SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS

SENIOR DIVISION

Third Quarter 1955.

The HOLY SPIRIT

and HIS WORK

Religious Liberty Publishing Association

42 Prospect, Road, Summer Hill, N.S.W., Australia.
 PREFACE

The s1Jbject for the Sabbath School le:)sons for this quar-
ter "The Holy Spirit and His Work" is of great interest and
importance to 1JS, as we me livinq in the very days in which
the butpouring of the Latter Rain is expected. Our greatest
need is to receive this promise of refreshing from the pres-
ence of .the Lord.
The Spirit of Prophecy admonishes us:
"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 con-
cerning it? The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit
to us than parents are to give good gifts to their children.
For the t>aptism of the Spirit every worker shoul:i be pleading
with God." Test., Vol. 8. p. 22.
We believe these lessons wilJ stimulate the hunger and
thirst of each student for the gift of the Holy Spirit. We
would encourage each teacher' and pupil to study them with
prayer and devotion, th,at the promise of our Lord, "Receive
ye the Holy Ghost," 'may be fulfilJed. May these lessons
1ead us to make the decision to fulJy surrender to the lead-
ing of the Spirit of God, that we may be used of Him in His
dosing work.

YOUR GENERAL CONFERENCE BRETHREN

1~IMIMIMMIMMIMIMMIMMMIMlQ!IMIMIMIMIMIM
Lesson No. I-Sabbath, July 2. 1955.

THE PERSONAUTY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-A

DIVINE MYSTERY
Question1
1. Which is the greatest mystery for the human mind? Isa.
40:28: Rom. 11:33-35 ~~.--n-~ ...
NOTE: "Man can not by searchng find out God. Let none
seek with presumptuous hand to lift the veil that conceals His
glory. 'Unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past
finding out.' Romans 11 :33. It is a proof of His mercy that
there is the hiding of His power; for to lift the veil that con-
ceals the divine presence is death. No mortal mind can
penetrate the secrecy in which the Mighty One dwells and
works. Only that which He sees fit to reveal can we com-
prehend of Him. Reason must acknowledge an authority
superior to itself. Heart and intellect must bow to the great
I AM." . Ministry of Healing, p. 438.

2. To what extent are we al.1owed to go in undElll'standing

the divine Personality? Deut. 29:29.
NOTE: "I beseech those who are laboring for God not to
accept the spurious for the genuine. Let not human reason
be placed where divine, sanctifying truth should be. . . .
God calls upon us to hold firmly to the fundamental prin-
ciples that are based upon unquestionable authority." Test.
Vol. 8, p. 298.
"The revelation of Himself that God has given in His
word is for our study. This we may seek to understand. But
beyond this we are not to penetrate. The highest intellecf
may tax itself until it is wearied out in conjectures regarding
the nature 0 God; but the effort will be fruitless. This prob-
lem has not been given us to solve. No human mind can
comprehend God. Let not flnite man attempt to interpret Him.
Let none indulge in speculation regarding His nature. Here
silence is eloquence. The Omniscient One is above dis-
cussion." Id, p. 279.
3. Of how many persons is the Godhead composed? I John
5:7: Matt. 28:19.
3
NOTE: "The Comforter that Christ promised to send after
He ascended to heaven, is the Spirit in all the fulness of the
Godhead, making manifest' the power of divine grace to all
who receive and believe in Christ as a personql Saviour.
There are three living persons of the heavenly trio; in the
name of these three great powers-the Father, the Son, and
the Holy Spirit-those who receive Christ by living faith are
baptized, and these powers will cooperate with the obedient
subjects of heaven in their efforts to live the new life in
Christ." Special Test., Series J;l, No.7, p. 62.
4. What may we know of the Holy Spirit's personality?
John 15:26.
NOTE: "It is not essential for us to be able to define just
what the Holy Spirit is. Christ tells us that the Spirit is the
Comforter, 'the Spirit of truth which proceedeth from the
Father.' It is plainly declar~d regarding the Holy Spirit,
that in His work of guiding men into all truth, 'He shall not
speak of Himself.''' Acts of the Apostles, p. 51.
5. Are We able to explain the nature of the Holy Spirit?
NOTE: "The nature of the Holy Spirit is a mystery. Men
cannot explain it, because the Lord has not revealed it to
them. Men having fanciful views- may bring together passages
of Scripture and put a human construction on them; but the
acceptance of these views will not strengthen the church.
Regarding such mysteries, which are too deep for human
understading, silence is golden." Acts of the Apostles, p. 52.
6. Can the personality of the Holy Spirit be distinguished
in the warfare against evil?
NOTE: "All the intelligences of heaven are in this army.
And more than angels are in the ranks. The Holy Spirit, the
representative of the Captain of the Lord's host. comes down
·to direct the battle." Desire of Ages, p. 352.
7. What is the work of the Holy Spirit? John 16:14,8.
NOTE: "The Holy Spirit exalts and glorifies the Saviour.
It is His office to present Christ, the purity. of His righteousness
and the great salvation that we have through Him. Jesus says,
'He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you.' The
Spirit of truth is the only effectual teacher of divine truth.
How must God esteem the human race, since He gave His
.son to die for them, and appoints His spirit to be man's
teacher and continual guide." Steps to Christ, p. 96.
4
 8. Where does the Holy Spirit dwell? What is the result
of His presence? I Cor. 3:16.
NOTE: "His presence will cleanse and sanctify the soul,
so that it may be a holy temple unto the Lord, and 'an habi-
tation of God through the Spirit.' Eph. 2:21,22." D. A., p. 162.
"His Spirit will develop in man all that will ennoble the
character and dignify the nature. It will build man up for the
glory of God in body and soul and spirit." lb., p. 341
9. Only when can we be the true children of God? Rom.
8:14.
10. Through what means only can we resist and overcome
evil?
NOTE: "Sin could be resisted and overcome only through
the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead. who
would come with no modified energy, but in the fulness of
divine power. It is the Spirit that makes effectual what has
been wrou'ght out by the world's Redeemer." D. A., p. 671.

Lesson No.2-Sabbath, July 9, 1955.

THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE CREATION }\ND THE
PLAN OF REDEMPTION
Questions
1. When was the Holy Spirit already at work on this earth?
Gen. 1:2.
2. What question does the prophet Isaiah ask about the
Holy Spirit? What relationship exists between the Holy
Spirit and earthly wisdom? Isa. 40:13,14.
3. What does Job say of the Holy Spirit at creation? Job
26:13.
4. What step in the creation shows that man was created
to be the habitation of the Holy Spirit? Gen. 1:27; 2:7.
5. What was the purpose of redemption? John 20:22; I Cor.
6:19.
NOTE: "From eternal ages it was God's purpose that every
created being, from the bright and holy seraph to man, should
5
be a temple for the indwelling of the Creator. Because of
sin, humanity ceased to be a temple for God. Darkened and
defiled by evil, the heart of man no longer revealed the
glory of the Divine One. But by the incarnation of the Son
of God, the purpose of Heaven is fulfilled. God dwells in
humanity, and through saving grace the heart of man be-
comes again His temple. God designed that the temple at
Jerusalem should be a continual witness to the high destiny
open to every sou!. But the Jews had not understood the
significance of the building they regarded with so much
pride. They did not yield themselves as holy temples for
the Divine Spirit. The courts of the temple at Jerusalem,
filled with the tumult of unholy traffic, ~epresented all too
truly the temple of the heart, defiled by the presence of
sensual passion ·and unholy thoughts. In cleansing the
temple from the world's buyers and sellers, Jesus announced
His mission to cleanse the heart from the defilement of sin,-
from the earthly desires, the selfish lusts. the evil habits, that
corrupt the sou!." Desire of Ages p. 161.
6. How wa this fulfilled in Christ? John 1:14.
NOTE: '''Through Christ was to be fulfilled the purpose of
which the tabernacle was a symbol,-that glorious building,
its walls of glistening gold reflecting in rainbow hues the
curtains inwrought with cherubim, the fragrance of ever-
burning incense pervading. all, the priests robed in spotless
white, and in the deep mystery of the inner place, above
the mercy-seat, between the figures- of the bowed, worshiping
angels, the glory of the Holiest. In all, God desired His'
people to read His purpose for the human sou!. It was the
same purpose long afterward set forth by the apostle' Paul,
speaking by the Holy Spirit:-
"'Know ye not that ye are the temple 9f God, and that
the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the
temple of God him shall God destroy; for the temple of God
is holy, which'temple ye are.' I Cor. 3:16,17:" Edu., p. 36.
7. What will the Holy Spirit do in the hearts of men. if
He dwells therein? Ezekiel 36:27.
NOTE: "In all who submit to His power the Spirit of God
will consume sin. But if men clin'g to sin, they become iden-
tified with it. Then the glory of God, which destroys sin,
must destroy them.' Desire of Ages, p. 107.
 8. What gracious characteristics are possessed by those
in whom the Holy Spirit dwells? Isa. II :2.
NOTE: "His Spirit will develop in man all that will ennoble
the character and dignify the nature. It will build 'man up
for the glory of God in body' and soul and spirit." D.A., p. 341
9. Who is the revelator of the mysteries of God? COlI'.
2:9,10.
NOTE: "Only the spirit of adoption can reveal to us the
deep things of God, which 'eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,
neither have entered in"" the heart of man.''' D. A., p. 412.
10. Through what means were the Holy Scriptur~s written?
II Tim. 3:16: John 6:63.
11. When only can the preaching of God's word aid man's
regeneration? .
NOTE: "The preaching of the word will be of no avail with-
out the continual presence and aid of the Holy Spirit. This
is the only effectual teacher of divine truth. Only when the
truth is accompanied to the heart by the Spirit will it quick-
en the conscience or transform the life." D. of A, pp. 671-672.

Lesson No.3-Sabbath, July 16, 1955.

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OLD
TESTAMENT TIMES
Questions
1. How did God communicate with man before the fall?
Gen. 2:15-17: 3:8-10.
NOTE: "There was already a time when man walked with
God in Eden. With his face unveiled, he contemplated the
glory of the Lord and spoke with God, with Christ and with
the angels, in Paradise, without a shadowing veil between."
{Translated from "Testimony Selections.")
2. What results followed after the fall of man? Gen. 3:19,
22-24: Isa. 59:2.
NOTE: "Man fell from his moral righteousness and innocence
and was expelled from the garden, from the participation of
7
1he tree of life, and from the visible presence of the Lord and
His holy ·angels." (Translated from Testimony Selections.)
3. In what way did God communicate with man after his
taU? Gen. 6:3; Gen. 15:1; Num. 12:6; Job 33:15,16.
NOTE: "In his fallen condition man could not talk face to
face with God, with Christ and 'with the angels, as when he
was in his purity in Eden. But through the ministry of the
good angels, the great God could speak to him in dreams
and visions. . . .
"The manifestation of the Spirit of Prophecy was de-
signed for all dispensations. The sacred Report does not
restrict it to any particular period of time, from the fall to
the final restoration. The Bible recognizes its manifestation
in the patriarchal, Jewish ad Christian eras. By this means,
God communicated with holy men of old. Enoch, the sev-
enth from Adam, prophesied; and so vast· was the extent of
his prophetical Vision, and so particular, that he could see
throughout the long ages and describe the coming of the
Lord and the execution of the last judgment upon the wicked.
Jude 14,15." (Translated from Testimony Selections)
4. What was the result of Moses's communion with God?
Ex. 34:29; Deut. 34:10.
NOTE: "During that long time spent in communion with
God. the face of Moses had reflected the glory of the divine
presence; unknown to himself, his face shone with a daz-
zling light when he descended from the mountain." Pat-
riarchs and Prophets, p. 329.
5. Who must also enjoy the experience of Moses? Rev.
15:2.3.
NOTE: "The glory reflected in the countenance of Moses.
illustrates the blessings to be received by God's command-
ment-keeping people through the mediation of Christ. It
testifies that the closer our communion with God, and the
clearer our knowledge of his requirements, the more fully
shall we be conformed to the divine image, and the more
readily do we become partakers of the divine nature." Pat-
triarchs and Prophets, p. 330.
6.
.
At what special occasion was the work of the Holy Spirit
made manifest in the time of Moses? Num. 11:16.17.25.
8
NOTE: "Moses now summoned the seventy to the taber-
nacle. 'And the Lord came down in a cloud, and spake unto
him, and took of the Spirit that was upon him, and gave it
unto the seventy elders. And it came to pass, that. when
the Spirit rested upon them, they prophesied and did not
cease.' Like the disciples on the day of Pente~ost, they were
endued with 'power from on high.' It pleased the Lord thus
to prepare them for their work, and to honor them in the
presence of the congregation, that confidence might be es-
~\ablished in them as men divinely chosen to unite with
Moses in the government of IsraeL" Patriarchs & Pro., p. 381.
7. For what work did the Holy Spirit prepare Toshua? Num.
27:18:Deut. 34:9
NOTE: "Joshua was now the acknowledged leader of Is-
weI. He had been known chiefly as a wmrior, and his
gilts and virtues were especially valuable at this stage in
. the his'1!'ory of his people. Courageous, resolute, and perse-
vering, prompt, incorruptible, unmindful of selfish interests
in his care for those comJ11itted to his charge. and, above
all, inspired by a living faith in God,-such was the' char-
acter of the man divinely chosen 'to conducf the armies of
Israel in their entrance upon the promised land." P.&P., p. 481
8. In what manner did the Spirit of the Lord work in the
days of Israel? Judges 3:10: 6:34: 11:29.
NOTE: "The Israelites were 'mingled among the heathen,
and learned their works.' They intermarried with the Ca-
naanites, and idolatry spread like a plague throughout the
land .
"Yet he did not utterly forsake his people. There was
ever a remnant who were true to Jehovah; and from time to
time the Lord raised up faithful and vCIliant men to put
down idolatry and to deliver the Israelites from their enem-
ies." Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 544,545.
9. Which Spirit guided the prophe.ts of old? I Peter 1:iO-12:
Isa. 34:16.
10. In what manner was it shown to Zechariah, tnat the
cause of God in all ages depends upon the work of the
Holy Spirit? Zech. chapter 4.
NOTE: The oil 'repres~~ts the Holy Spirit, through whom
God accomplishes His plans and purposes on earth.
9
11. What did the Lord promise to the faithful ones living
in the last days? Joel 2:28.29.
NOTE: "Christ has made provision that His church shall be
a transformed body, illumined with the light of heaven, pos-
sessing the glory of Immanuel. It is Hi purpose thor every
Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual atmosphere of
light and peace. 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 conse-
crated to God." Testimonies, Vol. 8. p. 19.

