Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 264-268

Bible Study: 2 Thessalonian letter

Introduction

The instruction that Paul sent the Thessalonians in his first epistle regarding the second coming of Christ, was in perfect harmony with his former teaching. Yet his words were misapprehended by some of the Thessalonian brethren.

• They understood him to express the hope that he himself would live to witness the Saviour’s advent.
• This belief served to increase their enthusiasm and excitement.
• Those who had previously neglected their responsibilities and duties, now became more persistent in urging their erroneous views.

Correct a Misunderstanding

Lesson 1 In his second letter Paul sought to correct their misunderstanding of his teaching and to set before them his true position.

Biblical evidence

2 Thessalonians 1:4-12   4 so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, ( 5 which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer;  6 since it is a righteous thing with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble you, ) 7 and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,  8 in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.  9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,  (10 when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed. ) 11 Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,  12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Practical application

In his second letter Paul sought to correct their misunderstanding of his teaching and to set before them his true position.

1) He again expressed his confidence in their integrity, and his gratitude…

• that their faith was strong
• that their love abounded for one another and for the cause of their Master.

2) He told them that he presented them to other churches as an example of the patient, persevering faith that bravely withstands persecution and tribulation

3) He carried their minds forward to the time of the second coming of Christ, when the people of God shall rest from all their cares and perplexities.

Paul wrote:

“We ourselves, glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: . . . and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power. . . . Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness, and the work of faith with power: that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thess 1:4-12)

No Immediate Coming

Lesson 2 But before the coming of Christ, important developments in the religious world, foretold in prophecy, were to take place.

Biblical evidence

2 Thessalonians 2:2-4   2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come.  3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,  4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

2 Thessalonians 2:7-10   7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.  8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming.  9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders,  10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

2 Thessalonians 2:11-12   11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,  12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

2 Thessalonians 2:15-17   15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.  16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace,  17 comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.

2 Thessalonians 3:3-5   3 But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.  4 And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.  5 Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.

Practical application

Imagine Christ's second coming

(1)

But before the coming of Christ, important developments in the religious world, foretold in prophecy, were to take place. The apostle declared:

“Be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” 2 Thess 2: 2-4

(2)

Paul’s words were not to be misinterpreted.

1) It was not to be taught that he, by special revelation, had warned the Thessalonians of the immediate coming of Christ.

2) Such a position would cause confusion of faith;

• for disappointment often leads to unbelief.

The apostle therefore cautioned the brethren to receive no such message as coming from him, and he proceeded to emphasize the fact that the papal power, so clearly described by the prophet Daniel, was yet to rise and wage war against God’s people.

1) Until this power should have performed its deadly and blasphemous work, it would be in vain for the church to look for the coming of their Lord. Paul inquired:

“Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?”  2 Thess 2:5

(3)

Terrible were the trials that were to beset the true church.

1) Even at the time when the apostle was writing, the “mystery of iniquity” had already begun to work.

2) The developments that were to take place in the future were to be…

“after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.” 2 Thess 7-12

(4)

Especially solemn is the apostle’s statement regarding those who should refuse to receive “the love of the truth.”

1) “For this cause,” he declared of all who should deliberately reject the messages of truth…

“God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess 2:11-12

2) Men cannot with impunity reject the warnings that God in mercy sends them.

• From those who persist in turning from these warnings, God withdraws His Spirit, leaving them to the deceptions that they love.

(5)

Thus Paul outlined the baleful work of that power of evil which was to continue through long centuries of darkness and persecution before the second coming of Christ.The Thessalonian believers had hoped for immediate deliverance; now they were admonished to take up bravely and in the fear of God the work before them.

• The apostle charged them not to neglect their duties or resign themselves to idle waiting.
• After their glowing anticipations of immediate deliverance the round of daily life and the opposition that they must meet would appear doubly forbidding.

He therefore exhorted them to steadfastness in the faith:

“Stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” 2 Thess 2:15-17

“The Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” 2 Thess 3: 3-5

A God-given Work

Lesson 3 The work of the believers had been given them by God.

Biblical evidence

2 Thessalonians 3:6-15   6 But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us.  7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you;  8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you,  9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.  10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.  11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies.  12 Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.  13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.  14 And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed.  15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Practical application

Light

The work of the believers had been given them by God.

• By their faithful adherence to the truth they were to give to others the light which they had received.
• The apostle bade them not to become weary in well-doing, and pointed them to his own example of diligence in temporal matters while laboring with untiring zeal in the cause of Christ.
• He reproved those who had given themselves up to sloth and aimless excitement, and directed that “with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”
• He also enjoined upon the church to separate from their fellowship anyone who should persist in disregarding the instruction given by God’s ministers. “Yet,” he added, “count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.”

This epistle also Paul concluded with a prayer that amidst life’s toils and trials the peace of God and the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ might be their consolation and support.

Source: The Acts of the Apostle by Ellen G. White p. 259-264

Bible Study: 1 Thessalonians 3-5

The Signs of the Times

Visual imagination 1 He PAUL  pointedly referred to his former teachings

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 5:1-6  NKJ 1 Thessalonians 5:1 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.  2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.  3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.  4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.  5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.  6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.

In imagination behold the scene

While laboring at Thessalonica, Paul had so fully covered the subject of the signs of the times, showing what events would occur prior to the revelation of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven, that he did not think it necessary to write at length regarding this subject. He, however, pointedly referred to his former teachings. He said:

“Of the times and the seasons, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.” ( 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-3)

There are Many Today who…

Lesson 1 There are in the world today many who close their eyes to the evidences that Christ has given to warn men of His coming.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 5:4-6   4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.  5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.  6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.

Practical application for today

(1)

A COMMON ERROR IN THE WORLD: There are in the world today many who close their eyes to the evidences that Christ has given to warn men of His coming.

• They seek to quiet all apprehension, while at the same time the signs of the end are rapidly fulfilling, and the world is hastening to the time when the Son of man shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven.

Paul teaches that it is sinful to be indifferent to the signs which are to precede the second coming of Christ.

1) Those guilty of this neglect he calls children of the night and of darkness.

2) He encourages the vigilant and watchful with these words:

“But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 4-6)

(2)

Especially important to the church in our time are the teachings of the apostle upon this point.

1) To those living so near the great consummation, the words of Paul should come with telling force:

“Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 8-10)

(3)

The watchful Christian is a working Christian, seeking zealously to do all in his power for the advancement of the gospel.

1) As love for his Redeemer increases, so also does love for his fellow men.

2) He has severe trials, as had his Master; but he does not allow affliction to sour his temper or destroy his peace of mind.

• He knows that trial, if well borne, will refine and purify him, and bring him into closer fellowship with Christ.
• Those who are partakers of Christ’s sufferings will also be partakers of His consolation and at last sharers of His glory.

Fanatical Ideas and Doctrines

Visual imagination 2 The Thessalonian believers were greatly annoyed by men coming among them with fanatical ideas and doctrines.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13   12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,  13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

2 Thessalonians 3:11   11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies.

In imagination behold the scene

Paul continued in his letter to the Thessalonians:

“We beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 12-13)

The Thessalonian believers were greatly annoyed by men coming among them with fanatical ideas and doctrines.

Some were “disorderly, working not at all, but . . . busy-bodies.” (2 Thessalonians 3:11)

DISCUSSION: The church had been properly organized, and officers had been appointed to act as ministers and deacons. But there were some, self-willed and impetuous, who refused to be subordinate to those who held positions of authority in the church.

• They claimed not only (a) the right of private judgment, but (b) that of publicly urging their views upon the church.

In view of this, Paul called the attention of the Thessalonians to the respect and deference due to those who had been chosen to occupy positions of authority in the church.

Daily Practical Godliness

Visual imagination 4 In his anxiety that the believers at Thessalonica should walk in the fear of God, the apostle pleaded with them to reveal practical godliness in the daily life

biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 4:1-7  NKJ 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;  2 for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.  3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;  4 that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor,  5 not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God;  6 that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also forewarned you and testified.  7 For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness.

