4/99 October–December 1999

Sabbath Bible L essons

Senior Div ision

T HAT O THER A NGEL

The Closing Work
 Contents
Foreword. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 During this quarter we will study a series of lessons based on the sub-
First Sabbath Offering for Congo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ject, That Other Angel. In these studies, the following points, among oth-
Lessons From the Past . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 ers, will be highlighted:
A Faithful Remnant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The Third Angel’s Message Strengthened . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The Beginning of the Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Our Great Danger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
First Sabbath Offering for Literature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
1888 and the Message to Laodicea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
The Purpose of the Laodicean Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
The White Raiment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Preparing for the Latter Rain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
First Sabbath Offering for Panama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
That Other Angel and the Loud Cry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
With or Without the Seal? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
The Decree and the Close of Probation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
The Time of Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Sabbath Bible Lessons, a daily study program, is based solely
on the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy without additional comments.
The quotations are as brief as possible to provide concise, direct
thoughts. Brackets [] are supplied in some cases to ensure clarity,
proper context, and smooth readability. Further study in the source
materials is strongly recommended.
Sabbath Bible Lessons (USPS 005-118), Vol. 74, No. 4, October–December 1999.
Published quarterly by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General
Conference, Sabbath School Department. Copyright © 1999, printed and distributed
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For ewor d
1. Why did the other angel have to come? (or, What situation in
the church required the coming of another angel after the
third angel of Revelation 14?)
2. When did the light of that other angel begin to shine?
3. What message did he bring to the church? (or, What is the
purpose of his message as it is presented to the people of
God?)
4. How is his message connected with Isaiah 58 and Revelation
3:14–20?
5. How has his message been received? (or, Why has the church
continued in the wrong direction, as mentioned in Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 217 and vol. 8, p. 119, in spite of the coming of the
other angel?)
6. How and where has the other angel joined the first, second,
and third angels?
7. How has the conflicting reception of the other angel (Reve-
lation 18) and his message, since 1888, resulted in the devel-
opment of two parties of Adventists?
8. How does his message prepare one of the two parties (a faith-
ful remnant) to receive the latter rain and give the loud cry?
9. How will the righteousness of Christ, imputed and imparted,
enable the small remnant to receive the seal of God and go
through the time of trouble?
10. What external work must the angel of Revelation 18 accom-
plish, particularly under the loud cry? (or, What is his mission,
especially in behalf of the honest souls in the fallen churches?)
It is important to bear in mind that in The Great Controversy’s chapter
“The Time of Trouble,” pp. 613–634, quoted extensively in the last two
lessons, not everything refers to the time after the close of probation.
May the blessings of God attend the study of these lessons, which we
hope will prove to be of real benefit to all believers in the three angels’
messages.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 3
 Sabbath, October 2, 1999 Lesson 1 Sabbath, October 2, 1999

First Sabbath Offering

for a chapel and headquarters in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Lessons Fr om the Past
This country (formerly known as Zaire) is the third largest nation in “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our
Africa. Straddling the Equator in the central part of the continent, the DR learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might
of the Congo covers an area of 905,446 square miles (2,345,095 square have hope” (Romans 15:4).
kilometers) bordered by Angola (including the exclave of Cabina), the
Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, The “The experience of Christians in these days is much like the travels of
Sudan, and the Central African Republic. ancient Israel. Please read 1 Corinthians 10, especially from the 6th to the
A heavily forested land with a humid tropical climate, this country is 15th verse.” —Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 284.
home to a wide diversity of animal life and has significant reserves of high-
❑ Sunday
grade copper ore, cobalt, diamonds, zinc, cadmium, gold, and silver.
HISTORY REPEATED September 26
Extensive offshore petroleum reserves have also been exploited.
Among the population of 46,674,000, 41% are Roman Catholics, 32% What does the Bible assure us about histor y? Ecclesiastes1:9;
Protestant, 13.4% indigenous Christian, 1.2% Muslim, and 11.6% adhere to 1 3:15.
traditional beliefs and other religions. Although as many as 282 different
languages are spoken in the DR of the Congo, the official tongue is French.
In 1970, a brother from the Seventh Day Union came across a piece of
literature with the address of the Seventh Day Adventist Reform
Movement. He wrote for more information, and received a visit from two “History is being repeated. The world today has its Ahabs and its
of our ministers from South Africa. It was not long before a local church Jezebels. The present age is one of idolatry, as verily as was that in which
was organized in 1972. Today we have members in different parts of the Elijah lived.” —Prophets and Kings, p. 177.
country amidst the mosaic of languages.
What serious warning should we take from the condition of the
For all these years we have been operating out of the homes of our 2 Jewish church in the days of Christ? Matthew 23:1–3.
brethren. But by God’s grace and through the kind assistance of our
brethren from Germany, we recently managed to nearly complete a very
small chapel in Lubumbashi.
To place the finishing touches on this small monument to the Lord—
as well as to build a mission office for His work—we are in need of an addi- “The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a
tional US$35,000.00. For this amount we CAMEROON
SUDAN ETHIOPIA mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experi-
turn to you, our brethren, sisters, and Democratic
Republic
UGANDA
KENYA
SOMALIA
ence a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insuffi-
friends from around the world.
GABON of the
Republic
CONGO
of the
RWANDA
BURUNDI
cient for the saving of the soul. It does not bring forth the fruits of right-
Therefore, when the First Sabbath CONGO
TANZANIA eousness. A jealous regard for what is termed theological truth often
Offering is gathered on October 2, 1999, COMOROS
accompanies a hatred of genuine truth as made manifest in life. The dark-
please remember your poor brethren in ANGOLA
ZAMBIA
MOZAMBIQUE est chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed
the DR of the Congo. We thank you in ZIMBABWE
MADAGASCAR by bigoted religionists. The Pharisees claimed to be children of Abraham,
NAMIBIA
advance, and pray that God will abun- BOTSWANA
and boasted of their possession of the oracles of God; yet these advantages
dantly bless each gift and giver. did not preserve them from selfishness, malignity, greed for gain, and the
Your brethren from the DR of the Congo Atlantic Indian
SOUTH AFRICA
basest hypocrisy. They thought themselves the greatest religionists of the
Ocean Ocean
world, but their so-called orthodoxy led them to crucify the Lord of glory.
4 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 5
 “The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are
Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets.
But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not
believed and loved it, therefore they have not received the power and
grace that come through sanctification of the truth. Men may profess faith
in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing,
heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influ-
ence it is a curse to the world.” —The Desire of Ages, pp. 309, 310.
❑ Monday
GOD’S PROMISES CONDITIONAL September 27
The Jews misinterpreted God’s promise of eternal favor to
3 Israel. How could the same mistake be repeated by believers in
the threefold message? Romans 15:4.
“To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is
assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves
from God. Because of their sins they were suffering under His judgments.
This was the cause of their bondage to a heathen nation. Their minds were
darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown
them so great favor, they excused their sins. . . .
“These things ‘are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of
the world are come’ (1 Corinthians 10:11). How often we misinterpret
God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of
some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do.”—
The Desire of Ages, p. 106.
“A blessing or a curse is now before the people of God—a blessing if
they come out from the world and are separate, and walk in the path of
humble obedience; and a curse if they unite with the idolatrous, who tram-
ple upon the high claims of heaven. The sins and iniquities of rebellious
Israel are recorded and the picture presented before us as a warning that
if we imitate their example of transgression and depart from God we shall
fall as surely as did they.” —Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 609 (1867).
What divine words to ancient Israel and its leaders include
4 likewise a warning to modern Israel? Hosea 8:12; 4:6; 2
Chronicles 15:2.
6 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“Shall the warnings from God be passed by unheeded? Shall the oppor-
tunities for service be unimproved? Shall the world’s scorn, the pride of
reason, conformity to human customs and traditions, hold the professed
followers of Christ from service to Him? Will they reject God’s word as the
Jewish leaders rejected Christ? The result of Israel’s sin is before us. Will
the church of today take warning?” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 306 (1900).
❑ Tuesday
IN THE STEPS OF ANCIENT ISRAEL September 28
In what respect is the disobedience of ancient Israel a warning
5 to modern Israel? Isaiah 29:13; Romans 2:17, 18, 23, 24.
“The sin of ancient Israel was in disregarding the expressed will of God
and following their own way according to the leadings of unsanctified
hearts. Modern Israel are fast following in their footsteps, and the displea-
sure of the Lord is as surely resting upon them.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 94 (1882).
“If most earnest vigilance is not manifested at the great heart of the
work to protect the interests of the cause, the church will become as cor-
rupt as the churches of other denominations.” —Ibid., vol. 4, p. 513 (1880).
What parallel can be seen between ancient and modern Israel
6 regarding the allurements of Egypt? Acts 7:39.
“The Lord has not closed heaven to us, but our own course of contin-
ual backsliding has separated us from God. Pride, covetousness, and love
of the world have lived in the heart without fear of banishment or con-
demnation. Grievous and presumptuous sins have dwelt among us. And
yet the general opinion is that the church is flourishing and that peace and
spiritual prosperity are in all her borders.
“The church has turned back from following Christ her Leader and is
steadily retreating toward Egypt.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 217 (1882).
❑ Wednesday
DO WE SEE THINGS CLEARLY? September 29
What was the spiritual condition of the Jewish leaders in the
7 days of Christ? Matthew 15:14. Why were they guilty before
God in spite of their blindness? John 9:41.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 7
 “Some of [Jesus’] hearers, feeling that Christ’s words applied to them,
inquired, ‘Are we blind also?’ Jesus answered, ‘If ye were blind, ye should
have no sin.’ If God had made it impossible for you to see the truth, your
ignorance would involve no guilt. ‘But now ye say, We see.’ You believe
yourselves able to see, and reject the means through which alone you could
receive sight. To all who realized their need, Christ came with infinite help.
But the Pharisees would confess no need; they refused to come to Christ,
and hence they were left in blindness—a blindness for which they were
themselves guilty. Jesus said, ‘Your sin remaineth.’ ”—The Desire of Ages, p. 475.
What particular condition has developed among those who live
8 in the period of Laodicea? Revelation 3:17. What are the con-
sequences of the spiritual blindness which characterizes this
last generation?
“Has not blindness fallen upon the watchmen standing on the walls of
Zion?”—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 248 (1903).
“My brethren, you are disregarding the most sacred claims of God by
your neglect to consecrate yourselves and your children to Him. Many of
you are reposing in false security, absorbed in selfish interests, and attract-
ed by earthly treasures. You fear no evil. Danger seems a great way off.
You will be deceived, deluded, to your eternal ruin unless you arouse and
with penitence and deep humiliation return unto the Lord. . . . The deadly
lethargy of the world is paralyzing your senses. Sin no longer appears
repulsive because you are blinded by Satan.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 233 (1882).
❑ Thursday
THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM September 30
What woe was pronounced upon the Jews as a nation because
9 they knew not the time of their visitation? Luke 19:42–44. What
lesson should we learn from their mistake? Matthew 23:38.
“The great sin of the Jews was that of neglecting and rejecting present
opportunities. As Jesus views the state of His professed followers today,
He sees base ingratitude, hollow formalism, hypocritical insincerity, phar-
isaical pride and apostasy.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 72 (1882).
“The spirit of the world is fast leavening the church. You are following
the same path as did ancient Israel. There is the same falling away from
8 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
your holy calling as God’s peculiar people. You are having fellowship with
the unfruitful works of darkness. Your concord with unbelievers has pro-
voked the Lord’s displeasure. You know not the things that belong to your
peace, and they are fast being hid from your eyes. Your neglect to follow
the light will place you in a more unfavorable position than the Jews upon
whom Christ pronounced a woe.” —Ibid., pp. 75, 76 (1882).
How did God punish the disobedience of the Jews on two occa-
10 sions? 2 Chronicles 36:17–19; Matthew 22:7; 24:1, 2. What
does the destruction of Jerusalem tell us?
“A sin-hating God calls upon those who claim to keep His law to depart
from all iniquity. A neglect to repent and to render willing obedience will
bring upon men and women today as serious consequences as came upon
ancient Israel. There is a limit beyond which the judgments of Jehovah can
no longer be delayed. The desolation of Jerusalem in the days of Jeremiah
is a solemn warning to modern Israel, that the counsels and admonitions
given them through chosen instrumentalities cannot be disregarded with
impunity.” —Prophets and Kings, pp. 416, 417.
“Outward opposition will not cause the faith of God’s people, who are
keeping His commandments, to become dim. The neglect to bring purity
and truth into practice will grieve the Spirit of God and weaken them
because God is not in their midst to bless. Internal corruption will bring
the denunciations of God upon this people as it did upon Jerusalem.”—
Selected Messages, book 2, p. 378 (1886).
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 1
a. What danger, existing today, parallels the mistake of the Jews?
b. What should we learn from the failure of the Jewish nation?
c. How can modern Israel follow the example of ancient Israel in their
inclination toward Egypt?
d. What characteristics are used in the description of modern Israel?
e. If modern Israel refuses to repent, what will be the unavoidable
consequences?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 296–306.
The Great Controversy, pp. 17–38.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 9