Lesson No.4-Sabbath, July 23, 1955.

THE WORKING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE
INCARNATION OF CHRIST
Questions
1. What is prophesied about the work of the Holy Spirit
in the incarnation of the work of Christ? Isa. 11 :2.
2. What change came in the divine person of Christ? John
1:14: Heb. 10:5.
NOTE: "Nearly two thousand years ago, a voice of mysteri-
ous import was heard in heaven, from the throne of God, 'La.
I come.' Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldst not, but a bodY
hast Thou prepared Me. . . . La, I come (in the volume of the
Book it is written of Me,) to do Thy will, 0 God.' Heb. 10:5-7.
In these words is announced the fulfillment of the purpose"that
had been hidden from eternal ages. Christ was about to visit
our world, and to become incarnate. He says.. 'A body hast
Thou prepared Me.' Had He appeared with the glory that
was His with the Father before the world was, we could not
have endured the light of His' presence. That we might be-
hold it and not be destroyed the manifestation of His glory
was shrouded. His divinity ~as veiled with humanity,-the
invisible glory in the visible human form." D. of Ages, p. 23.

3. What was prophesied more than 500 years before Christ

was incarnated? Isa. 7:14.
4. Through which divine power did. the Virgin MCII1'Y become
the mother of' Jesus? Luke 1:30-35.
10
 5. What power aided the development of Christ in His
childhood? Luke 2:40.52.
NOTE: "With deep earnestness the mother of Jesus watched
the unfolding o( His powers, and beheld the impress of per-
fection upon His character. W.ith delight she sought to en-
courage that bright,' receptive mind. Through the Holy Spirit
she received wisdom to cooperate with the heavenly agen-
cies in the development of this child, who could claim only
God as His Father." Desire of Age5, p. 69.
6. Through which divine agency did Jesus begin and close
His ministry? Luke 4:18.19: Acts 10:38.
NOTE: "From hours spent with God He came forth morning
by morning, to bring the light of heaven to men. Daily He
received a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In the early
hours of the new day the Lord awakened Him from His slum-
bers and His soul and His lips were anointed with grace,
that 'He might impart to others. His words were giv€n Him
fresh from the heavenly courts, words that He might speak
in season to the weary and oppressed." C. O. L., p. 139.

7. At what age did Jesus understand the meaning of His'

work? Who may and should imitate Christ? Luke 2:42-49.

NOTE: "Consider the life of Christ. Standing at the head

of humanity, serving His Father He is an example of what
every son should and· may be.' The obedience that Christ
rendered God requires from human beings today. He served
His Father with love: in willingness and freedom, 'I delight
to do Thy will, 0 My God,' He declared; 'yea, Thy law is
within My heart.' Ps. 40:8. Christ counred no sacrifice too
great, no toil too hard, in order to accomplish the work which
He came to do. At the age of twelve He said, 'Wist ye not
that I must be about My Father's business?" Luke 2:49. He
had heard,the call and had taken up the work. 'My meat,'
He said, 'is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish
His work.' John 4:34." Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 282-283,

8. Who led Jesus into the wilderness of temptation? Mati.

4:1: Mark 1:12: Luke 4:1.
9. W'hat power a,ttended Christ at the expulsion of the
demons? Mati. 12:28.
11
NOTE: "Thus it had been with these Jewish leaders. They
were convinced that a divine power attended Christ. but
in order to resist the truth, they attributed the work of the
Holy Spirit to Satan. In doing this they deliberately chose'
deception; they yielded themselves to Satan' and henceforth
they were controlled by his power." D. of Ages, pp. 322-323.
10. What power was made manifest at the resurrection of
Christ? 1 Peter 3:18; Rom. 8:11.
11. How did Jesus fulfil His promise of Matthew 28:20 (last
pari)? John 16:7.13; 14:23.
NOTE: "The Holy Spirit is Christ's representative, but di-
vested of the' personality of humanity, and independent
~hereof. Cumbered with humanity, Christ could not be in
every place personally. Therefore it was for their inter'est
that He should go to the Father, and send the Spirit to be·
His successor on earth. No one could then havt: any advan-
tage because of his location or his personal contact with
Christ. By the Spirit 'the Saviour would be accessible to aiL
In this sense He would be nearer to them than if He had not
ascended on high." Desire of Ages, p. 669.
12. What was the Holy Spirit to do as the representative'
of Christ? John 14:26.
NOTE: "At all times and in all places, in all sorrows and'
in all afflictions when the outlook seems dark and the future
perplexing, and w'e feel helpless and alone. the Comforter-
will be sent in answer to the prayer of faith. Circumstances'
may separate us from every earthly friend; but no circum-
stance, no distance, can separate us from the heavenly Com-
forter. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, He is always'
at our right hand to support, sustain, uphold. and cheer.'"
Desire of Ages, pp. 669-670. .

