SDARM Qtr. 3 1992 Bible Study

Sabbath Bible Lessons
THE MIGHTY WORK

OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Lesson Titles Page

1 The Greatest Need. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 The Holy Spirit in the Life of]esus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3 The Promise of the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 11
4 The Fullness of the Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 14
5 Working in God's Power 17
6 God's Plan for His Church 20
7 A Serious Warning Against Hypocrisy 23
8 From Fiery Persecutor to Humble Follower. . . . . . .. 26
9 The Vivifying Power of the Holy Spirit 29
10 In the Spirit and Power of Elijah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 32
11 The Work of the Holy Spirit in Mankind 36
12 The Desire for Revival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 39
13 Preparation for the Latter Rain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 42
Volume 67 Number 3
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FOREWORD
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another
Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of
truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not,
neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you,
and shall be in you" (John 14:16, 17).
"Christ, the Great Teacher, had an infinite variety of subjects
from which to choose, but the one upon which He dwelt most
largely was the endowment of the Holy Spirit. What great things
He predicted for the church because of this endowment." -Selected
Messages, book 1, p. 156.
Although the Holy Spirit is a mystery to human understand-
ing, there is no doubt that His work is a reality. Through the Holy
Spirit we can rightly understand the Word of God, and be led to
discern and confess our sins. It is also through Him that we are
born again and can overcome sin. He maintains our spiritual life,
and gives us power for the carrying through and accomplishment
of the gospel work. Indeed, He is the best gift that the Saviour
has promised to all of His followers.
Since this subject is of such great importance, we should in-
tensively engage ourselves in deep consideration and careful in-
vestigation of it various aspects. Thus the Sabbath school lessons
are not to be superficially "skimmed through" at the last minute
in order to merely grasp at quick answers to the questions.
Rather, they should be diligently and prayerfully studied each
day. This way, the instruction will not remain a dead theory, but
instead will live and bring forth fruitfulness in our Christian ex-
perience. The Spirit of Prophecy recommends:
"Let the Sabbath-school lesson be learned, not by a hasty
glance at the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by careful
study for the next week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review
or illustration during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed
in the memory, a treasure never to be wholly lost."-Education, pp.
251,252.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Special Project Offering
for Missionary Schools in Europe
In the final work of reformation, education-especially education for the work of
the Lord-is one of the greatest needs. Regrettably, not as much has been done in this
line as is required. Plans have existed, but the ability to carry out those plans has not
always been within immediate reach.
Some time ago the General Conference committee decided that the establishment
of a missionary school in Europe should be our first priority in the field of education,
but only in 1989-1990 was it possible to make a start. From mid-November 1989
through mid-June 1990 a seminar was held in Graz, Austria, as an experimental step
towards the realization of this decision. Invitations were sent out in due time to our
unions and fields in Europe, and nine students from different European countries
were enrolled.
It had been the plan of the school board to use English as the medium of educa-
tion, but, right from the beginning, it became evident that that idea was not prac-
ticable, because only a few of the students knew enough English to dispense with
translation. So they used German, which was understood by the majority of the
students. The seminar in Graz brought to our attention a fact that was not clearly
understood before-the language barrier in Europe. It is very difficult or practically
impossible to use one common language as a medium of education, and the use of
translation makes the work more difficult.
Now that countries which were under restrictions are opening their doors and
granting religious liberty, the brethren in these countries are asking the General Con-
ference Council to assist them in starting their own schools. This means that, by the
help of God, more than one school will possibly have to be established in Europe, in
the near future.
Many brethren will be delighted to hear that didactic materials for missionary
schools are presently being prepared by the General Conference committee and will
be supplied to our unions and fields before long. And, wherever and whenever possi-
ble, personal assistance will also be rendered in the establishment of such schools.
When the seminar was held in Graz, financial aid as well as other forms of help
came from the General Conference, from the church in different countries, and also
from individual members. In fact, even the erection of the building at Graz had been
made possible through the generosity of contributors to the Thirteenth Sabbath offer-
ing during the third quarter of 1988. We take this opportunity to thank all those who
extended a helping hand both toward the construction of the mission house and in
behalf of the seminar.
For the project now in view-to establish more than one school in Europe- we
need the help of all brethren and friends around the world. Therefore, we appeal to
people everywhere: Please think about this project and make preparations through-
out the entire quarter to bring a generous gift for the Special Project Offering at the
end of the quarter. God will certainly bless the donors and their gifts!
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, July 4, 1992
THE GREATEST NEED
"A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our
needs. To seek this should be our first work."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 121.
KEY TEXT: "I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be
rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the
shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with
eyesalve, that thou mayest see" (Revelation 3:18).
D Sunday
THE CONDITION OF THE LAODICEAN CHURCH June 28
1. What does the True Witness say concerning the spiritual condition of the
last church? Revelation 3:14, 15. Why are they in this condition? Revela-
tion 3:17.
"The Laodicean message applies to the people of God who profess to believe
present truth. The greater part are lukewarm professors, having a name but no
zeal. ... They profess to love the truth, yet are deficient in Christian fervor and devo-
tion. They dare not give up wholly and run the risk of the unbeliever, yet they are un-
willing to die to self and follow out closely the principles of their faith." - Testimonies,
vol. 4, p. 87.
2. What will happen to those who remain in the Laodicean condition? Revela-
tion 3:16. What advice does the faithful and true Witness give to save the
honest ones? Revelation 3:18.
"Again and again has the voice from heaven addressed you. Will you obey this
voice? Will you heed the counsel of the True Witness to seek the gold tried in the fire,
the white raiment, and the eyesalve? The gold is faith and love, the white raiment is
the righteousness of Christ, the eyesalve is that spiritual discernment which will
enable you to see the wiles of Satan and shun them, to detect sin and abhor it, to see
truth and obey it."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 233.
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o Monday
PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE June 29
3. For what gift should we earnestly pray? Luke 11:13.
"The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to us than parents are to give
good gifts to their children. For the baptism of the Spirit every worker should be
pleading with God. Companies should be gathered together to ask for special help, for
heavenly wisdom, that they may know how to plan and execute wisely."- Testimonies,
yol. 8, p. 22.
4. Describe one major aspect of the work which the Holy Spirit performs in
mankind. Titus 3:5.
"Pray that the mighty energies of the Holy Spirit, with all their quickening,
recuperative, and transforming power, may fall like an electric shock on the palsy-
stricken soul, causing every nerve to thrill with new life, restoring the whole man
from his dead, earthly, sensual state to spiritual soundness. You will thus become par-
takers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through
lust; and in your souls will be reflected the image of Him by whose stripes you are
healed."- Testimonies, yol. 5, p. 267.
o Tuesday
REVIVAL THROUGH DIVINE MERCY June 30
5. What is necessary for those who would enter the kingdom of God? John
7:37-39; 4:14.
"He who seeks to quench his thirst at the fountains of this world will drink only
to thirst again. Everywhere men are unsatisfied. They long for something to supply
the need of the soul. Only One can meet that want. The need of the world, 'The
Desire of all nations," is Christ. The divine grace which He alone can impart, is as liv-
ing water, purifying, refreshing, and invigorating the soul."- The Desire ofAges, p. 187.
6. With whom only can the Lord dwell? Isaiah 57:15; 1 Corinthians 3:16;
6:19.
"When the Spirit of God takes possession of the heart, it transforms the life. Sin-
ful thoughts are put away, evil deeds are renounced; love, humility, and peace take
the place of anger, envy, and strife. Joy takes the place of sadness, and the counte-
nance reflects the light of heaven. No one sees the hand that lifts the burden, or be-
holds the light descend from the courts above. The blessing comes when by faith the
soul surrenders itself to God. Then that power which no human eye can see creates a
new being in the image of God."-The Desire of Ages, p. 173.
o Wednesday
A LIFE CONSECRATED TO GOD July 1
7. How is it possible to live a victorious life? Romans 8:2-4; Galatians 5: 16.
"Our future eternal happiness depends upon having our humanity, with all its
capabilities and powers, brought into obedience to God and placed under the control of
Divinity.... Jesus became a man that He might mediate between man and God....
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"Through Jesus Christ every man may overcome in his own behalf and on his
own account. "-That I May Know Him, p. 291.
"Through love 'the righteousness of the law' will be 'fulfilled in us, who walk not
after the flesh, but after the Spirit' (Romans 8:4)."- Thoughts From the Mount o/Blessing,
p.78.
8. How will the Christian live while under the guidance of the Holy Spirit?
Galatians 2:20.
"There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes
room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly con-
secrated to God."- The Desire 0/ Ages, pp. 250, 251.
o Thursday
THE PETITION IN VIEW OF OUR GREATEST NEED July 2
9. What earnest request should be placed before the Lord when the greatest
need is acknowledged? Psalm 51:9-12.
"0 that we as a people might humble our hearts before God, and plead with Him
for the endowment of the Holy Spirit!"-The Review and Herald, November 29,1892.
"Realize every moment that you must have the presence of the Holy Spirit."-
Testimonies to Ministers, p. 310.
"We need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit every hour of the day, lest we be
ensnared by the enemy and our souls be imperiled."-Ibid., p. 223.
10. What intercessory prayer did the apostle Paul offer to God? Ephesians
3:16-19.
"[Ephesians 3:16-19 quoted.] Here are revealed the heights of attainment that
we may reach through faith in the promises of our heavenly Father, when we fulfill
His requirements. Through the merits of Christ we have access to the throne of In-
finite Power. 'He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how
shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?' (Romans 8:32). The Father gave
His Spirit without measure to His Son, and we also may partake of its fullness." - The
Great Controversy, p. 477.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS July 3
a. Am I aware of my spiritual condition?
b. Do I know my greatest need?
c. Is it my sincere prayerful desire to experience a revival in my spiritual life?
d. For what purpose am I to live now?
e. How often is it necessary for me to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit? •
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THE HOLY SPIRIT

IN THE LIFE OF JESUS
"Direct from the throne issue the beams of His glory. The heavens are opened,
and upon the Saviour's head descends a dovelike form of purest light, - fit
emblem of Him, the meek and lowly One." - The Desire of Ages, p. 112.
KEY TEXT: "Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul
delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him" (Isaiah 42:1).
PROPHECIES CONCERNING o Sunday

THE EFFECTIVE WORK OF CHRIST July 5
1. Which prophecy was fulfilled at the birth of Jesus? Micah 5:2.
"Angels attend Joseph and Mary as they journey from their home in Nazareth to
the city of David. The decree of imperial Rome for the enrollment of the peoples of her
vast dominion has extended to the dwellers among the hills of Galilee. As in old time
Cyrus was called to the throne of the world's empire that he might set free the captives
of the Lord, so Caesar Augustus is made the agent for the fulfillment of God's purpose
in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She is of the lineage of David, and the
Son of David must be born in David's city."-TheDesireof Ages, p. 44.
2. What did John the Baptist announce about the work of Jesus? Matthew 3: 11.
"In the time of John the Baptist, Christ was about to appear as the revealer of the
character of God. His very presence would make manifest to men their sin. Only as they
were willing to be purged from sin could they enter into fellowship with Him. Only the
pure in heart could abide in His presence. Thus the Baptist declared God's message to
Israel."- The Desire of Ages, p. 108.
CHRIST'S WORK D Monday

IN THE FULLNESS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT July 6
3. How do certain prophecies of Isaiah depict the Messiah? Isaiah 42:1; 11:1-3
(first part); 61:1.
"In His life no self-assertion was to be mingled. The homage which the world gives
to position, to wealth, and to talent, was to be foreign to the Son of God. None of
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the means that men employ to win allegiance or to command homage, was the
Messiah to use."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 692, 693.
"The Messiah was to be hid in God, and God was to be revealed in the character
of His Son."-Ibid., p. 693.
4. At which opportunity did Jesus indicate the fulfillment of these prophecies?