In imagination behold the scene

In his anxiety that the believers at Thessalonica should walk in the fear of God, the apostle pleaded with them to reveal practical godliness in the daily life. He wrote:

“We beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication.” (1 Thessalonians 4: 1-3)

“For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.” (1 Thessalonians 4: 7)

Paul Felt Responsible For…

Visual imagination 5 The apostle felt that he was to a large extent responsible for the spiritual welfare of those converted under his labors.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12   9 But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another;  10 and indeed you do so toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more;  11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you,  12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.

1 Thessalonians 3:12-13   12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you,  13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-18  14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.  15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.  16 Rejoice always,  17 pray without ceasing,  18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

In imagination behold the scene

(1)

The apostle felt that he was to a large extent responsible for the spiritual welfare of those converted under his labors.

1) His desire for them was that they might increase in a knowledge of the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom He had sent.

• Often in his ministry he would meet with little companies of men and women who loved Jesus, and bow with them in prayer, asking God to teach them how to maintain a living connection with Him.
• Often he took counsel with them as to the best methods of giving to others the light of gospel truth.
• Often, when separated from those for whom he had thus labored, he pleaded with God to keep them from evil and help them to be earnest, active missionaries.

(2)

One of the strongest evidences of true conversion is love to God and man.

• Those who accept Jesus as their Redeemer have a deep, sincere love for others of like precious faith.

Thus it was with the believers at Thessalonica. The apostle wrote:

“As touching brotherly love, ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; and that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; that ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.”(1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)

“The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: to the end He may stablish your hearts unblamable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 12-13)

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5: 14-18)

The Gift of Prophecy

Visual imagination 6 The apostle cautioned the Thessalonians not to despise the gift of prophecy.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 5:19-24  19 Do not quench the Spirit.  20 Do not despise prophecies.  21 Test all things; hold fast what is good.  22 Abstain from every form of evil.  23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.

In imagination behold the scene

The apostle ALSO…

1) cautioned the Thessalonians not to despise the gift of prophecy, and in the words, “Quench not the Spirit; despise not prophesyings; prove all things; hold fast that which is good,” he enjoined a careful discrimination in distinguishing the false from the true.

2) besought them to “abstain from all appearance of evil;”

3) closed his letter with the prayer that God would sanctify them wholly, that in “Spirit and soul and body” they might “be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He that calleth you,” he added, “who also will do it.”

Danish Translation / Dansk Oversættelse

Tidernes Tegn

Mens Paulus arbejdede i Tessalonika, havde han så indgående fortalt om tidernes tegn, som viste, hvilke begivenheder der ville ske forud for Menneskesønnens genkomst i himmelens skyer, at han ikke fandt det nødvendigt at skrive udførligt om dette emne. Han henviste imidlertid på en meget tydelig måde til sin tidligere forkyndelse,” Men om tid og time, brødre,” skrev han, “har I ikke nødig, at man skriver til jer; selv ved I jo god besked om, at Herrens dag kommer som en tyv om natten. Når de siger: “Fred og ingen fare!” da er undergangen pludselig over dem.”

Der findes i dag i verden mange, der lukker øjnene for de tegn, som Kristus har givet for at forberede mennesker på sit komme. De søger at neddæmpe al frygt, samtidig med, at tegnene på de sidste tider hurtigt er ved at opfyldes og verden haster fremad mod det øjeblik, hvor Menneskesønnen skal åbenbares i himmelens skyer. Paulus lærer os, at det er en synd at være ligegyldig overfor de tegn, som går forud for Kristi genkomst. Han kalder dem, der gør sig skyldige i denne forsømmelse, for nattens og mørkets børn. Han opmuntrer dem, som våger og er på vagt, med disse ord: “Men I, brødre! lever ikke i mørke, så dagen kan overraske jer som en tyv. Thi alle er I lysets børn; vi hører ikke natten eller mørket til. Så lad os da ikke sove som de andre, men lad os våge og være ædru.”

Apostlens belæring om dette har særlig betydning for kirken i vor tid. For dem, der lever den sidste afslutning så nær, burde Paulus ord lyde med særlig kraft: “Men da vi hører dagen til, så lad os være ædru, iførte troen og kærligheden som en brynje og frelseshåbet som en hjelm! Thi Gud bestemte os ikke til at rammes af hans vrede, men til at få frelsen i eje ved vor Herre Jesus Kristus, som døde for os, for at vi, hvad enten vi våger eller sover, skal leve sammen med ham.”

En kristen, som våger, arbejder også og søger af al kraft at gøre alt, hvad der står i hans magt for at fremme evangeliets forkyndelse. Når kærligheden til Frelseren vokser, vokser også kærligheden til næsten. Han har ligesom sin Mester hårde prøvelser; men han tillader ikke sorger at forbitre hans sind eller ødelægge hans sjælefred. Han ved, at prøvelser, hvis de bæres på rette måde, vil forædle og lutre ham og bringe ham i nærmere fællesskab med Kristus. De, som får del i Kristi lidelser, vil også få del i hans trøst og til sidst komme til at få del i hans herlighed.

Fanatiske Ideer og Lærdomme

“Vi beder jer, brødre!” fortsætter Paulus i sit brev til tessalonikerne, “om at skønne på dem, der gør et slidsomt arbejde iblandt jer og er jeres forstandere i Herren og retleder jer. Agt dem særlig højt i kærlighed for deres gernings skyld. Hold fred med hverandre!”

De tessaloniske kristne var meget misfornøjede med, at der opstod mænd iblandt dem med fanatiske ideer og lærdomme. Paulus siger, at der er nogle, som “vandrer uskikkeligt iblandt jer og ikke arbejder, men giver sig af med, hvad der ikke kommer dem ved.” Menigheden havde været rigtigt organiseret og der var ansat tillidsmænd, der skulle virke som forstandere og diakoner. Men der var nogle, som i deres selvsikkerhed og heftighed ikke ville underordne sig dem, der havde fået myndighed indenfor menigheden. De hævdede, at de ikke blot havde ret til selv at træffe private afgørelser, men også til offentligt kraftigt at udtale sig om menighedens anliggender. I betragtning af dette gjorde Paulus tessalonikerne opmærksomme på den ærbødighed og agtelse, de skyldte dem, der var blevet udvalgt til at virke som myndighed indenfor menigheden.

Praktisk Fromhed i Det Daglige Liv

I sin ængstelse for, om de troende i Tessalonika ikke vandrede i gudsfrygt, tryglede apostlen dem om i deres daglige liv at udvise praktisk fromhed. “Så beder vi jer iøvrigt, brødre og jeg lægger jer på sinde i Herren Jesus: at ligesom I har lært af os, hvordan I bør vandre og tækkes Gud, som I jo allerede gør, at I da må gøre yderligere fremgang. I ved jo, hvilke bud vi gav jer ved Herren Jesus. Thi dette er Guds vilje, at I helliggøres, så I afholder jer fra utugt.” “Gud kaldte os jo ikke til urenhed, men til hellighed.”

Paulus følte et ansvar for de omvendte

Apostlen følte, at han i vid udstrækning havde ansvaret for deres åndelige velfærd, som var blevet omvendt ved hans medvirken. Hans ønske for dem var dette, at de måtte vokse i kundskab om den eneste sande Gud og Jesus Kristus, som han havde udsendt. Under sin gerning var han ofte sammen med små grupper af mænd og kvinder, som elskede Jesus og bad sammen med dem om at Gud måtte lære dem, hvordan de bedst kunne opretholde en levende forbindelse med ham. Ofte drøftede han med dem, hvad der ville være den bedste fremgangsmåde for at bringe andre evangeliets lys. Og tit, når han var adskilt fra dem han således havde arbejdet sammen med, bønfaldt han Gud om at hjælpe dem til at blive alvorlige, virksomme missionærere.

