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REFORM IN SABBATH OBSERVANCE

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION
If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the LORD's holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob." The mouth of the LORD has spoken. Isaiah 58:13,14

I. INTRODUCTION
1. God calls us to elevate the standard
God calls upon the workers in this mission to elevate the standard, and to show their regard for His requirements by honoring the Sabbath. . . . From this place the publications are sent out, and the laborers go forth to proclaim the commandments of God; and it is of the greatest importance that a right influence be exerted by this church, both by precept and example. The standard must not be placed so low that those who accept the truth shall transgress God's commandments while professing to obey them. Better, far better, would it be to leave them in darkness until they could receive the truth in its purity. 3SM 259, 260

2. We are in danger of doing our own pleasure
I say to those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists, Can you claim the seal of the living God? Can you claim that you are sanctified by the truth? We have not, as a people, given the law of God the preeminence as we should. We are in danger of doing our own pleasure on the Sabbath day.--Letter 258, 1907. 3SM 258
3. We are robbing God
"Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me, . . . even this whole nation." God has given man six days in which to work for himself, but He has reserved one day in which He is to be specially honored. He is to be glorified, His authority respected. And yet man will rob God by stealing a little of the time which the Creator has reserved for Himself. God reserved the seventh day as a period of rest for man, for the good of man as well as for His own glory. 1T 532

4. God cannot bless us
He cannot bless them as it would be His pleasure to do, for His name is dishonored by them, His precepts lightly esteemed. God's curse will rest upon them, and they will lose ten or twentyfold more than they gain. 1T 531

II. GUIDELINES FOR PROPER SABBATH OBSERVANCE
1. All should observe quietness
Boisterous noise and contention should not be allowed any day of the week; but on the Sabbath all should observe quietness. No loud-toned commands should be heard at any time; but on the Sabbath it is entirely out of place. This is God's holy day, the day He has set apart to commemorate His creative works, a day He has sanctified and hallowed.--Manuscript 57, 1897. 3SM 257
2. Keep children quiet in the church
The house of God is desecrated and the Sabbath violated by Sabbath believers' children. They run about the house, play, talk, and manifest their evil tempers in the very meetings where the saints have met together to glorify God and to worship Him in the beauty of holiness. …. Above everything, take care of your children upon the Sabbath. Do not let them violate it, for you may just as well violate it yourself as to let your children do it. When you suffer your children to play upon the Sabbath, God looks upon you as a commandment breaker. You transgress His Sabbath.--Manuscript 3, 1854. 3SM 257

3. Suit for Sabbath worship service
Many need instruction as to how they should appear in the assembly for worship on the Sabbath. They are not to enter the presence of God in the common clothing worn during the week. All should have a special Sabbath suit, to be worn when attending service in God's house. While we should not conform to worldly fashions, we are not to be indifferent in regard to our outward appearance. We are to be neat and trim, though without adornment. The children of God should be pure within and without. 6T 355

NOTE: There is no precise standard when it comes to proper dress code. What is considered proper dress in a certain place may not be proper to another place. What Mrs. Ellen G. White is saying is that Christians around the world must applied the principles of modesty and propriety that is appropriate in their own context.

4. Traveling on Sabbath
If we desire the blessing promised to the obedient, we must observe the Sabbath more strictly. I fear that we often travel on this day when it might be avoided. In harmony with the light which the Lord has given in regard to the observance of the Sabbath, we should be more careful about traveling on the boats or cars on this day. In these matters we should set a right example before our children and youth. In order to reach the churches that need our help, and to give them the message that God desires them to hear, it may be necessary for us to travel on the Sabbath; but so far as possible we should secure our tickets and make all necessary arrangements on some other day. When starting on a journey we should make every possible effort to plan so as to avoid reaching our destination on the Sabbath. 6T 359, 360

5. Saving property on the Sabbath
But if we violate the letter of the fourth commandment for our own advantage from a pecuniary point of view we become Sabbathbreakers and are guilty of transgressing all the commandments, for if we offend in one point we are guilty of all. If in order to save property we break over the express command of Jehovah, where is the stopping place? Where shall we set the bounds? Transgress in a small matter, and look upon it as no particular sin on our part, and the conscience becomes hardened, the sensibilities blunted, until we can go still further and perform quite an amount of labor and still flatter ourselves that we are Sabbathkeepers, when, according to Christ's standard, we are breaking every one of God's holy precepts. 1T 532

6. Sleeping on the Sabbath
None should feel at liberty to spend sanctified time in an unprofitable manner. It is displeasing to God for Sabbathkeepers to sleep during much of the Sabbath. They dishonor their Creator in so doing, and, by their example, say that the six days are too precious for them to spend in resting. They must make money, although it be by robbing themselves of needed sleep, which they make up by sleeping away holy time. They then excuse themselves by saying: "The Sabbath was given for a day of rest. I will not deprive myself of rest to attend meeting, for I need rest." Such make a wrong use of the sanctified day. 2T 704

7. Boots be blacked and baths be taken Sabbath
On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. Let the boots be blacked and the baths be taken. It is possible to do this. If you make it a rule you can do it. 6T 355

NOTE:
In places where the weather is sometimes or throughout the year is hot and humid, taking a bath on Sabbath should not be an issue. God gives us common sense and it is necessary in that particular situation. In places where temperature is low and shower can be avoided, then I think that we should listen to our consciense. Listen to this, “Whatever path God chooses for us, whatever way He ordains for our feet, that is the only path of safety.” TMK 249. “Our Lord will judge us according to the opportunities that we have had.” HP 190

8. Diet on the Sabbath
“The Sabbath of the Lord is a day of rest from labor, and the diet upon that day should be more simple, and partaken of in less quantities, than upon the six laboring days, because they do not have that exercise upon the Sabbath that they have upon the other days of the week. Many have erred in not practicing self-denial upon the Sabbath. By partaking full meals, as on the six laboring days, their minds are beclouded. They are stupid, and often drowsy. Some suffer with headache. Such have no truly devotional feelings upon the Sabbath, and the blessing resting upon the Sabbath does not prove a blessing to them.” 3SG 254