Luke 4:16-21.
"Jesus stood before the people as a living expositor of the prophecies concerning
Himself. Explaining the words He had read, He spoke of the Messiah as a reliever of
the oppressed, a liberator of captives, a healer of the afflicted, restoring sight to the
blind, and revealing to the world the light of truth. His impressive manner and the
wonderful import of His words thrilled the hearers with a power they had never felt be-
fore. The tide of divine influence broke every barrier down."- The Desire of Ages, p. 237.
o Tuesday
PROOF OF HIS MESSIAHSHIP July 7
5. What took place immediately after the baptism of Jesus? Matthew 3:16,17.
"Upon coming up out of the water, Jesus bowed in prayer on the river bank....
"Never before have the angels listened to such a prayer. They are eager to bear
to their loved Commander a message of assurance and comfort. But no; the Father
Himself will answer the petition of His Son. Direct from the throne issue the beams of
His glory. The heavens are opened, and upon the Saviour's head descends a dovelike
form of purest light,-fit emblem of Him, the meek and lowly One."-The Desire of
Ages, pp. Ill, 112.
6. What occurred at the beginning of His Messiahship, and for what purpose?
Mark 1:12, 13.
"When Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted, He was led by the Spirit
of God. He did not invite temptation. He went to the wilderness to be alone, to con-
template His mission and work. By fasting and prayer He was to brace Himself for
the bloodstained path He was to travel."-Selected Messages, book I, p. 227.
" 'The prince of this world cometh,' said Jesus, 'and hath nothing in Me' (John
14:30). There was in Him nothing that responded to Satan's sophistry. He did not
consent to sin. Not even by a thought did He yield to temptation. So it may be with us.
Christ's humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted for the conflict by the in-
dwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He came to make us partakers of the divine nature.
So long as we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over us. God
reaches for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast hold upon the divinity of
Christ, that we may attain to perfection of character."- The Desire of Ages, p. 123.
o Wednesday
LIFE AND POWER FROM GOD July 8
7. What did Jesus accomplish through the power of the Holy Spirit? Acts 10:
38; John 17:4; Matthew 12:28.
"Toward the close of His ministry in Galilee, He again visited the home of His
childhood. Since His rejection there, the fame of His preaching and His miracles had
filled the land. None now could deny that He possessed more than human power. The
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people of Nazareth knew that He went about doing good, and healing all that were op-
pressed by Satan. About them were whole villages where there was not a moan of
sickness in any house; for He had passed through them, and healed all their sick. The
mercy revealed in every act of His life testified to His divine anointing."- The Desire of
Ages, p. 241.
"As a man He supplicated the throne of God, till His humanity was charged with
a heavenly current that connected humanity with divinity. Receiving life from God,
He imparted life to men."-Education, pp. 80, 81.
8. With what were the words of Christ permeated? John 6:63.
"The life of Christ that gives life to the world is in His word. It was by His word
that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons; by His word He stilled the sea, and
raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke
the word of God, as He had spoken through all the prophets and teachers of the Old
Testament. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ, and the Saviour desired to
fix the faith of His followers on the word. When His visible presence should be
withdrawn, the word must be their source of power."- The Desire of Ages, p. 390.
A CHRISTLIKE LIFE THROUGH D Thursday

THE GIFT OF THE DIVINE SPIRIT July 9
9. What essential truth did Jesus teach Nicodemus? John 3:5.
"Jesus laid bare the foundation principles of truth. He said to Nicodemus, It is

not theoretical knowledge you need so much as spiritual regeneration. You need not
to have your curiosity satisfied, but to have a new heart. You must receive a new life
from above before you can appreciate heavenly things. Until this change takes place,
making all things new, it will result in no saving good for you to discuss with Me My
authority or My mission."-The Desire of Ages, p. 171.
10. What is necessary in order for a person to become a true child of God?
Ezekiel 36:26, 27.
"Man needs a power outside of and beyond himself, to restore him to the
likeness of God, and enable him to do the work of God; but this does not make the
human agency unessential. Humanity lays hold upon divine power, Christ dwells in
the heart by faith; and through cooperation with the divine, the power of man be-
comes efficient for good."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 296, 297.
D Friday
a. Is the leading of the Holy Spirit discernible also in my life?
b. Do I long for the renewing work of the Holy Spirit?
c. Does the Holy Spirit lead me in my work in behalf of my neighbor?
d. Describe the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the daily life of Christ.
e. What does it mean to be "born again"?

•
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THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
"In giving us His Spirit, God gives us Himself, making Himself a fountain of
divine influences, to give health and life to the world."- Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 273.
KEY TEXT: "I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that
he may abide with you for ever" (John 14:16).
o Sunday
THE MOST PRECIOUS GIFT July 12
1. For what situation was Jesus preparing His disciples? John 13:33.
"[John 13:33 quoted.] The disciples could not rejoice when they heard this. Fear
fell upon them. They pressed close about the Saviour. Their Master and Lord, their
beloved Teacher and Friend, He was dearer to them than life. To Him they had looked
for help in all their difficulties, for comfort in their sorrows and disappointments. Now
He was to leave them, a lonely, dependent company. Dark were the forebodings that
filled their hearts. "-The Desire of Ages, p. 662.
2. What comforting promise did Jesus give to His disciples? John 14:16-18;
16:7.
"Before offering Himself as the sacrificial victim, Christ sought for the most
essential and complete gift to bestow upon His followers, a gift that would bring
within their reach the boundless resources of grace. [John 14:16-18, margin quoted.]
"Before this the Spirit had been in the world; from the very beginning of the
work of redemption He had been moving upon men's hearts. But while Christ was on
earth, the disciples had desired no other helper. Not until they were deprived of His
presence would they feel their need of the Spirit, and then He would come."- The
Desire of Ages, pp. 668, 669.
o Monday
A GUIDE SENT FROM HEAVEN July 13
3. What important mission of the Holy Spirit did Jesus emphasize? John
16:8-11.
"The office of the Holy Spirit is distinctly specified in the words of Christ: 'When
He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment'
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(John 16:8). It is the Holy Spirit that convicts of sin. If the sinner responds to the
quickening influence of the Spirit, he will be brought to repentance and aroused to the
importance of obeying the divine requirements."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 52.
4. For what important service was the Holy Spirit promised to the believers?
John 16:13.
"Jesus saw that [the disciples] did not lay hold of the real meaning of His words.
He compassionately promised that the Holy Spirit should recall these sayings to their
minds. And He had left unsaid many things that could not be comprehended by the
disciples. These also would be opened to them by the Spirit. The Spirit was to quicken
their understanding, that they might have an appreciation of heavenly things." - The
Desire of Ages, pp. 670, 671.
D Tuesday
THE NECESSARY HELP FOR WITNESSING July 14
5. What enabled the disciples to be living witnesses? Acts 1:8.
"The Saviour knew that no argument, however logical, would melt hard hearts
or break through the crust of worldliness and selfishness. He knew that His disciples
must receive the heavenly endowment; that the gospel would be effective only as it
was proclaimed by hearts made warm and lips made eloquent by a living knowledge
of Him who is the way, the truth, and the life. The work committed to the disciples
would require great efficiency; for the tide of evil ran deep and strong against them. A
vigilant, determined leader was in command of the forces of darkness, and the fol-
lowers of Christ could battle for the right only through the help that God, by His
Spirit, would give them."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 31.
"Before one book of the New Testament was written, before one gospel sermon
had been preached after Christ's ascension, the Holy Spirit came upon the praying
apostles. Then the testimony of their enemies was, 'Ye have filled Jerusalem with
your doctrine' (Acts 5:28)."-The Desire of Ages, p. 672.
6. What promise are we to keep in our hearts at all times? John 14:26,27.
"At all times and in all places, in all sorrows and in all afflictions, when the out-
look seems dark and the future perplexing, and we feel helpless and alone, the Com-
forter will be sent in answer to the prayer of faith. Circumstances may separate us
from every earthly friend; but no circumstance, no distance, can separate us from the
heavenly Comforter. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, He is always at our
right hand to support, sustain, uphold, and cheer."- The Desire of Ages, pp. 669, 670.
o Wednesday
A SUPPORT AT ALL TIMES July 15
7. What is required in order to receive this promise? Matthew 7:7 (first part);
Luke 11:13.
"The Holy Spirit, the representative of Himself, is the greatest of all gifts. All
'good things' are comprised in this. The Creator Himself can give us nothing greater,
nothing better. When we beseech the Lord to pity us in our distress, and to guide us
by His Holy Spirit, He will never turn away our prayer. It is possible even for a parent
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to turn away from his hungry child, but God can never reject the cry of the needy and
longing heart."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 132.
8. For which times has the Lord promised us His special support? Luke 12: 11,
12.
"The servants of Christ were to prepare no set speech to present when brought
to trial. Their preparation was to be made day by day in treasuring up the precious
truths of God's word, and through prayer strengthening their faith. When they were
brought into trial, the Holy Spirit would bring to their remembrance the very truths
that would be needed."-The Desire of Ages, p. 355.
o Thursday
THE VISIBLE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT July 16
9. What encouraging assurance is disclosed in the power of the gospel? Mark

16:17,18.
"Through the gift of the Holy Spirit the disciples were to receive a marvelous
power. Their testimony was to be confirmed by signs and wonders. Miracles would
be wrought, not only by the apostles, but by those who received their message."- The
Desire of Ages, p. 821.
10. What else is revealed to us through the Holy Spirit? John 15:26; 16:14.
"The Saviour came to glorify the Father by the demonstration of His love; so the
Spirit was to glorify Christ by revealing His grace to the world. The very image of
God is to be reproduced in humanity. The honor of God, the honor of Christ, is involved
in the perfection of the character of His people."- The Desire of Ages, p. 671.
D Friday
a. Am I prepared to open my heart constantly to the vivifying influence of the

Holy Spirit?
b. Have I experienced, in difficult situations, that the Holy Spirit has put the
right words into my mouth?
c. Do I realize the necessity to pray for the gift of the Holy Spirit?
d. Under what circumstances is the Holy Spirit a welcome Comforter to me?
e. How is the work of the Holy Spirit manifested in my life?