Et af de stærkeste beviser på virkelig omvendelse er kærlighed til Gud og mennesker. De, der modtager Jesus som deres Frelser, føler dyb og inderlig kærlighed til andre der har den samme dyrebare tro. Sådan gik det de troende i Tessalonika. “Om broderkærligheden har I ikke nødig, at man skriver til jer,” skrev apostlen, “thi I er selv oplært af Gud til at elske hverandre; og I viser jo også kærlighed mod alle brødrene i hele Makedonien. Men vi lægger jer på sinde, brødre, at gøre yderligere fremgang heri og sætte en ære i at leve stille og passe jeres egne sager og arbejde med jeres hænder, således som vi pålagde jer, for at I må vandre sømmeligt overfor dem, der er udenfor, og ikke trænge til hjælp af nogen.”

“Og vi lægger jer på sinde, brødre: retled de uskikkelige, trøst de modfaldne, tag jer af de skrøbelige og vis langmodighed mod alle. Se til, at ingen gengælder nogen ondt med ondt; men stræb altid efter at gøre det gode, både mod hverandre indbyrdes og mod alle. Vær altid glade, bed uden ophør og sig tak under alle forhold; thi det er Guds vilje med jer i Kristus Jesus.”

Ringeagt ikke Profetiske Gaver

Apostlen advarede tessalonikerne mod at ringeagte profetiske gaver og med ordene: “Udsluk ikke Ånden, ringeagt ikke profetisk tale, prøv alt, hold fast ved det gode,” tilskyndede han til omhyggelig skelnen for at kunne adskille det falske fra det sande. Han bønfaldt dem om at “holde sig fra det onde i enhver skikkelse;” og han sluttede brevet med bøn om, at Gud ville hellige dem helt og holdent, så de “i ånd og sjæl og legeme” måtte “bevares uden dadel til vor Herres Jesu Kristi komme. Trofast er han, som kalder jer” tilføjede han, “han vil også gøre det.”

Self-denial or Self-esteem

What does Ellen G. White say about self-esteem?

Too much self-esteem make a man feel no need for a personal union with Christ

The life in which the fear of the Lord is cherished will not be a life of sadness and gloom. It is the absence of Christ that makes the countenance sad, and the life a pilgrimage of sighs. Those who are filled with self-esteem and self-love do not feel the need of a living, personal union with Christ. The heart that has not fallen on the Rock is proud of its wholeness. Men want a dignified religion. They desire to walk in a path wide enough to take in their own attributes. Their self-love, their love of popularity and love of praise, exclude the Saviour from their hearts, and without Him there is gloom and sadness. But Christ dwelling in the soul is a wellspring of joy. For all who receive Him, the very keynote of the word of God is rejoicing.  {COL 162.1}

Self-esteem: The end is wretchedness and ruin

The harvest is a reproduction of the seed sown. Every seed yields fruit after its kind. So it is with the traits of character we cherish. Selfishness, self-love, self-esteem, self-indulgence, reproduce themselves, and the end is wretchedness and ruin. “He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:8. Love, sympathy, and kindness yield fruitage of blessing, a harvest that is imperishable.  {Ed 109.1}

Self-esteem grows naturally like weeds in the garden

Bad habits are more easily formed than good habits, and the bad habits are given up with more difficulty. The natural depravity of the heart accounts for this well-known fact–that it takes far less labor to demoralize the youth, to corrupt their ideas of moral and religious character, than to engraft upon their character the enduring, pure, and uncorrupted habits of righteousness and truth. Self-indulgence, love of pleasure, enmity, pride, self-esteem, envy, jealousy, will grow spontaneously, without example and teaching. In our present fallen state all that is needed is to give up the mind and character to its natural tendencies. In the natural world, give up a field to itself and you will see it covered with briers and thorns; but if it yields precious grain or beautiful flowers, care and unremitting labor must be applied.  {HP 195.4}

Self-esteem cannot grow in the heart that remember Calvary

When men and women can more fully comprehend the magnitude of the great sacrifice which was made by the Majesty of heaven in dying in man’s stead, then will the plan of salvation be magnified, and reflections of Calvary will awaken tender, sacred, and lively emotions in the Christian’s heart. Praises to God and the Lamb will be in their hearts and upon their lips. Pride and self-esteem cannot flourish in the hearts that keep fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary. This world will appear of but little value to those who appreciate the great price of man’s redemption, the precious blood of God’s dear Son. All the riches of the world are not of sufficient value to redeem one perishing soul. Who can measure the love Christ felt for a lost world as He hung upon the cross, suffering for the sins of guilty men? This love was immeasurable, infinite.  {LHU 43.2}

Self-esteem and self-sufficiency kills spiritual life

Self-esteem and self-sufficiency are killing spiritual life. Self is lifted up; self is talked about. Oh, that self might die! “I die daily,” said the apostle Paul. When this proud, boasting self-sufficiency and this complacent self-righteousness permeate the soul, there is no room for Jesus. He is given an inferior place, while self swells into importance and fills the whole temple of the soul. This is the reason why the Lord can do so little for us. Should He work with our efforts, the instrument would appropriate all the glory to his own smartness, his wisdom, his ability, and he would congratulate himself, as did the Pharisee: “I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.” When self shall be hidden in Christ, it will not be brought to the surface so frequently. . . .  {LHU 310.4}

Self-esteem (who are looking down upon others) is found in a certain class in society

It was the outcast, the publican and sinner, the despised of the nations, that Christ called and by His loving-kindness compelled to come unto Him. The one class that He would never countenance was those who stood apart in their self-esteem and looked down upon others.  {MH 164.2}

Self-esteem separates God and man

Christ’s humiliation in clothing His divinity with humanity is worthy of our consideration. Had this subject been studied as carefully as it should have been, there would be far less of “I” heard and far more of Christ. It is self-esteem that stands between the human agent and his God and impedes the vital current that flows from Christ to enrich every human being. When we follow Jesus in the path of self-denial and the cross, we shall find that we do not have to strive for humility. As we walk in Christ’s footsteps, we shall learn His meekness and lowliness of heart. Very few thoughts should be devoted to self; for we can never make ourselves great. It is Christ’s gentleness that makes us great.  {OHC 114.4}

To live for self is to perish

Genuine self-denial will be practiced by all who follow Christ. Judas undertook to follow Christ, and at the same time to carry out his selfish, covetous plans. He had the same privileges as had the other disciples. He had the same privileges of hearing the lessons of Christ, which plainly presented practical godliness; but he was not always pleased with the plain truth. It cut him, and instead of taking up personal labor with Judas Iscariot, he found fault with the words and works of Christ, and criticized His plain teachings. Instead of being transformed in character, he was cultivating self-love, self-esteem, and the love of money. {OHC 287.2}
To live for self is to perish. Covetousness, the desire of benefit for self’s sake, cuts the soul off from life. It is the spirit of Satan to get, to draw to self. It is the spirit of Christ to give, to sacrifice self for the good of others.  {OHC 287.3}
There can be no self-seeking in the life of him who follows the Saviour. The true Christian banishes all selfishness from his heart. How can he live for self as he thinks of Christ hanging on the cross, giving His life for the life of the world? In your behalf Jesus died a death of shame. Are you willing to consecrate yourself to His service? to hold yourself ready to be or to do anything He may require? Are you willing to put self aside, and speak a word of warning to the companion you see yielding to Satan’s temptations? Are you willing to sacrifice some of your plans for the sake of trying to lead him in safe paths? Many youth are in peril who might be saved if Christians would manifest toward them a loving, unselfish interest. . . .  {OHC 287.4}

Self-esteem and pride may hinder people to confess sins

How mistaken are those who imagine that confession of sin will detract from their dignity, and lessen their influence among their fellow men. Clinging to this erroneous idea, though seeing their faults, many fail to confess them, but rather pass by the wrongs they have done others, so embittering their own lives, and shadowing the lives of others. It will not hurt your dignity to confess your sins. Away with this false dignity. Fall on the Rock and be broken, and Christ will give you the true and heavenly dignity. Let not pride, self-esteem, or self-righteousness keep anyone from confessing his sin, that he may claim the promise. “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Keep nothing back from God, and neglect not the confession of your faults to your brethren. “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed” (James 5:16). Many a sin is left unconfessed to confront the sinner in the day of final account; better far to confront your sins now, to confess them and put them away, while the atoning Sacrifice pleads in your behalf. Do not fail to learn the will of God on this subject. The health of your soul and the salvation of others depends upon the course you pursue in this matter. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon him: for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:6, 7). The humble and broken heart can appreciate something of the love of God and the cross of Calvary. Ample will be the blessing experienced by him who meets the condition by which he may become a partaker of the favor of God.