9. Cooking on Sabbath
He said to them, "This is what the LORD commanded: 'Tomorrow is to be a day of rest, a holy Sabbath to the LORD. So bake what you want to bake and boil what you want to boil. Save whatever is left and keep it until morning. So they saved it until morning, as Moses commanded, and it did not stink or get maggots in it. Exodus 16: 23, 24

The Lord is no less particular now in regard to his Sabbath than when he gave the foregoing special directions to the children of Israel. He required them to bake that which they would bake, and seethe (that is, boil,) that which they would seethe on the sixth day, preparatory to the rest of the Sabbath. Those who neglect to prepare for the Sabbath on the sixth day, and who cook food upon the Sabbath, violate the fourth commandment, and are transgressors of God's law. All who are really anxious to observe the Sabbath according to the commandment, will not cook any food upon the Sabbath. 3SG 225

On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. 6T 355

The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular work be laid aside and all secular papers be put out of sight. 6T 355

10. Purchases on Sabbath
All purchases should be made and all our cooking should be done on Friday. Let baths be taken, shoes be blacked, and clothing be put in readiness. HP 151

11. Sabbath dishes
We would charge all not to wash their dishes on the Sabbath if this can possibly be avoided. God is dishonored by any unnecessary work done on His holy day. It is not inconsistent, but proper, that the dishes should be left unwashed till the close of the Sabbath, if this can be managed.--Letter 104, 1901. 3SM 258
12. Guard the edges of the Sabbath
We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every moment is consecrated, holy time. Whenever it is possible, employers should give their workers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them time for preparation, that they may welcome the Lord's day with quietness of mind. By such a course you will suffer no loss even in temporal things. 6T 356

WHAT DO OUR OFFICIAL SDA WEBSITES SAY ABOUT THIS
Preparation for the Sabbath
If the Sabbath is to be observed properly, the entire week should be programmed in such a way that every member will be ready to welcome God's holy day when it arrives. This means that the adult family members will plan so that all household tasks--the buying and preparing of food, the readying of clothes, and all the other necessities of everyday life--will be completed before sundown Friday. The day of rest should become the pivot around which the wheel of the entire week turns. When Friday night approaches and sundown is near, adults and children will be able to greet the Sabbath with tranquility of mind, with all preparation finished, and with the home in readiness to spend the next 24 hours with God and with one another. Children can help achieve this by carrying Sabbath preparation responsibilities commensurate with their maturity. The way the family approaches the beginning of the Sabbath at sundown on Friday night and the way Friday night is spent will set the stage for receiving the blessings that the Lord has in store for the entire day which follows.
From our official SDA websites http://www.adventist.org/beliefs/other_documents/other_doc6.html
http://www.adventistbiblicalresearch.org/documents/sabbathobservance.htm
NOTE:
Why I bother to share what the Spirit of Prophecy says about this matter? Because I could see that if we rely on our SDA websites, this subject will remain unclear and confusion and misunderstanding will follow as a result. Let us remember, God is not the author of confusion. TM 54 . For example www.adventistbiblicalresearch.org/ says, “If the Sabbath is to be observed properly, the entire week should be programmed in such a way that every member will be ready to welcome God's holy day when it arrives. This means that the adult family members will plan so that all household tasks--the buying and preparing of food, the readying of clothes, and all the other necessities of everyday life--will be completed before sundown Friday.”
Now, what does preparing of food mean? Or the readying of clothes and other necessities of everyday life? Again, “God is not the author of confusion.” TM 54. So He has clear answers but some pastors are just hesitant to share. People who study and understand about other culture fairly know that there are biblical principles which are applicable in all cultures in our time today. The Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy are our clear guidelines on how SDA Christians must live their life as God expects them. Without clear Biblical guidelines, we can't really see and we don't have goals to shoot for. Our website
http://www.adventistbiblicalresearch.org/documents/sabbathobservance.htm says, “Any attempt to regulate Sabbath observance beyond biblical principles by developing lists of Sabbath prohibitions will be counterproductive to a sound spiritual experience.” Now let me ask you, what's wrong if I share this very explicit guidelines from the Spirit of Prophecy so everything about this matter will be clearly understood? Absolutely nothing! There is something wrong only if you think that the Spirit of Prophecy is beyond biblical principles. “The Lord will bless His tried, faithful people. He will not leave them to become confused. “ UL 69 and “Whatever path God chooses for us, whatever way He ordains for our feet, that is the only path of safety.” TMK 249. “Our Lord will judge us according to the opportunities that we have had.” HP 190
Jesus, our Advocate, is acquainted with all the circumstances with which we are surrounded and deals with us according to the light we have had and the circumstances in which we are placed. 2T 75

III. WORKS OF MERCY AND NECESSITY ARE PERMITTED ON THE SABBATH

1. Saving the life of men and animals
There are cases in which Christ has given permission to labor even on the Sabbath in saving the life of men or of animals. 1T 532
(see also Matt. 12:9-13, Luke 6:6-10)

2. Attending the sick on Sabbath
The sick and suffering require care and attention upon the Sabbath, as well as upon the other six days of the week. And it may be necessary for their comfort to prepare warm food and drinks upon the Sabbath. In such
instances, it is no violation of the fourth commandment to make them as comfortable as possible. The great Lawgiver is a God of compassion as well as of justice. 3SG 254

The necessities of life must be attended to, the sick must be cared for, the wants of the needy must be supplied. He will not be held guiltless who neglects to relieve suffering on the Sabbath. God's holy rest day was made for man, and acts of mercy are in perfect harmony with its intent. God does not desire His creatures to suffer an hour's pain that may be relieved upon the Sabbath or any other day. DA 207