Lesson 2 Sabbath, October 9, 1999
A Faithful Remnant
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant accord-
ing to the election of grace” (Romans 11:5).
“In every age the Lord has had His watchmen, who have borne a faithful
testimony to the generation in which they lived.” —The Acts of the Apostles, p. 11.
❑ Sunday
A CONDITIONAL RELATIONSHIP October 3
Why was the spiritual “vineyard” taken from the Jewish nation?
1 To whom was it transferred, and on what condition? Matthew
21:43; Luke 12:32. How is this a warning to us?
“The Jewish leaders thought themselves too wise to need instruction,
too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that
comes from Christ. The Saviour turned from them to entrust to others the
privileges they had abused and the work they had slighted. God’s glory
must be revealed, His word established.” —The Acts of the Apostles, p. 16.
“Because they failed of fulfilling God’s purpose, the children of Israel
were set aside, and God’s call was extended to other peoples. If these too
prove unfaithful, will they not in like manner be rejected?”—Christ’s Object
Lessons, p. 304.
How does the Bible teach that the “vineyard” is not entrusted
2 to any church unconditionally? Romans 11:20–22. How does
this principle apply to those living in the Laodicean period?
“The Lord Jesus will always have a chosen people to serve Him. When
the Jewish people rejected Christ, the Prince of life, He took from them the
kingdom of God and gave it unto the Gentiles. God will continue to work
on this principle with every branch of His work. When a church proves
unfaithful to the work of the Lord, whatever their position may be, howev-
10 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
er high and sacred their calling, the Lord can no longer work with them.
Others are then chosen to bear important responsibilities. But, if these in
turn do not purify their lives from every wrong action, if they do not estab-
lish pure and holy principles in all their borders, then the Lord will griev-
ously afflict and humble them and, unless they repent, will remove them
from their place and make them a reproach.” —The Upward Look, p. 131 (1903).
“Brethren, if you continue to be as idle, as worldly, as selfish as you
have been, God will surely pass you by, and take those who are less self-
caring, less ambitious for worldly honor, and who will not hesitate to go, as
did their Master, without the camp, bearing the reproach. The work will be
given to those who will take it, those who prize it, who weave its principles
into their everyday experience. God will choose humble men who are
seeking to glorify His name and advance His cause rather than to honor
and advance themselves. He will raise up men who have not so much
worldly wisdom, but who are connected with Him, and who will seek
strength and counsel from above.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 461 (1885).
❑ Monday
PREREQUISITES UNMET October 4
What condition renders the work of a church unacceptable to
3 God? Isaiah 59:1, 2.
“A company was presented before me under the name of Seventh-day
Adventists, who were advising that the banner or sign which makes us a
distinctive people should not be held out so strikingly; for they claimed it
was not the best policy in securing success to our institutions.” —Selected
Messages, book 2, p. 385 (1896).
“Instead of leading the world to render obedience to God’s law, the church
is uniting more and more closely with the world in transgression. Daily the
church is becoming converted to the world.” —Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 119 (1903).
“Christ longs to work mightily by His Spirit for the conviction and con-
version of sinners. But, according to His divine plan, the work must be per-
formed through the instrumentality of His church; and her members have
so far departed from Him that He cannot accomplish His will through
them.” —Ibid., vol. 5, p. 189 (1882).
In case the majority shows open apostasy and refuses to repent,
4 whom does the Lord call to continue the work? Isaiah 1:9;
Romans 9:27.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 11
 “Many who have had great light have not appreciated and improved it
as it was their privilege to do. They have not practiced the truth. And
because of this the Lord will bring in those who have lived up to all the
light they have had. And those who have been privileged with opportuni-
ties to understand the truth and who have not obeyed its principles will be
swayed by Satan’s temptations for self-advancement. They will deny the
principles of truth in practice and bring reproach upon the cause of God.
“Christ declares that He will spue these out of His mouth, and leave
them to follow their own course of actions to distinguish themselves. This
course of action does indeed make them prominent as men that are
unfaithful householders.
“The Lord will give His message to those who have walked in accor-
dance with the light they have had, and will recognize them as true and
faithful, according to the measurement of God. These men will take the
place of those who, having light and knowledge, have walked not in the
way of the Lord, but in the imagination of their own unsanctified hearts.”
—Selected Messages, book 3, pp. 421, 422 (1898).
❑ Tuesday
A SMALL MINORITY October 5
What plan does God have for the faithful souls still in the fall-
5 en churches? John 10:16.
“Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness and alienation from God that
exist in the churches which constitute Babylon, the great body of Christ’s
true followers are still to be found in their communion. There are many of
these who have never seen the special truths for this time. Not a few are
dissatisfied with their present condition and are longing for clearer light.
They look in vain for the image of Christ in the churches with which they
are connected. As these bodies depart further and further from the truth,
and ally themselves more closely with the world, the difference between
the two classes will widen, and it will finally result in separation.” —The
Great Controversy, p. 390.
“The light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallen
churches, and take their stand with the remnant.” —Early Writings, p. 261.
What should the faithful minority among Seventh-day Adventists
6 do in the face of sin in their churches? Ezekiel 9:4.
12 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“None but divine power can stay the arrogance of Satan united with evil
men; but in the hour of the church’s greatest danger most fervent prayer
will be offered in her behalf by the faithful remnant.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 524.
❑ Wednesday
WHY SIGH AND CRY? October 6
What object should the faithful minority have in mind? James
7 5:19, 20. What will be the ef fect of their sighing and cr ying?
“These sighing, crying ones had been holding forth the words of life;
they had reproved, counseled, and entreated. Some who had been dishon-
oring God repented and humbled their hearts before Him. But the glory of
the Lord had departed from Israel; although many still continued the forms
of religion, His power and presence were lacking.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 210.
What does Paul mean when he says that God will never cast
8 away His people? Romans 11:1–5.
“Thank God, all will not be rocked to sleep in the cradle of carnal secu-
rity. There will be faithful ones who will discern the signs of the times.
While a large number professing present truth will deny their faith by
their works, there will be some who will endure unto the end.” —Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 10.
❑ Thursday
NO UNCONDITIONAL AFFILIATION October 7
How do we know that God does not demand, but rather forbids
9 His people to have unconditional af filiation? Amos 3:3.
“There are few really consecrated men among us, few who have
fought and conquered in the battle with self. Real conversion is a decided
change of feelings and motives; it is a virtual taking leave of worldly con-
nections, a hastening from their spiritual atmosphere, a withdrawing from
the controlling power of their thoughts, opinions, and influences. The sep-
aration causes pain and bitterness to both parties. It is the variance which
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 13
Christ declares that He came to bring. But the converted will feel a con-
tinual longing desire that their friends shall forsake all for Christ, knowing
that, unless they do, there will be a final and eternal separation.” —
Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 82, 83.
What historical pattern has always been ignored by the majori-
10 ty? Luke 20:16. What evidence shows that the prophesied
shaking must be completed before the seal of God can be
received?
“The time of the judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord
gathers His own from among the tares. Those who have been members of
the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. . . .
“The tares and wheat are now commingled, but then the one hand that
alone can separate them will give to everyone his true position. . . .
“The righteous are those who keep the commandments of God, and
they will be forever separated from the disobedient and unrighteous who
trampled underfoot the law of God. The pure ore and the dross will no
longer commingle.” —Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 234–236.
“The angel is to place a mark upon the forehead of all who are sepa-
rated from sin and sinners, and the destroying angel will follow, to slay
utterly both old and young.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 505.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 8
a. How is the experience of the Jewish leaders a warning to us?
b. What danger exists among all who are entrusted with great light?
c. What should be our attitude toward souls in Babylon and why?
d. Explain the timeless lesson to be learned from Romans 11:1–5.
e. Why is it that true conversion forbids unconditional church af filia-
tion?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 265–271.
Ibid., vol. 5, pp. 75–84.
14 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Lesson 3 Sabbath, October 16, 1999
The Thir d Angel’ s Message
Str engthened
“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glor y of the Lord is
risen upon thee” (Isaiah 60:1).
“In the night of spiritual darkness God’s glory is to shine forth
through His church in lifting up the bowed down and comforting those
that mourn.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 417.
❑ Sunday
A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF PRESENT TRUTH October 10
To what extent does our salvation depend on our belief and prac-
1 tice of present truth? 1 Corinthians 15:1, 2; 2 Thessalonians
2:13 (last part); 2 Peter 1:10–12.
“The truth and the glory of God are inseparable; it is impossible for us,
with the Bible within our reach, to honor God by erroneous opinions. Many
claim that it matters not what one believes, if his life is only right. But the
life is molded by the faith. If light and truth is within our reach, and we
neglect to improve the privilege of hearing and seeing it, we virtually reject
it; we are choosing darkness rather than light.” —The Great Controversy, p. 597.
“A belief in the theory of the truth is not enough. To present this theo-
ry to unbelievers does not constitute you a witness for Christ. The light that
gladdened your heart when you first understood the message for this time,
is an essential element in your experience and labors, and this has been lost
out of your heart and life.” —Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 370, 371 (1890).
In view of what danger, and how, does Paul emphasize the
2 importance of possessing the truth? Ephesians 6:11–18.
“The doctrines must be plainly understood. The men accepted to preach
the truth must be anchored; then their vessel will hold against storm and
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 15
tempest, because the anchor holds them firmly. The deceptions will increase,
and we are to call rebellion by its right name. We are to stand with the whole
armor on. In this conflict we do not meet men only, but principalities and pow-
ers. We wrestle not against flesh and blood.” —Selected Messages, book 2, p. 395.
❑ Monday
OBSTACLES TO BE MET October 11
What obstacles must be faced by the faithful remnant standing
3 in defense of the threefold message? 2 Timothy 3:13; 4:3, 4.
“I was shown three steps–the first, second, and third angels’ mes-
sages. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Woe to him who shall move a block
or stir a pin of these messages. The true understanding of these messages
is of vital importance. The destiny of souls hangs upon the manner in
which they are received.’ ” —Early Writings, pp. 258, 259.
“Satan is constantly seeking to cast a shadow about these messages,
so that the people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time
and place.” —Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 18.
What will happen to those who do not have the love of the
4 truth? 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12. Against what danger must we
stand on guard? Matthew 24:24 (last part).
“Satan hopes to involve the remnant people of God in the general ruin
that is coming upon the earth. As the coming of Christ draws nigh, he will
be more determined and decisive in his efforts to overthrow them. Men
and women will arise professing to have some new light or some new rev-
elation whose tendency is to unsettle faith in the old landmarks. Their doc-
trines will not bear the test of God’s work, yet souls will be deceived.” —
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 295 (1885).
❑ Tuesday
THE PROMISED HELP October 12
Why was it necessar y for God to send another angel to join the
5 three angels of Revelation 14? Revelation 3:15–17; 18:1.
16 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“Satan has devised a state of things whereby the proclamation of the
third angel’s message shall be bound about. We must beware of his plans
and methods. There must be no toning down of the truth, no muffling of
the message for this time. The third angel’s message must be strength-
ened and confirmed. The eighteenth chapter of Revelation reveals the
importance of presenting the truth in no measured terms but with bold-
ness and power.” —Evangelism, p. 230.
“We are in danger of giving the third angel’s message in so indefinite
a manner that it does not impress the people. So many other interests are
brought in that the very message which should be proclaimed with power
becomes tame and voiceless.” —Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 60.
“Another mighty angel [is] commissioned to descend to the earth, to
unite his voice with the third angel, and give power and force to his mes-
sage.” —Early Writings, p. 277.
How is the third angel’s message to be strengthened by the
6 coming of the other angel, and what is the result of his work?
Isaiah 60:1, 2.
“The third angel’s message must go over the land, and awaken the
people, and call their attention to the commandments of God and the faith
of Jesus. Another angel unites his voice with the third angel, and the earth
is lighted with its glory. The light increases, and it shines out to all the
nations of the earth. It is to go forth as a light that burneth. It will be
attended with great power, until its golden beams have fallen upon every
tongue, every people, and every nation upon the face of the whole earth.
Let me ask you, What you are doing to prepare for this work? Are you
building for eternity? You must remember that this angel represents the
people that have this message to give to the world. Are you among that
people?” —The Review and Herald, August 18, 1885.
❑ Wednesday
LEARNING LESSONS FROM PAST MISTAKES October 13
Why did the Jews reject Christ, the expected Messiah? John
7 1:11; Luke 24:20, 21. In what sense should their mistake be
a warning to us?
“The Jews were looking for the Messiah; but He did not come as they
had predicted that He would, and if He were accepted as the Promised
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 17
One, their learned teachers would be forced to acknowledge that they had
erred. These leaders had separated themselves from God, and Satan
worked upon their minds to lead them to reject the Saviour. Rather than
yield their pride of opinion, they closed their eyes to all the evidences of
His Messiahship, and they not only rejected the message of salvation
themselves, but they steeled the hearts of the people against Jesus. Their
history should be a solemn warning to us. We need never expect that
when the Lord has light for His people, Satan will stand calmly by and
make no effort to prevent them from receiving it. He will work upon minds
to excite distrust and jealousy and unbelief. Let us beware that we do not
refuse the light God sends, because it does not come in a way to please us.
Let not God’s blessing be turned away from us because we know not the
time of our visitation.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 728 (1889).
“Many look upon the great work to be accomplished for God’s people,
and their prayers go up to Him for help in the great harvest. But, if help
does not come in just the manner they expect, they will not receive it, but
turn from it as the Jewish nation turned from Christ because disappointed
in the manner of His appearing.” —Ibid., vol. 2, p. 142 (1868).
Show evidence that, in God’s plan, the door of opportunity is
8 not open indefinitely. Isaiah 55:6. What great need has the Lord
been urging upon the church especially since 1888? Acts 3:19.
“Brethren, your own lamps will surely flicker and grow dim until they
go out in darkness unless you make decided efforts to reform. ‘Remember
therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works.’
The opportunity now presented may be short. If this season of grace and
repentance passes unimproved, the warning is given: ‘I will come unto
thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place’ (Revelation
2:5). These words are uttered by the lips of the long-suffering, forbearing
One. They are a solemn warning to churches and individuals that the
Watcher who never slumbers is measuring their course of action.” —
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 612 (1889).
❑ Thursday
TWO PAR TIES October 14
What mistake of the Jews stands as a warning before believers in
9 the threefold message in view of Revelation 18:1? Luke 11:52.
18 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“The rebuke of the Lord will rest upon those who would bar the way,
that clearer light shall not come to the people. A great work is to be done,
and God sees that our leading men have need of more light, that they may
unite with the messengers whom He sends to accomplish the work that He
designs shall be done. The Lord has raised up messengers, and endued
them with His Spirit, and has said, ‘Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice
like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of
Jacob their sins’ (Isaiah 58:1). Let no one run the risk of interposing
between the people and the message of Heaven.” —Gospel Workers, p. 304.
What divergence among the professed people of God is unavoid-
10 able? Why? Isaiah 55:8, 9.
“There will be those among us who will always want to control the
work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the
work goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third
angel in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and
means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own
hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use
to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.”—Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 300.
“Divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. . . .
All who are laborers together with God will contend most earnestly for the
faith once delivered to the saints. They will not be turned from the present
message, which is already lightening the earth with its glory.”—Selected
Messages, book 2, p. 114 (1896).
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 15
a. Why must our Bible-based doctrines be clearly understood?
b. Why is the true understanding of the threefold message of vital
importance?
c. Why is the angel of Revelation 18 needed?
d. What lesson should we learn from the mistake of the Jews who
rejected the Messiah?
e. What will surprise many about God’s closing work?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 294–297.
Selected Messages, book 2, pp. 104–107; 115–118.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 19