•
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THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT
"The Holy Spirit especially rested upon the apostles, who were witnesses of
our Lord's crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension-important truths which
were to be the hope of Israel." - Early Writings, p. 197.
KEY TEXT: "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:
and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea,
and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).
o Sunday
A NEW STAGE IN THE LIFE OF THE DISCIPLES July 19
1. Describe the attitude of the believers after the ascension of Jesus. Acts
1:12; Luke 24:50-53.
"As the disciples returned from Olivet to Jerusalem, the people looked on them,
expecting to see on their faces expressions of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they
saw there gladness and triumph. The disciples did not now mourn over disappointed
hopes. They had seen the risen Saviour, and the words of His parting promise echoed
constantly in their ears."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 35.
2. What did they earnestly await and how long were they to tarry in Jerusalem?
Acts 1:4, 5.
"In obedience to Christ's command, they waited in Jerusalem for the promise of
the Father-the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record
says that they were 'continually in the temple, praising and blessing God' (Luke
24:53). They also met together to present their requests to the Father in the name of
Jesus. They knew that they had a Representative in heaven, an Advocate at the
throne of God."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 35.
o Monday
THE IMPORTANCE OF ADEQUATE PREPARATION July 20
3. How did the disciples prepare themselves during this time of waiting? Acts
1:14.
"In obedience to the word of their Master the disciples assembled in Jerusalem
to wait for the fulfillment of God's promise. Here they spent ten days, days of deep
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heart searching. They put away all differences and drew close together in Christian
fellowship." - Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 15.
"As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of the promise, they humbled their
hearts in true repentance and confessed their unbelief. As they called to remem-
brance the words that Christ had spoken to them before His death they understood
more fully their meaning."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 36.
4. What took place when they acted according to the instructions of Jesus,
putting away all differences? Acts 2:1, 2.
"The Spirit came upon the waiting, praying disciples with a fullness that reached
every heart. The Infinite One revealed Himself in power to His church. It was as if for
ages this influence had been held in restraint, and now Heaven rejoiced in being able
to pour out upon the church the riches of the Spirit's grace. And under the influence
of the Spirit, words of penitence and confession mingled with songs of praise for sins
forgiven. Words of thanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All heaven bent low to
behold and to adore the wisdom of matchless, incomprehensible love. Lost in wonder,
the apostles exclaimed, 'Herein is love.' They grasped the imparted gift."- The Acts of
the Apostles, p. 38.
o Tuesday
DIVINE CONFIRMATION July 21
5. What special ability did the Lord confer on the disciples? Acts 2:3,4.
"The Holy Spirit, assuming the form of tongues of fire, rested upon those as-
sembled. This was an emblem of the gift then bestowed on the disciples, which enabled
them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted.
The appearance of fire signified the fervent zeal with which the apostles would labor
and the power that would attend their work."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 39.
6. What miracle showed that God was leading them? Acts 2:5-12.
"Every known tongue was represented by those assembled. This diversity of

languages would have been a great hindrance to the proclamation of the gospel; God
therefore in a miraculous manner supplied the deficiency of the apostles. The Holy
Spirit did for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a
lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with ac-
curacy the languages of those for whom they were laboring. This miraculous gift was
a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven."-
The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 39, 40.
o Wednesday
PROPHECY FULFILLED July 22
7. What close cooperation between heaven and earth can we acknowledge by

this occurrence? Acts 2:32-36.
"Christ's ascension to heaven was the signal that His followers were to receive
the promised blessing. For this they were to wait before they entered upon their
work. When Christ passed within the heavenly gates, He was enthroned amidst the
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adoration of the angels. As soon as this ceremony was completed, the Holy Spirit
descended upon the disciples in rich currents, and Christ was indeed glorified, even with
the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring was
Heaven's communication that the Redeemer's inauguration was accomplished. Accord-
ing to His promise He had sent the Holy Spirit from heaven to His followers as a token
that He had, as priest and king, received all authority in heaven and on earth, and was the
Anointed One over His people."-The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 38, 39.
8. What was the effect of Peter's dynamic preaching at Pentecost? Acts 2:37.
"Among those who listened to the disciples were devout Jews, who were sincere
in their belief. The power that accompanied the words of the speaker convinced them
that Jesus was indeed the Messiah."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 43.
o Thursday
AMAZING RESULTS July 23
9. How did Peter respond to the honest inquiry of the people? Acts 2:38, 40.
"Repent, repent, was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness.
Christ's message to the people was, 'Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish'
(Luke 13:5). And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men
should repent."-Evangelism, 'p. 179.
10. What overwhelming event did the disciples experience? Acts 2:41.
"On that memorable occasion large numbers who had heretofore ridiculed the
idea of so unpretending a person as Jesus being the Son of God, became thoroughly
convinced of the truth and acknowledged Him as their Saviour. Three thousand souls
were added to the church. The apostles spoke by the power of the Holy Ghost; and
their words could not be controverted, for they were confirmed by mighty miracles,
wrought by them through the outpouring of the Spirit of God."-The Story of Redemp-
tion, p. 245.
"But the Holy Ghost sent those arguments home with divine power to their
hearts. They were as sharp arrows of the Almighty, convicting them of their terrible
guilt in rejecting and crucifying the Lord of glory."-Ibid.
o Friday
a. Am I complying with the conditions on which the Lord promised to send us

the Holy Spirit?
b. What hindrances must be removed in my life so that the Holy Spirit may
take possession of me?
c. Would I like to be used by the Holy Spirit as a witness in these last days?
d. Describe the cooperation between heaven and earth as manifested at

Pentecost.
e. To what factors may the success of Peter'~ preaching be attributed? •
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Lesson 5 Sabbath, August 1, 1992
WORKING IN GOD'S POWER
"The disciples of Christ had a deep sense of their own inefficiency, and with
humiliation and prayer they joined their weakness to His strength, their igno-
rance to His wisdom, their unworthiness to His righteousness, their poverty
to His exhaustless wealth. Thus strengthened and equipped, they hesitated
not to press forward in the service of the Master." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 57.
KEY TEXT: "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived
that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they
took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13).
D Sunday
IN THE POWER OF JESUS' NAME July 26
1. Where did Peter and John go after the overwhelming occurrence of

Pentecost? Acts 3: 1.
"A short time after the descent of the Holy Spirit, and immediately after a
season of earnest prayer, Peter and John, going up to the temple to worship, saw at
the gate Beautiful a cripple, forty years of age, whose life, from his birth, had been
one of pain and infirmity. This unfortunate man had long desired to see Jesus, that he
might be healed; but he was almost helpless, and was far removed from the scene of
the great Physician's labors. His pleadings at last induced some friends to bear him to
the gate of the temple, but upon arriving there, he found that the One upon whom his
hopes were centered, had been put to a cruel death."-TheActsoftheApostles, pp. 57, 58.
2. Relate the experience of the two disciples and the lame man. What was the
reaction of the people? Acts 3:2-11.
"[The people] were astonished that the disciples could perform miracles similar
to those performed by Jesus. Yet here was this man, for forty years a helpless cripple,
now rejoicing in the full use of his limbs, free from pain, and happy in believing in
Jesus."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 58, 59.
D Monday
SAVING FAITH July 27
3. How did the apostle explain this miracle? Acts 3:12-16.
"[Peter] assured [the people] that the cure had been wrought in the name and
through the merits of Jesus of Nazareth, whom God had raised from the dead."-The
Acts of the Apostles, p. 59.
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4. What was the main theme of Peter's subsequent message? Acts 3:17-21, 26.
"[Peter] declared that the Holy Spirit was calling upon them to repent and be
converted, and assured them that there was no hope of salvation except through the
mercy of the One whom they had crucified. Only through faith in Him could their sins
be forgiven." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 59.
D Tuesday
CONTRASTING REACTIONS July 28
5. How did many people receive the message preached by the disciples? Acts 4:4.
"Thus the disciples preached the resurrection of Christ. Many among those who
listened were waiting for this testimony, and when they heard it they believed. It
brought to their minds the words that Christ had spoken, and they took their stand in
the ranks of those who accepted the gospel. The seed that the Saviour had sown
sprang up and bore fruit." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 60.
6. What consequence came upon the disciples as a result of their fruitful

