SDARM Qtr. 2 1991 Bible Study

Sabbath Bible Lessons
THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD (continued)
Lesson Titles Page
1 The Church Is Composed of Living Stones 5

2 The Church Is a United People 8
3 The Greatest Dangers of the Church 12
4 Dealing With Evils in the Church 15
5 Serious Problems for the Church 19
6 The Authority ofthe Church 22
7 The Organization of the Church 25
8 Personal-Relationships in the Church 29
9 Personal Relationships in the Church (continued) 32
10 The Discipline of the Church 36
11 The Greatest Need of the Church Today 39
12 The Prosperity of the Church 42
13 The Final Triumph of the Church 46
Volume 66 Number 2
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-2-
FOREWORD
The Church of the Living God (continued), is a series of
lessons designed to keep before the mind the purpose of
God for His people in church capacity and the reward for
those who are overcomers.
Two things should be remembered. Firstly, that there is
a need to become familiar with all that is revealed by God
concerning His program and the experience of the church
so that all may be able to give the reason for what they
believe from the word of God. The further light from the
Spirit of Prophecy helps all who will study it to have a
clearer understanding of the Bible revelations.
As a travel map or itinerary makes known the progress
and what may be expected, God's revelation gives courage
when the way is difficult and discouraging. It also gives in-
formation that shows that the difficulties of the way will be
as nothing when the destination is reached-and that for
eternity. God expects His people to be faithful guides who
know the way personally. Only then they will be able to lead
those in the world who know it not.
Secondly, each member of the Sabbath school, as a par-
ticipant in the Lord's program, needs his own encourage-
ment from the word of God. These living words have to be
in reality spirit and life, so that each individual becomes a
living stone for the temple of God. It is by cutting, grinding
and polishing that rough stones from the quarry of the
world are prepared to be used in building. So it is with the
living stones. There is a difference, however. The stones
from the quarry do not feel while the living stones feel and
react. Some of these may be discouraged or even give up
under the divine processing and preparation. For this
reason the mind must look beyond the present to the future.
These lessons have been prepared to encourage one and
all to be overcomers and have part in the temple of God
throughout eternity.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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r
Special Project Offering

for Auckland, New Zealand
To our dear Sabbath school members around the world:

Praise be to God for the existence of a people world-
wide who love the present truth of the four angels of
Revelation 14 and 18. A people that have an interest in one
another because they want to see the cause of God prosper
to His glory. It is a pleasure to give every thirteenth Sab-
bath to some project in some corner of the Lord's vineyard.
At this time a little corner is once more calling for the
assistance of all the world members-namely the church at
Auckland, New Zealand.
We have been blessed by your generous offering about
five years ago which assisted in the purchase of a piece of
land upon which to build a church building for our use in
worship and witnessing at Auckland. After much sacrifice
on the part of our New Zealand and Auckland members and
friends, we are pleased to report that we now worship in our
own church building which is nearly completed. We have
drained our resources and now are looking once more for
the support of your thirteenth Sabbath offering to help us
finish the work and pay back a sum of money which is ow-
ing. God has wrought wondrously to make this project a
success, and we look with desire to Him that through you
we may again lift our voice of joyful praise and all glory go
to our heavenly Father.
Thank you in advance.
Your brethren from Auckland, New Zealand
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, April 6, 1991
THE CHURCH IS COMPOSED

OF LIVING STONES
The members of the church-as living stones-are to actively continue the

work of Christ and thus reflect His glory
KEY TEXT: ."Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy
priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus
Christ." -1 Peter 2:5.
o Sunday
AN ESSENTIAL DISTINCTION March 31
1. What distinction, often overlooked by men, is essential in the sight of God?
John 15:4.
''There is a wide difference between a pretended union and a real connection

with Christ by faith. A profession of the truth places men in the church, but this does
not prove that they have a vital connection with the living Vine."-Testimonies, vol. 5,
pp. 228, 229.
2. What illustration did Christ use to teach this distinction? John 15:5,6.
" 'The vine,' our Lord would seem to say, 'which you prize so highly, is a sym-
bol. I am the reality; I am the True Vine. As a nation you prize the vine; as sinners you
should prize Me above all things earthly. The branch cannot live separated from the
vine; no more can you live unless you are abiding in Me.' "-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 230.
o Monday
THE ILLUSTRATION EXPLAINED April 1
3. How can the "dead branches" be distinguished from the "living branches"?
John 15:2, 8.
"A rule is given by which the true disciple may be distinguished from those who
claim to follow Christ but have not faith in Him. The one class are fruit bearing, the
other, fruitless. The one are often subjected to the pruning knife of God that they may
bring forth more fruit; the other, as withered branches, are erelong to be severed
from the living Vine."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 229.
4. What specific fruits distinguish the true branches from the false? Galatians
5:20-26.
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o Tuesday
MEMBERS-A BLESSING OR A LIABILITY April 2
5. What invitation, if accepted, establishes a living connection between Christ

and converted sinners? Why do many fail to have this victorious experience?
Matthew 11:28; Galatians 2:20.
"All men, women, and youth are appointed to do a certain work. But some stum-
ble at the word of truth. It does not harmonize with their inclinations, and therefore
they refuse to be doers of the word. They will not wear Christ's yoke of perfect obe-
dience to the law of God. They look upon this yoke as a burden, and Satan tells them
that if they will break away from it, they will become as gods. No one shall rule them
or dictate to them; they will be able to do as they please, and have all the liberty they
desire. True, they have been oppressed and cramped in every way in their religious
life, but that religious life was a farce. They were appointed to be colaborers with
Jesus Christ, and yoking up with Christ was their only chance for perfect rest and
freedom. Had they done this, they would never have been confounded."-Fundamen-
tats of Christian Education, p. 462.
6. What is the experience of church members who do not have a vital connec-
tion with Christ? Ezekiel 33:31; Matthew 15:8. Instead of being a help to
the church, how are they described by the Spirit of Prophecy?
" ... They might be a help if they would yield their selfishness and strive to
honor God and to repair the mistakes they made in their lives. But they do no such
thing; they hold themselves aloof, ready to criticize the lack of spirituality in the
church, whose greatest calamity is that it numbers among its members too many like
themselves-dead weights, persons whose hearts and lives are unconsecrated, and
whose course is all wrong."-Testimonies, yol. 4, p. 193.
o Wednesday
A LESSON FOR HIS PROFESSED CHURCH April 3
7. What was the plan of God for the Advent people from the beginning? 1 Peter
2:5. How was God's purpose for them defeated?
"How amazed is heaven at the present condition of the church that could be so
much to the world if every stone were in its proper place, a living stone to emit light! A
stone that does not shine is worthless. That which constitutes the value of our churches
is not dead, lusterless stones, but living stones, stones that catch the bright beams from
the Chief Cornerstone."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], Yol. 6, p. 1116.
"The Lord has bestowed great blessings upon His church. Justice demands that
she return these talents with usury. As the treasures of truth committed to her keep-
ing have increased, her obligations have increased. But instead of improving upon
these gifts and going forward unto perfection, she has fallen away from that which
she had attained in her earlier experience. The change in her spiritual state has come
gradually and almost imperceptibly. As she began to seek the praise and friendship of
the world, her faith diminished, her zeal grew languid, her fervent devotion gave
place to dead formality. Every advance step toward the world was a step away from
God. As pride and worldly ambition have been cherished, the Spirit of Christ has
departed, and emulation, dissension, and strife have come in to distract and weaken
the church."- Testimonies, yol. 5, pp. 240, 241.
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8. What is the essential lesson to be learned from the Old Testament prophecy
thay may be applied to the church in the last days? Ezekiel 37:1-10. What
will bring such a revival?
"But not only does this simile of the dry bones apply to the world, but also to
those who have been blessed with great light; for they also are like the skeletons of
the valley. They have the form of men, the framework of the body; but they have not
spiritual life. But the parable does not leave the dry bones merely knit together into
the forms of men; for it is not enough that there is symmetry 6f limb and feature. The
breath of life must vivify the bodies, that they may stand upright, and spring into ac-
tivity. These bones represent the house of Israel, the church of God, and the hope of
the church is the vivifying influence of the Holy Spirit. The Lord must breathe upon
the dry bones, that they may live.
"The Spirit of God, with its vivifying power, must be in every human agent, that
every spiritual muscle and sinew may be in exercise. Without the Holy Spirit, without
the breath of God, there is torpidity of conscience, loss of spiritual life. Many who are
without spiritual life have their names on the church records, but they are not written
in the Lamb's book of life. They may be joined to the church, but they are not united
to the Lord. They may be diligent in the performance of a certain set of duties, and
may be regarded as living men; but many are among those who 'have a name that
thou livest, and art dead.' "- The Review and Herald, January 17, 1893.
"I lay down my pen and lift up my soul in prayer, that the Lord would breathe
upon His backslidden people, who are as dry bones, that they may live."-Christian
Service, p. 41.
D Thursday
THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS April 4
9. What illustrates the experience of those who have a living connection with
Christ? Mark 4:28.
"The germination of the seed represents the beginning of spiritual life, and the'
development of the plant is a beautiful figure of Christian growth. As in nature, so in
grace; there can be no life without growth. The plant must either grow or die. As its
growth is silent and imperceptible, but continuous, so is the development of the Chris-
tian life. At every stage of development our life may be perfect; yet if God's purpose
for us is fulfilled, there will be continual advancement. Sanctification is the work of a
lifetime. As our opportunities multiply, our experience will enlarge, and our knowledge
increase. We shall become strong to bear responsibility, and our maturity will be in
proportion to our privileges." -Christ's Object Lessof/S, pp. 65, 66.
10. What is expected of members having this living experience? 1 Corinthians