3. Heating the food on Sabbath
[SABBATH MEALS IN THE WHITE HOME IN LATER YEARS ARE DESCRIBED BY HER DAUGHTER-IN-LAW IN A STATEMENT DATED OCTOBER 16, 1949: "AS MRS. E. G. WHITE'S DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, I WAS A MEMBER OF HER HOUSEHOLD FOR A LITTLE MORE THAN A YEAR, AND WAS OFTEN IN HER HOME AND TRAVELLED WITH HER OVER A PERIOD OF TWENTY YEARS. I HAVE BEEN ASKED CONCERNING THE SABBATH MEALS IN THE WHITE HOME. "AS FULL PREPARATION AS WAS POSSIBLE WAS MADE ON FRIDAY, THE PREPARATION DAY, FOR THE SABBATH MEALS. ON SABBATH THE FOOD FOR BOTH BREAKFAST AND DINNER WAS SERVED HOT, IT HAVING BEEN HEATED IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE MEAL. ALL UNNECESSARY WORK WAS AVOIDED ON THE SABBATH BUT AT NO TIME DID MRS. WHITE CONSIDER IT A VIOLATION OF PROPER SABBATH OBSERVANCE TO PROVIDE FOR THE ORDINARY COMFORTS OF LIFE SUCH AS THE BUILDING OF A FIRE FOR THE HEATING OF THE HOUSE OR THE HEATING OF THE FOOD FOR THE MEALS."--(SIGNED) MRS. W. C. WHITE] 3SM 263

IV. SOLEMN APPEAL
The law forbids secular labor on the rest day of the Lord; the toil that gains a livelihood must cease; no labor for worldly pleasure or profit is lawful upon that day; but as God ceased His labor of creating, and rested upon the Sabbath and blessed it, so man is to leave the occupations of his daily life, and devote those sacred hours to healthful rest, to worship, and to holy deeds. The work of Christ in healing the sick was in perfect accord with the law. It honored the Sabbath. DA 207

Our heavenly Father desires through the observance of the Sabbath to preserve among men a knowledge of Himself. He desires that the Sabbath shall direct our minds to Him as the true and living God, and that through knowing Him we may have life and peace. When the Lord delivered His people Israel from Egypt and committed to them His law, He taught them that by the observance of the Sabbath they were to be distinguished from idolaters. It was this that made the distinction between those who acknowledge the sovereignty of God and those who refuse to accept Him as their Creator and King. 6T 349


GET THIS e-book!
This is a very good devotional book for young pastors and is ought to be studied carefully in every Adventist home. Very easy to understand and very systematic and very timely compilation.

The suggested donation is 2$ US/ 50 baht (in Thailand)/ 50 pesos (Philippines).
NOTE: totally free for those who are unable to donate.

We want to understand the time in which we live. We do not half understand it. We do not half take it in. My heart trembles in me when I think of what a foe we have to meet, and how poorly we are prepared to meet him. The trials of the children of Israel, and their attitude just before the first coming of Christ, have been presented before me again and again to illustrate the position of the people of God in their experience before the second coming of Christ--how the enemy sought every occasion to take control of the minds of the Jews, and today he is seeking to blind the minds of God's servants, that they may not be able to discern the precious truth. 1SM 406



FOREWORD

The final judgement day of all men is soon to come. People were warned by God since the foundation of the world about the various devices of satan to destroy God's loving people. He sent His prophet to bring this warning, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee,...” Hosea 4:6
If the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy will not be given time to read, meditate and pray for it now ignorance and misunderstanding of some subject matters related to our salvation will darken the minds of the people. Consequently, many will not be ready to pass the test of the National Sunday Law or to receive the Latter Rain, and will not be prepared to give the final Loud Cry, but instead, will be lost forever.
Preparation cannot be made at the last moment, now is the time for us to develop a faithful closer relationship with God, by setting aside some of our time daily in personal devotion with God- reading the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy and let His character be reflected in us.
Therefore, I regard this author's compilation “The Gospel Standard” with its twenty vital subjects is of paramount importance for our earnest study and meditation to prepare us to meet our God.


Elvie Alburo Zulueta, CPA, LCB
Professor, School of Business
Mountain View College
Valencia City, PHILIPPINES


The very alarming condition of our church today is idleness. Trapped by Satan's many devices- TV, sports, materialism, etc. Many if not most of our church members are so preoccupied to read God's Word and the Spirit of Prophecy books. Reaching out for Christ comes only a desire and no longer a personal involvement. This piece of work, “The Gospel Standard” is one that will help us a lot to equip and strengthen us as we get involve in the gospel ministry.



Daryl F. Famisaran
Director, SULADS
Student Missionary Program
of Mountain View College
Valencia City, Bukidnon
PHILIPPINES
CONTENTS
Foreword
A Message from the SULADS Director
The Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy
The Call for Spiritual Revival and Reformation
Consecration
God's True Workmen
The Investigative Judgement
The Shaking Time
The Sealing Time
Reform in Sabbath Observance
The Truth About the Sanctuary
Health Reform Message
The National Sunday Law
The Latter Rain
The Loud Cry
The Terrible Time of Jacob's Trouble
The Close of Probation
Reform in Church Decorum
Dress Reform
Music Reform
The Secret Societies


GET THIS e-book!
This is a very good devotional book for young pastors and is ought to be studied carefully in every Adventist home. Very easy to understand and very systematic and very timely compilation.

The suggested donation is 2$ US/ 50 baht (in Thailand)/ 50 pesos (Philippines).
NOTE: totally free for those who are unable to donate.

This sermon-type compilation e-book must be carefully read by all serious Adventists. Get this for your spiritual devotional need.

If the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy will not be given time to read, meditate and pray for it now ignorance and misunderstanding of some subject matters related to our salvation will darken the minds of the people. Consequently, many will not be ready to pass the test of the National Sunday Law or to receive the Latter Rain, and will not be prepared to give the final Loud Cry, but instead, will be lost forever.

Preparation cannot be made at the last moment, now is the time for us to develop a faithful closer relationship with God, by setting aside some of our time daily in personal devotion with God- reading the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy and let His character be reflected in us.

Get this or regret forever later..........If we can afford to buy something we want, then how much more to something we needed?