ministry? Acts 4:1-3.
"Converts to the new faith were rapidly increasing, and both Pharisees and Sad-
ducees agreed that if these new teachers were suffered to go unchecked, their own in-
fluence would be in greater danger than when Jesus was upon the earth. Accordingly,
the captain of the temple, with the help of a number of Sadducees, arrested Peter and
John, and put them in prison, as it was too late that day for them to be examined."-
The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 60, 61.
D Wednesday
TRIAL BEFORE THE NATIONAL COUNCIL July 29
7. Who officiated at the gathering in Jerusalem, and what question did they
put to the disciples? Acts 4:5-7.
"On the day following the healing of the cripple, Annas and Caiaphas, with the
other dignitaries of the temple, met together for the trial, and the prisoners were
brought before them."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 62.
8. What was significant about the location of the hearing, and how was Peter
able to answer in full determination and without fear? Acts 4:8-12.
"In that very room and before some of those very men, Peter had shamefully
denied his Lord. This came distinctly to his mind as he appeared for his own trial. He
now had an opportunity of redeeming his cowardice.
"Those present who remembered the part that Peter had acted at the trial of his
Master, flattered themselves that he could now be intimidated by the threat of im-
prisonment and death. But the Peter who denied Christ in the hour of His greatest
need was impulsive and self-confident, differing widely from the Peter who was
brought before the Sanhedrin for examination. Since his fall he had been converted.
He was no longer proud and boastful, but modest and self-distrustful. He was filled
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with the Holy Spirit, and by the help of this power he was resolved to remove the
stain of his apostasy by honoring the name he had once disowned."- The Acts of the
Apostles, pp. 62, 63.
D Thursday
PRIESTS AND RULERS PERPLEXED July 30
9. What was nobody able to deny? Acts 4:13-16.
"Christ placed His seal on the words that Peter spoke in His defense. Close beside
the disciple, as a convincing witness, stood the man who had been so miraculously
healed. The appearance of this man, a few hours before a helpless cripple, but now
restored to soundness of health, added a weight of testimony to Peter's words. Priests
and rulers were silent. They were unable to refute Peter's statement, but they were
nonetheless determined to put a stop to the teaching of the disciples."- The Acts of the
Apostles, p. 65.
10. What did the supreme council and tribunal of the Jews determine, and how
did the disciples respond? Acts 4:18-20.
"But notwithstanding their desire to destroy the disciples, the priests dared not
do more than threaten them with the severest punishment if they continued to speak
or to work in the name of Jesus. Calling them again before the Sanhedrin, they com-
manded them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 66.
"Weare to recognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment,
and teach obedience to it as a sacred duty, within its legitimate sphere. But when its
claims conflict with the claims of God, we must obey God rather than men. God's
word must be recognized as above all human legislation. A 'Thus saith the Lord' is
not to be set aside for a 'Thus saith the church' or a 'Thus saith the state.' The crown
of Christ is to be lifted above the diadems of earthly potentates."-Ibid., p. 69.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS . July 31
a. Have I experienced the power and strength of Jesus in my life?
b. Have I experienced that one can be a powerful witness only through the Ho-
ly Spirit?
c. Do I claim the power of the name of Jesus in the battle of my faith?
d. Describe the effect of the Holy Spirit on the character of Peter.
e. Based on the disciples' experience before the council, what can I learn about
the Christian's attitude towards civil and ecclesiastical authorities? •
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GOD'S PLAN FOR HIS CHURCH
"From the beginning it has been God's plan that through His church shall be
reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the
church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light,
are to show forth His glory." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 9.
KEY TEXT: "Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9).
THE COOPERATION OF - D Sunday

THE CHURCH IN THE WORK OF SALVATION August 2
1. What gospel commission did Jesus give to His disciples? Mark 16:15.
"Christ gave this commission to His disciples as His chief ministers, the archi-
tects who were to lay the foundation of His church. He laid upon them, and upon all
who should succeed them as His ministers, the charge of handing His gospel down
from generation to generation, from age to age.
"The disciples were not to wait for the people to come to them. They were to go
to the people, hunting for sinners as a shepherd hunts for lost sheep."- Testimonies,
voL 8, p_ 14_
2. Who is included in this commission? 1 Peter 2:9.
"The Saviour's commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes
all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that the work
of saving souls depends alone on the ordained minister. All to whom the heavenly in-
spiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ
are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. For this work the church
was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged
to be co-workers with Christ. "-The Desire of Ages, p. 822.
D Monday
EFFECTIVE MESSENGERS OF THE LOVE OF JESUS August 3
3. How did the early disciples gain the power needed to carry out this commis-
sion? Mark 16:20.
"The commission that Christ gave to the disciples, they fulfilled. As these mes-
sengers of the cross went forth to proclaim the gospel, there was such a revelation
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of the glory of God as had never before been witnessed by mortal man. By the
cooperation of the divine Spirit, the apostles did a work that shook the world."- The
4. What did the first church do in order to grow spiritually? Acts 2:42; 5:32.
"From the Day of Pentecost to the present time, the Comforter has been sent to
all who have yielded themselves fully to the Lord and to His service. To all who have
accepted Christ as a personal Saviour, the Holy Spirit has come as a counselor, sanc-
tifier, guide, and witness. The more closely believers have walked with God, the more
clearly and powerfully have they testified of their Redeemer's love and of His saving
grace."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 49.
D Tuesday
A LIVING AND GROWING CHURCH August 4
5. What was the strength of the early church? Acts 4:32; 2:46, 47 (first part).
"Every Christian saw in his brother the divine similitude of love and benevo-
lence. One interest prevailed. One subject of emulation swallowed up all others. The
only ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ's character and to
labor for the enlargement of His kingdom."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 20.
6. How did unity among the believers affect the work of the gospel? Acts 4:33;
2:47 (last part).
"The disciples did not ask for a blessing for themselves. They were weighted with
the burden of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the ends of the earth, and they
claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. Then it was that the Holy
Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 21.
A NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR D Wednesday

THE WELL-BEING OF THE CHURCH August 5
7. What was necessary when the church became larger? Acts 6:1, 2.
"The disciples of Jesus had reached a crisis in their experience. Under the wise
leadership of the apostles, who labored unitedly in the power of the Holy Spirit, the
work committed to the gospel messengers was developing rapidly. The church was
continually enlarging, and this growth in membership brought increasingly heavy
burdens upon those in charge. No one man, or even one set of men, could continue to
bear these burdens alone, without imperiling the future prosperity of the church.
There was necessity for a further distribution of the responsibilities which had been
borne so faithfully by a few during the earlier days of the church. The apostles must
now take an important step in the perfecting of gospel order in the church by laying
upon others some of the burdens thus far borne by themselves.
"Summoning a meeting of the believers, the apostles were led by the Holy Spirit
to outline a plan for the better organization of all the working forces of the church.
The time had come, the apostles stated, when the spiritual leaders having the over-
sight of the church should be relieved from the task of distributing to the poor and
from similar burdens, so that they might be free to carry forward the work of
preaching the gospel."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 88, 89.
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8. On what basis was the selection of new church officers made? Acts 6:3, 4.
"[Acts 6:3, 4 quoted.] This advice was followed, and by prayer and the laying on
of hands, seven chosen men were solemnly set apart for their duties as deacons.
"The appointment of the seven to take the oversight of special lines of work, proved
a great blessing to the church. These officers gave careful consideration to individual
needs as well as to the general financial interests of the church, and by their prudent
management and their godly example they were an important aid to their fellow officers
inbinding together the various interests of the church into a united whole."- The Acts
of the Apostles, p. 89.
o Thursday
IN THE POWER OF GOD'S SPIRIT August 6
9. Who became a powerful instrument in the hands of God? Acts 6:5 (first
part), 8, 10.
"Stephen, the foremost of the seven deacons, was a man of deep piety and broad
faith. Though a Jew by birth, he spoke the Greek language and was familiar with the
customs and manners of the Greeks. He therefore found opportunity to preach the
gospel in the synagogues of the Greek Jews. He was very active in the cause of Christ
and boldly proclaimed his faith. Learned rabbis and doctors of the law engaged in
public discussion with him, confidently expecting an easy victory. But 'they were not
able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.' Not only did he speak in
the power of the Holy Spirit, but it was plain that he was a student of the prophecies
and learned in all matters of the law. He ably defended the truths that he advocated
and utterly defeated his opponents." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 97.
10. What gift has Christ promised to His followers? Acts 2:38, 39. Why is it not
received today as fully as it should be?
"Christ declared that the divine influence of the Spirit was to be with His followers
unto the end. But the promise is not appreciated as it should be; and therefore its ful-
fillment is not seen as it might be. The promise of the Spirit is a matter little thought
of; and the result is only what might be expected-spiritual drought, spiritual
darkness, spiritual declension and death. Minor matters occupy the attention, and the
divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which
would bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in its infinite
plenitude."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 21.
"To us today, as verily as to the first disciples, the promise of the Spirit belongs.
God will today endow men and women with power from above, as He endowed those
who on the Day of Pentecost heard the word of salvation. At this very hour His Spirit
and His grace are for all who need them and will take Him at His word."-Ibid., p. 20.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS August 7
a. In which manner do I fulfill my commission to save others?