Lesson 4 Sabbath, October 23, 1999
The Beginning of the Light
“And after these things I saw another angel come down from heav-
en, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glor y”
(Revelation 18:1).
“As foretold in the eighteenth of Revelation, the third angel’s message
is to be proclaimed with great power by those who give the final warning
against the beast and his image.” —Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 118.
❑ Sunday
CHRIST’S RIGHTEOUSNESS REVEALED October 17
How, through whom, and when did the light of the other angel
1 begin to shine? Revelation 18:1.
“The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His
people through Elders Waggoner and Jones [1888]. This message was to
bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice
for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in
the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ,
which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God.
Many had lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes directed to
His divine person, His merits, and His changeless love for the human fam-
ily. All power is given into His hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto
men, imparting the priceless gift of His own righteousness to the helpless
human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the
world. It is the third angel’s message, which is to be proclaimed with a
loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large mea-
sure.” —Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 91, 92.
“The time of test is just upon us, for the loud cry of the third angel has
already begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the
sin-pardoning Redeemer. This is the beginning of the light of the angel
whose glory shall fill the whole earth.” —Selected Messages, book 1, p. 363.
20 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
What is the dif ference between the beginning and the fullness
2 of the light of Revelation 18? Compare 1SM 363 (note above)
with RH April 1, 1890 (note below). What is God’s method in
sending light to His ser vants? Proverbs 4:18.
“[Revelation 18:1 quoted.] Brightness, glory, and power are to be con-
nected with the third angel’s message, and conviction will follow wherev-
er it is preached in demonstration of the Spirit. How will any of our
brethren know when this light shall come to the people of God? As yet, we
certainly have not seen the light that answers to this description. God has
light for His people, and all who will accept it will see the sinfulness of
remaining in a lukewarm condition; they will heed the counsel of the True
Witness.” —The Review and Herald, April 1, 1890.
❑ Monday
OBSTACLES TO BE OVERCOME October 18
Since God sent the light of Revelation 18 (1888), on what con-
3 dition can we see it and receive it? Hebrews 10:22.
“If we would receive the light of the glorious angel that shall lighten the
earth with his glory, let us see to it that our hearts are cleansed, emptied of
self, and turned toward heaven, that they may be ready for the latter rain.
Let us be obtaining a fitting up to join in the proclamation of the angel who
shall lighten the earth with his glory.” —The Signs of the Times, August 1, 1892.
How hard will Satan tr y to hinder the work that is to be done
4 for the church? On what condition can the faithful remnant
stand clear in the eyes of God? Ezekiel 33:10–12.
“Satan has laid every measure possible that nothing shall come among
us as a people to reprove and rebuke us, and exhort us to put away our
errors. But there is a people who will bear the ark of God. . . . They will
proclaim the word of the Lord; they will lift up their voice like a trumpet.
The truth will not be diminished or lose its power in their hands. They will
show the people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins.”—
Testimonies to Ministers, p. 411.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 21
 ❑ Tuesday
A WORK OF REFORMATION October 19
Besides Isaiah 58, what other prophecy inspired the messen-
5 gers of 1888? Revelation 3:18.
“God has raised up men to meet the necessity of this time who will cry
aloud and spare not, who will lift up their voice like a trumpet, and show
my people their transgressions and the house of Jacob their sins. Their
work is not only to proclaim the law, but to preach the truth for this time—
the Lord our righteousness.”—The Review and Herald, August 13, 1889.
“We thank God that there are souls who realize that they are in need
of something which they do not possess—gold of faith and love, white rai-
ment of Christ’s righteousness, eyesalve of spiritual discernment.”— Ibid.,
July 23, 1889.
“Will you not seek God most humbly, that you may give the Laodicean
message with clear, distinct utterance? Where are God’s watchmen who
will see the peril and give the warning? Be assured that there are mes-
sages to come from human lips under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
‘Cry aloud, spare not, . . . show My people their transgression, and the
house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, . . . as a nation that did
righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God.’ ” —Testimonies
to Ministers, p. 296.
Describe the work that must be done in behalf of the believers
6 in the threefold message before the world can be enlightened
with the glor y of God. Isaiah 58:1.
“[Isaiah 58:1 quoted.] Though they are called the people of God, the
house of Jacob, though they profess to be linked with God in obedience
and fellowship, they are far from Him. Wonderful privileges and promises
have been given to them, but they have betrayed their trust. With no
words of flattery must the message be given them. ‘Show my people their
transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.’ Show them where they are
making a mistake. Set their danger before them. Tell them of the sins they
are committing, while at the same time they pride themselves on their
righteousness.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1149.
[Author’s italics.]
22 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
❑ Wednesday
DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN RIGHT AND WRONG October 20
Why is it that the worshipers mentioned in Isaiah 58:1–3 can-
7 not readily see their problem? Isaiah 58:4, 5.
“These worshipers, while mourning and lamenting, retain all their
objectionable traits of character. Their hearts are not humbled, nor
cleansed from spiritual defilement. They have not received the softening
showers of the grace of God. They are destitute of the Holy Spirit, desti-
tute of the sweetness of the heavenly influence. They manifest no repen-
tance, nor faith that works by love and purifies the soul. They are unjust
and selfish in their dealings, mercilessly oppressing those whom they
regard as their inferiors. Yet they charge God with a neglect to manifest
His power to them, and exalt them above others because of their right-
eousness.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1150.
“The inward work of grace is needed. Humiliation of soul is essential.
God looks upon this. He will graciously receive those who will humble their
hearts before Him. He will hear their petitions and heal their backslidings.
“Ministers and people need the work of purification in their souls, that
God’s judgments may be turned away from them. God is waiting, waiting
for humiliation and repentance. He will receive all who will turn unto Him
with their whole heart.” —Ibid., pp. 1150, 1151.
What kind of “fast” does the Lord wish us to obser ve? Isaiah
8 58:6, 7; Matthew 25:34–40; James 1:27.
“All around us are afflicted souls. Let us search out these suffering
ones, and speak a word in season to comfort their hearts. Here and
there—everywhere—we shall find them. Let us ever be channels through
which may flow to them the refreshing waters of compassion. To those
who minister to the necessities of the hungry and afflicted, the promise is,
‘ Then shall thy light rise in obscurity.’
“Many are in obscurity. They have lost their bearings. They know not
what course to pursue. Let the perplexed ones search out others who are in
perplexity, and speak to them words of hope and encouragement. When they
begin to do this work, the light of heaven will reveal to them the path that they
should follow. By their words of consolation to the afflicted they themselves
will be consoled. By helping others, they themselves will be helped out of
their difficulties.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1151.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 23
 ❑ Thursday
VISIBLE CHARACTERISTICS October 21
What are some characteristics of true reformers? Isaiah
9 58:9–14.
“Here [Isaiah 58:9–14] are given the characteristics of those who shall
be reformers, who will bear the banner of the third angel’s message, those
who avow themselves God’s commandment-keeping people, and who honor
God, and are earnestly engaged, in the sight of all the universe, in building
up the old waste places. Who is it that calls them, The repairers of the
breach, The restorers of paths to dwell in? It is God. Their names are regis-
tered in heaven as reformers, restorers, as raising the foundations of many
generations.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1151.
What does the Lord promise to do in behalf of His remnant
10 people when the fulfillment of the conditions mentioned in
question 8 becomes a visible reality? Isaiah 58:8.
“As Christians we are to have a righteousness that shall be developed
and seen—a righteousness that represents the character of Jesus Christ
when He was in our world.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments],
vol. 4, p. 1151.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 22
a. How did the angel of Revelation 18 begin his work?
b. On what conditions can we receive the light of this angel?
c. How is the work of reformation described in Isaiah 58?
d. How can we bring consolation to many souls in these last days?
e. Name some qualities of God’s true reformers.
FOR FUR THER STUDY
The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, pp. 1148–1152.
Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 404–415.
24 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Lesson 5 Sabbath, October 30, 1999
Our Gr eat Danger
“Not ever y one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the
kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in
heaven” (Matthew 7:21).
“Brethren, we must beware of the pretended holiness that permits
transgression of the law of God. Those cannot be sanctified who trample
that law under their feet, and judge themselves by a standard of their own
devising.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1099.
❑ Sunday
SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS, A FAILURE October 24
When Adam and Eve lost their spiritual garments, how did they
1 tr y to cover their nakedness? Genesis 3:7. Since then, how
have we all tended to cover our spiritual “nakedness”?
“Naked and ashamed, [our first parents] tried to supply the place of
the heavenly garments by sewing together fig leaves for a covering.
“This is what the transgressors of God’s law have done ever since the
day of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. They have sewed together fig leaves
to cover the nakedness caused by transgression. They have worn the gar-
ments of their own devising, by works of their own they have tried to cover
their sins, and make themselves acceptable with God.” —Christ’s Object
Lessons, p. 311.
What has always been the attitude of the majority of professed
2 believers toward sin, and why? Matthew 15:8; Proverbs 14:9.
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.
Professors of religion are not willing to closely examine themselves to see
whether they are in the faith; and it is a fearful fact that many are leaning
on a false hope. Some lean upon an old experience which they had years
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 25
ago; but when brought down to this heart-searching time, when all should
have a daily experience, they have nothing to relate. They seem to think
that a profession of the truth will save them. When they subdue those sins
which God hates, Jesus will come in and sup with them and they with Him.
They will then draw divine strength from Jesus, and will grow up in Him.”
—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 188.
❑ Monday
GOD ABHORS SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS October 25
How does Paul’s attitude, before his conversion, reflect the
3 position of professed believers? Philippians 3:6. Describe a
self-righteous Pharisee. Luke 18:11, 12.
“The Pharisee goes up to the temple to worship, not because he feels
that he is a sinner in need of pardon, but because he thinks himself right-
eous and hopes to win commendation. His worship he regards as an act of
merit that will recommend him to God. At the same time it will give the
people a high opinion of his piety. He hopes to secure favor with both God
and man. His worship is prompted by self-interest.
“And he is full of self-praise. He looks it, he walks it, he prays it.
Drawing apart from others as if to say, ‘Come not near to me; for I am holi-
er than thou’ (Isaiah 65:5), he stands and prays ‘with himself.’ Wholly self-
satisfied, he thinks that God and men regard him with the same compla-
cency.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 150.
How does Christ illustrate self-righteousness in the parable of
4 the garnished house? Matthew 12:43–45.
“The garnished house represents the self-righteous soul. Satan is dri-
ven out by Christ. But he returns, in the hope of finding entrance. He finds
the house empty, swept, and garnished. Only self-righteousness is abiding
there. ‘Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked
than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that
man is worse than the first’ (Matthew 12:45). Self-righteousness is a curse,
a human embellishment, which Satan uses for his glory. Those who gar-
nish the soul with self-praise and flattery, prepare the way for the seven
other spirits more wicked than the first. In their very reception of the truth
these souls deceive themselves. They are building upon a foundation of
self-righteousness.” —The Review and Herald, December 12, 1899.
26 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
❑ Tuesday
ISRAEL MEETS A STUMBLING BLOCK October 26
Explain why and how the Jewish nation claimed to be following
5 after God’s righteousness while, in reality, they were turning
away from it. Romans 9:31, 32; 10:3.
“Israel had not perceived the spiritual nature of the law, and too often
their professed obedience was but an observance of forms and ceremonies,
rather than a surrender of the heart to the sovereignty of love. As Jesus in
His character and work represented to men the holy, benevolent, and pater-
nal attributes of God, and presented the worthlessness of mere ceremoni-
al obedience, the Jewish leaders did not receive or understand His words.
They thought that He dwelt too lightly upon the requirements of the law;
and when He set before them the very truths that were the soul of their
divinely appointed service, they, looking only at the external, accused Him
of seeking to overthrow it.” —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 46.
Since the Jewish people failed to receive God’s righteousness,
6 what loss did they suf fer? Matthew 21:43. Nevertheless, how
have some Jews been blessed? Isaiah 10:21.
“Notwithstanding the awful doom pronounced upon the Jews as a nation
at the time of their rejection of Jesus of Nazareth, there have lived from age
to age many noble, God-fearing Jewish men and women who have suffered
in silence. God has comforted their hearts in affliction and has beheld with
pity their terrible situation. He has heard the agonizing prayers of those who
have sought Him with all the heart for a right understanding of His word.
Some have learned to see in the lowly Nazarene whom their forefathers
rejected and crucified, the true Messiah of Israel. As their minds have
grasped the significance of the familiar prophecies so long obscured by tra-
dition and misinterpretation, their hearts have been filled with gratitude to
God for the unspeakable gift He bestows upon every human being who
chooses to accept Christ as a personal Saviour.” —The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 379, 380.
❑ Wednesday
WITHOUT THE WEDDING GARMENT October 27
In the parable of the wedding garment (Matthew 22:11), what
7 is meant by the sentence “the king came in to see the guests”?
2 Corinthians 5:10.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 27
 “By the king’s examination of the guests at the feast is represented a
work of judgment. The guests at the gospel feast are those who profess to
serve God, those whose names are written in the book of life. But not all
who profess to be Christians are true disciples. Before the final reward is
given, it must be decided who are fitted to share the inheritance of the
righteous.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 310.
“Many who profess to be Christians are such only in name. They are
not converted. They keep self prominent. They do not sit at the feet of
Jesus, as Mary did, to learn of Him. They are not ready for Christ’s com-
ing.” —Selected Messages, book 1, p. 80.
What sentence was pronounced on the man without the wed-
8 ding garment? Matthew 22:12, 13. What is the only means by
which salvation is possible?
“It is not enough for us to believe that Jesus is not an impostor, and
that the religion of the Bible is no cunningly devised fable. We may believe
that the name of Jesus is the only name under heaven whereby man may
be saved, and yet we may not through faith make Him our personal
Saviour. It is not enough to believe the theory of truth. It is not enough to
make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the
church roll.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 312.
“It is impossible for man to save himself. He may deceive himself in
regard to this matter, but he cannot save himself. Christ’s righteousness
alone can avail for his salvation, and this is the gift of God. This is the wed-
ding garment in which you may appear as a welcome guest at the mar-
riage supper of the Lamb. Let faith take hold of Christ without delay, and
you will be a new creature in Jesus, a light to the world.” —Selected Messages,
book 1, p. 331.
❑ Thursday
HUMAN MORALISTS October 28
What class of believers does the man without the wedding gar-
9 ment represent? Titus 1:16; Ezekiel 33:31.
“The man who came to the feast without a wedding garment repre-
sents the condition of many in our world today. They profess to be
Christians, and lay claim to the blessings and privileges of the gospel; yet
they feel no need of a transformation of character. They have never felt
28 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
true repentance for sin. They do not realize their need of Christ or exer-
cise faith in Him. They have not overcome their hereditary or cultivated
tendencies to wrongdoing. Yet they think that they are good enough in
themselves, and they rest upon their own merits instead of trusting in
Christ. Hearers of the word, they come to the banquet, but they have not
put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 315.
What essential principle has not been understood by these people?
10 Matthew 7:21; James 2:22–24. If, in searching our individual
hearts, we find ourselves in this condition, what is our only hope?
“Many who call themselves Christians are mere human moralists.
They have refused the gift which alone could enable them to honor Christ
by representing Him to the world. The work of the Holy Spirit is to them
a strange work. They are not doers of the word. The heavenly principles
that distinguish those who are one with Christ from those who are one
with the world have become almost indistinguishable. The professed fol-
lowers of Christ are no longer a separate and peculiar people. The line of
demarcation is indistinct. The people are subordinating themselves to the
world, to its practices, its customs, its selfishness.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, pp.
315, 316.
“We have nothing in ourselves of which to boast. We have no ground
for self-exaltation. Our only ground of hope is in the righteousness of
Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His Spirit working in and
through us.” —Steps to Christ, p. 63.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 29
a. In what sense may we be guilty of “sewing together fig leaves”?
b. What lesson must we—like the apostle Paul—make sure to learn?
c. How may we be in danger of repeating the mistake of the Jews?
d. What should we learn from the parable of the wedding garment?
e. What only gift will enable us to represent Christ before the world?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 307–319.
My Life Today, p. 311.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 29
 Sabbath, November 6, 1999
First Sabbath Offering
Literature for Needy Countries
Jesus said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anoint-
ed me to preach the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18).
“God works by means of instruments, or second causes. He uses the
gospel ministry, medical missionary work, and the publications containing
present truth to impress hearts. All are made effectual by means of faith. As
the truth is heard or read, the Holy Spirit sends it home to those who hear
and read with an earnest desire to know what is right.”—Evangelism, p. 547.
“Papers and books are the Lord’s means of keeping the message for
this time continually before the people. In enlightening and confirming
souls in the truth, the publications will do a far greater work than can be
accomplished by the ministry of the word alone. The silent messengers
that are placed in the homes of the people through the work of the can-
vasser, will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the Holy Spirit
will impress minds as they read the books, just as He impresses the minds
of those who listen to the preaching of the word.”—Christian Service, p. 145.
“We are not doing our duty in the gratuitous circulation of small pub-
lications. There are many honest souls who might be brought to embrace
the truth by this means alone.”—The Publishing Ministry, p. 374.
“The efforts made to get the truth before the people are not half as
thorough and extensive as they should be. Not a fiftieth part is now being
done to extend the truth that might be done by scattering publications and
bringing within the sound of the truth all that can be induced to come.”—
Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 655.
“Our publications should be printed in different languages and sent to
every civilized country, at any cost. What is the value of money at this time,
in comparison with the value of souls? Every dollar of our means should be
considered as the Lord’s, not ours; and as a precious trust from God to us;
not to be wasted for needless indulgences, but carefully used in the cause
of God, in the work of saving men and women from ruin.”—Life Sketches, p. 214.
Dear brethren, sisters, and friends, in light of these inspired state-
ments, please remember the urgent need of means to spread the light of
present truth to souls starving for the bread of life in poor countries
around the world. When the First Sabbath Offering is gathered on
November 6, 1999, let us stretch forth our hands with open hearts for this
timely work. May the Lord bless each gift and giver!
Davi Paes Silva, GC secretary
30 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Lesson 6 Sabbath, November 6, 1999
1888 and the Message to
Laodicea
“I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou
wert cold or hot” (Revelation 3:15).
“A profession of faith and the possession of truth in the soul are two
different things. The mere knowledge of truth is not enough.” —Christ’s
Object Lessons, p. 97.
❑ Sunday
A LIFE-OR-DEATH ISSUE October 31
What condition did Jones and Waggoner point out in their
1 1888 message to those living in the Laodicean period? Reve-
lation 3:14, 15.
“The message of the True Witness reveals the fact that a terrible
deception is upon our people, which makes it necessary to come to them
with warnings, to break their spiritual slumber, and arouse them to decid-
ed action.” —Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 254.
“The message given us by A. T. Jones, and E. J. Waggoner is the mes-
sage of God to the Laodicean church, and woe be unto anyone who pro-
fesses to believe the truth and yet does not reflect to others the God-given
rays.” —The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 1052.
“Take this message in all its phases and sound it forth to the people
wherever Providence opens the way. Justification by faith and the right-
eousness of Christ are the themes to be presented to a perishing world.”
—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments] vol. 7, p. 964.
Define one of the main problems which those in the Laodicean
2 period have had to face, in spite of the promised help that came
through the message of 1888. James 4:4.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 31
 “The message to the church of the Laodiceans applies especially to the
people of God today [1903]. It is a message to professing Christians who
have become so much like the world that no difference can be seen.” —The
Review and Herald, August 20, 1903.
❑ Monday
WHAT IS “HOT”/WHAT IS “COLD”? November 1
How does Paul describe a congregation full of zeal? 2 Corin-
3 thians 7:11; 9:2. What is the great need of lukewarm believ-
ers?
“The fervor of the love of God is wanting in their hearts, but it is this
very fervor of love that makes God’s people the light of the world.” —The
SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 961.
“Brethren and sisters, I entreat you to ‘examine yourselves, whether
ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.’ To maintain the warmth and
purity of Christian love requires a constant supply of the grace of Christ.
Have you employed every means that your ‘love may abound yet more and
more,’ ‘that ye may approve things that are excellent,’ and be filled with
the fruits of righteousness ‘which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and
praise of God’?” —Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 103, 104.
How may the most common form of “coldness” creep into the
4 church? 1 Timothy 5:12.
“The atmosphere of the church is so frigid, its spirit is of such an
order, that men and women cannot sustain or endure the example of prim-
itive and heaven-born piety. The warmth of their first love is frozen up, and
unless they are watered over by the baptism of the Holy Spirit, their can-
dlestick will be removed out of its place, except they repent and do their
first works. The first works of the church were seen when the believers
sought out friends, relatives, and acquaintances, and with hearts over-
flowing with love told the story of what Jesus was to them and what they
were to Jesus. Oh, that the Lord would awaken those who are in respon-
sible positions, lest they undertake to do work, relying upon their own
smartness. The work that comes forth from their hands will lack the mold
and superscription of Christ.” —Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 167, 168.
32 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
❑ Tuesday
A LUKEWARM MAJORITY November 2
Why is there more hope for those who are “cold” than for those
5 who are “lukewarm”? Give an example. Luke 18:10–14.
“To those who do not practice it, the Word of God is a dead letter.
Christ says of such, ‘I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou
art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth’
(Revelation 3:16). He cannot present their case to the Father. If they real-
ized that they were sinners, He could plead in their behalf, and the Lord
would arouse them by His Holy Spirit. But they are worse than dead in
trespasses and sins. They hear the Word, but make no application of it to
themselves; instead, they apply the Word spoken to their neighbors.” —The
SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 963.
Why is it even more dangerous to be “lukewarm” than to be
6 “cold”? Matthew 13:13–15; Romans 2:24.
“It would be more pleasing to the Lord if lukewarm professors of reli-
gion had never named His name. They are a continual weight to those who
would be faithful followers of Jesus. They are a stumbling block to unbe-
lievers, and evil angels exult over them, and taunt the angels of God with
their crooked course. Such are a curse to the cause at home or abroad.
They draw nigh to God with their lips, while their heart is far from Him.”
—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 188.
“Halfhearted Christians are worse than infidels; for their deceptive
words and noncommittal position lead many astray. The infidel shows his
colors. The lukewarm Christian deceives both parties. He is neither a
good worldling nor a good Christian. Satan uses him to do a work that no
one else can do.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 963.
“What greater delusion can deceive the human mind than that in
which individuals flatter themselves that they have the truth, that they are
on the only sure foundation, 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?” —
Testimonies to Ministers, p. 451.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 33
 ❑ Wednesday
SELF-DECEPTION POINTED OUT November 3
What do professed and deceived believers in Laodicea say
7 through their actions? Revelation 3:17 (first part).
“The people to whom God has entrusted the sacred, solemn, testing
truths for this time are sleeping at their post. They say by their actions: We
have the truth; we are ‘rich, and increased with goods, and have need of
nothing;’ while the True Witness declares: Thou ‘knowest not that thou art
wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked’ (Revelation 3:17).
“With what fidelity do these words portray the present condition of the
church: ‘Knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and
blind, and naked.’ ” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 101 (1882). [Author’s italics.]
How may the attitude of believers in the Laodicean period par-
8 allel the position of the Jews in Christ’s day? Matthew 11:20–24;
13:15; Revelation 3:17 (last part).
“Of those who boast of their light, and yet fail to walk in it, Christ says,
‘But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day
of judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum [Seventh-day Adventists,
who have had great light], which art exalted unto heaven [in point of priv-
ilege], shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have
been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until
this day.” —The Review and Herald, August 1, 1893 [E. G. White’s bracketed comments].
“It will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judg-
ment than for those who have been privileged with the clear light, and have
had a vast amount of labor, but have not profited by it. They have neglect-
ed the great salvation which God in mercy was willing to bestow. They were
so blinded by the devil that they verily thought themselves rich and in the
favor of God, when the True Witness declares them to be wretched, and
miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” —Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 488, 489.
❑ Thursday
TWO DIFFERENT SITUATIONS November 4
What was the condition of the church militant even in her best
9 days? Revelation 2:1–4.
34 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“The church was defective and in need of stern reproof and chastisement,
and John was inspired to record messages of warning and reproof.” —The Acts
of the Apostles, p. 587.
“There have ever been two classes among those who profess to be fol-
lowers of Christ. While one class study the Saviour’s life and earnestly seek
to correct their defects and conform to the Pattern, the other class shun the
plain, practical truths which expose their errors. Even in her best estate the
church was not composed wholly of the true, pure, and sincere.” —The Great
Controversy, p. 43.
“The church of Christ on earth will be imperfect, but God does not
destroy His church because of its imperfection.” —Testimonies to Ministers, p. 46.
How does the Spirit of Prophecy teach that a lukewarm state is
10 dif ferent from a state of imperfection? What must happen if we,
as SDAs, remain in the Laodicean condition? Revelation 3:16.
“The church is composed of imperfect, erring men and women, who
call for the continual exercise of charity and forbearance. But there has
been a long period of general lukewarmness; a worldly spirit coming into
the church has been followed by alienation, faultfinding, malice, strife, and
iniquity.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 104.
“[Revelation 3:16 quoted.] The figure of spewing out of His mouth
means that He cannot offer up your prayers or your expressions of love to
God. He cannot endorse your teaching of His word or your spiritual work
in anywise. He cannot present your religious exercises with the request
that grace be given you.” —Ibid., vol. 6, p. 408.
“We are coworkers with Christ, or coworkers with the enemy. We
either gather with Christ or scatter abroad. We are decided, wholehearted
Christians, or none at all. [Revelation 3:16 quoted.]” —Ibid., vol. 1, p. 126.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS November 5
a. How is the message of 1888 applicable to us in 1999?
b. What is indicated by the spiritual “temperature check” that we
should perform individually on ourselves, and why must we do this?
c. Name some ways in which lukewarmness manifests itself.
d. What attitude of the Jews in Christ’s day must we carefully avoid?
e. Why does Christ “spew out” the majority, and what does this mean?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 252–260.
Ibid., vol. 5, pp. 98–105.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 35