The Apostle Paul’s conversion and lost self-esteem

Sin then appeared in its true hideousness, and his (PAUL THE APOSTLE) self-esteem was gone. He became humble. He no longer ascribed goodness and merit to himself. He ceased to think more highly of himself than he ought, and he ascribed all the glory to God. He was no longer ambitious for greatness. He ceased to want to avenge himself, and was no longer sensitive to reproach, neglect, or contempt. He no longer sought earthly alliance, station, or honor. He did not pull others down to uplift himself. He became gentle, condescending, meek and lowly of heart, because he had learned his lesson in the school of Christ. He talked of Jesus and His matchless love, and grew more and more into His image. He bent his whole energy to win souls to Christ. When trial came upon him because of his unselfish labor for souls, he bowed in prayer, and his love for them increased. His life was hid with Christ in God, and he loved Jesus with all the ardor of his nature. Every church was dear to him; every church member was a person of interest to him; for he looked upon every soul as the purchase of the blood of Christ (RH July 22, 1890).  {6BC 1076.6}

Self-esteem is not compatible with the Spirit of Christ

We are not to settle down, expecting that a change of character will come to us by some miraculous work, when Jesus shall appear in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. No, my young friends, we are judgment-bound, and probation is granted to us here in this life, in order that we may form characters for the future, immortal life.  {SD 9.2}
Let none imagine that selfishness, self-esteem, and self-indulgence are compatible with the Spirit of Christ. Upon every truly converted man or woman there rests a responsibility that we cannot rightly estimate. The maxims and ways of the world are not to be adopted by the sons and daughters of the heavenly King.  {SD 9.3}

Meekness will not satisfy self-esteem and pride

Those who have chosen Satan as their leader, and have been controlled by his power, are not prepared to enter the presence of God. Pride, deception, licentiousness, cruelty, have become fixed in their characters. Can they enter Heaven to dwell forever with those whom they despised and hated on earth? Truth will never be agreeable to a liar; meekness will not satisfy self-esteem and pride; purity is not acceptable to the corrupt; disinterested love does not appear attractive to the selfish. The destiny of the wicked is fixed by their own choice. Their exclusion from Heaven is voluntary; it is just.  {4SP 363.1}

A sinner without self-esteem

Paul says that as “touching the righteousness which is in the law”–as far as outward acts were concerned –he was “blameless” (Philippians 3:6); but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by the letter of the law as men apply it to the outward life, he had abstained from sin; but when he looked into the depths of its holy precepts, and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation and confessed his guilt. He says, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Romans 7:9. When he saw the spiritual nature of the law, sin appeared in its true hideousness, and his self-esteem was gone.  {SC 29.3}

Less self-esteem (by degrees) and more humility of mind

Brother C needs a thorough conversion. He does not see himself. If he possessed less self-esteem and more humility of mind, his knowledge could be put to a practical use. He has a work to do for himself which no one else can do for him. He will not yield his views or judgment to any man living, unless compelled to do so. He has traits of character which are most unfortunate and which should be overcome. He is more accountable than B, and his case is worse than his; for he possesses more intellect and knowledge. B has been the shadow of his mind.  {2T 387.1}

A man with too much self-esteem (self-esteem by degrees)

You are zealous for the truth. You love it and wish to invest something in it. This is all right, but be careful that the precepts you give to others are backed up with example. You must seek for peace. You can do this and not sacrifice one principle of truth. You have stormed and fought your way through, and now you need to soften your influence, to sweeten, to soothe, instead of stirring up opposition. You have possessed a large share of self-confidence and self-esteem, and have been self-exalted. Now you need to exalt Jesus and imitate the harmless life of Him whom peace everywhere followed.  {2T 438.2}

A man with (too) little self-esteem

The prosperity of the cause of God in Minnesota is due more to the labors of Brother Pierce than to your own efforts. His labors have been a special blessing to that state. He is a man of tender conscience. The fear of God is before him. Infirmities have weighed heavily upon him, and this has led him to question whether he was in the way of his duty and to fear that God was not favoring his efforts. God loves Brother Pierce. He has but little self-esteem, and he fears and doubts and dreads labor; for the thought is constantly upon his mind that he is not worthy or capable to help others. If he would overcome timidity and possess more confidence that God would be with him and strengthen him he would be much more happy and a greater blessing to others. In the life of Brother Pierce there has been a failure to read character. He believed others to be as honest as himself, and in some cases he has been deceived. He has not the discernment that some have. You also have failed, in your life, to read character. You have spoken peace to those against whom God has declared evil. In his age and feebleness Brother Pierce may be imposed upon, yet all should esteem him highly for his work’s sake. He commands the love and tenderest sympathy of his brethren, for he is a conscientious, God-fearing man.  {2T 629.3}

A woman with (too) little self-esteem

God loves Sister Pierce. She is one of the timid, fearing ones, conscientious in the performance of her duty; and she will receive a reward when Jesus comes if she is faithful to the end. She has not made a display of her virtues, she has been retiring, one of the more silent ones; yet her life has been useful; she has blessed many by her influence. Sister Pierce has not much self-esteem and self-confidence. She has many fears, yet does not come under the head of the fearful and unbelieving, who will find no place in the kingdom of God. Those outside of the city are among the most confident, boastful, and apparently zealous ones who love in word, but not in deed and in truth. Their hearts are not right with God. His fear is not before them. The fearful and unbelieving, who are punished with the second death, are of that class who are ashamed of Christ in this world. They are afraid to do right and follow Christ, lest they should meet with pecuniary loss. They neglect their duty, to avoid reproach and trials, and to escape dangers. Those who dare not do right because they will thus expose themselves to trials, persecution, loss, and suffering are cowards, and, with idolaters, liars, and all sinners, they are ripening for the second death.

Self-esteem lead to jealous interpretations

Self-esteem and self-flattery will be sure to stir up in the heart resentment against any who venture to question one’s course of action. Everything like counsel or advice is resented with indignation as a design to bruise and wound. This spirit cherished will lead to numerous evils. None will venture to tell you when you err, because the faithful one would be regarded as an enemy. Thus the kindness that should exist between brethren in the faith is killed because of the jealous interpretation put upon the God-fearing cautions given. Undue stress is laid upon words, imagination exaggerates the matter and creates alienation.  {TM 250.2}

Self-esteem and unkind criticism of others

Every unkind criticism of others, every thought of self-esteem, is “the putting forth of the finger and speaking vanity.” This lifting up of self in pride, as if you were faultless, and magnifying the faults of others, is offensive to God. It is breaking his law, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” “Be kindly affectioned one toward another.” We have no right to withdraw our confidence from a brother because of some evil report, some accusation or supposition of wrong. Frequently the report is made by those who are at enmity with God, those who are doing the enemy’s work as accusers of the brethren.  {HM, January 1, 1892 par. 5}

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 255-259

Bible study: The Epistles to the Thessalonians

Paul's letters can be difficult to understand

Introduction

The arrival of Silas and Timothy from Macedonia, during Paul’s sojourn in Corinth, had greatly cheered the apostle.

1) They brought him “good tidings” of the “faith and charity” of those who had accepted the truth during the first visit of the gospel messengers to Thessalonica.

• Paul’s heart went out in tender sympathy toward these believers, who, in the midst of trial and adversity, had remained true to God.
• He longed to visit them in person, but as this was not then possible, he wrote to them.

Gratitude to God

Visual imagination 1 In this letter to the church at Thessalonica the apostle expresses his gratitude to God for the joyful news of their increase of faith.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 3:7-10  7 therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith.  8 For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.  9 For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God,  10 night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith?