b. Am I striving to develop a Christlike character?
c. Am I so firmly grounded in the truth that I can convincingly represent it?
d. How was Stephen able to act as a powerful witness for Jesus?
e. What has prevented the Lord from pouring out His Spirit in fullness upon me? •
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A SERIOUS WARNING
AGAINST HYPOCRISY
"When in the church of today it is seen that by the power of the Spirit the
members have taken their affections from the things of the world, and that
they are willing to make sacrifices in order that their fellow men may hear
the gospel, the truths proclaimed will have a powerful influence upon the
hearers." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 71.
KEY TEXT: "Grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day
of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30Y.
D Sunday
FOR OUR INSTRUCTION AND ADMONITION August 9
1. What characteristic distinguished the early church? Acts 2:44, 45; 4:34-37.
"Many of these early believers were immediately cut off from family and friends
by the zealous bigotry of the Jews, and it was necessary to provide them with food
and shelter.
"The record declares, 'Neither was there any among them that lacked,' and it
) tells how the need was filled. Those among the believers who had money and posses-
sions cheerfully sacrificed them to meet the emergency. Selling their houses or their
lands, they brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet, 'and distribution was
made unto every man according as he had need.'
"This liberality on the part of the believers was the result of the outpouring of
the'Spirit. The converts to the gospel were 'of one heart and of one soul.' One com-
mon interest controlled them-the success of the mission entrusted to them; and
covetousness had no place in their lives. Their love for their brethren and the cause
they had espoused, was greater than their love of money and possessions. Their
works testified that they accounted the souls of men of higher value than earthly
wealth."- The Acts 0/ the Apostles, pp. 70, 71.
2. What spiritual problem arose even in the first church? Acts 5:1, 2.
"In sharp contrast to the example of benevolence shown by the believers, was
the conduct of Ananias and Sapphira, whose experience, traced by the pen of Inspira-
tion, has left a dark stain upon the history of the early church.... Deep conviction
had rested upon all present, and under the direct influence of the Spirit of God,
Ananias and Sapphira had made a pledge to give to the Lord the proceeds from the
sale of certain property.
- 23-
"Afterward, Ananias and Sapphira grieved the Holy Spirit by yielding to feelings
of covetousness. They began to regret their promise and soon lost the sweet influence
of the blessing that had warmed their hearts with a desire to do large things in behalf
of the cause of Christ. They thought they had been too hasty, that they ought to
reconsider their decision. They talked the matter over, and decided not to fulfill their
pledge."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 71, 72.
D Monday
A SURPRISING PUNISHMENT August 10
3. What did Peter detect through the illumination of the Holy Spirit? What
was the real sin of Ananias? Acts 5:3, 4.
"No undue influence had been brought to bear upon Ananias to compel him to
sacrifice his possessions to the general good. He had acted from choice. But in attempt-
ing to deceive the disciples, he had lied to the Almighty. "-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 73.
4. What happened when it became evident that Ananias had lied to the Holy
Spirit? Acts 5:5, 6.
"Infinite Wisdom saw that this signal manifestation of the wrath of God was neces-
sary to guard the young church from becoming demoralized. Their numbers were rapidly
increasing. The church would have been endangered if, in the rapid increase of con-
verts, men and women had been added who, while professing to serve God, were wor-
shiping mammon. This judgment testified that men cannot deceive God, that He detects
the hidden sin of the heart, and that He will not be mocked. It was designed as a warning
to the church, to lead them to avoid pretense and hypocrisy, and to beware of Tobbing
God."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 73, 74.
D Tuesday
GOD'S SENTENCE UPON HYPOCRISY August 11
5. What question was later posed to the wife of Ananias and how did she re-
spond? Acts 5:7, 8.
"Not to the early church only, but to all future generations, this example of God's
hatred of covetousness, fraud, and hypocrisy, was given as a danger-signal. It was
covetousness that Ananias and Sapphira had first cherished. The desire to retain for
themselves a part of that which they had promised to the Lord, led them into fraud
and hypocrisy."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 74.
6. What sin did Peter bring to Sapphira's attention and what was its tragic
result? Acts 5:9.
"God hates hypocrisy and falsehood. Ananias and Sapphira practiced fraud in
their dealing with God; they lied to the Holy Spirit, and their sin was visited with swift
and terrible judgment."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 72.
D Wednesday
GOD PUNISHES DISHONESTY August 12
7. Why did the dreadful punishment come immediately? Acts 5:10,11.
"From the stern punishment meted out to those perjurers, God would have us
learn also how deep is His hatred and contempt for all hypocrisy and deception. In pre-
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1/
tending that they had given all, Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit, and, as a
result, they lost this life and the life that is to come." - The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 75, 76.
8. What would God like to show us through this account? 1 Timothy 6: 10, 11.
"The same God who punished them, today condemns all falsehood. Lying lips are
an abomination to Him. He declares that into the Holy City 'there shall in no wise
enter ... anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a
lie' (Revelation 21:27). Let truth telling be held with no loose hand or uncertain grasp.
Let it become a part of the life. Playing fast and loose with truth, and dissembling to suit
one's own selfish plans, means shipwreck of faith." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 76.
o Thursday
DETECTING THE DANGER IN TIME August 13
9. What dangerous tendency interferes with our communion with God? Ephe-
sians 4:30. Why do people still lie to God? Ecclesiastes 8: 11.
"The number of those who commit the sin of Ananias and Sapphira is increas-
ing. Men do not lie to man, but to God in their disregard of the pledges which His
Spirit moved upon them to make. Because sentence against an evil work is not, as in
the case of Ananias and Sapphira, executed speedily, the hearts of the sons of men
are fully set in them to do evil, to strive against the Spirit of God. How will these men
stand in the judgment?" -Counsels on Stewardship, p. 314.
10. How can we make our foundation sure? 2 Timothy 2:19; Ephesians 4:23,
24; 6:14-18.
"In the case of Ananias and Sapphira, the sin of fraud against God was speedily
punished. The same sin was often repeated in the after history of the church and is
committed by many in our time. But though it may not be attended by the visible
manifestation of God's displeasure, it is no less heinous in His sight now than in the
apostles' time. The warning has been given; God has clearly manifested His abhor-
rence of this sin; and all who give themselves up to hypocrisy and covetousness may
be sure that they are destroying their own souls."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 76.
o Friday
a. Do I believe that external piety can replace the inward life of faith?
b. Am I constantly aware that not only my actions but also my motives are
open before God?
c. Do I expect to have the leading of the Holy Spirit even when dealing with
half truths?
d. How common is the sin of Ananias and Sapphira today, and what emboldens
people in its practice?
e. How can I, in my spiritual life, obtain strength and protection against

presumption, hypocrisy and covetousness? •
- 25-
FROM FIERY PERSECUTOR

TO HUMBLE FOLLOWER
"The conversion of Saul is a striking evidence of the miraculous power of the

Holy Spirit to convict men of sin." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 120.
KEY TEXT: "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but
unto us which are saved it is the power of God" (1 Corinthians 1:18).
D Sunday
AN OPEN CONFLICT AGAINST CHRIST August 16
1. What did Saul, in his "religious zeal," undertake to do to the Christians?

Acts 9:1, 2; 22:3-5.
"[Saul's] activity in causing holy men and women to be dragged before tribunals,
where some were condemned to imprisonment and some even to death, solely be-
cause of their faith in Jesus, brought sadness and gloom to the newly organized church,
and caused many to seek safety in flight." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 113.
2. What happened shortly before the zealous persecutor arrived at Damascus?

Acts 9:3, 4.
"Christ here identifies Himself with His people. In persecuting the followers of
Jesus, Saul had struck directly against the Lord of heaven. In falsely accusing and
testifying against them, he had falsely accused and t~stified against the Saviour of the
world."-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 117.
o Monday
A SURPRISING TURN OF EVENTS August 17
3. As Saul was greatly frightened, how did he react to the voice? What answer
did he receive? Acts 9:5, 6.
"No doubt entered the mind of Saul that the One who spoke to him was Jesus of
Nazareth, the long-looked-for Messiah, the Consolation and Redeemer of Israe1."
- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 117.
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II
4. What did Saul realize after the light of heaven had disappeared? Acts 9:7, 8.
"When the glory was withdrawn, and Saul arose from the ground, he found him-
self totally deprived of sight. The brightness of Christ's glory had been too intense for
his mortal eyes; and when it was removed, the blackness of night settled upon his vision.
He believed that this blindness was a punishment from God for his cruel persecution of
the followers of Jesus. In terrible darkness he groped about, and his companions, in
fear and amazement, 'led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.' "-The
o Tuesday
TRUE CONVERSION August 18
5. What experience did the persecutor undergo in Damascus? Acts 9:9.
"These days of soul agony were to him as years. Again and again he recalled,
with anguish of spirit, the part he had taken in the martyrdom of Stephen. With hor-
ror he thought of his guilt in allowing himself to be controlled by the malice and pre-
judice of the priests and rulers, even when the face of Stephen had been lighted up
with the radiance of heaven. In sadness and brokenness oCspirit he recounted the
many times he had closed his eyes and ears against the most striking evidences and
had relentlessly urged on the persecution of the believers in Jesus of Nazareth." - The
"Thus he seemed to be shut away from all human sympathy. His only hope of
help was in a merciful God, and to Him he appealed in brokenness of heart. ...
"As Saul yielded himself fully to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, he saw
the mistakes of his life and recognized the far-reaching claims of the law of God. He
who had been a proud Pharisee, confident that he was justified by his good works, now
bowed before God with the humility and simplicity of a little child, confessing his own
unworthiness and pleading the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour."-Ibid., p. 119.
6. How did the Lord bring this humiliated Pharisee into contact with His
church? Acts 9:10-12.
"The Lord then sent His angel to one of the very men whom Saul had hoped to
take captive and revealed to him in vision that he should go into the street called
Straight, 'and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold,
he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his
hand on him, that he might receive his sight.' "-Early Writings, p. 200.
o Wednesday
INSTANT HUMAN DOUBTS August 19
7. Why was the disciple Ananias surprised by the Lord's instruction? Acts
9:13, 14.
"Ananias could scarcely credit the words of the angel; for the reports of Saul's
bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem had spread far and wide."-The Acts of the
Apostles, p. 121.
8. With what words did the Lord order him to act? Acts 9:15, 16.
"The command was imperative: 'Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me,
to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.' "- The
-27 -
D Thursday
A SERVANT IN CHRIST'S STEAD August 20
9. How did Ananias obey his Lord, and what effect did this have on Saul? Acts
9:17-19.
"In this case Ananias represents Christ, and also represents Christ's ministers
upon the earth, who are appointed to act in His stead. In Christ's stead Ananias
touches the eyes of Saul, that they may receive sight. In Christ's stead he places his
hands upon him, and, as he prays in Christ's name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All
is done in the name and by the authority of Christ. Christ is the fountain; the church is
the channel of communication."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 122.
10. What was the purpose of Paul's life from then on? 1 Corinthians 1:17, 18;
2:2-5.
"Throughout his later ministry, Paul never lost sight of the Source of his wisdom
and strength. Hear him, years afterward, still declaring, 'For to me to live is Christ'
(Philippians 1:21)."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 128.
o Friday
a. Can my fellowmen see through my life that I am a follower of Jesus?
b. What result does my conversion have on my neighbors?
c. Am I ready to allow God to work through me?
d. What role did the church play in nurturing the spiritual life of Paul?
e. What noteworthy lessons can I gain from the examples of both Ananias and
P~U •
- 28-
THE VIVIFYING POWER OF

THE HOLY SPIRIT
"Only when the truth is accompanied to the heart by the Spirit will it
quicken the conscience or transform the life." - The Desire of Ages, pp. 671, 672.
KEY TEXT: "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father,
and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you
for ever" (John 14:15, 16).
o Sunday
THE CONTINUAL PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT August 23
1. What do we need in order to lead a Christian life? Galatians 5:25; Ephesians