Lesson 7 Sabbath, November 13, 1999
The Purpose of the
Laodicean Message
“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blot-
ted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of
the Lord” (Acts 3:19).
“The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who have pre-
pared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely,
cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting
holiness in the fear of God.” —Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 619.
❑ Sunday
THE DISEASE AND THE REMEDY November 7
Explain what is meant by the Laodicean poverty, wretchedness,
1 and nakedness. Revelation 3:17 (compare Lamentations 1:8;
Isaiah 64:6).
“What is the shame of this nakedness and poverty? It is the shame of
clothing ourselves with self-righteousness, and of separating ourselves
from God, when He has made ample provision for all to receive His bless-
ing.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 965.
“What is it that constitutes the wretchedness, the nakedness of those
who feel rich and increased with goods?—It is the want of the righteous-
ness of Christ. In their own righteousness they are represented as clothed
with filthy rags, and yet in this condition they flatter themselves that they
are clothed upon with Christ’s righteousness. Could deception be
greater?” —The Review and Herald, August 7, 1894.
What does Christ of fer us in order to heal our spiritual disease
2 and restore our relationship with God? Revelation 3:18.
36 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“The gold that Jesus would have us buy of Him is gold tried in the fire;
it is the gold of faith and love, that has no defiling substance mingled with
it. The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ, the wedding garment
which Christ alone can give. The eyesalve is the true spiritual discernment
that is so wanting among us, for spiritual things must be spiritually dis-
cerned.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 965.
❑ Monday
THE NEGATIVE REACTION November 8
How was the message of Christ’s righteousness received in
3 1888? What example of unwillingness was repeated? John
7:48; 2 Timothy 3:5, 7.
“An unwillingness to yield up preconceived opinions, and to accept
this truth, lay at the foundation of a large share of the opposition mani-
fested at Minneapolis against the Lord’s message through Brethren [E. J.]
Waggoner and [A.T.] Jones. By exciting that opposition Satan succeeded
in shutting away from our people, in a great measure, the special power of
the Holy Spirit that God longed to impart to them. The enemy prevented
them from obtaining that efficiency which might have been theirs in car-
rying the truth to the world, as the apostles proclaimed it after the day of
Pentecost. The light that is to lighten the whole earth with its glory was
resisted, and by the action of our own brethren has been in a great degree
kept away from the world.” —Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 234, 235.
“I wish to plead with our brethren who shall assemble at the General
Conference to heed the message given to the Laodiceans. What a condi-
tion of blindness is theirs! This subject [the message of 1888] has been
brought to your notice again and again, but your dissatisfaction with your
spiritual condition has not been deep and painful enough to work reform.
[Revelation 3:17 quoted.] The guilt of self-deception is upon our churches.
The religious life of many is a lie.” —Manuscript Releases, vol. 16, p. 108 (1892).
Why is the counsel of the True Witness often rejected by believ-
4 ers in the threefold message? Jeremiah 17:9; John 3:19, 20.
“Very many feel impatient and jealous because they are frequently dis-
turbed with warnings and reproofs which keep their sins before them.
Says the True Witness: ‘I know thy works’ (Revelation 3:15). The motives,
the purposes, the unbelief, the suspicions and jealousies may be hid from
men, but not from Christ.” —Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 256.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 37
 “The people slumber on in their sins. They continue to declare them-
selves rich and having need of nothing. Many inquire: Why are all these
reproofs given? Why do the Testimonies continually charge us with back-
sliding and with grievous sins? We love the truth; we are prospering; we
are in no need of these testimonies of warning and reproof. But let these
murmurers see their hearts and compare their lives with the practical
teachings of the Bible, let them humble their souls before God, let the
grace of God illuminate the darkness, and the scales will fall from their
eyes, and they will realize their true spiritual poverty and wretched-
ness.”—Ibid., p. 254.
❑ Tuesday
THE POSITIVE REACTION November 9
What is the Laodicean message designed to accomplish among
5 those who accept it? Acts 3:19.
“[The message to the Laodiceans] is designed to arouse the people of
God, to discover to them their backslidings, and to lead to zealous repen-
tance, that they may be favored with the presence of Jesus, and be fitted
for the loud cry of the third angel.” —Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 186.
“Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter looked
forward when he said, ‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your
sins may be blotted out [in the investigative Judgment], when the times of
refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send
Jesus.’ ” —The Great Controversy, p. 611 (1888 edition).
How does God lead, step by step, those who accept the coun-
6 sel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans? Revelation 3:20.
“God leads His people on, step by step. He brings them up to different
points calculated to manifest what is in the heart. Some endure at one
point, but fall off at the next. At every advanced point the heart is tested
and tried a little closer. If the professed people of God find their hearts
opposed to this straight work, it should convince them that they have a
work to do to overcome, if they would not be spewed out of the mouth of
the Lord. Said the angel: ‘God will bring His work closer and closer to test
and prove every one of His people.’ Some are willing to receive one point;
but when God brings them to another testing point, they shrink from it
and stand back, because they find that it strikes directly at some cherished
38 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
idol. Here they have opportunity to see what is in their hearts that shuts
out Jesus. . . . If any will not be purified through obeying the truth, and
overcome their selfishness, their pride, and evil passions, the angels of
God have the charge: ‘ They are joined to their idols, let them alone,’ and
they pass on to their work, leaving these with their sinful traits unsubdued,
to the control of evil angels. Those who come up to every point, and stand
every test, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the coun-
sel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be
fitted for translation.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 187.
❑ Wednesday
REPENTANCE AND CONFESSION November 10
What is our most urgent need? Hosea 12:6; Revelation 3:19;
7 Psalm 51:10–13. What is repentance and what is conversion?
What is the work of the Holy Spirit?
“Confession will not be acceptable to God without sincere repentance
and reformation. There must be decided changes in the life; everything
offensive to God must be put away. This will be the result of genuine sor-
row for sin.”— Steps to Christ, p. 39.
“When a man is filled with the Spirit, the more severely he is tested
and tried, the more clearly he proves that he is a representative of Christ.
The peace that dwells in the soul is seen on the countenance. The words
and actions express the love of the Saviour. There is no striving for the
highest place. Self is renounced. The name of Jesus is written on all that is
said and done.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1117.
How does Christ teach that, without repentance and conver-
8 sion, there is no hope for us? Luke 13:5; Matthew 18:3; John
3:3. What is the dif ference between revival and reformation?
“A revival and a reformation must take place, under the ministration of
the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation are two different things. Revival sig-
nifies a renewal of spiritual life, a quickening of the powers of mind and
heart, a resurrection from spiritual death. Reformation signifies a reorgani-
zation, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices. Reformation will
not bring forth the good fruit of righteousness unless it is connected with
the revival of the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed
work, and in doing this work they must blend.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 128.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 39
 ❑ Thursday
PREPARATION FOR THE LATTER RAIN November 11
What work should be seen among us before the latter rain is
9 poured out and before the judgments of God (the seven last
plagues) begin to fall upon the earth? Joel 2:12, 13, 15–17.
“Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth there
will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness
as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of
God will be poured out upon His children. At that time many will separate
themselves from those churches in which the love of this world has sup-
planted love for God and His word.” —The Great Controversy, p. 464.
What will be the evidence that our repentance and conversion
10 are accepted? Joel 2:28.
“Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters
have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects
in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the
latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the
Day of Pentecost.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 214.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS November 12
a. Why does Revelation 3:17, 18 apply to two classes of Laodicean
believers?
b. What must we realize before the 1888 message may bring a refor-
mation?
c. What step-by-step process takes place in the converted soul?
d. Explain what is meant by revival and by reformation.
e. What is necessar y for us to receive the latter rain?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 260–272.
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, pp. 352–381.
40 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Lesson 8 Sabbath, November 20, 1999
The White Raiment
“And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen,
clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints”
(Revelation 19:8).
“The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ, the wedding gar-
ment which Christ alone can give.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White
Comments], p. 965.
❑ Sunday
THE GARMENT OF CHRIST’S RIGHTEOUSNESS November 14
What is Christ’s righteousness and how can we obtain it?
1 Revelation 3:18.
“The righteousness of Christ is not a cloak to cover unconfessed and
unforsaken sin; it is a principle of life that transforms the character and
controls the conduct . . . [through] the entire surrender of heart and life
to the indwelling of the principles of heaven.” —The Desire of Ages. pp. 555. 556.
“Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us
meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own
righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul.” —Christ’s
Object Lessons, p. 311.
Where, when, and how did Christ prepare the white raiment for
2 His followers? Hebrews 2:14–18.
“This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of
human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character,
and this character He offers to impart to us. . . . By His perfect obedience
He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s command-
ments.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 311, 312.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 41
 ❑ Monday
THE PRICE PAID FOR THE GARMENT November 15
What did Christ in His human nature make available to us, and
3 how? Romans 5:19; 1 Peter 2:24.
“Christ took upon Himself humanity for us. He clothed His divinity,
and divinity and humanity were combined. He showed that that law which
Satan declared could not be kept, could be kept. Christ took humanity to
stand here in our world, to show that Satan had lied. He took humanity
upon Himself to demonstrate that with divinity and humanity combined,
man could keep the law of Jehovah.” —Faith and Works, p. 71.
How can we show our gratitude to Christ for the white raiment?
4 1 Peter 1:18–23; Revelation 7:14.
“Notwithstanding our unworthiness, we are to remember that there is
One who can take away sin, and who is willing and anxious to save the sin-
ner. With His own blood He paid the penalty for all wrongdoers. Every sin
acknowledged before God with a contrite heart, He will remove.” —The SDA
Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 970.
❑ Tuesday
JUSTIFICATION: RIGHTEOUSNESS IMPUTED November 16
How can the sinner obtain the white raiment through justifica-
5 tion? Romans 5:16–18; Zechariah 3:3, 4.
“Satan had represented the chosen and loyal people of God as being
full of defilement and sin. He could depict the particular sins of which they
had been guilty. Had he not set the whole confederacy of evil at work to
lead them, through his seductive arts, into these very sins? But they had
repented, they had accepted the righteousness of Christ. They were there-
fore standing before God clothed with the garments of Christ’s righteous-
ness. . . . Every sin of which they had been guilty was forgiven, and they
stood before God as chosen and true, as innocent, as perfect, as though
they had never sinned.” —Testimonies to Ministers, p. 40.
42 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“Knowing himself to be a sinner, a transgressor of the holy law of God,
he looks to the perfect obedience of Christ, to His death upon Calvary for
the sins of the world; and he has the assurance that he is justified by faith
in the merit and sacrifice of Christ. He realizes that the law was obeyed in
his behalf by the Son of God, and that the penalty of transgression cannot
fall upon the believing sinner. The active obedience of Christ clothes the
believing sinner with the righteousness that meets the demands of the
law.” —Sons and Daughters of God, p. 240.
On what condition can we be justified? Romans 5:1; 6:6–8; 1
6 John 1:9. What is the relationship between faith and obedience?
Romans 3:31; 2:13; Galatians 5:6 (compare 1 John 5:3).
“In order to obtain the righteousness of Christ, it is necessary for the
sinner to know what that repentance is which works a radical change of
mind and spirit and action.” —Selected Messages, book 1, p. 393.
“Christ imputes His perfection and righteousness to the believing sin-
ner when he does not continue in sin, but turns from transgression to obe-
dience of the commandments.” —The Review and Herald, May 23, 1899.
“But while God can be just, and yet justify the sinner through the mer-
its of Christ, no man can cover his soul with the garments of Christ’s right-
eousness while practicing known sins, or neglecting known duties. God
requires the entire surrender of the heart, before justification can take
place; and in order for man to retain justification, there must be continual
obedience, through active, living faith that works by love and purifies the
soul.” —Selected Messages, book 1, p. 366.
❑ Wednesday
SANCTIFICATION: RIGHTEOUSNESS IMPAR TED November 17
How do justification and sanctification work together, and what
7 is the result? John 17:17; Philippians 2:12–15.
“Justification means pardon. It means that the heart, purged from
dead works, is prepared to receive the blessing of sanctification. God has
told us what we must do to receive this blessing. [Philippians 2:12–15 quot-
ed.]” —The Signs of the Times, December 17, 1902.
“To the church it is given ‘that she should be arrayed in fine linen,
clean and white,’ ‘not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing’
(Ephesians 5:27). The fine linen, says the Scripture, ‘is the righteousness
of saints’ (Revelation 19:8). It is the righteousness of Christ, His own
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 43
unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive
Him as their personal Saviour.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 310.
“The white raiment is purity of character, the righteousness of Christ
imparted to the sinner. This is indeed a garment of heavenly texture, that
can be bought only of Christ for a life of willing obedience.” —Testimonies,
vol. 4, p. 88.
Explain the work of sanctification and prove that it is a neces-
8 sar y step on our way to the kingdom of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1;
2 Thessalonians 2:13; Hebrews 12:14.
“Sanctification means habitual communion with God.” —The SDA Bible
Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 908.
“True sanctification will be evidenced by a conscientious regard for all
the commandments of God, by a careful improvement of every talent, by
a circumspect conversation, by revealing in every act the meekness of
Christ.” —Ibid.
“Obedience to the law of God is sanctification. There are many who
have erroneous ideas in regard to this work in the soul, but Jesus prayed
that His disciples might be sanctified through the truth, and added, ‘ Thy
word is truth’ (John 17:17). Sanctification is not an instantaneous but a pro-
gressive work, as obedience is continuous. Just as long as Satan urges his
temptations upon us, the battle for self-conquest will have to be fought
over and over again; but by obedience, the truth will sanctify the soul.
Those who are loyal to the truth will, through the merits of Christ, over-
come all weakness of character that has led them to be molded by every
varying circumstance of life.” —Faith and Works, p. 85.
❑ Thursday
TWO POSSIBILITIES BEFORE EVERY BELIEVER November 18
How is the righteousness of Christ implanted into our charac-
9 ter? Galatians 2:20; Romans 5:10; Colossians 1:26–29. What
will happen when the character of Christ is perfectly repro-
duced in His people?
“When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His
heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind,
the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is
what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness.” —
Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 312.
44 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is
revealed in works of righteousness. The truth is to be planted in the heart.
It is to control the mind and regulate the affections. The whole character
must be stamped with the divine utterances. Every jot and tittle of the
word of God is to be brought into the daily practice.
“He who becomes a partaker of the divine nature will be in harmony
with God’s great standard of righteousness, His holy law. This is the rule
by which God measures the actions of men. This will be the test of char-
acter in the judgment.” —Ibid., pp. 313, 314.
“When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His
people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” —Ibid., p. 69.
What will be the fate of those who neglect to obtain the garment
10 of Christ’s righteousness? Matthew 7:23.
“Only those who are clothed in the garments of His righteousness will
be able to endure the glory of His presence when He shall appear with
‘power and great glory.’ ” —The Review and Herald, July 9, 1908.
“O, that we would remember that it is court week with us, and that our
cases are pending! Now is the time to watch and pray, to put away all self-
indulgence, all pride, all selfishness. The precious moments that are now
by many worse than wasted should be spent in meditation and prayer.
Many of those who profess to be keeping the commandments of God are
following inclination instead of duty. As they are now, they are unworthy
of eternal life. . . .
“On Christ’s coronation day He will not acknowledge as His any who
bear spot or wrinkle or any such thing. But to His faithful ones He will give
crowns of immortal glory.” —Ibid., November 24, 1904.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS November 19
a. What is the “white raiment” that Christ of fers to His people?
b. Why is Christ’s life as important to us as His death?
c. How would you explain justification to someone who has never
understood it?
d. Why is sanctification so essential to our salvation?
e. Describe the choice that is before each one of us.
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 377–388.
The Sanctified Life, pp. 7–17.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 45