15:58. What is the duty of ministers in this regard?
"The best help that ministers can give the members of our churches is not ser-
monizing, but planning work for them. Give each one something to do for others.
Help all to see that as receivers of the grace of Christ they are under obligation to
work for Him. And let all be taught how to work. Especially should those who are
newly come to the faith be educated to become laborers together with God. If set to
work, the despondent will soon forget their despondency; the weak will become
(Continued on page 11)
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THE CHURCH IS A UNITED PEOPLE
When the church is imbued with the love and Spirit of Christ the principles
that bring unity in the church will manifest themselves spontaneously
KEY TEXT: "That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee,
that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou
hast sent me."-John 17:21.
o Sunday
THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT April 7
1. What does the Father want to give His children? What is this gift designed
to do? Luke 11:13; John 16:13.
"God is the embodiment of benevolence, mercy, and love."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 28.
2. How does sanctification come and what will be the evidence that it has come
in the experience of the church members? What is the lesson to be learned
from the prayer of Christ in John 17? Romans 15:16; John 17:17,21.
"Those who fail to learn the lessons contained in this prayer are in danger of
making one-sided developments, which no future training will ever fully correct."
- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 239.
"Those who are drinking from the same fountain of blessing will draw nearer
together. Truth dwelling in the hearts of believers will lead to blessed and happy
assimilation. Thus will be answered the prayer of Christ that His disciples might be
one even as He is one with the Father. For this oneness every truly converted heart
will be striving."-Ibid., pp. 100, 101.
o Monday
UNITY WITH CHRIST April 8
3. How can we have unity with Christ? 1 John 2:24; 2 John 9.
"It is through the word that Christ abides in His followers." - The Desire of Ages,
p.677.
4. What will prove that we are actually united with the Lord? John 14:23;
15:5,10.
"The unity of God's chosen people has been terribly shaken. God presents a
remedy. This remedy is not one influence among many influences and on the same
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level with them; it is an influence above all influences upon the face of the earth, cor-
rective, uplifting, and ennobling. Those who work in the gospel should be elevated
and sanctified, for they are dealing with God's great principles. Yoked up with Christ,
they are laborers together with God. Thus the Lord desires to bind His followers
together, that they may be a power for good, each acting his part, yet all cherishing
the sacred principle of dependence on the Head."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 242.
"When we are one with Christ, we shall be united among ourselves."-Ibid., p. 139.
"[T]he strongest witness that God has sent His Son into the world is the ex-
istence of harmony and union among men of varied dispositions who form His
church. This witness it is the privilege of the followers of Christ to bear. But in order
to do this, they must place themselves under Christ's command. Their characters
must be conformed to His character and their wills to His will."- The Acts of the
Apostles, p. 549.
o Tuesday
CHRIST'S CHARACTER IN US April 9
5. What is the result when the believer constantly contemplates Christ? 2 Co-
rinthians 3:18. What brings true Christian unity?
"By beholding Christ, you will become changed, until you will hate your former
pride, your former vanity and self-esteem, your self-righteousness and unbelief. You
will cast these sins aside as a worthless burden, and walk humbly, meekly, trustfully,
before God. You will practice love, patience, gentleness, goodness, mercy, and every
grace that dwells in the child of God, and will at last find a place among the sanctified
and holy."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 388.
"When self-will is renounced in reference to matters there will be a union of
believers with Christ."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 94.
"Unity is the sure result of Christian perfection."- The Sanctified Life, p. 85.
6. What commandment did Christ give to the disciples? What will result from
obedience to this commandment? John 13:34,35.
"All who are imbued with His Spirit will love as He loved. The very principle
that actuated Christ will actuate them in all their dealing one with another.
"This love is the evidence of their discipleship. 'By this shall all men know that
ye are My disciples,' said Jesus, 'if ye have love one to another.' When men are bound
together, not by force or self-interest, but by love, they show the working of an in-
fluence that is above every human influence. Where this oneness exists, it is evidence
that the image of God is being restored in humanity, that a new principle of life has
been implanted."-The Desire of Ages, p. 678.
"Many people may be brought together in a unity of religious faith whose opin-
ions, habits, and tastes in temporal matters are not in harmony; but if they have the
love of Christ glowing in their bosoms, and are looking forward to the same heaven as
their eternal home, they may have the sweetest and most intelligent communion
together, and a unity the most wonderful."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 65.
"0 that all might repent and do their first works. When the churches do this,
they will love God supremely and their neighbors as themselves. Ephraim will not en-
vy Judah, and Judah will not vex Ephraim. Divisions will then be healed, the harsh
sounds of strife will no more be heard in the borders of Israel. Through the grace free-
ly given them of God, all will seek to answer the prayer of Christ, that His disciples
should be one, even as He and the Father are one. Peace, love, mercy, and benevo-
lence will be the abiding principles of the soul."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 385.
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D Wednesday
TRUE CHARITY BRINGS UNITY April 10
7. What practical demonstration of true love helped to promote unity in the

early church? Acts 11:28-30. How did the same principle of unselfish giv-
ing enable the missionary work to bring others into unity? 2 Corinthians
11:7-9.
" ... By thus expressing love to those who need help, you will cause the hearts
of the needy to give thanksgiving unto God because He has bestowed the grace of
benevolence upon the brethren, and has caused them to relieve the necessities of the
needy.
"It is through the exercise of this practical love that the churches draw nearer
together in Christian unity."-Counsels on Stewardship, pp. 343, 344.
"Never can the unity for which Christ prayed exist until spirituality is brought in-
to missionary service, and until the church becomes an agency for the support of mis-
sions."-Ibid., p. 47.
8. What considerations also contribute toward Christian unity? 1 Corinthians

12:25-27; Proverbs 11:14.
"The law of reciprocal dependence and influence is to be recognized and obeyed."

"The Lord has wrought with you, enabling you to act your part as His workman;
but there are other workmen also who are to act their part as His instrumentalities.
These help to compose the whole body. All are to be united as parts of one great orga-
nism."-Ibid., vol. 8, p. 174.
"God wants His people to counsel together, to be a united church, in Christ a per-
fect whole."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 374.
"It is God's purpose that men entrusted with responsibility should counsel and
pray together in Christian unity."-Testimonies, vol. 7, pp. 236, 237.
D Thursday
OTHER STEPS TOWARD UNITY April 11
9. What three other Christian principles help maintain true unity in the
church?
a. Equality. 1 Corinthians 12:25.

"The life of Christ established a religion in which there is no caste, a religion by
which Jew and Gentile, free and bond, are linked in a common brotherhood, equal
before God."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 191.
"The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ." -Selected
Messages, book 1, p. 259.
b. No human distinctions. Galatians 3:28.
" ... At the feet of Jesus all these distinctions are forgotten. The rich and the
poor, the learned and the ignorant, meet together, with no thought of caste or worldly
preeminence. All meet as blood-bought souls, alike dependent upon One who has
redeemed them to God."-The Desire of Ages, p. 437.
c. Submission to the mind of the whole body of believers. Philippians
2:2,3.
"[T]he members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical
body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 16.
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10. How important is gospel order as a way to church unity? 1 Corinthians
14:40; 7:17.
" 'The church must flee to God's Word and become established upon gospel
order, which has been overlooked and neglected.' This is indispensably necessary in
order to bring the church into the unity of the faith." -Early Writings, p. 100.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS April 12
a. What is one of the most important works of the Holy Spirit?

b. What are evidences of the real unity with Christ?
c. What is the basis for lasting unity?
d. What are two ways in which true love in the church is manifested?
e. What principles preserve unity in the church?
•
* 1:1 * 1:1 *
(Continued from page 7)
strong, the ignorant intelligent, and all will be prepared to present the truth as it is in
Jesus. They will find an unfailing helper in Him who has promised to save all that
come unto Him."-Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 49, 50.
o Friday
a. Why is a vine used by Christ to illustrate the necessary connection with

Him?
b. What proves that a branch has a real connection with the Vine?
c. What indicates to the church the true nature of the connection with Christ?
d. What is expected of living stones?
e. What do the works of living stones reveal in contrast with those of nominal
members? •
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THE GREATEST DANGERS

OF THE CHURCH
Some of the greatest dangers for the church arise from within, with the devel-
opment of self-confidence, selfishness and pride
KEY TEXT: "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for
in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee."-
1 Timothy 4:16.
o Sunday
THE SOURCE OF OUR DANGERS April 14
1. From whom should we expect some of the greatest dangers? Acts 20:29,
30; 2 Corinthians 11: 13.
"There are dangers on the right hand and on the left. Our greatest danger will
come from men who have lifted up their souls unto vanity, who have not heeded the
words of warning and reproof sent them by God. As such men choose their own will
and way, the tempter, clothed in angel robes, is close beside them ready to unite his
influence with theirs. He opens to them delusions of a most attractive character,
which they present to the people of God."-Medical Ministry, p. 95.
2. What is another source of danger and what warning is given? Hebrews 3: 12,
13.
"We have far more to fear from within than from without. The hindrances to
strength and success are far greater from the church itself than from the world. Un-
believers have a right to expect that those who profess to be keeping the command-
ments of God and the faith of Jesus, will do more than any other class to promote and
honor, by their consistent lives, by their godly example and their active influence, the
cause which they represent. But how often have the professed advocates of the truth
proved the greatest obstacle to its advancement! The unbelief indulged, the doubts
expressed, the darkness cherished, encourage the presence of evil angels, and open
the way for the accomplishment of Satan's devices."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 122.
"There is no surer way of weakening our spirituality than by being envious, suspi-
cious of one another, full of faultfinding and evil surmising." - Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 242.
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D Monday
SELF-EXALTATION AND PRIDE April 15
3. How may self be exalted? Give examples. Numbers 16:1-3; Jude 11.
"Like Korah and his companions, many, even of the professed followers of Christ,
are thinking, planning, and working so eagerly for self-exaltation that in order to gain
the sympathy and support of the people they are ready to pervert the truth, falsifying
and misrepresenting the Lord's servants, and even charging them with the base and
selfish motives that inspire their own hearts. By persistently reiterating falsehood,
and that against all evidence, they at last come to believe it to be truth. While endeav-
oring to destroy the confidence of the people in the men of God's appointment, they
really believe that they are engaged in a good work, verily doing God service."-Patri-
archs and Prophets, p. 404.
4. What other negative qualities are all too often associated with pride? What
will these evils cause? Proverbs 16:18.
"It was the pride and ambition cherished in the heart of Satan that banished him
from heaven. These evils are deeply rooted in our fallen nature, and if not removed
they will overshadow every good and noble quality and bring forth envy and strife as
their baleful fruits." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 242.
"By spiritual pride, a desire to dictate, an ambitious longing for honor or position,
a lack of self-control, by the indulgence of passion or prejudice, by instability or lack
of judgment, the church may be disturbed and her peace sacrificed."-Ibid., p. 241.
D Tuesday
SELFISHNESS AND COVETOUSNESS April 16
5. What is the attitude of those in whom selfishness has been put away? 1 Co-
rinthians 10:24. What follows when this is not done?
"The Spirit of God will not abide where there is disunion and contention among
believers in the truth. Even if these feelings are unexpressed, they take possession of
the heart, and drive out the peace and love that should characterize the Christian
church. They are the result of selfishness in its fullest sense. This evil may take the
form of inordinate self-esteem, or of an undue longing for the approbation of others,
even if that approbation is obtained undeservedly."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 221.
6. What fruits are brought by selfishness and how are these identified? Colos-
sians 3:5; Malachi 3:8. How can the sin of Achan be repeated in the church
today?
"We have before us the fearful doom of Achan, of Judas, of Ananias and Sapph-
ira. Back of all these we have that of Lucifer, the 'son of the morning,' who, coveting
a higher state, forfeited forever the brightness and bliss of heaven. And yet, notwith-
standing all these warnings, covetousness abounds.
"Everywhere its slimy track is seen. It creates discontent and dissension in fami-
lies; it excites envy and hatred in the poor against the rich; it prompts the grinding op-
pression of the rich toward the poor. And this evil exists not in the world alone, but in
the church. How common even here to find selfishness, avarice, overreaching, neglect
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of charities, and robbery of God 'in tithes and offerings.' Among church members 'in
good and regular standing' there are, alas! many Achans....
"Achan's sin brought disaster upon the whole nation. For one man's sin the
displeasure of God will rest upon His church till the transgression is searched out and
put away."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 496, 497.
D Wednesday
PROFESSING BUT NOT DOING Apri117
7. Whose vain profession should be a warning to all of us? 1 Samuel 15: 13-23.
" ... Yet with the sin of Saul and its result before us, how many are pursuing a
similar course. While they refuse to believe and obey some requirement of the Lord,
they persevere in offering up to God their formal services of religion. There is no
response of the Spirit of God to such service. No matter how zealous men may be in
their observance of religious ceremonies, the Lord cannot accept them if they persist
in willful violation of one of His commmands."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 634.
8. What great deception ensnared the Jews and in recent years the professed
Adventist people? Matthew 15:8; 23:3. What results from ignoring the
messages from heaven?
"What greater delusion can deceive the human mind than that in which individu-
als flatter themselves that they have the truth, that they are on the only sure founda-
tion, and that God accepts their works because they are actively engaged in some
work in the cause of God, when they are sinning against Him by walking contrary to
the expressed will of God? They work mechanically, like machinery; but preparation
of heart, the sanctification of the character, is wanting. Sacred and holy things are
brought down to the level of common things, and a commonness, a cheapness, is work-
ing itself into our churches. The service is degenerating into little else than form."
- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 451.
"In rejecting Christ the Jewish people committed the unpardonable sin; and by
refusing the invitation of mercy, we may commit the same error. We offer insult to
the Prince of life, and put Him to shame before the synagogue of Satan and before the
heavenly universe when we refuse to listen to His delegated messengers, and instead
listen to the angels of Satan, who would draw the soul away from Christ. So long as
one does this, he can find no hope or pardon, and he will finally lose all desire to be
reconciled to God."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 324, 325.
o Thursday
SEPARATION FROM CHRIST April 18
9. What warning is given believers, which if heeded would lead to Christian