Lesson No. 5-Sabbalh. July 30. 1955.

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN NEW
TESTAMENT TIMES
Questions
1. What did John the Baptist say that Jesus would do?'
Matt. 3:11; Acts 1:4,5.
12
 2. What promise did Jesus give to His disciples, when He
ljlft them? Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8.

3. Who can not receive the Holy Spirit? John 14:17,

4. What is the condition upon which we may receive the

Holy Spirit? Acts 5:32. .

NOTE: "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
condilons. 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 tin His people 'to will and to do of His
good pleasure.' Phil. 2:13. But many will not submit to this.
They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not re-
ceive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon
God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit
given." Desire of Ages, p. 672.
5. When only can the church members receive the fulfill-
ment of Christ's promise? 11 Tim. 2:21: Acts 3:19.

6. W-hat did Christ'·s disciples do befof{l the Pentecost?

Acts 1:13.14.
NOTE "In obedience to the word of their Master the dis-
ciples assembled in Terusalem to wait for the fulfillment of
God's promise. Here they spent ten days, days of deep
heart searching. They put away all differences and drew
close together in Christian fellowship.
"At the end of ten days the Lord fulfilled His promise by
a wonderful out-pouring of His Spirit. 'Suddenly there came
a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it
filled all the house where they were sitting.· And there ap-
peared U!1~O them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat
upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy
Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit
gave them utterance.''' Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 15.

7. What experiences did the disciples have after they ful-

filled the conditions? Acts 2:1-4.
13
NOTE: The disciples did not ask for a blessing for them-
selves. 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 thou-
sands were converted in a day." Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 21.
8. Did the disciples speak languages that could he under-
stood? Acts 2:5-12.
NOTE: "'There were dwelling at Jerusalem Tews, devout
men, out of every nation under heaven.' During the dispersion
the Jews had been scattered to almost every part of the in-
habited world, and in their exile they had learned to speak
various languages. Many of these Jews were on this oc-
casion in Jerusalem, attending the religious festivals then in
progress. Every known tongue was represented by those as-
sembled. 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 accuracy the languages of those for whom
they were laboring. This miraculous gift was a strong evi-'
de nee to ('he world that their commission bore the signet of
Heaven. From this time forth the langu<;lge of the disciples
was pure, simple, and accurate, whether they spoke in their
native tongue or in a foreign language." A. of A., pp. 39-40.
9. !For what was the power of the Holy Spirit promised to
the disciples? Acts 1:8.
10. What was God's purpose in the outpou,ring of the Holy
Spirit upon His church? John 7:37-39: 17:5: Eph. 3:9-11.

II. What gifts were given to the church through the Holy
Spirit? I Cor. 12:4-11,13,28-30.
12. Which is the most excellent gift that Paul recommended
to the church? I Cor. 12:31: 13:1-3.
13. What g(.aces does charity reveal? I Cor. 13:4-8.

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 Lesson No.6-Sabbath, August 6, 1955.

THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT VYITHDRAWN

BECAUSE OF APOSTASY
Questions
1. What danger did the True Witness c bserve in the first
church? Rev. 2:4.
2. What counsels and warnings were given to that church?
Rev. 2:5.
3. What did the apostle Paul foretell about the apostasy in
the first church? Acts 20:29.30: II Thess. 2:3.
4. Who would take the leadel'ship of the church after the
apostasy developed? II Thess. 2:3 (last part), 4.
5. What did Daniel prophesy about this terrible power.
which resulted from the apostasy of the first church? How
long would this power prevail and afflict the wo;rld?
Dan. 7:25.
6. How did John describe the work of this apostate power?
How many people would be deceived by him? Rev..
13:5-8: 17:1-5.
7. How did this power act towards the truth? Dan. 8:12:
Isa. 59:14.l5.
8. What did the Lord command Ancient Israel to do in.
such cases of apostasy? Jer. 3:13.
9. What did the apostle say that God would send to those-
who would accept the apostasy? II Thess. 2:10-12.
10. Would the apostasy be limited to the early church or
was it to be repeated in the last church also?
NOTE: "The Bible declares that before the coming of the
Lord there will exist a state of, religious declension similar
tb that in the first centuries." Great Controversy. p. 444.
11. What would the I,ord do to tne apostatized ones of the-
last church? Rev. 3:16.
12. What warning should we consider because of this?
I Cor. 10:11.12.
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 Lesson No.7-Sabbath, August 13, 1955.