5:18 (last part).
"We can be fitted for heaven only through the work of the Holy Spirit upon the
heart; for we must have Christ's righteousness as our credentials if we would find ac-
cess to the Father. In order that we may have the righteousness of Christ, we need
daily to be transformed by the influence of the Spirit, to be a partaker of the divine
nature. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to elevate the taste, to sanctify the heart, to
ennoble the whole man."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 374.
2. What did Jesus promise to all His followers with reference to the coming of
the Comforter? John 14: 16, 17.
"Christ has promised the gift of the Holy Spirit to His church, and the promise
belongs to us as much as to the first disciples. But like every other promise, it is given
on conditions. There are many who believe and profess to claim the Lord's promise;
they talk about Christ and about the Holy Spirit, yet receive no benefit. They do not
surrender the soul to be guided and controlled by the divine agencies. We cannot use
the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit God works in His people
'to will and to do of His good pleasure' (Philippians 2: 13)."- The Desire of Ages, p. 672.
[Author's italics.]
"Under the Holy Spirit's working even the weakest, by exercising faith in God,
learned to improve their entrusted powers and to become sanctified, refined, and en-
nobled. As in humility they submitted to the molding influence of the Holy Spirit,
- 29-
they received of the fullness of the Godhead and were fashioned in the likeness of the
divine."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 49, 50.
D Monday
DESIRING THE POWER OF GOD August 24
3. What important question-essential to their spiritual life-did Paul direct

to the believers? Acts 19:2 (first part).
"It is the absence of the Spirit that makes the gospel ministry so powerless. Learn-
ing, talent, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but,
without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner won to
Christ. On the other hand, if they are connected with Christ, if the gifts of the Spirit
are theirs, the poorest and most ignorant of His disciples will have a power that will
tell upon hearts. God makes them channels for the outflowing of the highest influence
in the universe."- Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 21, 22.
4. In order to be filled with the Holy Spirit, what is first necessary? Isaiah
44:3; Matthew 5:6.
"If you have a sense of need in your soul, if you hunger and thirst after righteous-
ness, this is an evidence that Christ has wrought upon your heart, in order that He may
be sought unto to do for you, through the endowment of the Holy Spirit, those things
which it is impossible for you to do for yourself. We need not seek to quench our thirst
at shallow streams; for the great fountain is just above us."- Thoughts From the Mount of
Blessing, p. 19.
"Why do we not hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit, since this is the
means by which we are to receive power? Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, preach
concerning it?"- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 22.
"The Spirit awaits our demand and reception." -Christ's Object Lessons, p. 121.
D Tuesday
THE NECESSARY PREPARATION August 25
5. With what basic conditions are we to comply before we can receive the
promised blessing? 1 John 1:8, 9; Acts 3:19.
"It is our work, by confession, humiliation, repentance, and earnest prayer, to

fulfill the conditions upon which God has promised to grant us His blessing."-Selected
Messages, book 1, p. 121.
"The Spirit can never be poured out while variance and bitterness toward one
another are cherished by the members of the church. Envy, jealousy, evil surmising,
and evilspeaking are of Satan, and they effectually bar the way against the Holy
Spirit's working."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 42.
"The Lord bids us empty our hearts of the selfishness which is the root of aliena-
tion. He longs to pour upon us His Holy Spirit in rich measure, and He bids us clear
the way by self-renunciation."-Ibid., p. 43.
6. How shall we show our willingness to carry out God's will? Acts 5:32; 1
John 2:3.
"Where there is not only a belief in God's word, but a submission of the will to
Him; where the heart is yielded to Him, the affections fixed upon Him, there is
- 30-
faith-faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Through this faith the heart is
renewed in the image of God. And the heart that in its unrenewed state is not subject
to the law of God, neither indeed can be, now delights in its holy precepts, exclaiming
with the psalmist, '0 how love I Thy law! it is my meditation all the day' (Psalm
119:97). And the righteousness of the law is fulfilled in us, 'who walk not after the
flesh, but after the Spirit' (Romans 8:1)."-Steps to Christ, pp. 63, 64.
D Wednesday
THE RECEPTION OF VITAL POWER August 26
7. How do we receive the Holy Spirit? Galatians 3:14.
"We cannot use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us.... Only to those who
wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given.
The power of God awaits their demand and reception. This promised blessing, claimed
by faith, brings all other blessings in its train. It is given according to the riches of the
grace of Christ, and He is ready to supply every soul according to the capacity to receive."
- The Desire of Ages, p. 672.
8. By what means does the power of God work in us? Ephesians 6:17; John
6:63.
"The creative energy that called the worlds into existence is in the word of God.
This word imparts power; it begets life. Every command is a promise; accepted by
the will, received into the soul, it brings with it the life of the Infinite One. It
transforms the nature and re-creates the soul in the image of God."-Education, p. 126.
D Thursday
AN INEXHAUSTIBLE SOURCE OF POWER August 27
9. With what assurance should we go to the throne of mercy? 1 John 5:14, 15;
Hebrews 4: 16.
"My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit. God stands back of every
promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: 'I have done as Thou hast
said, I present Thy promise, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (Matthew 7:7).' "-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 23.
10. What possibilities are within our reach through the power of the Holy
Spirit? Ephesians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11.
"There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes
room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives a life wholly con-
secrated to God."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 19.
"The Spirit furnishes the strength that sustains striving, wrestling souls in every
emergency, amidst the unfriendliness of relatives, the hatred of the world, and the
realization of their own imperfections and mistakes."-Ibid., p. 22.
(Continued on page 35)
- 31-
Lesson 10 Sabbath, September 5, 1992
IN THE SPIRIT AND POWER

OF ELIJAH
"With the earnestness that characterized Elijah the prophet and John the
Baptist, we are to strive to prepare the way for Christ's second advent." - The
SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1184.
KEY TEXT: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the
great and dreadful day of the Lord" (Malachi 4:5).
o Sunday
PREPARING THE WAY FOR THE LORD August 30
1. In what way was John the Baptist to perform his duty, and how can a
parallel be drawn in our days? Luke 1:16, 17.
"John the Baptist went forth in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way
of the Lord and to turn the people to the wisdom of the just. He was a representative
of those living in these last days to whom God has entrusted sacred truths to present
before the people to prepare the way for the second appearing of Christ."- Testimonies,
vol. 3, pp. 61, 62.
2. What important duty does the last church have? Revelation 14:6-12.
"In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven,
God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. Just
such a work as that which John did, is to be carried on in these last days. The Lord is
giving messages to His people, through the instruments He has chosen, and He would
have all heed the admonitions and warnings He sends.... As a people who believe in
Christ's soon appearing, we have a definite message to bear,-'Prepare to meet thy
God.' "-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1184.
o Monday
THE NECESSITY OF PERSONAL PREPARATION August 31
3. What is the promise to those that proclaim the last message of redemption?
Malachi 4:5, 6.
"The Lord is sending His angels, preparing the hearts of the people to receive
the truth. And if we are only consecrated to His service, we shall be sent forth in the
spirit and power of Elijah." -Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, p. 72.
- 32-
"We need the breath of the divine life breathed into us. Weare to be channels
through which the Lord can send light and grace to the world. Backsliders are to be
reclaimed. Weare to put away our sins, by confession and repentance humbling our
proud hearts before God. Floods of spiritual power are to be poured forth upon those
prepared to receive it."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 46.
4. What experience is necessary in order to be an effective instrument in the

hand of God? John 3:27-30; Hebrews 12:2.
"[John the Baptist] looked upon the King in His Beauty, and self was lost sight
of. He beheld the majesty of holiness and knew himself to be inefficient and unwor-
thy. It was God's message that he was to declare. It was in God's power and His
righteousness that he was to stand. He was ready to go forth as Heaven's messenger,
unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine."-Testimonies, vol. 8,
pp. 331, 332.
"In order to give such a message as John gave, we must have a spiritual ex-
perience like his. The same work must be wrought in us. We must behold God, and in
beholding Him lose sight of self."-Ibid., p. 333.
D Tuesday
TO THE GLORY OF GOD September 1
5. What did Elijah demand of the apostate people of Israel? 1 Kings 18:21.
What parallel can be seen between the days of Elijah and our days?
"The present age is one of idolatry, as verily as was that in which Elijah lived. No
outward shrine may be visible; there may be no image for the eye to rest upon; yet
thousands are following after the gods of this world-after riches, fame, pleasure, and
the pleasing fables that permit man to follow the inclinations of the unregenerate
heart. Multitudes have a wrong conception of God and His attributes, and are as truly
serving a false god as were the worshipers of Baal. Many even of those who claim to
be Christians have allied themselves with influences that are unalterably opposed to
God and His truth. Thus they are led to turn away from the divine and to exalt the
human."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 177, 178.
6. What decisive issue is to be brought forth before the people in the last con-
flict? Revelation 14:7, 9, 12.
"The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The obser-
vance of the false sabbath will be urged upon us. The contest will be between the
commandments of God and the commandments of men. Those who have yielded step
by step to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will then yield to the
powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprison-
ment, and death. At that time the gold will be separated from the dross." -Prophets and
Kings, p. 188.
"In the closing work of God in the earth, the standard of His law will be again ex-
alted.... The whole force of the popular current may be turned against the truth;
plot after plot may be formed to overthrow the people of God; but in the hour of
greatest peril the God of Elijah will raise up human instrumentalities to bear a mes-
sage that will not be silenced."-Ibid., pp. 186, 187.
- 33-
D Wednesday
A WORK OF WORLD-WIDE EXTENT September 2
7. What represents the climax of the message for our time? How will this be
realized in practical terms? Revelation 18:1-5.
"The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel's message is to
lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of world-wide extent and unwonted
power is here foretold."-The Great Controversy, p. 611.
"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 message
will be carried not so much by argument as by the deep conviction of the Spirit of
God."-Ibid., p. 612.
"The Spirit of the Lord will so graciously bless consecrated human instrumen-
talities that men, women, and children will open their lips in praise and thanksgiving,
filling the earth with the knowledge of God, and with His unsurpassed glory, as the
waters cover the sea."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 984.
8. What illustration fitly represents the closing work of the Gospel proclama-
tion? Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23.
"The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the 'former 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.
"We must not wait for the latter rain. It is coming upon all who will recognize
and appropriate the dew and showers of grace that fall upon us. When we gather up
the fragments of light, when we appreciate the sure mercies of God, who loves to
have us trust Him, then every promise will be fulfilled. [Isaiah 61:11 quoted.] The
whole earth is to be filled with the glory of God."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
White Comments], vol. 7, p. 984.
SHARERS IN SUFFERING AND IN D Thursday

ETERNAL HAPPINESS September 3
9. What factors are to distinguish the faithful? Philippians 2:15; John 14:21,
23.
"Among earth's inhabitants, scattered in every land, there are those who have
not bowed the knee to Baal. ... In heathen Africa, in the Catholic lands of Europe
and of South America, in China, in India, in the islands of the sea, and in all the dark
corners of the earth, God has in reserve a firmament of chosen ones that will yet shine
forth amidst the darkness.... In the hour of deepest apostasy, when Satan's
supreme effort is made to cause 'all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and
bond,' to receive, under penalty of death, the sign of allegiance to a false rest day,
these faithful ones, 'blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,' will
'shine as lights in the world' (Revelation 13:16; Philippians 2: 15)."-Prophets and Kings,
pp. 188, 189.
"Those who have held the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end will be
wide awake during the time that the third angel's message is proclaimed with great
power."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 984.
- 34-
10. What promise does the Lord give to those who, through His Spirit, have
faithfully obeyed His commands? Daniel 12:3; Matthew 25:34; 13:43.
"[The children of God] will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All
their sins have been blotted out, all their trangressions borne away. Now they can
look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with
Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of
redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the
kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 285.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS September 4
a. What can I learn from John the Baptist for my personal preparation?
b. What spiritual influence does the law of God have on my life?
c. How should I prepare myself today in order to be able to cooperate in the

closing work?
d. Describe the events which are to take place under the power of the latter
rain.
e. What type of experience will characterize God's saints on earth in the time
of the end? •
* * * * * * *
(Continued from page 31)
o Friday
a. Have I ever experienced that life without the power of God is a burdensome
religious duty?
b. Do I realize the need for prayer groups in order to plead together for the
power of the Holy Spirit?
c. Am I prepared to place myself daily under the control of the Holy Spirit?
d. Do I always allow the Holy Spirit to work upon my heart?
e. Am I aware that unfulfilled conditions make a separation between the Holy