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3   2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,  3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,

1 Thessalonians 1:6-9   6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,  7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe.  8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.  9 For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,

1 Thessalonians 1:10 – 2:1   10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

In imagination behold the scene

Paul wrote the letters to the Thessalonians in Corinth

(1)

In this letter to the church at Thessalonica the apostle expresses his gratitude to God for the joyful news of their increase of faith. He wrote…

“Brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: for now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?”         (1 Thess 3:7-10)

“We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.” (1 Thess 1:2-3)

(2)

Many of the believers in Thessalonica had…

“turned . . . from idols to serve the living and true God.”( 1 Thess 1:9)

They had …

“received the word in much affliction;”(1 Thess 1:6)

and their hearts were filled with…

“joy of the Holy Ghost.”(1 Thess 1:7)

The apostle declared that in their faithfulness in following the Lord they were

“ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.”(1 Thess 1:7)

These words of commendation were not unmerited;

“for from you,” he wrote, “sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad.”  (1 Thess 1:10)

(3)

The Thessalonian believers were true missionaries.

• Their hearts burned with zeal for their Saviour, who had delivered them from fear of “the wrath to come.”
• Through the grace of Christ a marvelous transformation had taken place in their lives, and the word of the Lord, as spoken through them, was accompanied with power.
• Hearts were won by the truths presented, and souls were added to the number of believers.

His Manner of Labor

Visual imagination 2 In this first epistle, Paul referred to his manner of labor among the Thessalonians.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 2:4-13   4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.  5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness — God is witness.  6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.  7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.  8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.  9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God.  10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe;  11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children,  12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.  13 For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.

In imagination behold the scene

Thessaloniki. You may imagine what history is under those modern buildings.

In this first epistle, Paul referred to his manner of labor among the Thessalonians.

1) He declared that he had not sought to win converts through deception or guile.

“As we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: so being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.”  (1 Thess 2:4-8)

“Ye are witnesses, and God also,” the apostle continued, “how holily and justly and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: as ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto His kingdom and glory. (1 Thess 2:10-13)

“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” “What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For ye are our glory and joy.”  {1 Thess 2:19-20)

The True State of the Dead

Visual imagination 3 In his first epistle to the Thessalonian believers, Paul endeavored to instruct them regarding the true state of the dead.

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:1  13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.  14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.  15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep.  16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.  17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.  18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.

In imagination behold the scene

What is the true state of the dead

(1)

In his first epistle to the Thessalonian believers, Paul endeavored to instruct them regarding the true state of the dead.

1) He spoke of those who die as being asleep–in a state of unconsciousness:

“I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. . . . For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

(2)

The Thessalonians had eagerly grasped the idea that Christ was coming to change the faithful who were alive, and to take them to Himself.

• They had carefully guarded the lives of their friends, lest they should die and lose the blessing which they looked forward to receiving at the coming of their Lord.

But one after another their loved ones had been taken from them, and with anguish…

• the Thessalonians had looked for the last time upon the faces of their dead, hardly daring to hope to meet them in a future life.

(3)

As Paul’s epistle was opened and read, great joy and consolation was brought to the church by the words revealing the true state of the dead.

1) Paul showed that those living when Christ should come would not go to meet their Lord in advance of those who had fallen asleep in Jesus.

2) The voice of the Archangel and the trump of God would reach the sleeping ones, and the dead in Christ should rise first, before the touch of immortality should be given to the living.

“Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thess 4: 17-18)

(4)

The hope and joy that this assurance brought to the young church at Thessalonica can scarcely be appreciated by us.

• They believed and cherished the letter sent to them by their father in the gospel, and their hearts went out in love to him.
• He had told them these things before; but at that time their minds were striving to grasp doctrines that seemed new and strange, and it is not surprising that the force of some points had not been vividly impressed on their minds.

But they were hungering for truth, and Paul’s epistle gave them…

• New hope and strength,
• And a firmer faith in,
• And a deeper affection for, the One who through His death had brought life and immortality to light.

(5)

Now they rejoiced in the knowledge that their believing friends would be raised from the grave to live forever in the kingdom of God.

• The darkness that had enshrouded the resting place of the dead was dispelled.
• A new splendor crowned the Christian faith, and they saw a new glory in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

A Guide to True Understanding

Lesson 1 “Even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him,” Paul wrote. Many interpret this passage to mean that the sleeping ones will be brought with Christ from heaven;

Biblical evidence

1 Thessalonians 4:14   14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

Practical application for today

“Even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him,” Paul wrote. Many interpret this passage to mean that the sleeping ones will be brought with Christ from heaven;

• But Paul meant that as Christ was raised from the dead, so God will call the sleeping saints from their graves and take them with Him to heaven.
• Precious consolation! glorious hope! not only to the church of Thessalonica, but to all Christians wherever they may be.

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 252-254

Bible Study Acts 18: 8-18

Paul had Success in Corinth

Visual imagination 1 Paul’s efforts in Corinth were not without fruit.

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:8   8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.

In imagination behold the scene

Paul’s efforts in Corinth were not without fruit.

1) Many turned from the worship of idols to serve the living God, and a large church was enrolled under the banner of Christ.

2) Some were rescued from among the most dissipated of the Gentiles and became monuments of…

• the mercy of God
• the efficacy of the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin.

A Determined Opposition

Visual imagination 2 The increased success that Paul had in presenting Christ, roused the unbelieving Jews to more determined opposition.

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:12-13   12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat,  13 saying, “This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.”

Acts 18:14-18   14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, “If it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you.  15 “But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters.”  16 And he drove them from the judgment seat.  17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things.  18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.

In imagination behold the scene

Senaca the Elder who is the father of Gallio

(1)

The increased success that Paul had in presenting Christ, roused the unbelieving Jews to more determined opposition.

• They rose in a body and “made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat” of Gallio, who was then proconsul of Achaia.
• They expected that the authorities, as on former occasions, would side with them; and with loud, angry voices they uttered their complaints against the apostle, saying,

“This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.”

(2)

The Jewish religion was under the protection of the Roman power, and the accusers of Paul thought…

• that if they could fasten upon him the charge of violating the laws of their religion, he would probably be delivered to them for trial and sentence.

They hoped thus to compass his death. But Gallio was a man of integrity, and he refused to become the dupe of the jealous, intriguing Jews.

• Disgusted with their bigotry and self-righteousness, he would take no notice of the charge.
• As Paul prepared to speak in self-defense, Gallio told him that it was not necessary.

WHO IS GALLIO? (From Vikipedia)

Then turning to the angry accusers, he said,

“If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: but if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters. And he drave them from the judgment seat.”

(3)

Both Jews and Greeks had waited eagerly for Gallio’s decision; and his immediate dismissal of the case, as one that had no bearing upon the public interest, was the signal for the Jews to retire, baffled and angry.

1) The proconsul’s decided course opened the eyes of the clamorous crowd who had been abetting the Jews.

• For the first time during Paul’s labors in Europe, the mob turned to his side; under the very eye of the proconsul, and without interference from him, they violently beset the most prominent accusers of the apostle.

“All the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.”

Thus Christianity obtained a signal victory.

PAUL WAS NOT COMPELLED TO LEAVE CORINTH AND THIS FACT IS IMPORTANT FOR THE YOUNG CHURCH.

“Paul after this tarried there yet a good while.”

• If the apostle had at this time been compelled to leave Corinth, the converts to the faith of Jesus would have been placed in a perilous position.
• The Jews would have endeavored to follow up the advantage gained, even to the extermination of Christianity in that region.

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 248-252

Bible study: Acts 18:6-11

The Jews of Corinth

Visual Imagination 1 But the Jews of Corinth closed their eyes to the evidence so clearly presented by the apostle.

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:4-6   4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.  5 When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.  6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

In imagination behold the scene

Corinth location on the map

(1)

But the Jews of Corinth closed their eyes to the evidence so clearly presented by the apostle, and refused to listen to his appeals.

• The same spirit that had led them to reject Christ, filled them with wrath and fury against His servant;
• And had not God especially protected him, that he might continue to bear the gospel message to the Gentiles, they would have put an end to his life.

“And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man’s house, named Justus, one that worshiped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.”

(2)

Silas and Timothy had “come from Macedonia” to help Paul, and together they labored for the Gentiles.