Lesson 9 Sabbath, November 27, 1999
Pr eparing for the Latter Rain
“Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon
you” (Acts 1:8).
“It was by the confession and forsaking of sin, by earnest prayer and
consecration of themselves to God, that the early disciples prepared for
the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. The same work,
only in greater degree, must be done now.” —Testimonies to Ministers, p. 507.
❑ Sunday
WHY SUCH A DELAY? November 21
Why did Israel have to wander forty years in the wilderness on
1 their way to Canaan? Hebrews 3:12–19. How are believers in
the threefold message delaying the coming of Christ?
“It is the unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife among
the Lord’s professed people that have kept us in this world of sin and sor-
row so many years.” —Evangelism, p. 696.
“If the people of God had preserved a living connection with Him, if
they had obeyed His Word, they would today be in the heavenly Canaan.”
—Ibid., p. 694.
“Had the purpose of God been carried out by His people in giving to
the world the message of mercy, Christ would, ere this, have come to the
earth, and the saints would have received their welcome into the city of
God.” —Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 450.
In what sense has there been a delay also on the part of the
2 Lord? 2 Peter 3:9.
“God’s unwillingness to have His people perish has been the reason
for so long delay.” —Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 194.
“God is long-suffering, not willing that any should perish; but His for-
bearance has a limit, and when the boundary is past, there is no second
probation. His wrath will go forth and He will destroy without remedy.” —
The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 946.
46 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
❑ Monday
A LESSON FROM THE EARLY DISCIPLES November 22
What work did the disciples have to do before receiving the
3 early rain? Acts 1:13, 14. What work was their great burden?
Mark 16:20.
“The first disciples went forth preaching the word. They revealed
Christ in their lives. And the Lord worked with them, ‘confirming the word
with signs following’ (Mark 16:20). These disciples prepared themselves
for their work. Before the day of Pentecost they met together, and put
away all differences. They were of one accord. They believed Christ’s
promise that the blessing would be given, and they prayed in faith. They
did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely; they were weighted with
the burden for the salvation of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the
uttermost parts 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.” —The Desire of Ages, p. 827.
How will their experience be repeated in our days? Acts 1:4, 8.
4
“The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel’s mes-
sage is to lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of worldwide
extent and unwonted power is here foretold. The advent movement of
1840-44 was a glorious manifestation of the power of God; the first angel’s
message was carried to every missionary station in the world, and in some
countries there was the greatest religious interest which has been wit-
nessed in any land since the Reformation of the sixteenth century; but
these are to be exceeded by the mighty movement under the last warning
of the third angel.
“The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the ‘for-
mer rain’ was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of
the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the ‘latter
rain’ will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest.” —The Great
Controversy, p. 611.
“Let Christians put away their dissensions, and give themselves to
God for the saving of the lost. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it
will come.” —The Desire of Ages, p. 827.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 47
 ❑ Tuesday
WALKING IN THE LIGHT November 23
What promise is ver y precious to those who accept the light of
5 Revelation 18? Psalm 97:11; Ephesians 5:14. How is the third
angel’s message strengthened by the coming of that other angel?
“The work of this angel comes in at the right time to join in the last
great work of the third angel’s message as it swells to a loud cry. And the
people of God are thus prepared to stand in the hour of temptation, which
they are soon to meet.” —Early Writings, p. 277.
“It is now that we must keep ourselves and our children unspotted from
the world. It is now that we must wash our robes of character and make
them white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now that we must overcome
pride, passion, and spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we must awake and
make determined effort for symmetry of character. ‘Today if ye will hear
His voice, harden not your hearts.’ ” —Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 215, 216 (1882).
How will the message carried by the faithful remnant swell into
6 a loud cr y? Ephesians 5:8; 1 John 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:4–8.
“Only a few will receive the testimony of truth, for every influence that
Satan can bring to bear against the reception of the truth of God will be
employed. . . .
“The question of most vital importance for this time is, ‘Who is on the
Lord’s side? Who will unite with the angel in giving the message of truth
to the world? Who will receive the light that is to fill the whole earth with
its glory?’ Those who cherish the light that they have, will receive more.
Increasing light will shine about the souls who yield to the softening, sub-
duing grace of Christ; and those who love the light, will be saved from the
delusions of Satan.” —The Review and Herald, November 5, 1889.
“Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who
have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd.
The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united
front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there
will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. . . .
“Thus will the truth be brought into practical life, and thus will be
answered the prayer of Christ, uttered just before His humiliation and
death: ‘That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee,
48 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast
sent Me’ (John 17:21). The love of Christ, the love of our brethren, will tes-
tify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Then will
the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry.” —Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 401.
❑ Wednesday
CLEARING THE WAY November 24
How can believers in the threefold message hasten the latter
7 rain and also the coming of the Lord? 2 Peter 3:11, 12, 14.
“The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the church is looked forward to
as in the future; but it is the privilege of the church to have it now. Seek for
it, pray for it, believe for it. We must have it, and Heaven is waiting to
bestow it.” —Evangelism, p. 701.
“It is the privilege of every Christian, not only to look for, but to has-
ten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Were all who profess His name
bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown
with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last harvest would be ripened, and
Christ would come to gather the precious grain.” —Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 22.
What should be the first step to clear the way for the outpour-
8 ing of the Holy Spirit? Hosea 6:1–3.
“When we bring our hearts into unity with Christ, and our lives into
harmony with His work, the Spirit that fell on the disciples on the day of
Pentecost will fall on us.” —Evangelism, pp. 697, 698.
❑ Thursday
OUR PRESENT DUTY November 25
What could have happened already in 1892 if the message of
9 Revelation 18 had been accepted? What is our present duty?
Romans 13:11–14.
“The third angel’s message is swelling into a loud cry, and you must
not feel at liberty to neglect the present duty, and still entertain the idea
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 49
that at some future time you will be the recipients of great blessing, when
without any effort on your part a wonderful revival will take place. . . .
Today you are to have your vessel purified, that it may be ready for the
heavenly dew, ready for the showers of the latter rain; for the latter rain
will come, and the blessing of God will fill every soul that is purified from
every defilement.” —Evangelism, pp. 701, 702 (1892).
How are we to yield to and cooperate with the Holy Spirit?
10 James 4:7–10; John 12:35.
“It is our work today to yield our souls to Christ, that we may be fitted
for the time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord—fitted for the
baptism of the Holy Spirit. . . .
“Instead of living in expectation of some special season of excitement,
we are wisely to improve present opportunities, doing that which must be
done in order that souls may be saved. Instead of exhausting the powers
of our mind in speculations in regard to the times and seasons which the
Lord has placed in His own power, and withheld from men, we are to yield
ourselves to the control of the Holy Spirit, to do present duties, to give the
bread of life, unadulterated with human opinions, to souls who are perish-
ing for the truth.” —Evangelism, p. 702.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS November 26
a. Explain the reasons for the delaying of Christ’s second coming.
b. How should the disciples’ preparation for the early rain inspire our
readiness for the latter rain?
c. What characteristics qualify the faithful remnant to receive the lat-
ter rain?
d. How can we either hasten or delay the coming of Christ?
e. Whereupon should our ef forts be centered in this time of prepara-
tion?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 14–23.
The Review and Herald, March 22 and 29, 1892.
50 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Sabbath, December 4, 1999
First Sabbath Offering
for a chapel and headquarters in Panama
Panama is a republic situated in the isthmus linking South America
with Central and North America. The country, which is bisected by the
Panama Canal, is bordered by Colombia, the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica,
and the Caribbean Sea. Its total land area is 29,762 square miles (77,082
square kilometers).
Panama is traversed lengthwise by two mountain systems, which
enclose fertile, well-drained valleys and plains. The mountain ranges are
watersheds for literally hundreds of rivers. Natural resources are not
extensively developed; vast forest reserves are practically untouched due
to a lack of transportation. Agricultural products include bananas, plan-
tains, sugarcane, rice, maize, and coffee. Fishing is a leading industry.
Among the 2,500,000 inhabitants, 84% are Roman Catholics. Other reli-
gions are also permitted freedom of worship.
The message of the SDA Reform Movement arrived in Panama in
1994 through the colporteur ministry. While we have a good number of
interested friends, we do not have a place of worship. In order for the mes-
sage to make a significant impact and rightly represent the stability and
character of God’s work, a chapel and headquarters are needed in this
area. A plot of land has been secured for this purpose outside of Panama
City.
We now have the land and our desire to build has increased, but the
lack of finances is hindering the progress of this project.
We thank all those who generously gave to this project through the
offering gathered on August 1, 1998. Because the amount needed to build
was not raised at that time, this appeal is being repeated again.
We trust that with prayer, God’s blessing, and your additional support,
the goal for a chapel and headquarters in Panama can yet be achieved.
When the First Sabbath Offering is gath-
ered on December 4, 1999, please give sac-
rificially so that this monument to the Lord NICARAGUA
can be raised up in this corner of His vine- Caribbean Sea
yard. Thank you very much, and may the COSTA RICA
Lord bless you all! Panamá
PANAMA
Your brethren from Panama COLOMBIA
Pacific Ocean
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 51