unity? John 15:6.
"The reason for all division, discord, and difference is found in separation from
Christ."-Selected Messages, book I, p. 259.
10. How do individuals and groups become separated from Christ? How may
this danger be avoided? 2 John 9; 2 Chronicles 15:2.
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DEALING WITH
EVILS IN THE CHURCH
Certain dangers confront the church and these must be recognized and cor-
rected in the way that Christ has outlined
KEY TEXT: "Let all things be done decently and in order."-1 Corinthians 14:40.
o Sunday
THE SPIRIT OF SUPREMACY April 21
1. What is one of the most evident characteristics of those who are actuated by
the wrong spirit? What are the unavoidable consequences? Matthew 20:21,
24-27.
"He [Lucifer] sought for himself the highest place, and every being who is ac-
tuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus alienation, discord, and strife will be in-
evitable. Dominion becomes the prize of the strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a
kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his
own advancement, or a steppingstone on which he himself may climb to a higher place."
- The Desire of Ages, pp. 435, 436.
2. What warnings are given concerning the spirit of domination? 1 Peter 5:2,
3; Mark 9:38, 39; Luke 9:54, 55.
" ... That which makes me feel to the very depths of my being, and makes me
know that their works are not the works of God, is that they suppose they have
authority to rule their fellowmen. The Lord has given them no more right to rule
others than He has given others to rule them. Those who assume the control of their
fellowmen take into their finite hands a work that devolves upon God alone."-Testi-
monies to Ministers, p. 76.
o Monday
ARBITRARINESS AND DESTRUCTIVE CRITICISM April 22
3. What counsel does the apostle Paul give to prevent strife and jealousy? Phi-
lippians 2:3, 4.
"Whenever your determination to carry out your own judgment at all hazards
has driven your friends to the opposite extreme and to feel contempt for your arbitrary
spirit, you have felt and intimated that all such opposition was instigated by the temp-
-15 -
tations of the enemy. This has made you more persistent in carrying out your own
ideas, regardless of the wishes of others.
"You are in danger of having trouble because you are unwilling to grant liberty
of judgment and opinion to those connected with you. It is well for you to remember
that their ways and their opinions may be as dear to them as yours are to you. Weare
very apt to lose sight of this fact when we censure others for not agreeing with
us."-Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 126, 127.
4. What description do we have of those who are given to destructive criticism?

What warning comes down to us? Isaiah 58:9 (last part); James 4: 11.
"It is true that some have committed errors and made mistakes, but it is equally
true that these errors and mistakes are not nearly as grievous in the sight of God as is
the harsh and unforgiving spirit of those who are criticizers and censors."- Testimonies
to Ministers, p. 186.
" ... Remember that he who takes the position of a criticizer greatly weakens
his own hands. God has not made it the duty of men or of women to find fault with
their fellow workers.
"If men desire to place themselves where they can be used by God, they must
not criticize others, to make their defects apparent. This is Satan's special tempta-
tion, whereby he strives to hinder the work."-Evangelism, p. 634.
D Tuesday
ACCUSERS AND DESTROYERS April 23
5. What instruction did Jesus give concerning those tempted to accuse others?
What warning should we heed? Matthew 7:3; Psalm 15:1-3.
"The Lord never blesses him who criticizes and accuses his brethren, for this is
Satan's work."-Evangelism, p. 102.
"Accusers of the brethren are not few, and they are always active when God is at
work and His servants are rendering Him true homage. They will put a false coloring
upon the words and acts of those who love and obey the truth. They will represent the
most earnest, zealous, self-denying servants of Christ as deceived or deceivers. It is
their work to misrepresent the motives of every true and noble deed, to circulate in-
sinuations, and arouse suspicion in the minds of the inexperienced. In every conceiv-
able manner they will seek to cause that which is pure and righteous to be regarded as
foul and deceptive."- The Great Controversy, p. 519.
6. What regard should we have for the good works of others? What would prove
that we do not know Christ? Luke 9:49, 50.
"Reformers are not destroyers. They will never seek to ruin those who do not
harmonize with their plans and assimilate to them."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 151.
"The worst enemies we have are those who are trying to destroy the influence of
the watchmen upon the walls of Zion. Satan works through agents.... Be carefullest
you be found aiding the enemy of God and man by spreading false reports and by
criticisms and decided opposition."-Ibid., vol. 5, pp. 294, 295.
"There can be no more conclusive evidence that we possess the spirit of Satan
than the disposition to hurt and destroy those who do not appreciate our work, or who
act contrary to our ideas."-The Desire of Ages, p. 487.
-16 -
THE SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE o Wednesday
AND DISORGANIZATION April 24
7. How do we know that, in the church of God, there is no place to disregard

the opinion of others? 1 Peter 5:5.
"The spirit of pulling away from fellow laborers, the spirit of disorganization, is
in the very air we breathe."- Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 257.
" ... Boasting of their independence they will, under his specious, bewitching
influence, obey the worst impulses of the human heart and yet believe that God is
leading them. Could their eyes be opened to distinguish their captain, they would see
that they are not serving God, but the enemy of all righteousness. They would see
that their boasted independence is one of the heaviest fetters Satan can rivet on un-
balanced minds."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 294.
8. What strong action is needed to hinder divisions from being introduced into
the church? Romans 16:17, 18.
"The world is filled with strife for the supremacy.... By some, all efforts to
establish order are regarded as dangerous-as a restriction of personal liberty, and
hence to be feared as popery. They declare that they will not take any man's say-so;
that they are amenable to no man. I have been instructed that it is Satan's special ef-
fort to lead men to feel that God is pleased to have them choose their own course, in-
dependent of the counsel of their brethren."-Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 488, 489.
"License must not be given to disorderly elements that desire to control the work
at this time."-Ibid., p. 489.
"We want to hold the lines evenly, that there shall be no breaking down of the
system of regulation and order. In this way license shall not be given to disorderly
elements to control the work at this time. Weare living in a time when order, system,
and unity of action are most essential. And the truth must bind us together like strong
cords in order that no distracted efforts may be witnessed among the workers."-Ibid.,
p.228.
RESPONSIBILITY IN PROPORTION o Thursday

TO LIGHT RECEIVED April 25
9. When King Saul's works did not conform to his professed obedience, what
truth for all time did Samuel reveal to him? How did Jesus express the at-
titude of God to the knowingly disobedient? 1 Samuel 15: 13, 20, 22, 23;
Luke 12:47.
"The Redeemer of the world declares that there are greater sins than that for
which Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed. Those who hear the gospel invitation
calling sinners to repentance, and heed it not, are more guilty before God than were
the dwellers in the vale of Siddim. And still greater sin is theirs who profess to know
God and to keep His commandments, yet who deny Christ in their character and their
daily life."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 165.
10. Against what danger are we warned if we are tempted to follow those who
cannot or do not see? Matthew 15:14. What should be our attitude to such?
"If they belittle the law of God, if they pay no heed to His will as revealed in the
testimonies of His Spirit, they are deceivers."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 98.
-17 -
"There are men whose character and life testify to the fact that they are false
prophets and deceivers. These we are not to hear or tolerate."- Testimonies to Ministers,
p.294.
D Friday
a. What spirit should be immediately recognized as from Satan?

b. What temptation must be conscientiously resisted by every child of Christ?
c. What is the effect of false accusation and destructive criticism?
d. What special danger comes to those who have been disappointed by un-
faithful leaders?
e. What is the greatest danger for those who have the light and cannot see? •
* * * * *
"Having rejected Christ in His word, they [the Jews] rejected Him in person."
- The Desire of Ages, p. 212.
D Friday
a. What special warning applies to the church of God?

b. What is the real basis for pride?
c. How can self appear in those who believe that they are zealous for God?
d. What is the danger for nominal believers?
e. How can separation from Christ be avoided?
•
-18 -
Lesson 5 Sabbath, May 4, 1991
SERIOUS PROBLEMS
FOR THE CHURCH
God desires to lead His church through humble men who hear His direction
while Satan seeks to concentrate all power into the hand of a man that he
can lead
KEY TEXT: "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily proph-
ets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps,
governments, diversities of tongues." -1 Corinthians 12:28.
o Sunday
AMONG THE APOSTLES April 28
1. What was the highest office, held by a number of brethren at the same time,
that God established in the early Christian church? 1 Corinthians 12:28.
2. What position did Peter hold in common with other brethren? Wherefrom
do we know that Christ did not delegate any special authority to one of His
disciples above the others? 1 Peter 5:1; Matthew 23:8, 10.
"The Saviour did not commit the work of the gospel to Peter individually. At a
later time, repeating the words that were spoken to Peter, He applied them directly to
the church. And the same in substance was spoken also to the twelve as representa-
tives of the body of believers. If Jesus had delegated any special authority to one of
the disciples above the others, we should not find them so often contending as to who
should be the greatest. They would have submitted to the wish of their Master, and
honored the one whom He had chosen.
"Instead of appointing one to be their head, Christ said to the disciples, 'Be not
ye called Rabbi;' 'neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.'
Matt. 23:8, 10."-The Desire of Ages, p. 414.
D Monday
SACRED OFFICES April 29
3. According to God's arrangement, who has a voice in the election of the

General Conference officers?
"[E]very conference, every institution, every church, and every individual, either
directly or through representatives, has a voice in the election of the men who bear
the chief responsibilities in the General Conference."- Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 236, 237.
-19 -
4. What warning is given concerning self-appointed leaders, who reject the
above rule? 1 Timothy 6:3-5; Revelation 2:2.
"Men whose lives are not holy and who are unqualified to teach the present truth
enter the field without being acknowledged by the church or the brethren generally,
and confusion and disunion are the result."-Early Writings, p. 97.
o Tuesday
THE SPIRIT OF ANTICHRIST April 30
5. What rebuke is sent to those who take undue authority? What is the mean-
ing of the words in Matthew 23:9? John 10:1,9.
"By these words Christ meant that no man is to place his spiritual interest under
another as a child is guided and directed by his earthly father. This has encouraged a
spirit to desire ecclesiastical superiority."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Com-
ments], vol. 5, p. 1098.
"Christ is the door to the fold of God.... [T]he only door is Christ, and all who
have interposed something ... are thieves and robbers."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 477,
478.
6. Contrary to the word of God, what doctrine has been adopted by the Roman
Catholic church? How should any claim based on this doctrine be refuted?
Luke 4:8.
"He [Satan] came to the Son of God in the wilderness of temptation, and showing
Him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them, offered to give all into His
hands if He would but acknowledge the supremacy of the prince of darkness. Christ
rebuked the presumptuous tempter and forced him to depart. But Satan meets with
greater success in presenting the same temptations to man....
"It is one of the leading doctrines of Romanism that the pope is the visible head
of the universal church of Christ, invested with supreme authority over bishops and
pastors in all parts of the world.... The same claim urged by Satan in the wilderness
of temptation is still urged by him through the Church of Rome, and vast numbers are
ready to yield him homage.
"But those who fear and reverence God meet this heaven-daring assumption as
Christ met the solicitations of the wily foe: 'Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and
Him only shalt thou serve.' Luke 4:8. God has never given a hint in His word that He
has appointed any man to be the head of the church. The doctrine of papal supremacy
is directly oppossed to the teachings of the Scriptures. The pope can have no power
over Christ's church except by usurpation." - The Great Controversy, pp. 50, 51.
o Wednesday
IN THE ADVENTIST CHURCH Mayl
7. What did Israel request that was contrary to the purpose of God and what
warning were they given? How had the Lord provided for the distribution of
responsibilities in the time of Moses? 1 Samuel 8:6, 18; 10:19 (first part);
Exodus 18:21; 22.
"God has not set any kingly power in the Seventh-day Adventist Church to con-
trol the whole body or to control any branch of the work. He has not provided that the
burden of leadership shall rest upon a few men. Responsibilities are distributed
among a large number of competent men."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 236.
- 20-
8. However, what power developed in the leadership of the Adventist church?
With the introduction of this human idea, what history was repeated? 1
Samuel 12:12 (last part). How does the Spirit of Prophecy denounce this
evil?
"[T]he General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments

and principles."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 359 (1895).
"The high-handed power that has been developed, as though position has made
men gods, makes me afraid, and ought to cause fear. It is a curse wherever and by
whomsoever it is exercised. This lording it over God's heritage will create such a
disgust of man's jurisdiction that a state of insubordination will result."-Ibid., p. 361.
"They are following in the track of Romanism."-Ibid., p. 362.
"These are false gods."-Ibid., p. 364.
o Thursday
A SERIOUS WARNING May2
9. What evil, foreseen by Christ, would hurt the church in all ages? What warn-
ing is therefore applicable to the end of time? Matthew 15:14.
"Christ foresaw that the undue assumption of authority indulged by the scribes
and Pharisees would not cease with the dispersion of the Jews. He had a prophetic
view of the work of exalting human authority to rule the conscience, which has been
so terrible a curse to the church in all ages. And his fearful denunciations of the
scribes and Pharisees, and His warnings to the people not to follow these blind
leaders, were placed on record as an admonition to future generations."-The Great
Controversy, p. 596.
10. What is particularly necesssary now that this evil found its way into the
Adventist church? What divine provision is also revealed? Jeremiah 6:16;
Matthew 17:11.
"For years there has been a growing tendency for men placed in positions of
responsibility to lord it over God's heritage, thus removing from church members
their keen sense of the need of divine instruction and an appreciation of the privilege
to counsel with God regarding their duty. This order of things must be changed.
There must be a reform."-Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 477, 478.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS May3
a. What leadership was provided for the early church?

b. How should the leaders of the church receive their trust?
c. What plan has Satan always sought to use?
d. How was this plan introduced into the SDA church?
e. How may this danger be minimized or avoided?
•
- 21-
THE AUTHORITY OF THE CHURCH
Christ is the head of the church and has given authority to act in His stead to
the church and not to any individual(s) as such
KEY TEXT: "And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he
neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and
a publican. Verily 1 say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth
shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall
be loosed in heaven."-Matthew 18:17,18.
o Sunday
THE VOICE OF GOD May 5
1. Upon whom has God bestowed the highest authority on earth? Colossians
1:18. Where are we to look for the voice of God?
"God has bestowed the highest power under heaven upon His church. It is the
voice of God in His united people in church capacity which is to be respected."- Testi-
monies, vol. 3, p. 451.
2. What symbol is used to represent the church? What mind is the highest au-
thority to which individual members should be subject? Ephesians 4:15, 16.
"As all the different members of the human system unite to form the entire
body, and each performs its office in obedience to the intelligence that governs the
whole, so the members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical
body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 16.
o Monday
POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CHURCH May6
3. To whom has God delegated the power to settle any question concerning the
order, purity and prosperity of the church? Matthew 18:17, 18.
"On the church has been conferred the power to act in Christ's stead. It is God's
instrumentality for the preservation of order and discipline among His people. To it
the Lord has delegated the power to settle all questions respecting its prosperity,
purity, and order."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 263.
"I saw that the church should feel their responsibility and should look carefully
and attentively at the lives, qualifications, and general course of those who profess to
be teachers. If unmistakable evidence is not given that God has called them, and that
- 22-
the 'woe' is upon them if they heed not this call, it is the duty of the church to act and
let it be known that these persons are not acknowledged as teachers by the church.
This is the only course the church can take in order to be clear in this matter, for the
burden lies upon them."-Early Writings, p. 100.
4. If the church is divided on a controversial point, how is the matter to be set-

tled? Whose example is to be followed? Acts 15:5, 6.
"It is the want of deference for the opinions of the church that causes so much
trouble among brethren. The eyes of the church may be able to discern in its in-
dividual members that which the erring may not see. A few persons may be as blind
as the one in error, but the majority of the church is a power which should control its
individual members."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 107.
"God has placed a voice in the church which must control its members."-Ibid.,
p.108.
o Tuesday
THE GENERAL CONFERENCE May7
5. What is the highest organized authority in the church? What is actually

meant by a General Conference session? Against what error are we warned?
"I have been shown that no man's judgment should be surrendered to the judg-
ment of anyone man. But when the judgment of the General Conference, which is the
highest authority that God has upon the earth, is exercised, private independence and
private judgment must not be maintained, but be surrendered."-Testimonies, vol. 3,
p.492.
"The error that some are in danger of committing is in giving to the mind and
judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority and in-
fluence that God has vested in His church in the judgment and voice of the General
Conference."-Ibid., vol. 9, p. 261.
"Never should the mind of one man or the minds of a few men be regarded as
sufficient in wisdom and power to control the work and to say what plans shall be
followed. But when, in a General Conference, the judgment of the brethren assembled
from all parts of the field is exercised, private independence and private judgment must
not be stubbornly maintained, but surrendered."-Ibid., p. 260.
6. What is the definition of the General Conference given in the Principles of

Faith and Church Order?
"The General Conference is the assembly of all Union, Conferences and, there-
fore, the entire denomination in general."-Principles of Faith and Church Order, (1925)
original edition, III a).
o Wednesday
THE FINAL AUTHORITY IN A CONTROVERSY May 8
7. In event of disagreement among brethren, to what authority should they

never resort? Who is the final authority to whom brethren should submit
any matter for decision? 1 Corinthians 6:1-4.
"Those whose love for self is stronger than their love for Christ and His cause
will place their own interests first and resort to almost any expedient to guard and
maintain them. When they consider themselves injured by their brethren, some will
- 23-
even go to law instead of following the Saviour's rule. Even many who appear to be
conscientious Christians are hindered by pride and self-esteem from going privately
to those they think in error, that they may talk the matter over in the Spirit of Christ
and pray for one another. Contentions, strife, and lawsuits between brethren are a
disgrace to the cause of truth. Those who take such a course expose the church to the
ridicule of her enemies and cause the powers of darkness to triumph. They are pierc-
ing the wounds of Christ afresh and putting Him to an open shame. By ignoring the
authority of the church they show contempt for God, who gave the church its author-
ity."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 242, 243.
"Those who justify their course of action in going to law, and that with their
brethren in the church, are acting out the spirit that developed the rebellion in heaven."
-Special Testimonies, Series B, No.7, p. 27.
8. When there is controversy, what action should be taken in order to avoid

division or to reconcile the parties? In following the example of the early
Christians, what should be requested? Acts 15:2.
"The companies of believers, though scattered over a large territory, were all
members of one body; all moved in concert and in harmony with one another. When
dissension arose ... and the believers were unable to come to an agreement among
themselves, such matters were not permitted to create a division in the church, but
were referred to a general council of the entire body of believers, made up of ap-
pointed delegates. . . . Thus the efforts of Satan to attack the church in isolated
places were met by concerted action on the part of all, and the plans of the enemy to
disrupt and destroy were thwarted."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 95, 96.
D Thursday
THE GENERAL BODY OF BELIEVERS May9
9. In harmony with the Spirit of Prophecy, who alone has authority to make
decisions for the church as a whole? Acts 15:6.
"The greater the responsibilities placed upon the human agent, and the larger
his opportunities to dictate and control, the more harm he is sure to do if he does not
carefully follow the way of the Lord and labor in harmony with the decisions arrived
at by the general body of believers in united council." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 199.
10. What instruction is given concerning those who reject the opinion of the
whole body of believers? How does any individual become separated from
the church? Matthew 18:17.
"If he will not hear them, then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought .~
before the whole body of believers.... He who rejects this united overture has broken
the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself from the fellowship of
.
'.
the church."- The Desire of Ages, p. 441.
- 24-
THE ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH
In harmony with the whole universe, God's true church must be as thoroughly
organized as the body with each member, cooperating for the good of the whole
KEY TEXT: "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to
behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and ground of the truth."-1 Timothy 3:15.
o Sunday
THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE CHURCH May 12
1. Besides Christ, to whom else are we responsible? Matthew 18:17, 18.
"Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and
experience, independent of His recognized followers on earth. Jesus is the friend of
sinners, and His heart is touched with their woe. He has all power, both in heaven and
on earth; but He respects the means that He has ordained for the enlightenment and
salvation of men; He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of
light to the world."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 122.
"[Christ] directs Saul to the church, thus acknowledging the power that He has
invested in it as a channel of light to the world. It is Christ's organized body upon the
earth, and respect is required to be paid to His ordinances."- Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 433.
2. What God-made arrangement establishes the relationship between the in-

dividual and the church? 1 Corinthians 12:18,27.
"God has made His church on the earth a channel of light, and through it He
communicates His purposes and His will. He does not give to one of His servants an
experience independent of and contrary to the experience of the church itself. Neither
does He give one man a knowledge of His will for the entire church while the church
-Christ's body-is left in darkness."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 163.
"Those who are inclined to regard their individual judgment as supreme are in
grave peril. It is Satan's studied effort to separate such ones from those who are chan-
nels of light, through whom God has wrought to build up and extend His work in the
earth. To neglect or despise those whom God has appointed to bear the respon-
sibilities of leadership in connection with the advancement of the truth, is to reject the
means that He has ordained for the help, encouragement, and strength of His people."
-Ibid., p. 164.
- 25-
o Monday
CHRIST AND THE CHURCH May 13
3. What principle is taught in the record of the conversion of Saul? Acts 9:1-6.
"In the record of the conversion of Saul important principles are given us, which
we should ever bear in mind. Saul was brought directly into the presence of Christ.
He was one whom Christ intended for a most important work, one who was to be a
'chosen vessel' unto Him; yet the Lord did not at once tell him of the work that had
been assigned him. He arrested him in his course and convicted him of sin; but when
Saul asked, 'What wilt Thou have me to do?' the Saviour placed the inquiring Jew in
connection with His church, there to obtain a knowledge of God's will concerning
him."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 120.
4. What other circumstances show that the Lord works through His organized
church? Acts 10:1-5; 13:1-3.
"Here again [in the conversion of Cornelius] God showed His regard for the
gospel ministry, and for His organized church."-The Story of Redemption, p. 283.
"The circumstances connected with the separation of Paul and Barnabas by the
Holy Spirit to a definite line of service show clearly that the Lord works through ap-
pointed agencies in His organized church."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 162.
THE HEBREW CAMP AND o Tuesday