To get the electronic copy please contact Sulad Jhun at mienfield@yahoo.com

THE SHAKING TIME

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10: 12, 13

I. INTRODUCTION
1. We are now in the shaking time
I saw that we are now in the shaking time. Satan is working with all his power to wrest souls from the hand of Christ and cause them to trample underfoot the Son of God. 1T 429

2. God will not excuse his disobedient people.
We are in the shaking time, the time when everything that can be shaken will be shaken. The Lord will not excuse those who know the truth if they do not in word and deed obey His commands. If we make no effort to win souls to Christ we shall be held responsible for the work we might have done, but did not do because of our spiritual indolence. Those who belong to the Lord's kingdom must work earnestly for the saving of souls. They must do their part to bind up the law and seal it among the disciples. 6T 332

3. The shaking time is measuring time
The time has come when everything is to be shaken that can be shaken, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Every case is coming in review before God; He is measuring the temple and the worshipers therein. 7T 219
4. The chaff will be separated from the wheat
There will be a shaking of the sieve. The chaff must in time be separated from the wheat. Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. It is the very time when the genuine will be the strongest.--Letter 46, 1887. LDE 173

II. THE CAUSES OF SHAKING
1. Worldliness
As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel's message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbathkeepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them. GC 608

2. Jealousy, fault finding and dissatisfaction
There is a class East who profess to believe the truth, but who cherish secret feelings of dissatisfaction against those who bear the burden in this work. The true sentiments of such do not appear until some influence opposed to the work of God arises, and then they manifest their true character. Such readily receive, cherish, and circulate reports which have no foundation in truth, to destroy the influence of those who are engaged in this work. All who wish to draw off from the body will have opportunity. Something will arise to test everyone. The great sifting time is just before us. The jealous and the faultfinding, who are watching for evil, will be shaken out. 1T 251
To accuse and criticize those whom God is using is to accuse and criticize the Lord who has sent them. TM 466

The peace of the home is too sacred to be marred by this spirit. But how often, when seated at the meal table, the members of the family pass round a dish of criticism, faultfinding, and scandal. Were Christ to come today, would He not find many of the families who profess to be Christians cherishing the spirit of criticism and unkindness? The members of such families are unready to unite with the family above. AH 440

3. Caresless and indifferent
Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks. EW 271

4. Straight testimony
I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking among God's people. CET 176

5. Superficial believers
Those who have had privileges and opportunities to become intelligent in regard to the truth and yet who continue to counterwork the work God would have accomplished will be purged out, for God accepts the service of no man whose interest is divided.--Ms 64, 1898. LDE 175

6. Slight knowledge of the Bible
None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict. GC 593

7. Rejection of Laodiceans message
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. 5T 233
*What is the purpose of laodicean message?
I saw that this message would not accomplish its work in a few short months. It is designed to arouse the people of God, to discover to them their backslidings, and to lead to zealous repentance, that they may be favored with the presence of Jesus, and be fitted for the loud cry of the third angel. 1T 186

8. Rejection of the counsels of health reform
Greater reforms should be seen among the people who claim to be looking for the soon appearing of Christ. Health reform is to do among our people a work which it has not yet done. There are those who ought to be awake to the danger of meat eating, who are still eating the flesh of animals, thus endangering the physical, mental, and spiritual health. Many who are now only half converted on the question of meat eating will go from God's people to walk no more with them. CD 382
9. Enforcement of National Sunday Law
We must soon wrestle with the powers of the land, and we have every reason to fear that falsehood will gain the mastery. We shall call upon our churches in the name of the Lord to view this struggle in its true light. 3 SM 385

III. RESULTS OF SHAKING
1. The church may appear as about to fall
The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out--the chaff separated from the precious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place. 2SM 380

2. Many will forsake the church
The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves. Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity purges them out of the church. As a class, their spirits are not steadfast with God. 4T 89

3. Some of our church leaders and ministers will be shaken
True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliance will then go out in darkness. Those who have assumed the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ's righteousness, will then appear in the shame of their own nakedness. PK 188

IV. WHO WILL NOT BE SHAKEN?

1. Those who are grounded in the truth
Everything that can be shaken will be shaken; but rooted and grounded in the truth, you will abide with those things that cannot be shaken. The law of God is steadfast, unalterable; for it is the expression of the character of Jehovah. Make up your mind that you will not by word or influence cast the least dishonor upon its authority. MYP 30

2. Those who work for souls
We are in the shaking time, the time when everything that can be shaken will be shaken. The Lord will not excuse those who know the truth if they do not in word and deed obey His commands. If we make no effort to win souls to Christ we shall be held responsible for the work we might have done, but did not do because of our spiritual indolence. Those who belong to the Lord's kingdom must work earnestly for the saving of souls. 6T 331

3. Those who keep their eyes upward
Evil angels crowded around, pressing darkness upon them to shut out Jesus from their view, that their eyes might be drawn to the darkness that surrounded them, and thus they be led to distrust God and murmur against Him. Their only safety was in keeping their eyes directed upward. Angels of God had charge over His people, and as the poisonous atmosphere of evil angels was pressed around these anxious ones, the heavenly angels were continually wafting their wings over them to scatter the thick darkness. EW 269

4. Those who are true to the principle
Let us not forget that everything is to be shaken that can be shaken. The enemy will be successful in overthrowing the faith of some, but those who are true to principle will not be shaken. They will stand firm amid trial and temptation. LS 92

V. SOLEMN APPEAL

The only hope for the Laodiceans is a clear view of their standing before God, a knowledge of the nature of their disease. They are neither cold nor hot; they occupy a neutral position, and at the same time flatter themselves that they are in need of nothing. The True Witness hates this lukewarmness. 4T 87

THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGEMENT

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

"As I looked, "thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat.
His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool.
His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated,
and the books were opened.” Daniel 7: 9, 10

I. INTRODUCTION

1. This subject should be clearly understood
The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest. Otherwise it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith which is essential at this time or to occupy the position which God designs them to fill. GC 488

2. Jesus will soon cease His work
The One who has stood as our Intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary. Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and justice will take their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right--the office of Supreme Judge.--RH Jan. 1, 1889. LDE 240

II. PURPOSE OF THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGEMENT
1. To blot out those confessed sins
In the typical service only those who had come before God with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin offering, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the Day of Atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and investigative judgment the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a later period. "Judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel?" 1 Peter 4:17. GC 480
2. To review the character and lives of men
Thus was presented to the prophet's vision the great and solemn day when the characters and the lives of men should pass in review before the Judge of all the earth, and to every man should be rendered "according to his works. GC 479