Lesson 10 Sabbath, December 4, 1999
That Other Angel and the
Loud Cr y
“And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her,
my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not
of her plagues” (Revelation 18:4).
“The light that was shed upon the waiting ones penetrated every-
where, and those in the churches who had any light, who had not heard
and rejected the three messages, obeyed the call and left the fallen church-
es.” —Early Writings, p. 278.
❑ Sunday
THE SITUATION OF THE CHURCHES November 28
What condition is prevalent in the churches before the close of
1 probation? Revelation 18:2.
“This scripture [Revelation 18:1, 2] points forward to a time when the
announcement of the fall of Babylon, as made by the second angel of
Revelation 14 (verse 8), is to be repeated, with the additional mention of
the corruptions which have been entering the various organizations that
constitute Babylon, since that message was first given, in the summer of
1844.” —The Great Controversy, p. 603.
“[Revelation 18:1–5 quoted.] Thus the substance of the second angel’s
message is again given to the world by that other angel who lightens the earth
with his glory. These messages all blend in one, to come before the people in
the closing days of this earth’s history.” —Selected Messages, book 2, p. 116.
How does prophecy depict the state of the churches in these
2 last days? Isaiah 4:1; Revelation 17:5; 18:5.
“With every rejection of truth the minds of the people will become
darker, their hearts more stubborn, until they are entrenched in an infidel
52 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
hardihood. In defiance of the warnings which God has given, they will con-
tinue to trample upon one of the precepts of the Decalogue, until they are
led to persecute those who hold it sacred. Christ is set at nought in the con-
tempt placed upon His word and His people.” —The Great Controversy, p. 603.
“ALL WILL BE UNMASKED”
❑ Monday
November 29
Besides the present work for the church, what other work—
3 especially under the latter rain—must the angel of Revelation
18 do for those who are still in darkness? Revelation 18:4.
“God still has a people in Babylon; and before the visitation of His
judgments these faithful ones must be called out, that they partake not of
her sins and ‘receive not of her plagues’ (Revelation 18:4). Hence the
movement symbolized by the angel coming down from heaven, lightening
the earth with his glory and crying mightily with a strong voice, announc-
ing the sins of Babylon. In connection with his message the call is heard:
‘Come out of her, My people.’ ” —The Great Controversy, p. 604.
What evils will be unmasked under the work of that other
4 angel? What crime of Babylon will then be revealed? Revelation
18:3, 24.
“As the time comes for the loud cry to be given, the Lord will work
through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate
themselves to His service. . . . Men of faith and prayer will be constrained
to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The
sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of a union of church
and state, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the
papal power—all will be unmasked.” —The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, p. 424.
❑ Tuesday
SIGNS AND WONDERS November 30
What signs attended the work of the early disciples and will
5 again be revealed in the last phase of the closing work? Mark
16:17, 18, 20.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 53
 “Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles
were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested
before the great Day of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen vis-
iting families and opening before them the word of God. Hearts were con-
victed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion
was manifest. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation
of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the heavenly influ-
ence.” —Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 126.
“Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy
consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from
heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be
given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and
wonders will follow the believers.” —The Great Controversy, p. 612.
What signs will also be wrought by the power of Satan? Matthew
6 24:24.
“Satan also works, with lying wonders, even bringing down fire from
heaven in the sight of men. Revelation 13:13. Thus the inhabitants of the
earth will be brought to take their stand.” —The Great Controversy, p. 612.
❑ Wednesday
FAITHFUL SERVANTS December 1
What kind of men will go from door to door in the time of the
7 loud cr y? James 2:5; 1 Corinthians 1:26–28.
“The Lord says, I will take illiterate men, obscure men, and move upon
them by My Spirit to carry out My purposes in the work of saving souls.
The last message of mercy will be given by a people who love and fear Me.
‘Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit’ (Zechariah 4:6). We should
give willing, devoted men every possible encouragement to go forward
and in their humble way reveal their loyalty to principle and their integri-
ty to God. Let them visit the people at their homes, and talk and pray with
the unwarned regarding the soon-coming Saviour. Let them take a per-
sonal interest in those whom they meet. Christ took a personal interest in
men and women while He lived on this earth. He was a true missionary
everywhere He went. His followers are to go about doing good, even as He
did. By personal efforts to meet the people where they are, coarse and
54 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
rough though some of these people may be, humble house-to-house mis-
sionaries and colporteurs may win the hearts of many to Christ. In their
unpretentious way they can reach a class that ministers generally cannot
touch.” —The Review and Herald, September 21, 1905.
“Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent will not then
stand at the head of rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light.
Those who have proved themselves unfaithful will not then be entrusted
with the flock. In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged.
They are self-sufficient, independent of God, and He cannot use them. The
Lord has faithful servants, who in the shaking, testing time will be dis-
closed to view.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 80, 81.
Under what circumstances will the faithful ser vants of God give
8 the final warning? Matthew 24:12; Luke 6:22.
“The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and
prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging,
forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has
silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from ene-
mies of the faith. And at that time the superficial, conservative class,
whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will
renounce the faith and take their stand with its avowed enemies, toward
whom their sympathies have long been tending. These apostates will then
manifest the most bitter enmity, doing all in their power to oppress and
malign their former brethren and to excite indignation against them. This
day is just before us. The members of the church will individually be test-
ed and proved. They will be placed in circumstances where they will be
forced to bear witness for the truth. Many will be called to speak before
councils and in courts of justice, perhaps separately and alone. The expe-
rience which would have helped them in this emergency they have
neglected to obtain, and their souls are burdened with remorse for wasted
opportunities and neglected privileges.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 463.
❑ Thursday
OUR GREAT CONCERN December 2
What should be our great concern while the door of probation
9 is open? John 9:4.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 55
 “The end is near, stealing upon us stealthily, imperceptibly, like the
noiseless approach of a thief in the night. May the Lord grant that we shall Lesson 11 Sabbath, December 11, 1999
no longer sleep as do others, but that we shall watch and be sober. The
truth is soon to triumph gloriously, and all who now choose to be laborers
together with God will triumph with it. The time is short; the night soon
cometh when no man can work.” —Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 135.
W ith or W ithout the Seal?
What will be the most important factor in our ef fort to warn the
10 world? Matthew 5:16.
“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world
for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (Matthew
24:14).

