to glorify Him in true obedience to all of His commandments! Then the missionary spirit of Christ will move us forward in faith that works by love to win souls who need healing from sin, so they, too, can be ignited with the holy fire of God's unselfish love!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on December 22, 2023, 08:05:56 PM

"There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God."

"If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day."

"He longs to reveal His grace."

If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels".

"If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one."

I want to be among the "ENCOURAGERS" Don't You??  My Prayer is that I will be humble enough so that God will be able to use me in a powerful way to point those in the church pews and in ours communities to Jesus. I pray that this is your desire also.

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

1
Earthly pleasures vainly call me,
  I would be like Jesus;
Nothing worldly shall enthrall me,
  I would be like Jesus.
    Be like Jesus, this my song,
  In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus, all day long!
    I would be like Jesus.
2
He has broken every fetter,
  I would be like Jesus;
That my soul may serve Him better,
  I would be like Jesus.
3
All the way from earth to glory,
  I would be like Jesus;
Telling o’er and o’er the story,
  I would be like Jesus.

Lyrics:James Rowe (1866-1933)
Music:Bentley DeForest Ackley (1872-1958)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Philip T on December 23, 2023, 02:17:05 AM

  During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope.

Oh, the importance of a close one on one relationship with Jesus, "Faith is the Victory." The only way to heaven is through Jesus, our work for souls is only accomplished by complete surrender to Jesus, when we are Near to the Heart of God, then we become more like Him in character, and find peace and joy. We should always keep in mind that Satan discourages, and Jesus brings faith and hope.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 23, 2023, 02:27:47 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Brother Phil!

Happy Sabbath!!

When we look at Jesus in His infinite loveliness of character and experience the joy of divine communion by a complete surrender to Him, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will flow into our lives! We can gladly go where God leads us to go by His divine grace, humbly and happily obeying God because we have learned day by day that His ways are higher and better than anything we can ask or think!

"He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one." {The Desire of Ages, page 250, paragraph 4}

By beholding we become changed, and as we behold Jesus, learn of His complete dependence upon the Father, and then learn to fully depend on Jesus through the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives, it is a joy to go forth on His missions of mercy to seek and save souls in copartnership with Christ!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on December 23, 2023, 09:58:28 PM

Amen my dear brothers! Such clear truths that we might be transformed in character!! God wants to make us like Himself! Such a miracle!!


God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Beacon on March 17, 2024, 08:10:21 PM

"God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him."

"The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties."

"Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God."

"The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness."

"Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character."

"Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Son of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God."

My Goal is the become more like Jesus everyday. How about "YOU? "
============================1
Day by day, and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.
He, whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best,
Lovingly its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.
2
Every day the Lord Himself is near me,
With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear and cheer me,
He whose name is Counsellor and Pow’r.
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid;
“As thy days, thy strength shall be in measure,”
This the pledge to me He made.
3
Help me then, in every tribulation,
So to trust Thy promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith’s sweet consolation,
Offered me within Thy holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E’er to take, as from a father’s hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till with Christ the Lord I stand.

Lyrics:Lina Sandell; Translated by A. L. Skoog
Music:Oscar Ahnfeldt

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Dorine on March 18, 2024, 05:32:54 AM

In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.  {DA 250.3}

May we never be just Lord, Lord Christians. A transformed life must accompany our profession. The mighty work Jesus did through the disciples and apostles He will do for us as we open our hearts to Him and allow Him to work in our lives according to His will. This should make our faces shine with heavenly love and happiness.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 18, 2024, 08:09:32 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!

God will provide! We can trust Him to provide for our needs as we keep His service supreme. The only way to do that is to be moved by His love in light of the truth of His word, fully surrendered in heart and life to Christ, and trusting that the Holy Spirit will continue to manifest through us all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing--even in the most trying circumstances we face as we keep our minds stayed on Him. God's economy is not taking into consideration merely the things of sense and time, but the great things of eternity. He provides for the universe to be free from sin based on the evidence of giving His Son for us and having a people transformed in life and character that abide in Him no matter what. Even the things we do not understand now will be made plain the hereafter. So let us walk in the path He leads and do it with a song in our heart!

"Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter's boat for the work of the gospel had been richly repaid. He who is 'rich unto all that call upon Him,' has said, 'Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.' Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded the disciple's service. And every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to 'the exceeding riches of His grace.' Ephesians 3:20; 2:7." {The Desire of Ages, page 249, paragraph 1}

There is a rest of soul that comes into the heart that is fully yielded to Jesus. We can keep our eyes on Jesus and remember He provides in the way that is best, just like He did for His first disciples.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--25--The Call by the Sea
Post by: Richard Myers on March 18, 2024, 10:27:50 PM

Amen my dear friends!  God wants to not only use us to His glory, but He wants to give us love, joy, and peace in this world.

   In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.