III. WE ARE FACING LIFE'S RECORD

1. We are each given a page in heaven
In the book of God's providence, the volume of life, we are each given a page. That page contains every particular of our history; even the hairs of the head are numbered. God's children are never absent from His mind. DA 313

2. All our works are chronicled by the recording angel
Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible exactness every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportunities, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel. GC 482

3. Good deeds are written in the book of remembrance
"A book of remembrance" is written before God, in which are recorded the good deeds of "them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name." Malachi 3:16. Their words of faith, their acts of love, are registered in heaven....In the book of God's remembrance every deed of righteousness is immortalized. There every temptation resisted, every evil overcome, every word of tender pity expressed, is faithfully chronicled. And every act of sacrifice, every suffering and sorrow endured for Christ's sake, is recorded. GC 481

4. The book of life contains the names of the save
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: "Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:20. Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, "whose names are in the book of life." Philippians 4:3. Daniel, looking down to "a time of trouble, such as never was," declares that God's people shall be delivered, "everyone that shall be found written in the book." And the revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names "are written in the Lamb's book of life." Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27. GC 480, 481

VI. GOD'S LOVE AND JUSTNESS

1. He is faithful and just to forgive
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1John 1:9

2. Pardon is written opposite our names
All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. GC 483

3. Unrepented sins will not be pardoned

Sins that have not been repented of and forsaken will not be pardoned and blotted out of the books of record, but will stand to witness against the sinner in the day of God. GC 486

4. Probation closes when Jesus ceases to plead for man
When Jesus ceases to plead for man, the cases of all are forever decided. This is the time of reckoning with His servants. To those who have neglected the preparation of purity and holiness, which fits them to be waiting ones to welcome their Lord, the sun sets in gloom and darkness, and rises not again. Probation closes; Christ's intercessions cease in heaven. This time finally comes suddenly upon all, and those who have neglected to purify their souls by obeying the truth are found sleeping. 2T 191

V. THE SOLEMN COUNSELS

1. Ask God's help to qualify to go to heaven
We would not enjoy heaven unless qualified for its holy atmosphere by the influence of the Spirit and the righteousness of Christ. In order to be candidates for heaven we must meet the requirement of the law: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself" (Luke 10:27). We can do this only as we grasp by faith the righteousness of Christ. 1SM 395

2. Now is the time to keep ourselves unspotted from the world
It is now that we must keep ourselves and our children unspotted from the world. It is now that we must wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now that we must overcome pride, passion, and spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we must awake and make determined effort for symmetry of character. "Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts." 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. 5T 215, 216
3. Fear God and give Him glory
He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water." Revelation 14: 7

GOD’S TRUE WORKMEN

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”  1 Peter 2:9

I. INTRODUCTION
1.    We are God’s chosen people
“Seventh-day Adventists have been chosen by God as a peculiar people, separate from the world. By the great cleaver of truth He has cut them out from the quarry of the world and brought them into connection with Himself. He has made them His representatives and has called them to be ambassadors for Him in the last work of salvation. The greatest wealth of truth ever entrusted to mortals, the most solemn and fearful warnings ever sent by God to man, have been committed to them to be given to the world,” 7T 138
2.     We are ambassadors for Christ
“You are ambassadors for Christ, to proclaim His message of salvation.” Ev 22
II.   GOD’S PURPOSE FOR HIS WORKMEN
1.  To bring salvation
“For this is what the Lord has commanded us: I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” Acts 13:47
2.  To develop a Christ-like character
“God could have reached His object in saving sinners without our aid; but in order for us to develop a character like Christ's, we must share in His work. In order to enter into His joy,--the joy of seeing souls redeemed by His sacrifice,--we must participate in His labors for their redemption.”  DA 142
 
3.     To become missionaries
“Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.” DA 195

III. QUALIFICATIONS OF GOD’S TRUE WORKMEN

1.     Must live up to their profession
“There must be no pretense in the lives of those who have so sacred and solemn a message as we have been called to bear. The world is watching Seventh-day Adventists because it knows something of their profession of faith and of their high standard, and when it sees those who do not live up to their profession, it points at them with scorn.”  9T 23
2.  Loving and lovable
“But ability alone, the choicest talents alone, cannot take the place of love.  This love must be manifested by God's workers. Love for God and for those for whom Christ has died will do a work that we can scarcely comprehend. Those who do not cherish and cultivate this love cannot be successful missionaries.”  6T 84
3.  Must possess Christian zeal
“Oh, how few feel the worth of souls! How few are willing to sacrifice to bring souls to the knowledge of Christ! There is much talking, much professed love for perishing souls; but talk is cheap stuff. It is earnest Christian zeal that is wanted--a zeal that will be manifested by doing something. All must now work for themselves, and when they have Jesus in their hearts they will confess Him to others. No more could a soul who possesses Christ be hindered from confessing Him than could the waters of Niagara be stopped from flowing over the falls.”  2T 233
4.  Must possess natural simplicity
“Often the words well prepared and studied have but little influence. But the true, honest expression of a son or daughter of God, spoken in natural simplicity, has power to unbolt the door to hearts that have long been closed against Christ and His love.”  COL 232
“No argument is so powerful as is success founded on simplicity.” 9T 175
5. Must possess wisdom and tact
“In the work of soul-winning, great tact and wisdom are needed. The Saviour never suppressed the truth, but He uttered it always in love. In His intercourse with others, He exercised the greatest tact, and He was always kind and thoughtful. He was never rude, never needlessly spoke a severe word, never gave unnecessary pain to a sensitive soul. He did not censure human weakness. He fearlessly denounced hypocrisy, unbelief, and iniquity, but tears were in His voice as He uttered His scathing rebukes. He never made truth cruel, but ever manifested a deep tenderness for humanity. Every soul was precious in His sight. He bore Himself with divine dignity; yet He bowed with the tenderest compassion and regard to every member of the family of God. He saw in all, souls whom it was His mission to save.” GW 117
“If a man has tact, industry, and enthusiasm, he will make a success in temporal business, and the same qualities, consecrated to the work of God, will prove even doubly efficient; for divine power will be combined with human effort.” 5T 276
6. Has courage and perseverance
When in faith we take hold of His strength, He will change, wonderfully change, the most hopeless, discouraging outlook. He will do this for the glory of His name. God calls upon His faithful ones, who believe in Him, to talk courage to those who are unbelieving and hopeless. 8T 12
"Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. Joshua 10:25
7. Has determination in the work of soul winning
The man who loves God does not measure his work by the eight-hour system. He works at all hours and is never off duty. As he has opportunity he does good. Everywhere, at all times and in all places, he finds opportunity to work for God. He carries fragrance with him wherever he goes. 9T 45
8. Gentle and kind
And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 2 Tim. 2:24
The meekness of Christ, manifested in the home, will make the inmates happy; it provokes no quarrel, gives back no angry answer, but soothes the irritated temper and diffuses a gentleness that is felt by all within its charmed circle. MB 16
9. Childlike and humble
Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who, like John the Baptist, takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. The heavenly intelligences can co-operate with him who is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save souls. DA 436