REVIVAL AND REFORMATION-CONDITIONS FOR

THE RESTORATION OF THE GIFTS OF
THE HOLY SpmIT
Questions
1. What will the condit~on of the world' be at the coming
of the Lord? Isa. 60:2; Hos. 4:1.3; D Tim. 3:1-5.
2. In what state will the professed Ch'ristian churches be?
NOTE: "The spirit of worldly conformity is invading the
. churches throughout Christendom. Robert Atkins, in a ser-
mon preached in London. draws a dark picture of the spirit-
ual declension that prevails in England: 'The truly righteous
are diminished from the earth, and no man layeth it to heart.
The professors of religion of the present day in every church,
are lovers of the world, conformers to the' world, lovers of
creature comfort, and aspirers after respectability. They are
called to suffer with Christ, but they shrink from even re-
proach. . .. Apostasy, apostasy, apostasy, is engraven on
the very front of .every church; and did they know it, and did
they feel it, there might be hope; but, alas! they cry, 'We
are rich, and increased in goods, and stand in need of noth-
ing.' " Great Cotroversy, p. 388.
3. With what can we compare the gen'e~al apostasy in our
days? I Kings 19:14.
NOTE: "Though the long centuries that have passed since
Elijah's time the record of his life-work has brought inspir-
aRion and c~urage to thos'a' who have been called to stand
for the right in the midst of apostasy. And for us, 'upon
whom the ends of the world are come: it has special sig-
nificance. History is being repeated. The world to-day has
its .Ahabs and its Jezebels. The present age is one of idol-
atry, as verily as was that in which Elijah lived. No outward
shrine may be visible; there may be no image for tlie 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 un-
regenerate heart. Multitudes have a wrong conception of
God and His attributes, and are as truly serving a false god
as were the worshippers of Baal. Many even of those who
16
·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.
4. What. work will take place before Gods judgments come
upon the earth? Mal. 4:5,6. '
5. What did lesus say about this prophecy? What would
Elijah do when h~ would appear? Matt. 17:11.
'NOTE: "In the time of the end, every divine institution is
to be restored. The' breach made in the law at the time
the Sabbath was changed by man, is to be repaired. God's
remnant people, standing before the world as reformers are
to show that the law of God is the foundation of ali en-
during reform, and that the Sabbath of the fourth command-
ment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant re-
minder of the power of God. In clear, distinct lines they are
to present the necessity of obedience to all the precepts of
the Decalogue. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are
to cooperate with Him in building up the waste places. They
are to be repairers of the breach, restorers of paths to dwell
in." Prophets and Kings, p. 678.
6. Who will do the work of Elijah?
NOTE: "To-day, in the spirit and power of Elias and of
"John the Baptist, messengers of God's appointment are call-
ing the attention of a judgment-bound world to the solemn
events soon to take place in connection wit!'! the closing
hours of probation and the appearance of Christ resus as
King of kings and Lord of lords. Soon every man is to be
judged for the deeds done in the body. The hour of God's
judgment has come, and upon the members ef His church
on earth rests the solemn responsibility of giving warning
to those who are standing as it were on the very brink 'of
eternal ruin. To every human being in the wide world who
will give heed, must be made plain the principles at stake
in the great controversy being waged, principle~ upon which
.hang the destinies of all mankind." Pro. and Kings, p. 7'16.
7. What was the attit·ude of the children of Israel in the
days of Elijah? I Kings 18:21.
.1l. What is the attitude of the Laodicean people today?
Rev. 3:15.
17
NOTE: "The church has received warning cdter warning.
The duties and dangers of God's people have been plainly
revealed. But the worldly element has proved too strong
for them. Customs, practices and fashions which lead the
soul away from God have be~n for years gaining ground in
defiance of the warnings and ,entreaties of the Holy Spirit,
until at last the'ir ways have become right in their own eyes.
and the Spirit's voice is scarcely heard. . .. Those who are
not wholly consecrafed to God may be led to do the work
of Satan, while yet th.9y flatter themselves that they are in
the service of Christ." Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 103.
9. How were the Testimonies of the Spirit of Prophecy
heeded by the Laodicean Church?
NOTE: "1 saw that the testimony of the True Witness has
not been half heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the
destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not
entirely disregarded. This testimony must wGrk deep re-
pentande; all who truly receive it will obey it and be puri-
fied." Early Writings, p. 270.
10. What must purify the church that it \may receive the gulls
of the Holy Spirit? Rev. 3:18,19.

NOTE: "This testimony must work deep repentance; all who

truly receive it will obey it, and be purified." E.W., p. 270.
11. Who only will be able to receive the Holy Spirit? n Tim.
2:19.21.
NOTE: "1 saw that none could shar'e the 'refreshing' unless
they obtain the victory over every besetment over pride,
selfishness love of the world, and over every wrong word
and action'." Early Writings, p. 71.
12." Which is, therefore. th'e greatest need of God's people-
today?
NOTE: "God calls for a spiritual revival and a spiritual ref-
ormation. Unless this' takes place, those who are lukewarm
will continue to grow more abhorent to the Lord until He will
refuse to acknowledge them as His children.
"A revival and a reformation must take pbce under the
ministration of the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation are
t..wo different things. Revival signifies a renewal of spiritual
18
life, a quickening of the powers of mind' and heart, a re-
1lurrection from spiritual death. Reformation signifies a re-
organization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and
practices. Reformation will not bring forth the good fruit
of righteousness unless it is connected with the revival of
the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed
"Work, and in doing this' work they must blend: Christ Our
Righteousness, pp. 154-155. (Old Edition)

Lesson No.8-Sabbath. August 20. 1955.

RESTORATION OF THE SpmITUAL GIFTS IN

THE ADVENT CHURCH
Questions
1. W1hat did the apostle Paul use to illustrate the import-
ance of the spiritual gifts in the church? I Co;r. 12:12-26.
t. Which is one of the most important members of the
human body? Luke 11 :34.
3. What does the eye in the Body of Christ (the church)
represent? I Sam. 9:9.
4. How does the apostle consider the gift of prophecy in
the Church? I CO'l. 14:1.
.5. What identiHed the Advent Church as the true Church
of God? Rev. 12:17.
6. What· do we understand by the expression "the testi-
mony of Jesus"? Rev. 19:10. (last pari)
'7. What is always conned'ed with the testimony of Jesus
among the Christians? Isa. 8:16.
8. To what was the attention of the people "f God drawn
.after the disappointment in 1844? Rev. 3:8: 11 :19.
NOTE: "After Jesus opened the door of the most holy, the
1ight of thie Sabbath was seen and the people of God were
1ested, as the children of Isr~el were tested anciently, to·
see if they would keep God's law. 1 saw the third angel
pointing upward, showing the disappointed ones the way
io the holiest of the heavenly sanctuary. As they by faith
enter the most holy, 'they find Jesus, and hope and joy spring
19
up anew. I saw them looking back, reviewing the past,
from the proclamation of the second advent of Jesus, down
through their experience to the passing of the time in 1844.
They see their disappointment explained, and joy and cer-
tainty again animate them. The third angel has lighted up the
past, the present, and the future, and they know that God
has indeed led them by His mysterious providence." Early
'N'ritings, pp. 254-255.
9. Through what means did the Holy Spirit work among tha-
remnant of the Advent Movement to establish them as
the tru~ Church of God? Hosea 12-:13.