THE EARLY CHRISTIAN CHURCH May 14
5. How was the Hebrew camp organized in the days of Moses? What kind of
men did God tell Moses to choose? Exodus 18:21,22; Deuteronomy 1:15.
"The government of Israel was characterized by the most thorough organiza-

tion, wonderful alike for its completeness and its simplicity. The order so strikingly
displayed in the perfection and arrangement of all God's created works was manifest
in the Hebrew economy. God was the center of authority and government, the
sovereign of Israel. Moses stood as their visible leader, by God's appointment, to ad-
minister the laws of His name. From the elders of the tribes a council of seventy was
afterward chosen to assist Moses in the general affairs of the nation. Next came the
priests, who consulted the Lord in the sanctuary. Chiefs, or princes, ruled over the
tribes. Under these were 'captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and
captains over fifties, and captains over tens,' and, lastly, officers who might be
employed for special duties. Deuteronomy 1: 15."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 374.
6. How was the early Christian church organized? Ephesians 4: 11, 12; 1 Peter
5:2-5.
"The organization of the church at Jerusalem was to serve as a model for the
organization of churches in every other place where messengers of truth should win
converts to the gospel. Those to whom was given the responsibility of the general
oversight of the church were not to lord it over God's heritage, but, as wise
shepherds, were to 'feed the flock of God, ... being ensamples to the flock' (1 Peter
5:2, 3); and the deacons were to be 'men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and
wisdom.' These men were to take their position unitedly on the side of right and to
maintain it with firmness and decision. Thus they would have a uniting influence
upon the entire flock.
- 26-
"Later in the history of the early church, when in various parts of the world many
groups of believers had been formed into churches, the organization of the church was
further perfected, so that order and harmonious action might be maintained."
- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 91, 92.
D Wednesday
ORGANIZAnON AMONG ADVENTISTS May 15
7. What evils existed in the days of the Adventist pioneers, when the majority
were opposed to any organization? What is required in men to be qualified
for leadership? 1 Corinthians 14:33.
"August 3, 1861, I was shown that some have feared that our churches would
become Babylon if they should organize; but those in central New York have been
perfect Babylon, confusion. And now unless the churches are so organized that they
can carry out and enforce order, they have nothing to hope for in the future; they
must scatter into fragments.... If ministers of God would unitedly take their posi-
tion, and maintain it with decision, there would be a uniting influence among the flock
of God."-Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 270, 271.
"Only those who are thus taught of God, those who possess the inward working
of the Spirit, and in whose life the Christ-life is manifested, are to stand as represent-
ative men, to minister in behalf of the church."-The Desire of Ages, p. 805.
8. What made it necessary for the Adventist church to become organized?

Why is organization indispensable?
"As our numbers increased, it was evident that without some form of organiza-
tion there would be great confusion, and the work would not be carried forward suc-
cessfully. To provide for the support of the ministry, for carrying the work in new
fields, for protecting both the churches and the ministry from unworthy members, for
holding church property, for the publication of the truth through the press, and for
many other objects, organization was indispensable."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 26.
D Thursday
CONFLICT BETWEEN CHRIST AND SATAN May 16
9. How is Satan trying to destroy the unity of the church? What is his purpose?
Why? Colossians 2:18, 19.
"Satan well knows that success can only attend order and harmonious action. He
well knows that everything connected with heaven is in perfect order, that subjection
and thorough discipline mark the movements of the angelic host. It is his studied ef-
fort to lead professed Christians just as far from heaven's arrangement as he can;
therefore he deceives even the professed people of God and makes them believe that
order and discipline are enemies to spirituality, that the only safety for them is to let
each pursue his own course, and to remain especially distinct from bodies of Chris-
tians who are united and are laboring to establish discipline and harmony of action.
All the efforts made to establish order are considered dangerous, a restriction of
rightful liberty, and hence are feared as popery. These deceived souls consider it a
virtue to boast of their freedom to think and act independently. They will not take any
man's say-so. They are amenable to no man. I was shown that it is Satan's special
work to lead men to feel that it is in God's order for them to strike out for themselves
and choose their own course, independent of their brethren."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 650.
-27 -
10. What is to contribute to the glorification of Christ in His people? Ephesians
4:15, 16.
"Christ designs that heaven's order, heaven's plan of government, heaven's

divine harmony, shall be represented in His church on earth. Thus in His people He is
glorified. Through them the Sun of Righteousness will shine in undimmed luster to
the world. Christ has given to His church ample facilities, that He may receive a large
revenue of glory from His redeemed, purchased possession. He has bestowed upon
His people capabilities and blessings that they may represent His own sufficiency.
The church, endowed with the righteousness of Christ, is His depositary, in which the
riches of His mercy, His grace, and His love, are to appear in full and final display.
Christ looks upon His people in their purity and perfection, as the reward of His
humiliation, and the supplement of His glorY,-Christ, the great Center, from whom
radiates all glory."- The Desire of Ages, p. 680.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS May 17
a. When an individual is born of God, what relationship will he have with the
church of God?
b. What evidence shows that God used His church in the time of the apostles?
c. What are two examples of biblical organization, one in the Old Testament
and the other in the New?
d. What made organization necessary in the beginning of the Adventist work?
e. What does Satan continually seek to destroy?
•
* * * * *
o Friday
a. In what ways is the church to represent God in the world?

b. What authority did Christ vest in His church?
c. What comprises the highest authority in the church?
d. What is the only court to which believers may appeal when they cannot set-
tle any matter between themselves?
e. What divine recognition is there for the decisions of the church made in the
proper order? •
-28 -
PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
IN THE CHURCH
Humility of spirit and deference, one to the other will preserve unity in the
church and keep leaders from lording it over the flock of God
KEY TEXT: "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of
you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God
resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."-l Peter 5:5.
o Sunday
MOVING IN CONCERT May 19
1. What should always be a source of joy to the people of God? What warning
and appeal should be seriously considered by all of us as a people? Psalm
133:1; 1 Corinthians 1:10.
"If men will not move in concert in the great and grand work for this time, there
will be confusion. It is not a good sign when men refuse to unite with their brethren
and prefer to act alone. Let laborers take into their confidence the brethren who are
free to point out every departure from right principles. If men wear the yoke of Christ,
they can not pull apart; they will draw with Christ.
"Some workers pull with all the power that God has given them, but they have
not yet learned that they should not pull alone. Instead of isolating themselves, let
them draw in harmony with their fellow laborers. Unless they do this, their activity
will work at the wrong time and in the wrong way. They will often work counter to
that which God would have done, and thus their work is worse than wasted."-Testi-
monies, vol. 9, pp. 258, 259.
2. What warning is sent to those who despise other members who may have
less ability or who think they have exclusive rights and privileges in the
church? Isaiah 66:5; 2 Timothy 2:20.
"We do not need workers who must be supported and carried by those who have
long been in the faith, who regard themselves as a perfect whole."-Evangelism, p. 634.
"God has not singled out a few men for His favor and left others uncared for. He
will not lift up one and cast down and oppress another. All who are truly converted
will manifest the same spirit. They will treat their fellow men as they would treat
Christ. No one will ignore the rights of another."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 209.
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o Monday
SEPARATISM CONDEMNED May 20
3. Having knowledge of human tendencies, what counsel has the Lord given?
What is the danger if any group of men refuse to carry the work of God for-
ward in unity with the other workers appointed by the church? Proverbs
11:14; 15:22.
"God never designed that one man, or four, or twenty, should take an important
work into their own hands, and carry it forward independently of other workers in the
cause. God wants His people to counsel together, to be a united church, in Christ a
perfect whole. The only safety for us is to enter into the counsels of heaven, ever
seeking to do the will of God, to become laborers together with Him. No one company
is to form a confederacy, and say, 'Weare going to take this work, and carry it on in
our own way; and if it does not go as we want it to, we will not give our influence to
have it go at all.' This is Satan's voice, not God's. Do not obey such suggestions."
-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 374.
4. What experience did the early Christian church make with discordant ele-
ments in the days of the apostles? 1 John 2:19. What is revealed of this ex-
perience in our time?
" ... [T]here was a faction of ambitious and self-confident brethren who dis-
agreed with [the decision of the apostles and elders which was thereupon generally
accepted by the Christian churches]. These men assumed to engage in the work on
their own responsibility. They indulged in much murmuring and faultfinding, propos-
ing new plans and seeking to pull down the work of the men whom God had ordained
to teach the gospel message. From the first the church has had such obstacles to meet
and ever will have till the close of time."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 196, 197.
o Tuesday
TWO CONFLICTING PRINCIPLES May 21
5. What evil witnessed in the leaders of the Jewish church is revealed in the in-
struction of Jesus? What warning did Christ give against this evil principle
that guided them? Matthew 20:25-28.
"At the time of the first advent of Christ to our world, the men who composed
the Sanhedrin exercised their authority in controlling men according to their will.
Thus the souls whom Christ had given His life to free from the bondage of Satan were
brought under bondage to him in another form."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 361.
"The people were expected to believe and practice as their superiors directed.
The right of man as man, to think and act for himself, was wholly unrecognized."
- The Desire of Ages, p. 550.
6. What is the underlying principle of Satan's kingdom? On what contrasting

principle did Christ establish His kingdom? Luke 22:25, 26; Matthew 23:8
(second part).
"Now the cross was just before Him; and His own disciples were so filled with
self-seeking-the very principle of Satan's kingdom-that they could not enter into
sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for
them.
- 30-
"Very tenderly, yet with solemn emphasis, Jesus tried to correct the evil. He
showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven."- The Desire
of Ages, p. 436.
"Christ was establishing a kingdom on different principles. He called men, not to
authority, but to service."-Ibid., p. 550.
D Wednesday
THE SPIRIT OF CAIN May 22
7. What conflict developed between Cain and Abel and why did Cain become
enraged against Abel? Who will be persecuted by the spirit of Cain today?
1 John 3:12-15.
"When Cain, moved by the spirit of the wicked one, saw that he could not con-
trol Abel, he was so enraged that he destroyed his life. And wherever there are any
who will stand in vindication of the righteousness of the law of God, the same spirit
will be manifested against them."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 77.
8. What should those do who are in danger of being controlled by a wrong

spirit? 1 Peter 5:8.
"I am sorry, so sorry, that men will be wilfully obstinate, as was Pharaoh the
king of Egypt and Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon; but so it is. Let all be warned
by the messages sent from heaven, that when any man shall exalt his own ways and
his own judgment as supreme, he will come under Satan's jurisdiction, and will be led
blindfold by him, until his spirit and his methods will conform to the archdeceiver, lit-
tle by little, until his whole mind is under the influence of the spell. The serpent keeps
its eye fixed upon a man, to charm him, until he has no power to go from the snare."
-Special Testimonies, Series B, No.7, p. 20.
D Thursday
A SERIOUS EVIL May 23
9. What evil, manifested in Lucifer, was the beginning of the great controversy
in heaven? Whereby can those be distinguished who have his spirit? Isaiah
14:13,14.
"The strife for the highest place was the outworking of that same spirit which
was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above, and which had brought
Christ from heaven to die."-The Desire of Ages, p. 435.
10. Of what evil does the word of God warn us repeatedly? 1 Samuel 2:3; 1 Peter
5:3.
"Those whom God has placed in positions of responsibility should never seek to
exalt themselves.... They must not seek for power that they may lord it over God's
heritage; for only those who are under the rule of Satan will do this." - Testimonies to
Ministers, pp. 279, 280.
- 31-
Lesson 9 Sabbath, June 1, 1991
PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
IN THE CHURCH
(continued)
True unity is preserved by mutual respect and the guidance of the Spirit of
Christ, the head of the church
KEY TEXT: "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you,
do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets." - Matthew
7:12.
D Sunday
MUTUAL RECOGNITION AND RESPECT May 26
1. How can we be sure that we are recognized by Christ as a part of His body?
What example has God given for mutual respect among His people? 2 Corin-
thians 11:2; 1 Corinthians 12:25; Romans 15:1,2.
"God is the husband of His church. The church is the bride, the Lamb's wife.
Every true believer is a part of the body of Christ. Christ regards unfaithfulness
shown to Him by His people as the unfaithfulness of a wife to her husband. Weare to
remember that we are members of Christ's body."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
White Comments], vol. 7, pp. 985, 986.
"[W]e are all represented as being members of the body, united in Christ. In this
body there are various members, and one member cannot perform exactly the same
office as another. The eyes are made for seeing, and in no case can they perform the
work of the ears, which is that of hearing; neither can the ears take the place of the
mouth, nor the mouth perform the office of the nose. Yet all these organs are neces-
sary to the perfect whole and work in beautiful harmony with one another. The hands
have their office, and the feet theirs. One is not to say to the other, 'You are inferior to
me;' the hands are not to say to the feet, 'We have no need of you;' but all are united
to the body to do their specific work and should be alike respected, as they conduce to
the comfort and usefulness of the perfect whole."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 128.
2. How did Christ illustrate a brotherly relationship that should be corrected?