In choosing men and women for His service, God does not ask whether they possess learning or eloquence or worldly wealth. He asks: "Do they walk in such humility that I can teach them My way? Can I put My words into their lips? Will they represent Me?" 7T 144

10. Has unreserved consecration
True holiness is wholeness in the service of God. This is the condition of true Christian living. Christ asks for an unreserved consecration, for undivided service. He demands the heart, the mind, the soul, the strength. Self is not to be cherished. He who lives to himself is not a Christian. COL 48, 49

No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. DA 273

11. Willing to sacrifice and deny self
We are nearing the end of this earth's history, and the different lines of God's work are to be carried forward with much more self-sacrifice than they have yet been. The work for these last days is a missionary work. Present truth, from the first letter of its alphabet to the last, means missionary effort. The work to be done calls for sacrifice at every step of advance. The workers are to come forth from trial purified and refined, as gold tried in the fire. CH 300

Love for lost souls brought Christ to Calvary's cross. Love for souls will lead us to self-denial and sacrifice, for the saving of that which is lost. 9T 59
….love will be revealed in sacrifice. The plan of redemption was laid in sacrifice--a sacrifice so broad and deep and high that it is immeasurable. Christ gave all for us, and those who receive Christ will be ready to sacrifice all for the sake of their Redeemer. The thought of His honor and glory will come before anything else. COL 49
IV. CHRIST METHODS OF LABOUR
1. He mingled with men
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9: 35, 36

Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, "Follow Me.” MH 143

Salt must be mingled with the substance to which it is added; it must penetrate and infuse in order to preserve. So it is through personal contact and association that men are reached by the saving power of the gospel. MB 36

By being social and coming close to the people, you may turn the current of their thoughts more readily than by the most able discourse. GW 193
2. He showed symphaty
During His ministry, Jesus devoted more time to healing the sick than to preaching. His miracles testified to the truth of His words, that He came not to destroy, but to save. Wherever He went, the tidings of His mercy preceded Him. MH 19

V. VERY IMPORTANT THINGS WE SHOULD REMEMBER
1. Our symphaty and helpfulness can accomplish amazing things
Many have no faith in God and have lost confidence in man. But they appreciate acts of sympathy and helpfulness. As they see one with no inducement of earthly praise or compensation coming to their homes, ministering to the sick, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, comforting the sad, and tenderly pointing all to Him of whose love and pity the human worker is but the messenger--as they see this, their hearts are touched. Gratitude springs up, faith is kindled. They see that God cares for them, and as His word is opened they are prepared to listen.-- R.H., May 9, 1912. MM 247
2. All classes should be reached
Some will be attracted by one phase of the gospel, and some by another. We are instructed by our Lord to work in such a way that all classes will be reached. The message must go to the whole world. MM 327

3. Put your entire trust to God
Because of unconsecrated workers, things will sometimes go wrong. You may weep over the result of the wrong course of others, but do not worry. The work is under the supervision of the blessed Master. All He asks is that the workers shall come to Him for their orders, and obey His directions. All parts of the work --our churches, missions, Sabbath schools, institutions --are carried upon His heart. Why worry? The intense longing to see the church imbued with life must be tempered with entire trust in God; for "without Me," said the great Burden Bearer, "ye can do nothing." "Follow Me." He leads the way; we are to follow. Let no one overtax his God-given powers in an effort to advance the Lord's work more rapidly. The power of man cannot hasten the work; with this must be united the power of heavenly intelligences. Only thus can the work of God be brought to perfection. Man cannot do God's part of the work. A Paul may plant, and an Apollos water, but God gives the increase. In simplicity and meekness man is to co-operate with divine agencies, at all times doing his best, yet ever realizing that God is the great Master Workman. He is not to feel self-confident, for thus he will exhaust his reserve force and destroy his mental and physical powers. 7T 298

4. Be faithful with little things
I address you, young men: Be faithful. Put heart into your work. Imitate none who are slothful, and who give divided service. Actions, often repeated, form habits, habits form character. Patiently perform the little duties of life. So long as you undervalue the importance of faithfulness in the little duties, your character-building will be unsatisfactory. In the sight of Omnipotence, every duty is important. The Lord has said, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." In the life of a true Christian there are no non-essentials. Many who claim to be Christians are working at cross-purposes with God. Many are waiting for some great work to be brought to them. Daily they lose opportunities for showing their faithfulness to God; daily they fail of discharging with whole-heartedness the little duties of life, which seem to them uninteresting. MYP 148

5. Should be active laborers in Christ
The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God.--Review and Herald, July 21, 1896. ChS 253

We need not worry about the latter rain. All we have to do is to keep the vessel clean and right side up and prepared for the reception of the heavenly rain, and keep praying, "Let the latter rain come into my vessel. Let the light of the glorious angel which unites with the third angel shine upon me; give me a part in the work; let me sound the proclamation; let me be a colaborer with Jesus Christ." Thus seeking God, let me tell you, He is fitting you up all the time, giving you His grace. UL 283
6. Few great men will be engaged
In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. They are self-sufficient, independent of God, and He cannot use them. The Lord has faithful servants, who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view. …God will work a work in our day that but few anticipate. He will raise up and exalt among us those who are taught rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the outward training of scientific institutions. These facilities are not to be despised or condemned; they are ordained of God, but they can furnish only the exterior qualifications. God will manifest that He is not dependent on learned, self-important mortals. 5T 80, 82