“The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truth
sanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, show- “The great mass of the world will reject God’s mercy, and will be over-
ing in a high, elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who whelmed in swift and irretrievable ruin. But those who heed the warning
keep the commandments of God and those who trample them under their shall dwell ‘in the secret place of the Most High,’ and ‘abide under the
feet.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 980. shadow of the Almighty’ (Psalm 91:1).” —Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 167.
“It is the privilege of every soul to be a living channel through which
God can communicate to the world the treasures of His grace, the ❑ Sunday
unsearchable riches of Christ. There is nothing that Christ desires so much WHEN THE LOUD CRY SOUNDS December 5
as agents who will represent to the world His Spirit and character. There is
nothing that the world needs so much as the manifestation through human-
What did Jesus say about the final triumph of the gospel?
ity of the Saviour’s love. All heaven is waiting for channels through which
can be poured the holy oil to be a joy and blessing to human hearts.
1 Matthew 24:14. What means, in the hands of that other angel,
will be instrumental in convincing many honest souls?
“Christ has made every provision that His church shall be a trans-
formed body, illumined with the Light of the world, possessing the glory
of Emmanuel. It is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded
with a spiritual atmosphere of light and peace. He desires that we shall
reveal His own joy in our lives.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 419. “In a large degree through our publishing houses is to be accomplished
the work of that other angel who comes down from heaven with great power
❑ Friday
and who lightens the earth with his glory.” —Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 140.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS December 3
“More than one thousand will soon be converted in one day, most of
a. Describe the external work of the angel of Revelation 18. whom will trace their first convictions to the reading of our publications.”
—Evangelism, p. 693.
b. What will be unmasked under the loud cr y?
c. Why must we be cautious regarding the signs and wonders to occur? When the distribution of publications is prohibited, what work
d. Point out some details about the people who will give the loud cr y.
2 will still be permitted? Matthew 10:8 (first part).

e. What will be the most important factor in giving the final warning?

FOR FUR THER STUDY

Selected Messages, book 2, pp. 113–118. “I wish to tell you that soon there will be no work done in ministerial
The Great Controversy, pp. 603–612. lines but medical missionary work.” —Evangelism, p. 523.
56 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 57
 ❑ Monday
HOW SATAN WILL ACT December 6
What arguments did the Jewish leaders use against Jesus and
3 His message? John 7:12, 20, 47, 48. How will their example
be imitated and by whom?
“In amazement [thousands upon thousands] hear the testimony that
Babylon is the church, fallen because of her errors and sins, because of
her rejection of the truth sent to her from heaven. As the people go to their
former teachers with the eager inquiry, Are these things so? the ministers
present fables, prophesy smooth things, to soothe their fears and quiet the
awakened conscience. But since many refuse to be satisfied with the mere
authority of men and demand a plain ‘Thus saith the Lord,’ the popular
ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their authority is
questioned, will denounce the message as of Satan and stir up the sin-
loving multitudes to revile and persecute those who proclaim it.” —The Great
Controversy, pp. 606, 607.
How will Satan come to those who reject the truth and what will
4 be the result? 2 Corinthians 11:14.
“In this age antichrist will appear as the true Christ, and then the law of
God will be fully made void in the nations of our world.” —Evangelism, p. 365.
“Satan came as an angel of light in the wilderness of temptation to
deceive Christ; and he does not come to man in a hideous form, as he is
sometimes represented, but as an angel of light. He will come personating
Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and wor-
ship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded to worship this being,
whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do?” —The SDA Bible
Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, pp. 1105, 1106.
❑ Tuesday
HOW THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL WORK December 7
How did the Holy Spirit use one member of the Jewish Council
5 to defend the cause of God? Acts 5:34–39. How will this be
repeated?
58 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
“While many of our rulers are active agents of Satan, God also has His
agents among the leading men of the nation. The enemy moves upon his
servants to propose measures that would greatly impede the work of God;
but statesmen who fear the Lord are influenced by holy angels to oppose
such propositions with unanswerable arguments. Thus a few men will
hold in check a powerful current of evil. The opposition of the enemies of
truth will be restrained that the third angel’s message may do its work.
When the final warning shall be given, it will arrest the attention of these
leading men through whom the Lord is now working, and some of them
will accept it, and will stand with the people of God through the time of
trouble.” —The Great Controversy, pp. 610, 611.
What was the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in the early days?
6 Acts 2:47. How will this also be repeated in the last days?
“The publications distributed by missionary workers have exerted
their influence, yet many whose minds were impressed have been pre-
vented from fully comprehending the truth or from yielding obedience.
Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clear-
ness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held
them. Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them
now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agen-
cies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the
Lord’s side.” —The Great Controversy, p. 612.
❑ Wednesday
TWO DESTINIES December 8
What will happen to those who have known the truth but have
7 not humbled their hearts before the Lord? Luke 13:25–27.
Whose example will they follow? Acts 2:13.
“There is to be in the churches a wonderful manifestation of the power
of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves
before the Lord, and opened the door of the heart by confession and repen-
tance. In the manifestation of that power which lightens the earth with the
glory of God, they will see only something which in their blindness they
think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and they will
brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work according to
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 59
their ideas and expectations, they will oppose the work. ‘Why,’ they say,
‘should not we know the Spirit of God, when we have been in the work so
many years?’—Because they did not respond to the warnings, the entreaties
of the messages of God, but persistently said, ‘I am rich, and increased with
goods, and have need of nothing.’ ” —The Review and Herald, December 23, 1890.
When the door of probation is already closed to those who have
8 rejected the truth, to whom is the door of mercy still open?
Jeremiah 29:12, 13.
“Oh, that the people might know the time of their visitation! There are
many who have not yet heard the testing truth for this time. There are
many with whom the Spirit of God is striving. The time of God’s destruc-
tive judgments is the time of mercy for those who have had no opportuni-
ty to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart
of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door
is closed to those who would not enter.” —Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 97.
❑ Thursday
A CLASS “WITHOUT THE SEAL OF GOD” December 9
While the faithful few are still sighing and cr ying, what will the
9 leaders who have not lived up to the truth do? Isaiah 3:12;
Ezekiel 34:2, 3.
“[The] humble, devoted followers of Christ will be distinguished from
the rest of the world by their soul anguish, which is expressed in lamenta-
tion and weeping, reproofs and warnings. While others try to throw a cloak
over the existing evil, and excuse the great wickedness everywhere preva-
lent, those who have a zeal for God’s honor and a love for souls will not hold
their peace to obtain favor of any. Their righteous souls are vexed day by
day with the unholy works and conversation of the unrighteous. They are
powerless to stop the rushing torrent of iniquity, and hence they are filled
with grief and alarm. They mourn before God to see religion despised in
the very homes of those who have had great light. They lament and afflict
their souls because pride, avarice, selfishness, and deception of almost
every kind are in the church. The Spirit of God, which prompts to reproof,
is trampled underfoot, while the servants of Satan triumph. God is dishon-
ored, the truth made of none effect.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 210, 211.
60 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Why will many professed Sabbathkeepers be left without the
10 seal of God, and what will they receive? Ezekiel 9:5–7, 10.
“The class who do not feel grieved over their own spiritual declension,
nor mourn over the sins of others, will be left without the seal of God. The
Lord commissions His messengers, the men with slaughtering weapons in
their hands: ‘Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye
spare, neither have ye pity: slay utterly old and young, both maids, and lit-
tle children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the
mark; and begin at My sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men
which were before the house.’
“Here we see that the church—the Lord’s sanctuary—was the first to
feel the stroke of the wrath of God. The ancient men, those to whom God
had given great light and who had stood as guardians of the spiritual inter-
ests of the people, had betrayed their trust. They had taken the position that
we need not look for miracles and the marked manifestation of God’s power
as in former days. Times have changed. These words strengthen their unbe-
lief, and they say: The Lord will not do good, neither will He do evil. He is
too merciful to visit His people in judgment. Thus ‘Peace and safety’ is the
cry from men who will never again lift up their voice like a trumpet to show
God’s people their transgressions and the house of Jacob their sins. These
dumb dogs that would not bark are the ones who feel the just vengeance of
an offended God. Men, maidens, and little children all perish together.
“The abominations for which the faithful ones were sighing and cry-
ing were all that could be discerned by finite eyes, but by far the worst
sins, those which provoked the jealousy of the pure and holy God, were
unrevealed.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 211.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS December 10
a. Name some significant tools in the hands of that other angel.
b. In what ways will the enemy be deceiving souls?
c. Describe ways in which the Holy Spirit will promote the truth.
d. During the proclamation of the loud cr y, what distinction will exist
between two classes of believers in the three angels’ messages?
e. What will be the end of those who cr y “Peace and safety” in these
last days?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Testimonies, vol. 7, pp. 150–160.
The Review and Herald, December 23, 1890.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 61