NOTE: "He, who is not bound in His activities by means and

ways, and He, who, ascending to heaven gave to His church,
according to Eph. 4:8-15, gifts and promised to be with
His disciples to the end of the world, now communicates with
them. He chose for this purpose His own instrumentality,
a soul who had completely surrendered itself to Him, but
whose life threatened to fade away, the weakest of the
weak. . . .
"Two months after the passing of the 'Time', Ellen G.
White, born Ellen G. Harmon, in Portland, Maine, only 17
years of age, received revelations from the Lord. Then
should we not expect, if the Lord in these last days will
speak to His people through visions, that the revelation itself
must bear the distinguishing signs of divinity? These s'igns
we recognize in the visions of Sister White." Translated
from "Rise and Progress of the Seventh-day Adventists'"
(German).
10. What must the church of God in the last days do to be
accepted by God? n Chron. 20:20.

NOTE: "In ancient times God spoke to men by the mouth.

of prophets' and apostles. In these days He speaks to them
by tthe testimonies of His Spirit. There was never a time
when God instructed His people more earnestly than He
instructs them now concerning His will and the course that
He would have them pursue." Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 661.
"The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the
church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely dis-
regarded. This testimony must work deep repentance; all
who truly receive it will obey it and'be purified." E.W. p. 270·
20
11. Which promise is given to those who heed this first and
most important spiritual gift in the church? Joel 2:28,29,
NOTE: "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." Test., Vol. 8, p. 20
12. Until what time are the spiritual gifts to exist in the
church of God? Eph. 4:11-16.

Lesson No.9-Sabbath, August 27, 1955.

WARNINGS AGAINST SEDUCING SPIRITS
Questions
1. What warning was given to the first Christian Church
by John? I John 4:1 (first part')
2. What is said about the false spirits? What are they
calle'd? I John 4:1 (last part)
3. How many kinds of spirits are identified as exisfing in
the world? What are they called? John 14:1"-' ActS'
19:13-16.
4. lW'bat witness does the spirit of truth bear? I John 4:Z
5. What should we understand by the words "confesseth.
that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh"? I John 4:3.
NOTE: "No one can truly confess Christ before the world
unless the mind and spirit of Christ live in him. It is im-
possible to communicafe that which we have not. The con-
versation and the deportment should be a r'ea! and visible
expression of grace and truth within. If the heart is sanctified
submissiv~, and humble, the fruits will be seen outwardly and
wjJj be a most effectual confession of Chris!." T Vol. 3, p. 332.
6. What did the apostle Peter say about false prophets?
Who will they try to deceive? n Peter 2:1-3.
7. Is the spirit of God one and the same in all. and working
through all the true believers? I Cor. 12:4,11.
21
 11. Are the faithful children of God able to discern the
spi'rits, and why? I John 4:6.
NOTE: the Spirit of God is one and the same working
through tpe children of obedience. The evil spirit is one
working through e allen angels and the children of dis-
obedience. The children of God work in harmony and agree-
ment; the evil spirits work in disagreement, in controversy
-even against one another. They are not united among them-
selves, although they have one and the same spirit. Only
in one thing are they united-to fight against the govern-
ment of God and the truth, and against His faithful remnant
·church.
9. What warning was given l:iy Apostle Paul to the Eph-
esian Church? What application does this have for us?
Acts 20 :27-31.
"10. Has the Spirit of Prophecy predicted that these false pro-
phets would enter into the Church?
NOTE: "Many will stand in our pulpits with the torch of
false prophecy in t'heir hands, kindled from the hellish torch
of Satan. If doubts and unbelief are cherished, the faithful
ministers will be removed from the people who think they
know so much. 'If thou hadst known: said Christ, 'even
thou, at least in 'Ihis thy day, the things which belong unto
thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes': ,i Testi-
monies to Ministers', pp. 409,410.
II. What Hne of demarcation will be seen among those
who are led by the Spirit of God and those who are not?
Matt. 7:20.
NOTE: "The spirit of Christ will be revealed in all who are
born of God. Strife and contention cannot arise among
those who are controlled by His Spirit." Test., Vol. 5, p. 227.

Lesson No. 10-Sabbath, September 3. 1955.

THE SIN AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT

Questions
1. What instruction was given by th:e apostle Paul to the
first Christian believers? I John 5:16.
2. What is unrightousness? I John 5:18.
22
3. What is sin? I John 3:4.
4. What will a man not do who is born of God? I John 5:18.

NOTE: "A man who is' born of God will not wilfully trans-
gress the law of God. He may not be perfect, he may not
attain the victory, but he does not give up the effort. to grow
in grace. He does not surrender to the wicked one to do his
will.· He is a prisoner of grace, and looks forward to the full
victory through Christ Jesus,

5. What warning was given by the Apostle Paul to the

Christian believers? Eph. 4:30.
NOTE: We grieve the Holy Spirit by working directly a-
gainst the expressed will of God known to us. If we realize
this, we should wifhout delay return to the Lord,

6. What sins can be forgiven, and what sins can not be

forgiven? Matt. 12:31-32.
7. Why is there no forgiv~mess obtainable for '!he sin
against the Holy Spirit? Heb. 6:4-6.
8. What is the mission of the Holy Spirit? John 16:8.
NOTE: When man has committed the sin against the Holy
Spirit, the Holy Spirit leaves him, and another spirit takes
possession of his heart and controls his will.
9. When does man first receive the Holy Spirit? Eph. 1:13.
NOTE: When man submits his heart and soul to the working
of the Holy Spirit, he receives .the seal of promise. As' long
as he obeys the voice of the Spirit, and yields to His voice,
he is transformed into the image of Christ Jesus. However,
il man refuses to hear and obey that "still small voice," he
becomes less susceptible to His promptings, until finally the
voice is no longer heard and he is left destitute of the Holy
Spirit. '
10. When is it evident that one has sinn,ed against the Holy
Spirit? _ Wbat constitutes the sin agairwt the Holy Spirit?
Can an unbeliever sin against the Holy Spirit?

NOTE: "What constitutes the sin against the Holy Ghost?