Spirit and myself? •
- 35-
THE WORK OF
THE HOLY SPIRIT IN MANKIND
"It is the work of the Holy Spirit to convince the soul of its need of Christ."-
Evangelism, p. 283.
KEY TEXT: "When [the Comforter] is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and
of righteousness, and of judgment" (John 16:8).
o Sunday
THE MYSTERY OF THE DivINE September 6
1. What basic truth should we understand? Isaiah 55:8, 9.
"It is impossible for the finite minds of men to fully comprehend the character or
the works of the Infinite One. To the keenest intellect, to the most powerful and highly
educated mind, that holy Being must ever remain clothed in mystery. "-Testimonies, vol. 5,
pp. 698, 699.
2. What does the natural man lack? 1 Corinthians 2:14; Romans 3:11.
"Spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and the reason of your lack of interest
is that you lack the Spirit of God. When the heart is brought into harmony with the
word, a new life will spring up within you, a new light will shine upon every line of the
word, and it will become the voice of God to your soul."-Fundamentals of Christian
Education, p. 183.
NO TRUE UNDERSTANDING o Monday

WITHOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT September 7
3. What can be understood only through the agency of the Holy Spirit? 1 Co-
rinthians 2:11-13.
"God intends that even in this life the truths of His word shall be ever unfolding
to His people. There is only one way in which this knowledge can be obtained. We
can attain to an understanding of God's word only through the illumination of that
Spirit by which the word was given."-Steps to Christ, p. 109.
- 36-
"There are many things apparently difficult or obscure, which God will make
plain and simple to those who thus seek an understanding of them. But without the
guidance of the Holy Spirit we shall be continually liable to wrest the Scriptures or to
misinterpret them."-Ibid., p. 110.
4. Why is mankind groping in spiritual darkness? Romans 1:21,28; 2 Corin-

thians 4:4.
"Minds beclouded with evil cannot appreciate the value of the truth as it is in
Jesus. When iniquity is cherished, men do not feel the necessity of making diligent ef-
fort, with prayer and reflection, to understand what they must know or lose heaven.
They have so long been under the shadow of the enemy, that they view the truth as
men behold objects through a smoked and imperfect glass; for all things are dark and
perverted in their eyes. Their spiritual vision is feeble and untrustworthy; for they
look upon the shadow, and turn away from the light."-Fundamentals of Christian Educa-
tion, p. 188.
o Tuesday
I A PRICELESS HELP SeptemberS
5. Who only can give us spiritual eyesight? John 16:7, 8; Ephesians 1:17, 18; 1
Corinthians 2:12, 13.
"It is the Holy Spirit that convicts of sin. If the sinner responds to the quickening
influence of the Spirit, he will be brought to repentance and aroused to the impor-
tance of obeying the divine requirements."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 52.
6. How may we come to Jesus? Matthew 11:28-30.
"If you see your sinfulness, do not wait to make yourself better. How many there
are who think they are not good enough to come to Christ.... There is help for us on-
ly in God. We must not wait for stronger persuasions, for better opportunities, or for
holier tempers. We can do nothing of ourselves. We must come to Christ just as we
are."-Steps to Christ, p. 31.
"We may come with all our weakness, our folly, our sinfulness, and fall at His
feet in penitence. It is His glory to encircle us in the arms of His love and to bind up
our wounds, to cleanse us from all impurity."-Ibid., p. 52.
o Wednesday
THE MIRACLE OF THE NEW BIRTH September 9
7. Through whose working can we obtain new life? John 1:12, 13; 3:5-7.
"Through this simple act of believing God, the Holy Spirit has begotten a new
life in your heart. You are as a child born into the family of God, and He loves you as
He loves His Son." -Steps to Christ, p. 52.
"A change will be seen in the character, the habits, the pursuits. The contrast
will be clear and decided between what they have been and what they are. The
character is revealed, not by occasional good deeds and occasional misdeeds, but by
the tendency of the habitual words and acts."-Ibid., pp. 57, 58.
- 37-
8. What miraculous change is to be manifested in our lives? 2 Corinthians
5:17; Romans 6:4-6.
"Though we cannot see the Spirit of God, we know that men who have been
dead in trespasses and sins, become convicted and converted under its operations.
The thoughtless and wayward become serious. The hardened repent of their sins,
and the faithless believe. The gambler, the drunkard, the licentious, become steady,
sober, and pure. The rebellious and obstinate become meek and Christlike. When we
see these changes in the character, we may be assured that the converting power of
God has transformed the entire man. We saw not the Holy Spirit, but we saw the
evidence of its work on the changed character of those who were hardened and ob-
durate sinners. As the wind moves in its force upon the lofty trees and brings them
down, so the Holy Spirit can work upon human hearts, and no finite man can circum-
scribe the work of God."-Evangelism, p. 288.
o Thursday
NEW LIFE WITH CHRIST September 10
9. How is a life in Christ revealed? Matthew 7:20; Romans 8:1, 2, 10; Gala-
tians 5:22, 23.
"In the heart renewed by divine grace, love is the principle of action. It modifies
the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and en-
nobles the affections. This love, cherished in the soul, sweetens the life and sheds a
refining influence on all around." -Steps to Christ, p. 59.
10. Through whom is the Christian life sustained and advanced? Ephesians
3:16; Romans 8:14.
"The Holy Spirit works with those who will be worked, moulds those who will
be moulded, fashions those who will be fashioned. Give yourselves the culture of
spiritual thoughts and holy communings. You have seen but the first rays of the early
dawn of His glory. As you follow on to know the Lord, you will know that the 'path of
the righteous is as the light of dawn, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day'
(Proverbs 4:18, RV)."-Gospel Workers, p. 274.
"Let us rejoice and be glad that Christ has not only given us His word, but has
given us also the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God, and that in
His strength we may be more than conquerors."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 104.
o Friday
a. Has my understanding of the things of God deepened as I have been praying

for the leading of the Holy Spirit?
b. Have I through my connection with God experienced a change of character?
c. Is love the main spring of all actions in my life?
d. Describe the effects of a genuine new birth experience.
e. How is a new life in Christ to be fortified, maintained, and developed? •
- 38-
THE DESIRE FOR REVIVAL
"The Spirit of God produces a new life in the soul, bringing the thoughts and
desires into obedience to the will of Christ; and the inward man is renewed
in the image of God. Weak and erring men and women show to the world that
the redeeming power of grace can cause the faulty character to develop into
symmetry and abundant fruitfulness."-Prophets and Kings, p. 233.
KEY TEXT: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of
hosts" (Zechariah 4:6).
o Sunday
AN INEXHAUSTIBLE SOURCE OF POWER September 13
1. Who promises to quench the thirst of the soul? Revelation 21:6; 22:17;
John 7:37-39.
"It is to the thirsting soul that the fountain of living waters is open.... To souls
that are earnestly seeking for light and that accept with gladness every ray of divine
illumination from His holy word, to such alone light will be given. It is through these
souls that God will reveal that light and power which will lighten the whole earth with
His glory."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 729.
2. What priceless gift did Jesus offer the woman of Samaria? John 4:14.
"He who reveals to the soul its necessity is waiting to satisfy its hunger and
thirst. Every human resource and dependence will fail. The cisterns will be emptied,
the pools become dry; but our Redeemer is an inexhaustible fountain. We may drink,
and drink again, and ever find a fresh supply. He in whom Christ dwells has within
himself the fountain of blessing,-'a well of water springing up into everlasting life.'
From this source he may draw strength and grace sufficient for all his needs."-The
Desire of Ages, p. 187.
o Monday
THE WORKING OF DIVINE GUIDANCE September 14
3. Through what means can we receive God's promises? Mark 11:24.
"For the daily baptism of the Spirit every worker should offer his petition to
God. Companies of Christian workers should gather to ask for special help, for
- 39-
heavenly wisdom, that they may know how to plan and execute wisely. Especially
should they pray that God will baptize His chosen ambassadors in mission fields with
a rich measure of His Spirit. The presence of the Spirit with God's workers will give
the proclamation of truth a power that not all the honor or glory of the world could
give."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 50, 51.
4. What work will the Spirit of truth accomplish in the believers? 1 John 2:27.
"This agency of the Spirit of God does not remove from us the necessity of exer-
cising our faculties and talents, but teaches us how to use every power to the glory of
God. The human faculties, when under the special direction of the grace of God, are
capable of being used to the best purpose on earth, and will be exercised in the future,
immortallife."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 372.
D Tuesday
TOWARDS TRUE UNDERSTANDING September 15
5. Why is the Comforter called the Spirit of truth? John 16:13.
"The Comforter is called 'the Spirit of truth.' His work is to define and maintain
the truth. He first dwells in the heart as the Spirit of truth, and thus He becomes the
Comforter. There is comfort and peace in the truth, but no real peace or comfort can
be found in falsehood. It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his
power over the mind. By directing men to false standards, he misshapes the charac-
ter. Through the Scriptures the Holy Spirit speaks to the mind, and impresses truth
upon the heart. Thus He exposes error, and expels it from the soul. It is by the Spirit
of truth, working through the word of God, that Christ subdues His chosen people to
Himself."-The Desire of Ages, p. 671.
6. What sustaining work does Christ's representative perform in the lives of

His followers? John 14:26.
"The disciples still failed to understand Christ's words in their spiritual sense,
and again He explained His meaning.... No more will you say, I cannot com-
prehend. No longer will you see through a glass, darkly. You shall 'be able to com-
prehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to
know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge' (Ephesians 3:18, 19).
"The disciples were to bear witness to the life and work of Christ. Through their
word He was to speak to all the people on the face of the earth. But in the humiliation
and death of Christ they were to suffer great trial and disappointment. That after this
experience their word might be accurate, Jesus promised that the Comforter should
'bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.' "- The Desire
of Ages, p. 670.
D Wednesday
NECESSARY STEPS FOR A TRUE REVIVAL September 16
7. What significant vision was the prophet Zechariah shown? Zechariah 4:2-6.
"The two olive trees empty the golden oil out of themselves through the golden
pipes into the golden bowl from which the lamps of the sanctuary are fed. The golden
oil represents the Holy Spirit. With this oil God's ministers are to be constantly sup-
-40 -
plied, that they, in turn, may impart it to the church. 'Not by might, nor by power, but
my My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.' God's servants can obtain victories only by in-
ward purity, by cleanness of heart, by holiness."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 188.
"The words of God to Zechariah show from whence the holy golden oil comes,
and its bright light which the Lord kindles in the chambers of the soul gives light
through good works to the world." - The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments],
vol. 4, p. 1179.
8. Why should we be constantly aware of our spiritual destitution? Revelation