• To the heathen, as well as to the Jews, Paul and his companions preached Christ as the Saviour of the fallen race.
• Avoiding complicated, far-fetched reasoning, the messengers of the cross dwelt upon the attributes of the Creator of the world, the Supreme Ruler of the universe.
• Their hearts aglow with the love of God and of His Son, they appealed to the heathen to behold the infinite sacrifice made in man’s behalf.
• They knew that if those who had long been groping in the darkness of heathenism could but see the light streaming from Calvary’s cross, they would be drawn to the Redeemer. “I, if I be lifted up,” the Saviour had declared, “will draw all men unto Me.” John 12:32.

The Conversion of Many

Visual imagination 2 The gospel workers in Corinth realized the terrible dangers threatening the souls of those for whom they were laboring

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:8   8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.

In imagination behold the scene

Corinth plain and excavations from Acrocorinth

The Corinth area here is visible from the Acrocorinth above.  The remains of the ancient city are located in the center of the photo (in the midst of a modern village), the ancient harbor is roughly in the center of the visible shoreline, and the isthmus is out of view to the right.

The The gospel workers in Corinth realized the terrible dangers threatening the souls of those for whom they were laboring; and it was with a sense of the responsibility resting on them that they presented the truth as it is in Jesus.

• Clear, plain, and decided was their message–a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death.
• And not only in their words, but in the daily life, was the gospel revealed.

Angels co-operated with them, and the grace and power of God was shown in the conversion of many.

“Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.”

Paul’s Efforts in Corinth

Visual Imagination 3 The hatred with which the Jews had always regarded the apostles was now intensified.

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:9-11   9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;  10 “for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.”  11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

In imagination behold the scene

Excavations from Acrocorinth

(1)

The hatred with which the Jews had always regarded the apostles was now intensified.

• The conversion and baptism of Crispus had the effect of exasperating instead of convincing these stubborn opposers.

They could not bring arguments to disprove Paul’s preaching, and for lack of such evidence they resorted to deception and malignant attack. They blasphemed the gospel and the name of Jesus.

1) In their blind anger no words were too bitter, no device too low, for them to use.

2) They could not deny that Christ had worked miracles; but they…

• THEY declared that He CHRIST had performed them through the power of Satan.
• And they boldly affirmed that the wonderful works wrought by Paul were accomplished through the same agency THE POWER OF SATAN.

(2)

Though Paul had a measure of success in Corinth, yet the wickedness that he saw and heard in that corrupt city almost disheartened him.

• The depravity that he witnessed among the Gentiles,
• And the contempt and insult that he received from the Jews, caused him great anguish of spirit.
• He doubted the wisdom of trying to build up a church from the material that he found there.

(3)

As he was planning to leave the city for a more promising field, and seeking earnestly to understand his duty, the Lord appeared to him in a vision and said,

“Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.”

Paul understood this to be…

• A command to remain in Corinth
• And a guarantee that the Lord would give increase to the seed sown.

Strengthened and encouraged, he continued to labor there with zeal and perseverance.

(4)

The apostle’s efforts were not confined to public speaking; there were many who could not have been reached in that way.

• He spent much time in house-to-house labor, thus availing himself of the familiar intercourse of the home circle.
• He visited the sick and the sorrowing, comforted the afflicted, and lifted up the oppressed.
• And in all that he said and did he magnified the name of Jesus

Thus he labored:

“in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.” 1 Corinthians 2:3.

He trembled lest his teaching should reveal the impress of the human rather than the divine.

Corinth and road from north with Acrocorinth in the back.

(5)

Paul afterward declared:

“We speak wisdom among them that are perfect, yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” 1 Corinthians 2:6-13.

(6)

Paul realized that his sufficiency was not in himself, but in the presence of the Holy Spirit, whose gracious influence filled his heart, bringing every thought into subjection to Christ.

1) He spoke of himself as

“always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.” 2 Corinthians 4:10.

2) In the apostle’s teachings Christ was the central figure. He declared:

“I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” Galatians 2:20.

Self was hidden; Christ was revealed and exalted.

(7)

Paul was an eloquent speaker.

1) Before his conversion he had often sought to impress his hearers by flights of oratory.

2) But now he set all this aside.

• Instead of indulging in poetic descriptions and fanciful representations, which might please the senses and feed the imagination, but which would not touch the daily experience, Paul sought by the use of simple language to bring home to the heart the truths that are of vital importance.
• Fanciful representations of truth may cause an ecstasy of feeling, but all too often truths presented in this way do not supply the food necessary to strengthen and fortify the believer for the battles of life.
• The immediate needs, the present trials, of struggling souls–these must be met with sound, practical instruction in the fundamental principles of Christianity.

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 243-248

Bible Study: Acts 18: 1–5

Corinth

Visual imagination 1 During the first century of the Christian Era, Corinth was one of the leading cities, not only of Greece, but of the world.

Biblical evidence

NKJ Acts 18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth.  2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.  3 So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers.

In imgination behold the scene

(1)

During the first century of the Christian Era, Corinth was one of the leading cities, not only of Greece, but of the world.

• Greeks, Jews, and Romans, with travelers from every land, thronged its streets, eagerly intent on business and pleasure.

A great commercial center, situated within easy access of all parts of the Roman Empire, it was an important place in which to establish memorials for God and His truth.

(2)

Among the Jews who had taken up their residence in Corinth were Aquila and Priscilla, who afterward became distinguished as earnest workers for Christ.

1) Becoming acquainted with the character of these persons, Paul…

“abode with them.”

(3)

At the very beginning of his labors in this thoroughfare of travel, Paul saw on every hand serious obstacles to the progress of his work.

1) The city was almost wholly given up to idolatry.

• Venus was the favorite goddess, and with the worship of Venus were connected many demoralizing rites and ceremonies.

2) The Corinthians had become conspicuous, even among the heathen, for their gross immorality.

3) They seemed to have little thought or care beyond the pleasures and gaieties of the hour.

“Jesus was Christ”

Visual imagination 2 In preaching the gospel in Corinth, the apostle followed a course different from that which had marked his labors at Athens.

Biblical evidence

Acts 18:5   5 … Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.

In imagination behold the scene

(1)

In preaching the gospel in Corinth, the apostle followed a course different from that which had marked his labors at Athens.

1) While in the latter place, he had sought to adapt his style to the character of his audience; he had met…

• logic with logic,
• science with science,
• philosophy with philosophy.

2) As he thought of the time thus spent, and realized that his teaching in Athens had been productive of but little fruit, he decided to follow another plan of labor in Corinth in his efforts to arrest the attention of the careless and the indifferent.

3) He determined to avoid elaborate arguments and discussions, and…

“not to know anything” among the Corinthians “save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”

4) He would preach to them “not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” 1 Corinthians 2:2, 4.

(2)

Jesus, whom Paul was about to present before the Greeks in Corinth as the Christ, was….

• A Jew of lowly origin, reared in a town proverbial for its wickedness.
• He had been rejected by His own nation and at last crucified as a malefactor.

The Greeks believed that there was need of elevating the human race, but they regarded the study of philosophy and science as the only means of attaining to true elevation and honor.

Could Paul lead them to believe that faith in the power of this obscure Jew would uplift and ennoble every power of the being?

(3)

To the minds of multitudes living at the present time, the cross of Calvary is surrounded by sacred memories.

• Hallowed associations are connected with the scenes of the crucifixion.

But in Paul’s day the cross was regarded with feelings of repulsion and horror.

• To uphold as the Saviour of mankind one who had met death on the cross, would naturally call forth ridicule and opposition.

(4)

Paul well knew how his message would be regarded by both the Jews and the Greeks of Corinth.

“We preach Christ crucified,” he admitted, “unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness.” 1 Corinthians 1:23.

1) Among his Jewish hearers there were many who would be angered by the message he was about to proclaim.

2) In the estimation of the Greeks his words would be absurd folly.

• He would be looked upon as weak-minded for attempting to show how the cross could have any connection with the elevation of the race or the salvation of mankind.

(5)

But to Paul the cross was the one object of supreme interest.