He will raise up from among the common people men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to be His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to be done will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who are called the common people, fitting them to carry the truth to many places. LDE 204
It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought that is needed. This is of more value than brilliant talent, tact, or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a "Thus saith the Lord," is better qualified for God's work than are those who have capabilities but do not employ them rightly. LDE 205

VI. SOLEMN APPEAL
Long has God waited for the spirit of service to take possession of the whole church so that everyone shall be working for Him according to his ability. When the members of the church of God do their appointed work in the needy fields at home and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel commission, the whole world will soon be warned and the Lord Jesus will return to this earth with power and great glory. "This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." Matthew 24:14. AA 111

CONSECRATION

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

“In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33

I.INTRODUCTION
1. Christ asks for unreserved consecration 
“True holiness is wholeness in the service of God. This is the condition of true Christian living. Christ asks for an unreserved consecration, for undivided service. He demands the heart, the mind, the soul, the strength. Self is not to be cherished. He who lives to himself is not a Christian.”  COL 48, 49

2.   Most serious causes of weakness
“Unconsecrated, world-loving professors of religion are one of the most serious causes of weakness in the church of Christ.”   MYP 357
3.   The strongest temptation will come from within
“The warfare against self is the greatest battle that was ever fought. The yielding of self, surrendering all to the will of God, requires a struggle; but the soul must submit to God before it can be renewed in holiness.”  SC 43

4. A noble character is not inherited 
“ Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character is an easy matter. A noble all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We shall have to criticize ourselves closely, and allow not one unfavorable trait to remain uncorrected.”   MYP 99
 5.     Defects can be overcome
Let no one say, I cannot remedy my defects of character. If you come to this decision, you will certainly fail of obtaining everlasting life. The impossibility lies in your own will. If you will not, then you cannot overcome. The real difficulty arises from the corruption of an unsanctified heart, and an unwillingness to submit to the control of God. COL 331

II. CULTIVATING CHRIST-LIKE CHARACTER 
1.   God's ideal for His children 
“God's ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." This command is a promise. The plan of redemption contemplates our complete recovery from the power of Satan. Christ always separates the contrite soul from sin. He came to destroy the works of the devil, and He has made provision that the Holy Spirit shall be imparted to every repentant soul, to keep him from sinning.”  DA 311
2.  God imparts the beauty of His own character  
“He longs to see His children reveal a character after His similitude. As the sunbeam imparts to the flowers their varied and delicate tints, so does God impart to the soul the beauty of His own character.” DA 313
3.  The deeper meaning of “pure in heart”
“When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.  But the words of Jesus, "Blessed are the pure in heart," have a deeper meaning--not merely pure in the sense in which the world understands purity, free from that which is sensual, pure from lust, but true in the hidden purposes and motives of the soul, free from pride and self-seeking, humble, unselfish, childlike.  Only like can appreciate like. Unless you accept in your own life the principle of self-sacrificing love, which is the principle of His character, you cannot know God.”  MB 24, 25
 6.     The only way to escape from God’s judgment
“The time is right upon us when there will be sorrow in the world that no human balm can heal. The flattering monuments of men's greatness will be crumbled in the dust, even before the last great destruction comes upon the world. . . .  Only by being clothed with the robe of Christ's righteousness can we escape the judgments that are coming upon the earth.”--Letter 20, 1901.  3SM 418, 419

III. HOW TO SURRENDER

1. Understand the true force of the will
“Many are inquiring, "How am I to make the surrender of myself to God?" You desire to give yourself to Him, but you are weak in moral power, in slavery to doubt, and controlled by the habits of your life of sin. Your promises and resolutions are like ropes of sand. You cannot control your thoughts, your impulses, your affections. The knowledge of your broken promises and forfeited pledges weakens your confidence in your own sincerity, and causes you to feel that God cannot accept you; but you need not despair. What you need to understand is the true force of the will. This is the governing power in the nature of man, the power of decision, or of choice. Everything depends on the right action of the will. The power of choice God has given to men; it is theirs to exercise. You cannot change your heart, you cannot of yourself give to God its affections; but you can choose to serve Him. You can give Him your will; He will then work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Thus your whole nature will be brought under the control of the Spirit of Christ; your affections will be centered upon Him, your thoughts will be in harmony with Him.”  SC 47

 2. What does soundness of faith mean?
Soundness in the faith means more than many discern. It means to correct every error that exists in our thoughts and actions, lest we corrupt the Word of God. 1MCP 49
 3. Sincere repentance and determined effort necessary
 Those who corrupt their own bodies cannot enjoy the favor of God until they sincerely repent, make an entire reform, and perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord.  The only hope for those who practice vile habits is to forever leave them if they place any value upon health here and salvation hereafter. When these habits have been indulged in for quite a length of time, it requires a determined effort to resist temptation and refuse the corrupt indulgence.”   CG 464


IV. HOW TO BE AN OVERCOMER
1. Develop confidence in God
 “The Lord will recognize every effort you make to reach His ideal for you. When you make a failure, when you are betrayed into sin, do not feel that you cannot pray, that you are not worthy to come before the Lord, "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." With outstretched arms He waits to welcome the prodigal. Go to Him, and tell Him about your mistakes and failures. Ask Him to strengthen you for fresh endeavor. He will never disappoint you, never abuse your confidence.”  MYP 97

2. Constant dependence upon God
“Those who fail to realize their constant dependence upon God will be overcome by temptation. We may now suppose that our feet stand secure, and that we shall never be moved. We may say with confidence, "I know in whom I have believed; nothing can shake my faith in God and in His word." But Satan is planning to take advantage of our hereditary and cultivated traits of character, and to blind our eyes to our own necessities and defects. Only through realizing our own weakness and looking steadfastly unto Jesus can we walk securely.”  DA 382