Luke 15:25-28.
- 32-
"They [who criticise and accuse their brethren] may claim to be children of God,
but they are acting out the spirit of Satan. By their attitude toward their brethren,
these accusers place themselves where God cannot give them the light of His counte-
nance." -Christ's Object Lessons, p. 210.
"It is true that you claim to be a child of God; but if this claim be true, it is 'thy
brother' that was 'dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.' He is bound to
you by the closest ties; for God recognizes him as a son. Deny your relationship to
. him, and you show that you are but a hireling in the household, not a child in the fami-
ly of God."-Ibid., p. 211.
o Monday
GOD'S ARRANGEMENT May 27
3. What arrangement was made by God in the establishment of the church?

What is the purpose of this arrangement? 1 Corinthians 12: 12; Colossians
2:19.
"The Lord in His wisdom has arranged that by means of the close relationship
that should be maintained by all believers, Christian shall be united to Christian and
church to church. Thus the human instrumentality will be enabled to cooperate with
the divine. Every agency will be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all the believers
will be united in an organized and well-directed effort to give to the world the glad
tidings of the grace of God."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 164.
4. What will ensure success in this arrangement? What attitude is required

and what would hurt the church? Romans 12:10.
"Satan is seeking to destroy the people of God, and one man's mind, one man's
judgment, is not sufficient to be trusted. Christ would have His followers brought
together in church capacity, observing order, having rules and discipline, and all sub-
ject one to another, esteeming others better than themselves. Union and confidence
are essential to the prosperity of the church. If each member of the church feels at
liberty to move independently of the others, taking his own peculiar course, how can
the church be in any safety in the hour of danger and peril? The prosperity and very
existence of a church depend upon the prompt, united action and mutual confidence
of its members."-Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 445.
"With Peter, he [Paul] taught that all united in church capacity should be 'sub-
ject one to another.' 1 Peter 5:5."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 200.
o Tuesday
MUTUAL CONFIDENCE May 28
5. What should church members cultivate among themselves? Galatians 5:10.

How does this affect church unity?
"Workers for Christ are to strive for unity. Weare the children of the same fami-
ly, and have one heavenly Father. Let us not put on garments of heaviness, and cherish
doubts and a lack of confidence in our brethren."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 502.
"In His providence He places His servants in close connection with His church
in order that they may have less confidence in themselves and greater confidence in
others whom He is leading out to advance His work."-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 163.
- 33-
6. How do we show that we have the mind of Christ? 1 Corinthians 2: 16.
"When men will show confidence in their fellowmen they will come much nearer
to possessing the mind of Christ."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 189.
o Wednesday
MEASURES OF PRECAUTION AND SAFETY May 29
7. What caution should we observe in placing our full trust in men? Jeremiah
17:5.
"Caviling, ridicule, and misrepresentation can be indulged in only at the expense

of the debasement of your own souls. The use of such weapons does not gain precious
victories for you, but rather cheapens the mind and separates the soul from God.
Sacred things are brought down to the level of the common, and a condition of things
is created that pleases the prince of darkness and grieves away the Spirit of God.
Caviling and criticism leave the soul as devoid of the dew of grace as the hills of
Gilboa were destitute of rain. Confidence cannot be placed in the judgment of those
who indulge in ridicule and misrepresentation. No weight can be attached to their ad-
vice or resolutions."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 466.
8. What are we counseled to do at all times with ourselves and others? Why?
What distinguishes between the Spirit of Christ and other spirits? 1 John
4:1.
"The less of the meekness and lowliness of Christ the human agent has in his
spirit and character, the more he sees perfection in his own methods and imperfection
in the methods of others. Our only safety is to watch unto prayer, and to counsel
together, believing that God will keep our brethren as well as ourselves, for there is
no respect of persons with Him."-Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 191, 192.
"We have no right to keep our minds stayed on ourselves, our preferences, and
our fancies. Weare not to seek to maintain a peculiar identity of our own, a personali-
ty, an individuality, which will separate us from our fellow laborers. We have a
character to maintain, but it is the character of Christ. Having the character of Christ,
we can carryon the work of God together."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 187, 188.
"He who considers himself superior in judgment and experience to his brethren
and despises their counsel and admonition, evinces that he is in a dangerous delusion."
-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 247.
o Thursday
OUR AIM May 30
9. Of what did Paul remind the believers in order to keep out disorder and divi-
sions? 1 Corinthians 12:21-25. What must always exist among all in the
church?
" 'Though we have an individual work and an individual responsibility before

God, we are not to follow our own judgment, regardless of the opinions and feelings
of our brethren; for this course would lead to disorder in the church. It is the duty of
ministers to respect the judgment of their brethren; but their relations to one another,
as well as the doctrines they teach, should be brought to the test of the law and the
testimony; then, if hearts are teachable, there will be no divisions among us.' "- Testi-
monies to Ministers, p. 503.
- 34-
10. What condition is part of the preparation to receive the latter rain? 1 Corin-
thians 1:10; Acts 1:14.
" ... Those who have not been living in Christian fellowship will draw close to
one another. One member working in right lines will lead other members to unite with
him in making intercession for the revelation of the Holy Spirit. There will be no con-
fusion, because all will be in harmony with the mind of the Spirit. The barriers
separating believer from believer will be broken down, and God's servants will speak
the same things. The Lord will cooperate with His servants."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 251.
o Friday
a. How does the relationship of the members of the physical body have a lesson
for the church?
b. How does Satan hope to prevail against the church?
c. What attitude among leaders and members should be seen in the church?
d. What must we do with all spirits to avoid deception?
e. What marked the church before Pentecost and must also characterize the
church before the latter rain? •
* 1:; * 1:; *
o Friday
a. What brings joy and happiness to the people of God?

b. What is the result of uncoordinated action?
c. What two principles motivate the children of darkness and the children of
light?
d. What arouses the spirit of Cain in all ages?
e. What is always a temptation to those called to leadership?
•
- 35-
THE DISCIPLINE OF THE CHURCH
The church is authorized to preach the remission of sin in the name of Christ
and exclude those who persist in sin
KEY TEXT: "Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be
bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed
in heaven."-Matthew 18:18.
o Sunday
PROPER RELATIONSHIP June 2
1. What duty is not understood by some church members? What is the conse·
quence of their lack of understanding? Matthew 18:17; 1 Corinthians 10:32.
"Many do not realize the sacredness of church relationship and are loath to sub-
mit to restraint and discipline. Their course of action shows that they exalt their own
judgment above that of the united church, and they are not careful to guard them-
selves lest they encourage a spirit of opposition to its voice."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 17.
2. What other duty is often ignored? Hebrews 13: 17.
"Those who hold responsible positions in the church may have faults in common
with other people and may err in their decisions; but notwithstanding this, the church
of Christ on earth has given to them an authority that cannot be lightly esteemed."
o Monday
CHRIST'S AMBASSADORS June 3
3. What position do God's ministers hold before the people? What is the full
significance of this position? 2 Corinthians 5:20.
"The people should not regard their ministers as mere public speakers and ora-
tors, but as Christ's ambassadors, receiving their wisdom and power from the great
Head of the church. To slight and disregard the word spoken by Christ's representa-
tive is not only showing disrespect to the man, but also to the Master who has sent
him. He is in Christ's stead; and the voice of the Saviour should be heard in His
representative."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 393.
"It is hardly possible for men to offer a greater insult to God than to despise and
reject the instrumentalities that He has appointed to lead them."-Ibid., vol. 3, p. 355.
- 36-
4. What should the servants of the Lord try to do when it is suspected that
someone is in error? James 5:19, 20. How does God regard them if they ne-
glect their duty?
"If wrongs are apparent among His people, and if the servants of God pass on in-
different to them, they virtually sustain and justify the sinner, and are alike guilty and
will just as surely receive the displeasure of God; for they will be made responsible for
the sins of the guilty."-Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 265, 266.
o Tuesday
THE BRIGHT SIDE OF THE PICTURE June 4
5. In laboring for sinners, what hope should be presented to them? Isaiah

55:6, 7; 1 John 1:9.
"In labor for the erring, let every eye be directed to Christ. Let the shepherds
have a tender care for the flock of the Lord's pasture. Let them speak to the erring of
the forgiving mercy of the Saviour. Let them encourage the sinner to repent, and
believe in Him who can pardon."-The Desire of Ages, p. 806.
6. In what sense does the church have power to absolve sinners? John 20:23.
"Let the repentance of the sinner be accepted by the church with grateful hearts.
Let the repenting one be led out from the darkness of unbelief into the light of faith
and righteousness. Let his trembling hand be placed in the loving hand of Jesus. Such
a remission is ratified in heaven.
"Only in this sense has the church power to absolve the sinner. Remission of sins
can be obtained only through the merits of Christ. To no man, to no body of men, is
given power to free the soul from guilt. Christ charged His disciples to preach the
remission of sins in His name among all nations; but they themselves were not em-
powered to remove one stain of sin."-The Desire of Ages, p. 806.
o Wednesday
A GREAT RESPONSIBILITY June 5
7. What responsibility has the Lord placed upon the church? What is her duty
towards erring members? 2 Timothy 4:2.
" ... But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for
the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty, to
warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. 'Reprove, rebuke, exhort,' the Lord says,
'with all long-suffering and doctrine.' 2 Tim. 4:2. Deal faithfully with wrongdoing.
Warn every soul that is in danger. Leave none to deceive themselves. Call sin by its
right name."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 805, 806.
8. What must the church, through her representatives, declare about sin? What
warning is given to those who persist in sin? Galatians 5:19-21.
" ... If they persist in sin, the judgment you have declared from God's word is
pronounced upon them in heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown Christ; the church
must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dishonors her Lord.
She must say about sin what God says about it. She must deal with it as God directs,
and her action is ratified in heaven. He who despises the authority of the church
despises the authority of Christ Himself."- The Desire of Ages, p. 806.
- 37-
o Thursday
RIGHT AND WRONG PROCEDURES ]une6
9. How are existing wrongs often made worse by unwise members? Leviticus
19:16; Proverbs 18:8; Psalm 15:1-4.
"Men have no right to surmise evil in regard to their fellowmen. Church members
have no right to follow their own impulses and inclinations in dealing with fellow
members who have erred. They should not even express their prejudices regarding the
erring, for thus they place in other minds the leaven of evil."- Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 260.
"In almost every case where reproof is necessary, there will be some who entirely
overlook the fact that the Spirit of the Lord has been grieved and His cause reproached.
These will pity those who deserved reproof, because personal feelings have been
hurt. All this unsanctified sympathy places the sympathizers where they are sharers
in the guilt of the one reproved. In nine cases out of ten if the one reproved had been
left under a sense of his wrongs, he might have been helped to see them and thereby
have been reformed. But meddlesome, unsanctified sympathizers place altogether a
wrong construction upon the motives of the reprover and the nature of the reproof
given, and by sympathizing with the one reproved lead him to feel that he has been
really abused; and his feelings rise up in rebellion against the one who has only done
his duty."-Ibid., vol. 3, p. 359.
10. What step must be taken if the erring one refuses to hear the voice of the
church? How does God consider the church when the rules of discipline have
been properly applied? Matthew 18: 17, 18.
" ... When this instruction has been followed, the church has cleared herself
before God. The evil must then be made to appear as it is, and must be removed, that
it may not become more and more widespread. The health and purity of the church
must be preserved, that she may stand before God unsullied, clad in the robes of
Christ's righteousness."-Testimonies, vol. 7, pp. 262, 263.
"Truth and purity require that we make more thorough work to cleanse the
camp from Achans. Let those in responsible positions not suffer sin in a brother.
Show him that he must either put away his sins or be separated from the church."
-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 147.
" ... But when they show that they are following the customs and fashions and
sentiments of the world, they are to be faithfully dealt with. If they feel no burden to
change their course of action, they should not be retained as members of the
church."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 128.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS ]une7
a. What sacred privileges and responsibilities come with church membership?