• Ever since he had been arrested in his career of persecution against the followers of the crucified Nazarene he had never ceased to glory in the cross.
• At that time there had been given him a revelation of the infinite love of God, as revealed in the death of Christ; and a marvelous transformation had been wrought in his life, bringing all his plans and purposes into harmony with heaven.
• From that hour he had been a new man in Christ. He knew by personal experience that when a sinner once beholds the love of the Father, as seen in the sacrifice of His Son, and yields to the divine influence, a change of heart takes place, and henceforth Christ is all and in all.

(6)

At the time of his conversion, Paul was inspired with a longing desire to help his fellow men…

• to behold Jesus of Nazareth as the Son of the living God, mighty to transform and to save.

Henceforth his life was wholly devoted to an effort to portray the love and power of the Crucified One. His great heart of sympathy took in all classes. He declared…

“I am debtor, both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.” Romans 1:14.

Love for the Lord of glory, whom he had so relentlessly persecuted in the person of His saints, was the actuating principle of his conduct, his motive power.

• If ever his ardor in the path of duty flagged, one glance at the cross and the amazing love there revealed, was enough to cause him to gird up the loins of his mind and press forward in the path of self-denial.

(7)

IMAGINE YOURSELF IN THE SYNAGOGUE AT CORINTH WHEN THE APOSTLE ARE PREACHING THE GOSPEL

1) Behold the apostle preaching in the synagogue at Corinth…

• THE APOSTLE reasoning from the writings of Moses and the prophets,
• THE APOSTLE bringing his hearers down to the advent of the promised Messiah.

2) Listen as he makes plain the work of the Redeemer as the great high priest of mankind–

• the One who through the sacrifice of His own life was to make atonement for sin once for all, and was then to take up His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary.

3) Paul’s hearers were made to understand…

• that the Messiah for whose advent they had been longing, had already come
• that His death was the antitype of all the sacrificial offerings
• that His ministry in the sanctuary in heaven was the great object that cast its shadow backward and made clear the ministry of the Jewish priesthood.

(8)

Paul “testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.” From the Old Testament Scriptures he showed …

• that according to the prophecies and the universal expectation of the Jews, the Messiah would be of the lineage of Abraham and of David;
• then he traced the descent of Jesus from the patriarch Abraham through the royal psalmist.
• He read the testimony of the prophets regarding the character and work of the promised Messiah, and His reception and treatment on the earth;
• then he showed that all these predictions had been fulfilled in the life, ministry, and death of Jesus of Nazareth.

(9)

Paul showed that Christ had come to offer salvation first of all to the nation that was looking for the Messiah’s coming as the consummation and glory of their national existence. But that nation had rejected Him who would have given them life, and had chosen another leader, whose reign would end in death.

• He endeavored to bring home to his hearers the fact that repentance alone could save the Jewish nation from impending ruin.
• He revealed their ignorance concerning the meaning of those Scriptures which it was their chief boast and glory that they fully understood.
• He rebuked their worldliness, their love of station, titles, and display, and their inordinate selfishness.

(10)

In the power of the Spirit, Paul related…

• the story of his own miraculous conversion
• of his confidence in the Old Testament Scriptures, which had been so completely fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth.

His words were spoken with solemn earnestness, and his hearers could not but discern that he loved with all his heart the crucified and risen Saviour. They saw…

• that his mind was centered in Christ,
• that his whole life was bound up with his Lord

So impressive were his words, that only those who were filled with the bitterest hatred against the Christian religion could stand unmoved by them.

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 239-242

Foolishness because…

Visual imagination 1 Among those who listened to the words of Paul were some to whose minds the truths presented brought conviction, but they would not humble themselves to acknowledge God and to accept the plan of salvation.

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:31-34   31 “because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”  32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, while others said, “We will hear you again on this matter.”  33 So Paul departed from among them.  34 However, some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

In imagination behold the scene

Among those who listened to the words of Paul were some to whose minds the truths presented brought conviction, but they would not humble themselves to acknowledge God and to accept the plan of salvation.

• No eloquence of words, no force of argument, can convert the sinner.
• The power of God alone can apply the truth to the heart.
• He who persistently turns from this power cannot be reached.

The Greeks sought after wisdom, yet the message of the cross was to them foolishness because they valued their own wisdom more highly than the wisdom that comes from above.

In their pride of intellect and human wisdom may be found the reason why the gospel message met with comparatively little success among the Athenians.

• The worldly-wise men who come to Christ as poor lost sinners, will become wise unto salvation;
• but those who come as distinguished men, extolling their own wisdom, will fail of receiving the light and knowledge that He alone can give.

Thus Paul met the paganism of his day. His labors in Athens were not wholly in vain.

• Dionysius, one of the most prominent citizens, and some others, accepted the gospel message and united themselves fully with the believers.

Inspiration has given us this glance into the life of the Athenians, who, with all their knowledge, refinement, and art, were yet sunken in vice, that it might be seen…

• how God, through His servant, rebuked idolatry and the sins of a proud, self-sufficient people.

The words of the apostle, and the description of his attitude and surroundings, as traced by the pen of inspiration, were to be handed down to all coming generations, bearing witness of…

• his unshaken confidence,
• his courage in loneliness and adversity
• the victory he gained for Christianity in the very heart of paganism.

Before the Great Men

Lesson 1 Paul’s words contain a treasure of knowledge for the church.

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:22-23   22 Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious;  23 “for as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you:

Practical application for today

Sokrates

Paul’s words contain a treasure of knowledge for the church.

• He was in a position where he might easily have said that which would have irritated his proud listeners and brought himself into difficulty.
• Had his oration been a direct attack upon their gods and the great men of the city, he would have been in danger of meeting the fate of Socrates.

But with a tact born of divine love, he carefully drew their minds away from heathen deities, by revealing to them the true God, who was to them unknown.

Today the truths of Scripture are to be brought before the great men of the world in order that they may choose between obedience to God’s law and allegiance to the prince of evil.

• God sets everlasting truth before them–truth that will make them wise unto salvation, but He does not force them to accept it.

If they turn from it, He leaves them to themselves, to be filled with the fruit of their own doings.

“The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.”1 Corinthians 1: 18-19

“God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are.” 1 Corinthians 1: 27, 28.

Many of the greatest scholars and statesmen, the world’s most eminent men, will in these last days turn from the light because the world by wisdom knows not God. Yet God’s servants are to improve every opportunity to communicate the truth to these men.

• Some will LIKE DIONYSIUS IN ATHEN acknowledge their ignorance of the things of God TO THE UNKNOWN GOD and will take their place as humble learners at the feet of Jesus, the Master Teacher.

A Strong Faith is Needed

Lesson 2 In every effort to reach the higher classes, the worker for God needs strong faith.

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:22   22 Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said…

Practical application

In the darkest hour there is a light above

In every effort to reach the higher classes, the worker for God needs strong faith. Appearances may seem forbidding, but in the darkest hour there is light above.

• The strength of those who love and serve God will be renewed day by day.
• The understanding of the Infinite is placed at their service, that in carrying out His purposes they may not err.

Let these workers hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end, remembering that the light of God’s truth is to shine amid the darkness that enshrouds our world.

• There is to be no despondency in connection with God’s service.
• The faith of the consecrated worker is to stand every test brought to bear upon it.
• God is able and willing to bestow upon His servants all the strength they need and to give them the wisdom that their varied necessities demand.
• He will more than fulfill the highest expectations of those who put their trust in Him.

Danish translation / Dansk oversættelse

Blandt dem, der lyttede til Paulus ord, var der nogle, der lod sig overbevise ved de sandheder, de hørte; men de ville ikke ydmyge sig til at erkende Gud og tage imod hans frelse. Ingen veltalenhed og selv ikke de kraftigste argumenter kan omvende en synder. Kun ved Guds kraft kan hjertet tage imod sandheden. Den, som bestandig vender sig bort fra denne kraft, kan man ikke nå. Grækerne søgte visdom, men dog var korsets budskab for dem en dårskab, fordi de satte deres egen visdom højere end den visdom, som kommer fra det høje.