3. Constant communion with God through secret prayer
 
“It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is not a special exercise of the mind. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. Secret prayer is very important; in solitude the soul is laid bare to the inspecting eye of God, and every motive is scrutinized.”  2T 189 
“No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer. …we must constantly guard against the devices of Satan, we should pray in faith continually: "Lead us not into temptation."  GC 530

 4.     Dependence on the word of God
“If the Sacred Scriptures were studied and followed, the Christian would be fortified to meet the wily foe; but the word of God is neglected, and disaster and defeat follow.” CS 210

“By what means did He overcome in the conflict with Satan? By the word of God. Only by the word could He resist temptation….Every promise in God's word is ours. "By every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" are we to live. When assailed by temptation, look not to circumstances or to the weakness of self, but to the power of the word. All its strength is yours.” DA 123

5.     Unselfish labor for others
“Those who thus exercise the Christian graces will grow and will become strong to work for God. They will have clear spiritual perceptions, a steady, growing faith, and an increased power in prayer. The Spirit of God, moving upon their spirit, calls forth the sacred harmonies of the soul in answer to the divine touch. Those who thus devote themselves to unselfish effort for the good of others are most surely working out their own salvation. …
A man who would refuse to exercise his limbs would soon lose all power to use them. Thus the Christian who will not exercise his God-given powers not only fails to grow up into Christ, but he loses the strength that he already had.” SC 80

V. JESUS - THE CHRISTIAN’S EXAMPLE

1. He showed us how to overcome
“The example of Christ is before us. He overcame Satan, showing us how we also may overcome. Christ resisted Satan with Scripture. He might have had recourse to His own divine power, and used His own words; but He said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." If the Sacred Scriptures were studied and followed, the Christian would be fortified to meet the wily foe; but the word of God is neglected, and disaster and defeat follow.”  CS 210

2.     It is possible to overcome
 “It is possible for those who exercise faith to overcome even as Christ overcomes.  A people can be prepared for the second coming of Christ, because this preparation will simply be the righteousness by faith fully understood and believed.” Robert J. Wieland, The Golden Chain, 16

 3.     He is sinless
Could one sin have been found in Christ, had He in one particular yielded to Satan to escape the terrible torture, the enemy of God and man would have triumphed. Christ bowed His head and died, but He held fast His faith and His submission to God.”  DA 761

 4.    He made no plans for Himself

“…the Son of God was surrendered to the Father's will, and dependent upon His power. So utterly was Christ emptied of self that He made no plans for Himself. He accepted God's plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the simple outworking of His will.”  DA 208
 5.     He successfully resisted temptation in every form
 “….Christ knows the sinner’s trials; He knows his temptations. He took upon himself our nature…Christ was actually tempted, not only in the wilderness, but all through his life. In all points He was tempted as we are and because He successfully resisted temptation in every form, He gave us perfect example.” Robert J. Wieland, The Golden Chain, 14

VI. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Who has the heart? With whom are our thoughts? Of whom do we love to converse? Who has our warmest affections and our best energies? If we are Christ's, our thoughts are with Him, and our sweetest thoughts are of Him. All we have and are is consecrated to Him. We long to bear His image, breathe His spirit, do His will, and please Him in all things.  SC 58 
Are we striving with all our God-given powers to reach the measure of the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever reaching higher and higher, trying to attain to the perfection of His character? When God's servants reach this point, they will be sealed in their foreheads. The recording angel will declare, "It is done." They will be complete in Him whose they are by creation and by redemption. -- Manuscript 148, 1899.  3SM 427

VII. CONCLUSION
“The loveliness of the character of Christ will be seen in His followers. It was His delight to do the will of God. Love to God, zeal for His glory, was the controlling power in our Saviour's life. Love beautified and ennobled all His actions. Love is of God. The unconsecrated heart cannot originate or produce it. It is found only in the heart where Jesus reigns.”  SC 59
Without a living faith in Christ as a personal Saviour it is impossible to make our influence felt in a skeptical world. We cannot give to others that which we do not ourselves possess. It is in proportion to our own devotion and consecration to Christ that we exert an influence for the blessing and uplifting of mankind. If there is no actual service, no genuine love, no reality of experience, there is no power to help, no connection with heaven, no savor of Christ in the life.” MB 37

Meeting the Challenge in 2010 through Understanding the Deeper Meaning of Contextual Ministry

As a very young missionary, I used to think that cross-cultural ministry was just simply wearing the kind of clothes they wear, eating the kind of food they were eating and etc.

Then my understanding grew to think that the main reason for contextualizing is to find common grounds so I can teach our fundamental doctrines- the Ten Commandments, the Sabbath, tithing system and etc. And then baptizing them. That's all. Done!

But there were real issues in the Mien churches I have discovered that requires wisdom beyond my knowledge could addressed them. They have health problems, financial problems and etc. That needs to be addressed. Why addressed them? Because they have traditional ways to solve their problems that would contradict what we believe as a Christain now.

We taught them how to believe God and not the spirit doctor they used to consult. But what if they went to medical doctors many times already and prayed for healing but they were not healed? Then they think the last sort is to go back to the spirit doctor.

What if they already know about Sabbath and they have nothing or only a handful food to eat? This is aside from the Mien culture that everyone really have to help the big farm anytime in any day if neighbors called for. Or what if you have been teaching about the importance of Sabbath but why they are still going to their farms? This is because there are everyday problems they have encountered that was not really answered.

Does the Bible have answers for these? Of course yes. There are many stories in the Bible that we can use to answer their daily problems. The testimonies about your experiences on how God has helped you would also help them to trust God. You can also encourage other members to give theirs on how God has helped them solve their problems.

Thank God I finally given a light that cross-cultural ministry is not just about finding things we could agree with. It is meeting their certain day to day challenges so they can learn to depend and trust God and not to go back to their old ways. This is the deeper meaning of "meeting your people where they are" just like what Jesus did.

I'm not saying we won't teach them the basic doctrines we have as a remnant church but their practical everyday living must be meet to break down certain issues that hinder them to trust God everyday. That finally they will say" all to Jesus I surrender." Hope this helps. Happy new year to all.