b. What is the duty of an ambassador and when is this most important?
c. What is the gospel to be preached by the church?
d. How only can the church maintain her right to represent Christ?
e. In view of eternal destinies, what should be the attitude of every believer
toward church discipline? •
- 38-
THE GREATEST NEED

OF THE CHURCH TODAY
The paramount need of the church today is the Spirit of God which will be
seen in love, unity and righteousness
KEY TEXT: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted
out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the
Lord."-Acts 3:19.
o Sunday
DAILY PROGRESS June 9
1. What is our greatest need today? Acts 3:19.
"The knowledge of God that works transformation of character is our great need.
If we fulfill His purpose, there must be in our lives a revelation of God that shall corre-
spond to the teaching of His word."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 329.
"You all need the converting power of God. You need to seek Him for yourselves.
For your soul's sake neglect this work no longer. All your trouble grows out of your
separation from God. Your disunion and dissension are the fruit of an unchristian char-
acter."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 51.
2. What progress should we be making daily? Hosea 6:3.
"We need constantly a fresh revelation of Christ, a daily experience that har-
monizes with His teachings. High and holy attainments are within our reach. Continual
progress in knowledge and virtue is God's purpose for us. His law is the echo of His
own voice, giving to all the invitation, 'Come up higher; be holy, holier still.' Every
day we may advance in perfection of Christian character."-Gospel Workers, p. 274.
o Monday
SELF-EXAMINATION June 10
3. What advice, given by Paul, is greatly needed today? What question should
we put to ourselves? 2 Corinthians 13:5.
" ... What soul conflicts have you experienced that have been for your good, for
the good of others, and for the glory of God? You who profess to be proclaiming the
- 39-
last solemn message of mercy to the world, what is your experience in the knowledge
of the truth, and what has been its effect upon your own hearts? Does your character
testify for Christ? Can you speak of the refining, ennobling, sanctifying influence of
the truth as it is in Jesus? What have you seen, what have you known, of the power of
Christ? This is the kind of witness for which the Lord calls, and for which the churches
are suffering."-Gospel Workers, p. 273.
4. What should be used like a mirror in this self-examination? James 1:21-25.

What is the purpose of such review of the daily actions?
" ... This daily review [self-examination] of our acts, to see whether conscience
approves or condemns, is necessary for all who wish to reach perfection of Christian
character. Many acts which pass for good works, even deeds of benevolence, will,
when closely investigated, be found to be prompted by wrong motives."-Gospel
Workers, p. 275.
"But some are not willing to look far enough or deep enough to see the depravity
of their own hearts. They are wanting in very many respects, yet they remain in will-
ing ignorance of their guilt."-Ibid., p. 276.
o Tuesday
THE REMEDY AND THE CURE June 11
5. What is the most effective prescription for peace and order in the church?
John 3:7; 2 Corinthians 5:17.
"Cherish not a feeling of lofty supremacy, thinking yourself better than others.
'Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.' Peace and rest will come to
you as you bring your will into subjection to the will of Christ. Then the love of Christ
will rule in the heart, bringing into captivity to the Saviour the secret springs of ac-
tion. The hasty, easily roused temper will be soothed and subdued by the oil of
Christ's grace. The sense of sins forgiven will bring that peace that passeth all under-
standing. There will be an earnest striving to overcome all that is opposed to Christian
perfection. Variance will disappear. He who once found fault with those around him
will see that far greater faults exist in his own character." -Messages to Young People, p. 73.
6. What will happen when believers are cured of all selfishness and pride? How
can this cure be completed? John 15:10-14.
"Selfishness and pride hinder the pure love that unites us in spirit with Jesus
Christ. If this love is truly cultivated, finite will blend with finite, and all will center in
the Infinite. Humanity will unite with humanity, and all will be bound up with the
heart of Infinite Love. Sanctified love for one another is sacred. In this great work
Christian love for one another-far higher, more constant, more courteous, more un-
selfish, than has been seen-preserves Christian tenderness, Christian benevolence,
and politeness, and enfolds the human brotherhood in the eIJ1brace of God, acknowl-
edging the dignity with which God has invested the rights of man."-The SDA Bible
Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1140.
"The powers of darkness stand a poor chance against believers who love one
another as Christ has loved them, who refuse to create alienation and strife, who
stand together, who are kind, courteous, and tender-hearted, cherishing the faith that
works by love and purifies the soul. We must have the Spirit of Christ, or we are none
of His."-Ibid., p. 1141.
-40 -
o Wednesday
LESSON TO BE LEARNED June 12
7. What lesson, so important in the work of Elijah, do we still need to learn? 1

Kings 19:11, 12; Zephaniah 3:12.
"Not until Elijah had learned to trust wholly in God could he complete his work
for those who had been seduced into Baal worship."-Prophets and Kings, p. 167.
"Tho~e who, standing in the forefront of the conflict, are impelled by the Holy
Spirit to do a special work, will frequently feel a reaction when the pressure is removed.
Despondency may shake the most heroic faith and weaken the most steadfast will.
But God understands, and He still pities and loves. He reads the motives and the pur-
poses of the heart. To wait patiently, to trust when everything looks dark, is the
lesson that the leaders in God's work need to learn. Heaven will not fail them in their
day of adversity."-Ibid., p. 174.
8. What experience will come when we have learnt to trust wholly in God?
Isaiah 30: 15.
"Our greatest need is faith in God. When we look on the dark side we lose our
hold on the Lord God of Israel. As the heart is opened to fears and conjectures, the
path of progress is hedged up by unbelief. Let us never feel that God has forsaken His
work.
"There must be less talking unbelief, less imagining that this one and that one is
hedging up the way. Go forward in faith; trust the Lord to prepare the way for His
work. Then you will find rest in Christ. As you cultivate faith and place yourselves in
right relation to God and by earnest prayer brace yourselves to do your duty you will
be worked by the Holy Spirit. The many problems that are now mysterious you may
solve for yourselves by continued trust in God."-Testimonies, yol. 7, pp. 211, 212.
o Thursday
FULFILLING CONDITIONS June 13
9. What condition was reached by the early Christians? What may be expected
in our time when the same condition is reached? Acts 1: 14; 4:32 (first part);
2:1-4,18.
"Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they
were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. They
were of one accord. All differences had been put away....
"The disciples did not ask for a blessing for themselves. They were weighted
with the burden of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the ends of the earth, and
they claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. Then it was that the
Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day.
"So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to
God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it
will come."- Testimonies, yol. 8, pp. 20, 21.
10. What other condition must also be fulfilled before the latter rain can be
poured out? Romans 10:15.
- 41-
THE PROSPERITY OF THE CHURCH
The true prosperity of the church depends upon separation from the world
and a true connection with God
KEY TEXT: "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by
that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in
the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edify-
ing of itself in love."-Ephesians 4:16.
o Sunday
FIRST THINGS FIRST June 16
1. What should be our first interest? Ephesians 2:21.
"Every believer should be wholehearted in his attachment to the church. Its pros-
perity should be his first interest, and unless he feels under sacred obligations to
make his connection with the church a benefit to it in preference to himself, it can do
far better without him."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 18.
2. What will promote the prosperity of the church? Ephesians 4:16.
a. A living connection with Christ. (5BC 1144).