Lesson 12 Sabbath, December 18, 1999
The Decr ee and the Close of
Pr obation
“He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let
him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still:
and he that is holy, let him be holy still” (Revelation 22:11).
“When the work of the investigative judgment closes, the destiny of all
will have been decided for life or death.” —The Great Controversy, p. 490.
❑ Sunday
ALL ACCOUNTABLE December 12
Through the loud cr y, to what extent will the truth be made
1 known in the world? Habakkuk 2:14.
“The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel’s mes-
sage is to lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of worldwide
extent and unwonted power is here foretold.” —The Great Controversy, p. 611.
“Into the darkness of the world is to be shed the light of His glory, the
light of His goodness, mercy, and truth.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 415.
“When the members of the church of God do their appointed work in
the needy fields at home and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel commis-
sion, the whole world will soon be warned.” —The Acts of the Apostles, p. 111.
2
How limited will the reception of the last message of salvation
be? Matthew 22:14; 7:14; Luke 17:29, 30.
“The Spirit of God is withdrawing from the earth, and calamity follows
calamity by sea and by land. There are tempests, earthquakes, fires,
floods, murders of every grade. Who can read the future? Where is secu-
rity? There is assurance in nothing that is human or earthly. Rapidly are
men ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen. Restlessly
62 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
are they waiting and watching the movements of their leaders. There are
those who are waiting and watching and working for our Lord’s appearing.
Another class are falling into line under the generalship of the first great
apostate. Few believe with heart and soul that we have a hell to shun and
a heaven to win.” —The Desire of Ages, p. 636.
❑ Monday
A UNIVERSAL DECREE December 13
What ef fect will the loud cr y finally have upon those who
3 oppose it? Matthew 10:17–19, 23.
“When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation
eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber.”
—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 983.
“At the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the
Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This
enraged the churches and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the
Sabbath truth.” —Early Writings, p. 33.
“The last great warning had sounded everywhere, and it had stirred
up and enraged the inhabitants of the earth who would not receive the
message.” —Ibid., p. 279.
“As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds of the peo-
ple are called to God’s downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The power attend-
ing the message will only madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put
forth almost superhuman efforts to shut away the light lest it should shine
upon their flocks. By every means at their command they will endeavor to
suppress the discussion of these vital questions. The church appeals to the
strong arm of civil power, and, in this work, papists and Protestants unite.”
—The Great Controversy, p. 607.
What decree will be issued against God’s faithful command-
4 ment keepers immediately before the close of probation?
Revelation 13:15, 16.
“The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God,
will decree that ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’
(Revelation 13:16), shall conform to the customs of the church by the obser-
vance of the false sabbath. All who refuse compliance will be visited with civil
penalties, and it will finally be declared that they are deserving of death. . . .
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 63
 “The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to
have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently.” —The Great Controversy,
pp. 604, 605.
“When the decree goes forth and the stamp is impressed, their char-
acter will remain pure and spotless for eternity.” —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216.
❑ Tuesday
DECEPTION AND DISAPPOINTMENT December 14
In the time of the end, what will be our greatest danger if we
5 fail to learn the lessons of faith now, and why? Jeremiah 17:5.
“Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of
falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the
conscience. And even if they endure the test they will be plunged into
deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have
never made it a habit to trust in God. . . . We should now acquaint our-
selves with God by proving His promises.” —The Great Controversy, p. 622.
What will be the end of those who come up to the time of trouble
6 without previous repentance, confession, and pardon? Jeremiah
8:20.
“All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to
remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be
overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more hon-
orable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in
the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary.
Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the
time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless.
“Those professed Christians who come up to that last fearful conflict
unprepared will, in their despair, confess their sins in words of burning
anguish, while the wicked exult over their distress. These confessions are of
the same character as was that of Esau or of Judas. Those who make them,
lament the result of transgression, but not its guilt. They feel no true contri-
tion, no abhorrence of evil. They acknowledge their sin, through fear of pun-
ishment; but, like Pharaoh of old, they would return to their defiance of
Heaven should the judgments be removed.” —The Great Controversy, pp. 620, 621.
[Author’s italics.]
64 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
❑ Wednesday
THE DOOR OF MERCY CLOSES December 15
What declaration will be made in the heavenly sanctuar y when
7 probation closes? Revelation 22:11, 12. How are we warned
about determining when probation will close?
“God has not revealed to us the time when [the third angel’s] message
will close, or when probation will have an end. Those things that are
revealed we shall accept for ourselves and for our children; but let us not
seek to know that which has been kept secret in the councils of the
Almighty. . . .
“The opportune time for us to work is now, just now, while the day
lasts. But there is no command for anyone to search the Scriptures in
order to ascertain, if possible, when probation will close. God has no such
message for any mortal lips.” —Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 191, 192 (1894).
Concerning the close of probation, what lesson should we learn
8 from the antediluvians? Matthew 24:37–39; 2 Peter 3:5–7.
“The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in
their mortal state—men will be planting and building, eating and drinking,
all unconscious that the final, irrevocable decision has been pronounced
in the sanctuary above. Before the Flood, after Noah entered the ark, God
shut him in and shut the ungodly out; but for seven days the people, know-
ing not that their doom was fixed, continued their careless, pleasure-loving
life and mocked the warnings of impending judgment. ‘So,’ says the
Saviour, ‘shall also the coming of the Son of man be’ (Matthew 24:39).
Silently, unnoticed as the midnight thief, will come the decisive hour
which marks the fixing of every man’s destiny, the final withdrawal of
mercy’s offer to guilty men.” —The Great Controversy, p. 491.
❑ Thursday
SUDDEN DESTRUCTION December 16
After the cross, what was withdrawn from the Jewish nation
9 and what did they continue practicing? Matthew 23:38; John
16:2. By whom and how will their example be repeated?
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 65
 “When God’s presence was finally withdrawn from the Jewish nation,
priests and people knew it not. Though under the control of Satan, and
swayed by the most horrible and malignant passions, they still regarded
themselves as the chosen of God. The ministration in the temple continued;
sacrifices were offered upon its polluted altars, and daily the divine bless-
ing was invoked upon a people guilty of the blood of God’s dear Son and
seeking to slay His ministers and apostles. So when the irrevocable deci-
sion of the sanctuary has been pronounced and the destiny of the world has
been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms
of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has
been finally withdrawn; and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil
will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear
the semblance of zeal for God.” —The Great Controversy, p. 615.
What will come upon the inhabitants of the earth when the Holy
10 Spirit is fully withdrawn? 1 Thessalonians 5:3.
“The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of
God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by
divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then
plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the
angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion,
all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved
in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.” —The
Great Controversy, p. 614.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS December 17
a. How can we show through our lives that there is a hell to shun and
a heaven to win?
b. Give evidence as to why the death decree will be enacted as a result
of the loud cr y.
c. What warnings should we heed before the time of trouble?
d. What ef fect should the truth have upon our lives before probation
closes, and why?
e. What deception, which involved the Jewish nation, will be repeated?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
The Great Controversy, pp. 635–652.
Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 349–354.
66 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
Lesson 13 Sabbath, December 25, 1999
The T ime of T r ouble
“And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which
standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of
trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same
time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, ever y one that
shall be found written in the book” (Daniel 12:1).
“While Jesus had been standing between God and guilty man, a
restraint was upon the people; but when He stepped out from between
man and the Father, the restraint was removed and Satan had entire con-
trol of the finally impenitent.” —Early Writings, p. 280.
❑ Sunday
WHEN THE TIME OF TROUBLE BEGINS December 19
What will come upon the people of God when the decree is
1 issued against them? Jeremiah 30:5–7; Daniel 12:1.
“A decree will finally be issued against those who hallow the Sabbath
of the fourth commandment, denouncing them as deserving of the sever-
est punishment and giving the people liberty, after a certain time, to put
them to death. Romanism in the Old World and apostate Protestantism in
the New will pursue a similar course toward those who honor all the divine
precepts. The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of
affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of Jacob’s trou-
ble.” —The Great Controversy, pp. 615, 616.
Why is the time of trouble compared to the anguish of Jacob?
2 Genesis 32:6, 7, 24–28. What will be the main cause of affliction
for God’s people during this time? What assurance should we
obtain now?
“Though God’s people will be surrounded by enemies who are bent
upon their destruction, yet the anguish which they suffer is not a dread of
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 67
persecution for the truth’s sake; they fear that every sin has not been
repented of, and that through some fault in themselves they will fail to real-
ize the fulfillment of the Saviour’s promise: I ‘will keep thee from the hour
of temptation, which shall come upon all the world’ (Revelation 3:10). If
they could have the assurance of pardon they would not shrink from tor-
ture or death; but should they prove unworthy, and lose their lives
because of their own defects of character, then God’s holy name would be
reproached.” —The Great Controversy, p. 619.
“Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we
should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our
Saviour be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in
human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire
is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But
Christ declared of Himself: ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath
nothing in Me’ (John 14:30). Satan could find nothing in the Son of God
that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s com-
mandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advan-
tage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand
in the time of trouble. It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us,
through faith in the atoning blood of Christ.” —Ibid., p. 623.
❑ Monday
HORROR, DISMAY, AND DESPAIR December 20
What comfort and assurance will the unsaved multitudes seek
3 in vain during the time of trouble? Amos 8:11, 12.
“All the judgments upon men, prior to the close of probation, have
been mingled with mercy. The pleading blood of Christ has shielded the
sinner from receiving the full measure of his guilt; but in the final judg-
ment, wrath is poured out unmixed with mercy. In that day, multitudes will
desire the shelter of God’s mercy which they have so long despised.” —The
Great Controversy, p. 629.
What will then be the feeling of these people? What distinction
4 will be made clear? Malachi 3:18.
“It is impossible to describe the horror and despair of those who have
trampled upon God’s holy requirements. The Lord gave them His law;
they might have compared their characters with it and learned their
68 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
defects while there was yet opportunity for repentance and reform; but in
order to secure the favor of the world, they set aside its precepts and
taught others to transgress. They have endeavored to compel God’s peo-
ple to profane His Sabbath. Now they are condemned by that law which
they have despised. With awful distinctness they see that they are without
excuse.” —The Great Controversy, pp. 639, 640.
❑ Tuesday
“WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EAR TH” December 21
Specify some of Satan’s activities which will intensify during the
5 time of trouble. Revelation 13:13; 16:14.
“Fearful sights of a supernatural character will soon be revealed in the
heavens, in token of the power of miracle-working demons. The spirits of
devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fas-
ten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last
struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and
subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ
Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s
Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing and will pro-
fess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the
Scriptures.” —The Great Controversy, p. 624.
“Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and
who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful
delusion that takes the world captive.” —Ibid., p. 625.
What exclamation did John the Revelator hear concerning the
6 culmination of Satan’s work? Revelation 12:12.
“The wrath of Satan increases as his time grows short, and his work
of deceit and destruction will reach its culmination in the time of trouble.”
—The Great Controversy, p. 623.
❑ Wednesday
THE JUDGMENTS OF GOD December 22
What will come upon the world after the close of probation?
7 Isaiah 28:21; Revelation 16:1.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 69
 “God’s judgments will be visited upon those who are seeking to
oppress and destroy His people. His long forbearance with the wicked
emboldens men in transgression, but their punishment is nonetheless cer-
tain and terrible because it is long delayed. . . . ‘The Lord is slow to anger,
and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked’ (Nahum 1:3). By
terrible things in righteousness He will vindicate the authority of His
downtrodden law. The severity of the retribution awaiting the transgressor
may be judged by the Lord’s reluctance to execute justice. The nation with
which He bears long, and which He will not smite until it has filled up the
measure of its iniquity in God’s account, will finally drink the cup of wrath
unmixed with mercy.
“When Christ ceases His intercession in the sanctuary, the unmingled
wrath threatened against those who worship the beast and his image and
receive his mark (Revelation 14:9, 10), will be poured out. The plagues
upon Egypt when God was about to deliver Israel were similar in charac-
ter to those more terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon
the world just before the final deliverance of God’s people.” —The Great
Controversy, pp. 627, 628.
For what will the wicked inhabitants of the world be responsi-
8 ble, and what plague will be poured out as a result? Revelation
16:4–6 (compare Matthew 23:35, 36).
“By condemning the people of God to death, they have as truly
incurred the guilt of their blood as if it had been shed by their hands. In
like manner Christ declared the Jews of His time guilty of all the blood of
holy men which had been shed since the days of Abel; for they possessed
the same spirit and were seeking to do the same work with these murder-
ers of the prophets.” —The Great Controversy, p. 628.
❑ Thursday
LIVING BY GOD’S PROMISES December 23
While the remnant people of God are threatened with destruction,
9 what promises will encourage them? Isaiah 33:2, 16; 26:20, 21.
“The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while perse-
cuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of
food they will not be left to perish. That God who cared for Elijah will not
70 Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999
pass by one of His self-sacrificing children. He who numbers the hairs of
their head will care for them, and in time of famine they shall be satis-
fied.”—The Great Controversy, p. 629.
“What are the chambers in which they are to hide?—They are the pro-
tection of Christ and holy angels. The people of God are not at this time all
in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth;
and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Every one must stand the test
for himself.” —The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1143.
What song will the triumphant company of saints be able to
10 sing after their deliverance? Psalm 46:1–3; Revelation 15:1–3.
“A marvelous change has come over those who have held fast their
integrity in the very face of death. They have been suddenly delivered from
the dark and terrible tyranny of men transformed to demons. Their faces,
so lately pale, anxious, and haggard, are now aglow with wonder, faith, and
love. Their voices rise in triumphant song. [Psalm 46:1–3 quoted.]” —The
Great Controversy, p. 639.
“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 expe-
rience such as no other company have ever had.” —Ibid. pp. 648, 649.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS December 24
a. What is foremost in the minds of God’s faithful few during the time
of trouble, and how are we now to prepare for that time?
b. What despair will soon come upon the rejecters of God’s mercy?
c. By what authority are all miracles and miracle-makers to be mea-
sured?
d. How will God deal with those who have spilled the blood of His
faithful ser vants?
e. What song is each of us now learning to sing?
FOR FUR THER STUDY
Early Writings, pp. 282–289.
The Great Controversy, pp. 635–652.
Sabbath Bible Lessons, October–December 1999 71
 Your First Sabbath Offering at work!

In Tegucigalpa, Honduras, a new chapel was dedicated to the Lord

in December 1997, with the sacrifices that you made for this project on
March 26, 1994.

The above chapel was dedicated to the service of God in Herrera of

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in January 1999, with the
offering gathered on March 30, 1996. We encourage you to give gener-
ously to build many new altars to the Lord.