It is willfully attribuNng to Satan the work of the Holy Spirit.
23
:For example, suppose that one is a witnes's of the special
work of the Spirit of God. He has convincing evidence that
ihe work is in harmony with the Scriptures, and the Spirit
witnesses with his spirt that it is of God. Afterwards', how-
-ever, he falls under temptation; pride, self-sufficiency, or
some other evil trait, controls him; and rejecting all the evi-
dence of its divine character, he declares that that which
he had before acknowledged to be the power of the Holy
'Spirit was the power of Satan. It is through the medius of
His Spirit that God works upon the human heart; and when
men willfully reject the Spirit and declare it to be from Satan,
they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with
ihem. By denying the evidences which God has been pleased
to give them, they shut out the light which had been shin-
ing in their hearts, and as' the result they are left in dark-
ness." Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 634.

Lesson No. ll-Sabbath, September 10, 1955.

THE SHAKING IN THE ADVENT CHURCH

Quest~ons

1. What does the prophet state about the work in the

last chWlch? Isa. 28:21.
NOTE: "God will work a work in our day that but few an-
ticipate. He will raise up and exalt among 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-import-
ant mortals.': Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 82.
2. Why wilI the Lord do a strange work among those who
once bore the ark of His covenant? Je",. 3·16.
NOTE: "When God shall work His strange work on the earth
when holy hands bear the ark no longer, woe will be upon
the people. Oh, that thou hadst known even thou, in this thy
day, the things that belong unto thy peace! Oh, that our
people may, as did Nineveh, repent with all their might and
oelieve with all their heart, that God may turn away His
Jierce anger from the:n." Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 77-78.
24
3. What prediction wali\ made by the Spirit of Prophecy in
1909?
NOTE: "Soon the battle will be waged fiercely between
those who serve God and those who serve Him not. Soon
everything that can be shaken will be shab'm that those
~hings that cannot be shaken may remain." T., Vol. 9, pp.15-16

4. What mighty shaking will be seen before the final crisis?'

NOTE: "The mighty shaking has commenced and will go
on, and all will be shaken out who are not willing to take
a bold and unyielding stand' for the truth and to sacrilice
for God and His cause." Early W.ritings, p. 50.
5. What will the Lotd permit to. come when other meal1J!l'
fail? II Thess. 2:11.
NOTE: "God will arouse His people; if other means fail,
heresies will come in among them, which will sift them, sep-'
arating the chaff from the wheat. The Lord calls upon all
who believe His word to awake out of sleep. Precious light
has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth, show-
ing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead
us to a diligent study of the Scriptures. and a most critical
examination of the positions which we hold." G. W. p. 299,

6. Is the message to the Laodicean Church the final test.

or is it a present test? Who pTovok-es the shaking?

NOTE: "I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and
was shown that it would be caused by the straight tes1i-
mony 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." E. W., p. 270.
""-
7, To which time are many looking for the work of prep-
aration to be fitted for translation?
NOTE: "I saw that many were neglecting th6 preparation
so needful and were looking to the time of 'refreshing' and the'
'latter rain' to fit them to stand in the day of th", Lord and to'
live in .His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of troubl~
25
without a shelter! They had neglected the needful prepar-
ation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all
must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God."
Early Writings, p. 71.
8. What is the only hope for the advent believe<rs?
NOTE: "God's people will not endure the test unless there
is a revival and d reformation. The Lord will not admit into
the mansions He is preparing for the righteous, one soul
who is self-sufficien~." Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 285.
9. What shaking took place in Octobell 22, 1844, when the
believers expected Christ to come? Rev. 3:10.
NOTE: Of the fifty thousand believers who waited for the
coming of Christ, only a few remained unshaken in their
faith after the great disappointment, and entered by 'faith
with Christ into the Most Holy Place. This was a literal ful-
iillment of the prophecy in Daniel 7:13.
10. Whati dual application did the Lord teach in the parable
of Matthew 25? Matt. 25:6-10.
NOTE: "As Christ sat looking upon the party that waited
for the bridegroom, He told His disciples the story of the
ten virgins by their experience illus1rating the experience of
the church that- shall live just before His second coming."
Christ's Object Lessons, p. 406.
11. Who only will receive the latter rain-the Holy Spirit
. in His fulness in the closing work of the Gospel?
'NOTE: "Those who come up to every point, and stand every
tesf, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded
·the 'counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the
latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation." T., V.o!. 1. p. 187

Lesson No. 12-Sabbath, Sep~ember 17, 1955.

THE CLOSING WORK OF THE. HOLY SpmlT
-THE LATTER RAIN
Questions
1. What appeal has the prophet Zechariah especially made
for our daY? Zech. 10:1.
26
2. What assurance is given by the prophet Joel, and what
two phases of the work are here mentioned? Joel 2:23.

NOTE: This prophet revealed the closing work of the gospel

dispensation, The gospel began with the outpouring of the
early rain, and the work of God will not be c~osed without
the manifestation in greater measure in the latter rain.
3. With what does the Spirif of Prophecy compare the Q1os~
ing ~ork of the everlasting gospel?
NOTE: "The work will be similar to that of the day of Pente-
cost. As the 'former" rain' was given, in the outpouring of the
Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the up-
springing of the precious seed so the 'latter rain' will be
given at its close, for the ripeni~g of the harvest." G.C. p. 611
4. What dual prophecy was made by the Apostle Peter
when the literal fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel took
place at the time of Pentecost? Acs 3:19-21
5. When can we expect the fufillment of the latter rain-
the refreshing-to take place?
NOTE: "The work of the investigative judgment and the
blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second
advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of
the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sin$
of men should be blotted out until alter the judgment at which.
their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter dis-
tinctly states that the sins of believers' will be blotted out
'when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence
of the Lord; and He shall send Tesus Christ: Acts 3:19,20.
Wpen the investigative judgment closes, Christ will come
and His reward will be with Him to give to every man as
His work shall be." Gr.eat Cont'l'oversy p. 485.
6. When did the "blotting out" of sin take place? What
event followed immediately after the atonement? La••
23:27,34.40-41.
NOTE: After- the day of atonement, a second feqs.! after
five days or on the filteenth day of the seventh month was;
celebrated. With the harvest of the fields gathered in and
labor over for the year; with the day of atonement passed
and their sins blotted out and th'e sanctuary clean, the Child-
27
Ten of Israel were again accepted by the grace of God and
they began the new year with a feast of joy and happiness.
They gathered branches and made tabernacles to rejoice
in the presence of God.
Some groups separate from the truth of the third angel's
message have adopted the celebration of the Old Testament
day of atonement, but this applicatio"n is not in harmony with
the type for the present time in the anti-type. The day of
atonement can not be compared with a literal day, or can
the blotting out of sin take place every year of our lives.
The cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary has· not ended,
and the day of atonement is not over. The work of this dis-
pensation has not been completed, nor the tribulation gone
through. The resurrection has not taken place yet, nor the
'harvest gathered, for Christ has not yet returned to this earth,
and the day of Jubilee has not yet commenced. If we celebrate
-the feast of tabernacles on this earth, we testify that according
to Daniel's vision of the 2,300 days, the investigative judg-
ment has already been completed. Therefore this practice
dest~oys the significance set forth by the eternal purpose
,of God.