3:17. What is the only remedy for this condition? Revelation 3:18-20.
"We must enter upon the work individually. We must pray more, and talk less.
Iniquity abounds, and the people must be taught not to be satisfied with a form of
godliness without the spirit and power. If we are intent upon searching our own
hearts, putting away our sins, and correcting our evil tendencies, our souls will not be
lifted up unto vanity; we shall be distrustful of ourselves, having an abiding sense that
our sufficiency is of God."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 122.
D Thursday
THE AIM OF THE PROCLAMATION September 17
9. What request should we bring to God, with deep longing? Habakkuk 3:2;
Psalm 51:1-3, 7-13.
"The remnant people of God must be a converted people. The presentation of this
message is to result in the conversion and sanctification of souls. We are to feel the
power of the Spirit of God in this movement. This is a wonderful, definite message; it
means everything to the receiver, and it is to be proclaimed with a loud cry. We must
have a true, abiding faith that this message will go forth with increasing importance
till the close of time."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 154.
10. What has the Lord promised us with certainty? Habakkuk 2:3, 4; Acts
2:17.
"The power of God awaits their demand and reception. This promised blessing,
claimed by faith, brings all other blessings in its train. It is given according to the
riches of the grace of Christ, and He is ready to supply every soul according to the
capacity to receive.' '-The Desire of Ages, p. 672.
D Friday
a. Is it my earnest desire to experience a spiritual revival in my personal life?
b. Have I ever claimed the promise of Jesus to fulfill my spiritual needs?
c. Do I pray, "Lord, revive your people, but begin with me"?
d. How does the vision given to Zechariah illustrate the work of the Holy
Spirit?
e. What assurance does the prophet Habbakuk offer to God's last-day rem·
nant? •
- 41-
PREPARATION FOR THE LATTER RAIN
"I was shown that if God's people make no efforts on their part, but wait for
the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their
errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh
and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will
be found wanting. The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who
have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them,
namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, per-
fecting holiness in the fear of God."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 619.
KEY TEXT: "Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall
make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to everyone grass
in the field" (Zechariah 10:1).
D Sunday
A CONSTANT REMINDER TO WATCH September 20
1. In what time period of the world's history are we living? 1 John 2:18; Mat-
thew 24:4-14,33.
"The day of test and purification is just upon us. Signs of a most startling
character appear, in floods, in hurricanes, in tornadoes, in cloudbursts, in casualties
by land and by sea, that proclaim the approach of the end of all things. The judgments
of God are falling on the world, that men may be awakened to the fact that Christ will
come speedily."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 950.
2. To what signs does the apostle Paul point? 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
"I was shown the state of the world, that it is fast filling up its cup of iniquity.
Violence and crime of every description are filling our world, and Satan is using every
means to make crime and debasing vice popular. The youth who walk the streets are
surrounded with handbills and notices of crime and sin, presented in some novel or to
be acted at some theater. Their minds are educated into familiarity with sin. The
course pursued by the base and vile is kept before them in the periodicals of the day,
and everything which can excite curiosity and arouse the animal passions is brought
before them in thrilling and exciting stories."-Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 471, 472.
CONDITIONS FOR D Monday

THE RECEPTION OF THE LATTER RAIN September 21
3. What special blessing has the Lord promised for the last days? Joel 2:28, 29.
"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
- 42-
witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon
His children."- The Great Controversy, p. 464.
4. What is required in order to receive the latter rain? 1 Peter 1:13-17; 2

Peter 1:2-8.
"The latter rain, ripening earth's harvest, represents the spiritual grace that
prepares the church for the coming of the Son of man. But unless the former rain has
fallen, there will be no life; the green blade will not spring up. Unless the early showers
have done their work, the latter rain can bring no seed to perfection.
"There is to be 'first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.'
There must be a constant development of Christian virtue, a constant advancement in
Christian experience. This we should seek with intensity of desire, that we may adorn
the doctrine of Christ our Saviour."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 506.
o Tuesday
OUR PREPARATION September 22
5. What should the former rain work in every believer? Acts 3:19, 20.
"Many have in a great measure failed to receive the former rain. They have not
obtained all the benefits that God has thus provided for them.... The work that God
has begun in the human heart in giving His light and knowledge must be continually
going forward. Every individual must realize his own necessity. The heart must be
emptied of every defilement and cleansed for the indwelling of the Spirit. 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.
6. What earnest invitation does Jesus extend to us for the receiving of the lat-
ter rain? Mark 13:33.
"I have no specific time of which to speak when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit
will take place- when the mighty angel will come down from heaven, and unite with
the third angel in closing up the work for this world; my message is that our only safe-
ty is in being ready for the heavenly refreshing, having our lamps trimmed and burn-
ing."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 192.
o Wednesday
THE TIME IS NOW September 23
7. What appeal is extended to us today? Matthew 24:44; 1 John 3:3.
"Day by day we are to seek the enlightenment of the Spirit of God, that it may do
its office work upon the soul and character. 0, how much time has been wasted
through giving attention to trifling things." -Selected Messages, book 1, p. 192.
8. What can we learn from the early Christian church? Acts 1:14; 4:32.
"Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they
were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. They
- 43-
were of one accord. All differences had been put away. And the testimony borne of
them after the Spirit had been given is the same....
"So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to
God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it
will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was 'the former
rain,' and glorious was the result. But the latter rain will be more abundant. What is
the promise to those living in the~e last days? 'Turn you to the stronghold, ye
prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.' 'Ask ye
of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and
give them showers of rain, to everyone grass in the field' (Zechariah 9:12; 10:1)."-
Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 20, 21.
o Thursday
GOD'S PEOPLE IN READINESS September 24
9. What urgent challenge does Paul give us? Romans 13:11, 12.
"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. ...
We are in a most trying position, waiting, watching for our Lord's appearing. The
world is in darkness. 'But ye, brethren,' says Paul, 'are not in darkness, that that day
should overtake you as a thief.' It is ever God's purpose to bring light out of darkness,
joy out of sorrow, and rest out of weariness for the waiting, longing soul. What are
you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation?"- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216.
10. What distinguishes the people of God in the last days? John 13:34, 35; 1
Thessalonians 5:23, 24; 1 John 3:14.
"The love of Christ, the love of our brethren, will testify 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, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the
Lord."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 401.
o Friday
a. Do I understand the great importance of unity amongst the people of God so

that the latter rain may be poured out?
b. How convinced am I that the fulfillment of end-time prophecies points to

the soon coming of Jesus?
c. In what way does my preparation show that I am waiting for the coming of
Jesus?
d. What work is everyone to do today?
e. How can I be a living witness in my environment?

•
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Sabbath Bible Lessons

THE MIGHTY WORK

Lesson Titles Page

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

THE GREATEST NEED

3. For what gift should we earnestly pray? Luke 11:13.

7. How is it possible to live a victorious life? Romans 8:2-4; Galatians 5: 16.

a. Am I aware of my spiritual condition?

b. Do I know my greatest need?

c. Is it my sincere prayerful desire to experience a revival in my spiritual life?

d. For what purpose am I to live now?

e. How often is it necessary for me to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit? •

THE HOLY SPIRIT

PROPHECIES CONCERNING o Sunday

1. Which prophecy was fulfilled at the birth of Jesus? Micah 5:2.

CHRIST'S WORK D Monday

4. At which opportunity did Jesus indicate the fulfillment of these prophecies?

8. With what were the words of Christ permeated? John 6:63.

A CHRISTLIKE LIFE THROUGH D Thursday

9. What essential truth did Jesus teach Nicodemus? John 3:5.

"Jesus laid bare the foundation principles of truth. He said to Nicodemus, It is

a. Is the leading of the Holy Spirit discernible also in my life?

b. Do I long for the renewing work of the Holy Spirit?

c. Does the Holy Spirit lead me in my work in behalf of my neighbor?

e. What does it mean to be "born again"?

THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

5. What enabled the disciples to be living witnesses? Acts 1:8.

9. What encouraging assurance is disclosed in the power of the gospel? Mark

a. Am I prepared to open my heart constantly to the vivifying influence of the

d. Under what circumstances is the Holy Spirit a welcome Comforter to me?

e. How is the work of the Holy Spirit manifested in my life?

THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT

"Every known tongue was represented by those assembled. This diversity of

7. What close cooperation between heaven and earth can we acknowledge by

a. Am I complying with the conditions on which the Lord promised to send us

d. Describe the cooperation between heaven and earth as manifested at

e. To what factors may the success of Peter'~ preaching be attributed? •

WORKING IN GOD'S POWER

1. Where did Peter and John go after the overwhelming occurrence of

3. How did the apostle explain this miracle? Acts 3:12-16.

6. What consequence came upon the disciples as a result of their fruitful

9. What was nobody able to deny? Acts 4:13-16.

a. Have I experienced the power and strength of Jesus in my life?

c. Do I claim the power of the name of Jesus in the battle of my faith?

d. Describe the effect of the Holy Spirit on the character of Peter.

GOD'S PLAN FOR HIS CHURCH

THE COOPERATION OF - D Sunday

2. Who is included in this commission? 1 Peter 2:9.

A NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR D Wednesday

a. In which manner do I fulfill my commission to save others?

e. How can I, in my spiritual life, obtain strength and protection against

FROM FIERY PERSECUTOR

"The conversion of Saul is a striking evidence of the miraculous power of the

1. What did Saul, in his "religious zeal," undertake to do to the Christians?

2. What happened shortly before the zealous persecutor arrived at Damascus?

a. Can my fellowmen see through my life that I am a follower of Jesus?

b. What result does my conversion have on my neighbors?

c. Am I ready to allow God to work through me?

THE VIVIFYING POWER OF

1. What do we need in order to lead a Christian life? Galatians 5:25; Ephesians

3. What important question-essential to their spiritual life-did Paul direct

"It is our work, by confession, humiliation, repentance, and earnest prayer, to

7. How do we receive the Holy Spirit? Galatians 3:14.