b. Unity and mutual confidence. (3T 445,446).
c. Religious education of the young people. (FE 388, 389; 4T 202).
d. The proper food given her. (7BC 942).
e. Personal effort. (Ev 338).
f. Financial contributions. (3T 405).
g. Order, rules and discipline. (3T 294, 445, 446).
h. Cherishing the precious plant of love. (5T 123).
o Monday
RIGHT AND WRONG CONCEPTS OF PROSPERITY June 17
3. By what must the prosperity of the church and her institutions be measured?
John 15:4.
"If you lower the standard in order to secure popularity and an increase of num-
bers, and then make this increase a cause of rejoicing, you show great blindness. If
numbers were evidence of success, Satan might claim the preeminence; for in this
-42 -
world his followers are largely in the majority. It is the degree of moral power per-
vading the college that is a test of its prosperity. It is the virtue, intelligence, and piety
of the people composing our churches, not their numbers, that should be a source of
joy and thankfulness."- Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 31, 32.
"Our professions are worthless unless we abide in Christ; for we cannot be living
branches unless the vital qualities of the Vine abound in us. In the genuine Christian
the characteristics of his Master will appear, and when we reflect the graces of Christ
in our lives and characters, the Father loves us as He loves His Son. When this condi-
tion is fulfilled in those who profess to believe the present truth, we shall see a pros-
perous church; for its members will not live unto themselves, but unto Him who died
for them, and they will be flourishing branches of the living Vine."-The SDA Bible
Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1144.
4. Give the distinction between essential and apparent prosperity. Acts 7:48;
Isaiah 57:15.
"It is when the vital principles of the kingdom of God are lost sight of, that cere-
monies become multitudinous and extravagant. It is when the character building is
neglected, when the adornment of the soul is lacking, when the simplicity of godliness
is despised, that pride and love of display demand magnificent church edifices, splen-
did adornings, and imposing ceremonials. But in all this God is not honored. He values
His church, not for its external advantages, but for the sincere piety which distin-
guishes it from the world. He estimates it according to the growth of its members in
the knowledge of Christ, according to their progress in spiritual experience. He looks
for the principles of love and goodness. Not all the beauty of art can bear comparison
with the beauty of temper and character to be revealed in those who are Christ's rep-
resentatives."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 565, 566.
o Tuesday
SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD June 18
5. What may be learned from the mistake made by the founding Fathers of
America? What has always resulted from attempting to build up the church
by the help of the state? James 4:4.
"A profession of religion being the condition of suffrage and officeholding, many,
actuated solely by motives of worldly policy, united with the church without a change
of heart. Thus the churches came to consist, to a considerable extent, of unconverted
persons; and even in the ministry were those who not only held errors of doctrine, but
who were ignorant of the renewing power of the Holy Spirit. Thus again was demon-
strated the evil results, so often witnessed in the history of the church from the days
of Constantine to the present, of attempting to build up the church by the aid of the
state, of appealing to the secular power in support of the gospel of Him who declared:
'My kingdom is not of this world.' John 18:36. The union of the church with the state,
be the degree never so slight, while it may appear to bring the world nearer to the
church, does in reality but bring the church nearer to the world."- The Great Contro-
versy, p. 297.
6. Where should be the real citizenship of true Christians? From what will they
abstain? Hebrews 11:10, 13; John 18:36.
" ... In regard to the world, Christians will say, We will not dabble in politics.
They will say decidedly, Weare pilgrims and strangers; our citizenship is above.
- 43-
They will not be seen choosing company for amusement. They will say, We have
ceased to be infatuated by childish things. Weare strangers and pilgrims, looking for
a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God."- Testimonies to Minis-
ters, p. 131.
o Wednesday
MUTUAL HELP June 19
7. How can church members strengthen the hand of the leaders? Quote an ex-
ample from the days of Moses. Exodus 17:10-13. What will give members
power to support the church?
"Let each church member feel that he himself must be right with God, that he
must be sanctified through the truth. Then he can represent Christian character to
others and can set an example of unselfishness. If each will do this, the church will in-
crease in spirituality and in favor with God."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 481.
"The churches would realize one hundredfold more of the workings of the Holy
Spirit if ministers would educate all to bear in mind that they have a God nigh at hand,
and not afar off, and that they can honor God by seeking Him for help and wisdom
just where they are. They will then have ability which will strengthen the General
Conference." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 326.
8. How can the leaders strengthen the local churches? Quote an example from
the days of the apostles. Acts 6:1-3.
"The disciples of Jesus had reached a crisis in their experience. Under the wise
leadership of the apostles, who labored unitedly in the power of the Holy Spirit, the
work committed to the gospel messengers was developing rapidly. The church was
continually enlarging, and this growth in membership brought increasingly heavy
burdens upon those in charge. No one man, or even one set of men, could continue to
bear these burdens alone, without imperiling the future prosperity of the church.
There was necessity for a further distribution of the responsibilities which had been
borne so faithfully by a few during the earlier days of the church. The apostles must
now take an important step in the perfecting of gospel order in the church by laying
upon others some of the burdens thus far borne by themselves." - The Acts of the Apos-
tles, pp. 88, 89.
o Thursday
THE HOME AND THE HOLY SPIRIT June 20
9. Where is the foundation for the prosperity of the church to be laid? 1 Timo-
thy 3:4,5.
"In the home the foundation is laid for the prosperity of the church. The influ-
ences that rule in the home life are carried into the church life; therefore church duties
should first begin in the home."-The Adventist Home, p. 318.
10. On what power is the prosperity of the church always dependent? John
14:12-18.
"The promise of the Spirit is a matter little thought of; and the result is only what
might be expected-spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and
death. Minor matters occupy the attention, and the divine power which is necessary
- 44-
for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings
in its train, is lacking, though offered in its infinite plenitude.
"It is the absence of the Spirit that makes the gospel ministry so powerless. Learn-
ing, talent, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but,
without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner won to
Christ. On the other hand, if they are connected with Christ, if the gifts of the Spirit
are theirs, the poorest and most ignorant of His disciples will have a power that will
tell upon hearts."-Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 21, 22.
D Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS June 21
a. What should have a high priority in our lives?

b. What constitutes real prosperity?
c. What dangers are in seeking material help and support?
d. What examples do we have for cooperation with the ministry in their work?
e. What is necessary for prosperity in the home and the church?
•
* * * * *
"The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with
His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by ex-
perience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire,
wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an
outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion
of the church are not laborers together v.:ith God."-Christian Service, p. 253.
D Friday
a. What should be measured daily and with what measure?

b. Who in particular should we measure?
c. What results from remedying selfishness?
d. If we anticipate some of the Elijah experience, what lesson must we first
learn?
e. What conditions must be seen among the people of God?
•
-45 -
THE FINAL TRIUMPH OF THE CHURCH
This present time is the time of struggle, of conflict and of battle but for the
faithful overcomers there is prepared eternal peace and the joys of the earth
made new
KEY TEXT: "And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom
under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the
most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions
shall serve and obey him."-Daniel 7:27.
o Sunday
THE CHURCH MILITANT June 23
1. What is the present experience of the church? 2 Corinthians 10:3-6. What

designation may be used for it in its present circumstances?
"Has God no living church? He has a church, but it is the church militant, not the
church triumphant. Weare sorry that there are defective members, that there are
tares amid the wheat."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 45.
2. How does the prophet describe the experience of the church militant before
she becomes the church triumphant? What assurance is given her? Isaiah
43:1-4.
"Often the church militant is called upon to suffer trial and affliction; for not
without severe conflict is the church to triumph. 'The bread of adversity,' 'the water
of affliction' (Isaiah 30:20), these are the common lot of all; but none who put their
trust in the One mighty to deliver will be utterly overwhelmed [Isaiah 43:1-4
quotedJ."-Prophets and Kings, p. 723.
D Monday
THE FINAL CONFLICT June 24
3. When and how is the church to'enter upon her final conflict with the powers
of darkness? What promise is given her? Revelation 13:15-17; Isaiah 25:4;
Song of Solomon 6:10.
"Clad in the armor of Christ's righteousness, the church is to enter upon her final
conflict. 'Fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners' (Song
of Solomon 6:10), she is to go forth into all the world, conquering and to conquer.
- 46-
"The darkest hour of the church's struggle with the powers of evil is that which
immediately precedes the day of her final deliverance. But none who trust in God need
fear; for 'when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall,' God will be
to His church 'a refuge from the storm.' Isaiah 25:4."-Prophets and Kings, p. 725.
4. What scene of the final battle was presented to John the Revelator and to
Sister White? Revelation 17:14.
"At last the victory was gained. The army following the banner with the inscrip-
tion, 'The commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus,' was gloriously triumphant.
The soldiers of Christ were close beside the gates of the city, and with joy the city
received her King. The kingdom of peace and joy and everlasting righteousness was
established."-Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 41, 42.
o Tuesday
THE DAWN OF A BRIGHT AND GLORIOUS DAY June 25
5. What has been revealed to the church concerning the future? Romans 8: 18;
1 Corinthians 2:9, 10; Matthew 25:34.
"In the darkest days of her long conflict with evil, the church of God has been
given revelations of the eternal purpose of Jehovah. His people have been permitted
to look beyond the trials of the present to the triumphs of the future, when, the war-
fare having been acccomplished, the redeemed will enter into possession of the pro-
mised land."-Prophets and Kings, p. 722.
6. On what condition will we inherit the kingdom of glory? Revelation 21:7.

What encouraging promise attends the presentation of God's truth?
"If the church will put on the robe of Christ's righteousness, withdrawing from
all allegiance with the world, there is before her the dawn of a bright and glorious day.
God's promise to her will stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellency, a
joy of many generations. Truth, passing by those who despise and reject it, will
triumph. Although at times apparently retarded, its progress has never been checked.
When the message of God meets with opposition, He gives it additional force, that it
may exert greater influence. Endowed with divine energy, it will cut its way through
the strongest barriers and triumph over every obstacle." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 601.
o Wednesday
TWO CLASSES OF CONQUERORS June 26
7. What two classes of saints will be before the throne of God? Revelation 7:4,
9-17; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17.
8. Where did John see the 144,000 sea,led ones? What were they doing? Reve-
lation 14:1; 15:2,3.
" ... And they sing 'a new song' before the throne, a song which no man can
learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the
Lamb-a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can
learn that song; for it is the song of their experience-an experience such as no other
company have ever had."-The Great Controversy, pp. 648, 649.
- 47-
D Thursday
THE NEW EARTH June 27
9. What assurance is given us with reference to the evils now existing in this
world? Revelation 21:4.
10. What will be prepared for the church triumphant? 2 Peter 3:13; Isaiah
32:18.
"[T]he day is coming in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won.
The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then the nations will
own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed
with the garments of praise and thanksgiving-the robe of Christ's righteousness. All
nature, in its surpassing loveliness, will offer to God a constant tribute of praise and
adoration. The world will be bathed in the light of heaven. The years will move on in
gladness."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 42.
D Friday
a. What promise should members of the church militant always remember?

b. What must the church expect before the end?
c. What is revealed to encourage in times when the battle goes hard?
d. What two classes will be celebrating the victory?
e. What striking change will reward the church triumphant?
•
Would you like to know how much joy

has your thirteenth Sabbath offering
brought to other fellow believers in a
far-away country? Please turn to page
4, rejoice with them in what they were
able to do with God's help, and bring in
a generous offering today.
- 48-

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Sabbath Bible Lessons

THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD (continued)

Lesson Titles Page

1 The Church Is Composed of Living Stones 5

Special Project Offering

To our dear Sabbath school members around the world:

THE CHURCH IS COMPOSED

The members of the church-as living stones-are to actively continue the

''There is a wide difference between a pretended union and a real connection

5. What invitation, if accepted, establishes a living connection between Christ

10. What is expected of members having this living experience? 1 Corinthians

(Continued on page 11)

THE CHURCH IS A UNITED PEOPLE

"God is the embodiment of benevolence, mercy, and love."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 28.

7. What practical demonstration of true love helped to promote unity in the

8. What considerations also contribute toward Christian unity? 1 Corinthians

"The law of reciprocal dependence and influence is to be recognized and obeyed."

a. Equality. 1 Corinthians 12:25.

a. What is one of the most important works of the Holy Spirit?

(Continued from page 7)

a. Why is a vine used by Christ to illustrate the necessary connection with

THE GREATEST DANGERS

9. What warning is given believers, which if heeded would lead to Christian

(Continued on page 18)

4. What description do we have of those who are given to destructive criticism?

7. How do we know that, in the church of God, there is no place to disregard

RESPONSIBILITY IN PROPORTION o Thursday

a. What spirit should be immediately recognized as from Satan?

(Continued from page 14)

a. What special warning applies to the church of God?

3. According to God's arrangement, who has a voice in the election of the

"[T]he General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments

a. What leadership was provided for the early church?

THE AUTHORITY OF THE CHURCH

4. If the church is divided on a controversial point, how is the matter to be set-

5. What is the highest organized authority in the church? What is actually

6. What is the definition of the General Conference given in the Principles of

7. In event of disagreement among brethren, to what authority should they

8. When there is controversy, what action should be taken in order to avoid

(Continued on page 28)

THE ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH

1. Besides Christ, to whom else are we responsible? Matthew 18:17, 18.

2. What God-made arrangement establishes the relationship between the in-

THE HEBREW CAMP AND o Tuesday

"The government of Israel was characterized by the most thorough organiza-

8. What made it necessary for the Adventist church to become organized?

"Christ designs that heaven's order, heaven's plan of government, heaven's

a. In what ways is the church to represent God in the world?

6. What is the underlying principle of Satan's kingdom? On what contrasting

8. What should those do who are in danger of being controlled by a wrong

(Continued on page 35)

2. How did Christ illustrate a brotherly relationship that should be corrected?

3. What arrangement was made by God in the establishment of the church?

4. What will ensure success in this arrangement? What attitude is required

5. What should church members cultivate among themselves? Galatians 5:10.

"Caviling, ridicule, and misrepresentation can be indulged in only at the expense

" 'Though we have an individual work and an individual responsibility before

a. What brings joy and happiness to the people of God?

THE DISCIPLINE OF THE CHURCH

2. What other duty is often ignored? Hebrews 13: 17.

5. In laboring for sinners, what hope should be presented to them? Isaiah

a. What sacred privileges and responsibilities come with church membership?

THE GREATEST NEED