7., What prepall'es us for the lalter rain? Mark 4:28.

'NOTE: "There is to be 'first the blade, then the ear, after

,the full corn in the ear.' There must be a constant develop-
ment of Chris1ian virtue, a con.,stant advancement in Christian
,experience. This we should seek with intensity of desire,
that we may adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour." Testi-
,monies to Ministers, p. 506.

8. What benefit must we derive from the early rain? W:ill

those who neglect the work of the early rain at the
pre~ent time receive the lalter rain?

'NOTE: "But there must be no neglect of the grace repre-

,sented by the former rain. Only those who are living up to
the light they have will receive greater light." Unless we
are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active
-Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations
of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on
:hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it."
'Testimonies to Ministers, p. 507.
28
9. What is said about the gifts of prophecy in ancient
times? Should we regard them of less importance in
our days?
NOTE: "In andent times God spoke to men by the mouth
of prophets and apostles. In these days He speaks to them
by the Tes.timonies of His' Spirit. There was never a time
when God ins·tructed His people more earnestly than He in-
structs them now concerning His will and the course that He
would have them pursue. But will they profit 'by His teach-
ings? will they receive His reproofs and heed His warnings?
God will accept of no partial obedience; He will sanction
no compromise with s.el!." Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 147-148.
10. What effect will the testimony of the True Witness have
upon the life of the receiver?
NOTE: "I saw that the testimony of the True Witness has
not been half heeded. The solemn testimony upon which
the destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed,
·if not entirely disregarded. This testimony must work deep
repentance; all who truly receive it will obey it and be puri-
Hed." Early Writings, p. 270.

Lesson No. 13-Sabbath, September 24, 1955.

THE WITHDRAWAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Questions
1. With what comparison does the Lord describe the con-
ditions which will exist in the last days? Matt. 24:38.39.
2. Wbat was the mission of the Holy Spirit in the world?
John 16:8-10.
3. What effect will the last day conditions bring upon tlie'
world? How will this effect the last church? Matt.
24:7.12.13.
NOTE: These conditions described in the prophecy were
partially fulfilled in the life of the first Christian church, but
they will be literally more intensive in these last days, as we
J>ee the love for God wax cold, even among the believers..
4. Have the prophets described the condition of the world
in the last days? Isa. 24:4-6.
29
 5. What record is kept by the 'Lord and when de we ex-
pect. the mercy extended toward th.e human race to cease?
NOTE: "God keeps a reckoning with the nations. Through
every century of this world's history evil workers' have been
treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath; and when the-
time fully comes that iniquity shall have reached .the stated
boundary of God's mercy, His- forbearance will cease. When
the accumulated figures in heaven's record books shall mark
the sum of transgression complete, wrath wEI come, un-·
mixed with mercy, and then it will be seen what a tremendous
thing it is to have worn out the divine patience. This crisis
will be reached when the nations shall unite in making void
God's law." Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 524.
6. What fearful time must the people of God meet, and
what preparation must be made by them to be able to
stand? Matt. 24:24.
NOTE: "Satan is a diligent Bible student. Ha knows that
his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork.
the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give
any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be
alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition
of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk.
in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means
of the angels there will be constant communication between
heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels,
and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to
deceive, if possible, the very elect. God's people will not
find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counter-
feit the miracles that will be wrought. God's tried and tested
people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus
31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word:
'It is written.' This is the only foundation upon which they
..an stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant
with God will in that day be without God and without hope."
Testimonies, Vol g, p. 16
7. What danger is before the believers of the church of God?

NOTE: "The same spirit of selfishness, of conformity to the

'practices of the world, exists in our day as in Noah's. Many
who profess to be children of God follow their worldly pur-
lluits with an intensity that gives the lie to their profession.
30
They will be planting and buildng, buying and selling, eating
and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the last
moment of their probation. This is the condition of a large
number of our own people. Because iniquity abounds, the
love of many waxes coid. To but few can it be said: 'Ye are
all. ... the childr:en of the day: we are not of the night,
nor of darkness.''' Testimonies, yol. 5, p. 10.
8. Will the inhabitants of the world know that thedr time
of pcobation has ended? What will be the result of
the withdrawal of God's mercy?
NOTE: "When He leaves the sanctuary, darkness covers
the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righte-
ous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor
The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed
and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. God's
long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy
despised His' love: and trampled upon His law. The wicked
have passed the' boundary of their probation; the Spirit of
God persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Un-
sheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the
wicked one.' Satan will plunge the inhabitants of the earth
into one great, final iiol.lble. As' the angels of God cease
to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the
elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be
involved in ruin more terrible than. that which came upon
Terusalem of old.'" Great Controversy, p.614.
9. When the Spirit of God is withdrawn. what will be the
reaction' 01 those who knew' the truth, but were not sanc-
1ified by it~ ier. 4:19-22: Amose 8:11-12.
10. Because of the prevailing wickedness in the cities. what
will the destroying Qng~ls be_ ~ommanded to do?
NOTE: "The destroying angels of God were at work. 0ne
touch, and buildings, so thoroughly constructed that men
regarded them as secure against every danger. quickly be-
came heaps of rubbish. There was no assurance of safety
in any place. 1 did not feel in any special periL but the
awfulness of the scenes that passed before me I cannot find
-words to describe. It seemed that the forbearance of God
was exhausted and that the judgment day had come." Testi~
monies, Vol. 9, p. 93.
11. Having made known to His followers all these things
that shaLl come to pass. what ·was Christ's greabut
burden for them? Luke 21 :36.