I athenernes hovmod over deres forstand og menneskelige visdom kan man finde årsagen til, at evangeliet mødte så forholdsvis ringe forståelse hos dem. De verdsligt vise mennesker, som kommer til Kristus som fattige fortabte syndere, vil blive vise til salighed; men de, der kommer som udmærkede mennesker, der priser deres egen visdom, vil ikke være modtagelige for det lys og den kundskab, som kun Gud kan give.

Sådan mødte Paulus sin tids hedenskab. Hans arbejde i Athen var dog ikke helt forgæves. Dionysius, en af de betydeligste borgere, samt nogle andre tog imod evangeliet og sluttede sig helt til de troende.

Ved Åndens hjælp har vi fået dette indblik i athenernes liv,de, som med al deres lærdom, dannelse og kunst dog var nedsunket i laster, for at vi skal kunne se, hvorledes Gud ved sin tjener irettesatte afgudsdyrkere og et hovmodigt, selvsikkert folk for deres synder. Apostlens ord og beskrivelsen af hans optræden og omgivelser, således som inspirationens pen har nedskrevet den, skulle overgives til alle de kommende generationer som vidnesbyrd om hans urokkelige tillid, hans mod trods ensomheden og modgangen, og den sejr, han vandt for kristendommen i selve hedenskabets hjerte.

Paulus ord rummer en skat af lærdom for menigheden. Han var i en situation, hvor han let kunne have sagt netop det, som ville have ophidset hans hovmodige tilhørere og bragt ham selv i vanskeligheder. Hvis hans tale havde været et direkte angreb på byens guder og stormænd, ville han have risikeret at møde samme skæbne som Sokrates. Men med en takt, som stammede fra guddommelig kærlighed, bortledte han forsigtigt deres tanker fra de hedenske guddomme ved at åbenbare dem den Gud, de ikke kendte.

I dag bør skriftens sandheder forkyndes for denne verdens store mænd, for at de kan få mulighed for at vælge mellem lydighed mod Guds lov og lydighed mod det ondes fyrste. Gud forelægger dem evige sandheder, sandheder, som vil gøre dem vise til salighed, men han tvinger dem ikke til at erkende dem. Hvis de vender dem ryggen, overlader han det til dem selv at mættes med deres egne gerningers frugt.

“Thi ordet om korset er vel for dem, som fortabes, en dårskab, men for os, som frelses, er det en Guds kraft. Thi der står skrevet:

“Vismændenes visdom vil jeg lægge øde, og deres klogskab vil jeg gøre til intet.”

“Det, der var dårskab for verden, udvalgte Gud for at gøre de vise til skamme; og det, der var svagt for verden, udvalgte Gud for at gøre det stærke til skamme; og det for verden ringe og det foragtede, det, der ikke var noget, udvalgte Gud for at gøre det, der var noget, til intet.” 1Kor. 1,18?19. og 27?28. Mange af de største videnskabsmænd og statsmænd, verdens mest fremragende mænd, vil i disse sidste dage vende sig fra lyset, fordi verden på grund af visdom ikke kender Gud. Alligevel bør Guds tjenere udnytte enhver lejlighed til at meddele disse mænd sandheden. Nogle af dem vil erkende deres uvidenhed om Guds riges ting og finde deres plads som ymyge disciple ved Jesu fødder, han, som er den store lærer.

Ved hver bestræbelse for at nå de højere klasser har den, som tjener Gud, brug for en stærk tro. Hindringerne kan synes uoverstigelige, men i det dybeste mørke er der dog lys fra oven! De, som elsker og tjener Gud, vil dag for dag få ny styrke. Den evige Guds visdom står til deres rådighed, så de ikke griber fejl, når de vil gøre hans vilje. Måtte disse arbejdere bevare deres første tillid indtil enden og huske på, at Guds sandheds lys skal skinne midt i det mørke, som indhyller verden. Modløshed bør ikke findes i forbindelse med tjenesten for Gud! Den hellige arbejders tro bør kunne stå for enhver prøve, den bliver stillet overfor. Gud både kan og vil skænke sine tjenere al den styrke, de behøver, og han vil give dem den visdom, som deres vekslende behov kræver. Han vil mere end opfylde de største forventninger hos dem, som sætter deres lid til ham.

Source: The Acts of the Apostles by Ellen G. White p. 236-239

Mars’ Hill

Visual imagination 1 They accordingly conducted him to Mars’ Hill.

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:19-20   19 And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new doctrine is of which you speak?  20 “For you are bringing some strange things to our ears. Therefore we want to know what these things mean.”

In imagination behold the scene

Mars' Hill and Akropolis in the distance.

Mars' Hill

They accordingly conducted him to Mars’ Hill…

• This was one of the most sacred spots in all Athens
• Its recollections and associations were such as to cause it to be regarded with a superstitious reverence that in the minds of some amounted to dread.

It was in this place MARS HILL that matters connected with religion were often carefully considered by men who acted as final judges on all the more important moral as well as civil questions.

Here, away from the noise and bustle of crowded thoroughfares, and the tumult of promiscuous discussion, the apostle could be heard without interruption.

1) Around him gathered poets, artists, and philosophers–

the scholars and sages of Athens, who thus addressed him: “May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? for thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know thereof what these things mean.”

Calm and Self-possessed

Visual imagination 2 In that hour of solemn responsibility, the apostle was calm and self-possessed.

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:22-23   22 Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious;  23 “for as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you:

In imagination behold the scene

In that hour of solemn responsibility, the apostle was calm and self-possessed.

1) His heart was burdened with an important message,

2) And the words that fell from his lips convinced his hearers that he was no idle babbler.

He said:

“Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To the Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you.”

With all their intelligence and general knowledge, they were ignorant of the God who created the universe. Yet there were some who were longing for greater light.

• They were reaching out toward the Infinite.

With hand outstretched toward the temple crowded with idols, Paul poured out the burden of his soul, and exposed the fallacies of the religion of the Athenians.

• The wisest of his hearers were astonished as they listened to his reasoning.
• He showed himself familiar with their works of art, their literature, and their religion.

Pointing to their statuary and idols, he declared that God could not be likened to forms of man’s devising.

• These graven images could not, in the faintest sense, represent the glory of Jehovah.
• He reminded them that these images had no life, but were controlled by human power, moving only when the hands of men moved them;

And therefore those who worshiped them were in every way superior to that which they worshiped.

Beyond the Limits

Visual imagination 3 Paul drew the minds of his idolatrous hearers beyond the limits of their false religion to a true view of the Deity, whom they had styled the “Unknown God.”

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:24-25   24 “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.  25 “Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things.

In imagination behold the scene

Altar to the unknown god

Paul drew the minds of his idolatrous hearers beyond the limits of their false religion to a true view of the Deity, whom they had styled the “Unknown God.”

• This Being, whom he now declared unto them, was independent of man, needing nothing from human hands to add to His power and glory.

The people were carried away with admiration for Paul’s earnest and logical presentation of the attributes of the true God–

• of His creative power
• of the existence of His overruling providence.

With earnest and fervid eloquence the apostle declared,

“God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that He is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, seeing He giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.”

The heavens were not large enough to contain God, how much less were the temples made by human hands!

Human Brotherhood

Visual imagination 4 In that age of caste, when the rights of men were often unrecognized, Paul set forth the great truth of human brotherhood,

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:26-27   26 “And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,  27 “so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;

In imagination behold the scene

In that age of caste, when the rights of men were often unrecognized, Paul set forth the great truth of human brotherhood, declaring that God…

“hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth.”

In the sight of God all are on an equality, and to the Creator every human being owes supreme allegiance. Then the apostle showed how, through all God’s dealings with man, His purpose of grace and mercy runs like a thread of gold. He

“hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though He be not far from every one of us.”

Pointing to the noble specimens of manhood about him, with words borrowed from a poet of their own he pictured the infinite God as a Father, whose children they were. Paul declared:

“In Him we live, and move, and have our being, as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also His offspring. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.

God Expected from All….

Visual imagination 5 GOD EXPECT FROM ALL REPENTANCE UNTO SALVATION

Biblical evidence

Acts 17:29-32   29 “Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising.  30 “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent,  31 “because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”  32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, while others said, “We will hear you again on this matter.”

In imagination and reason behold the scene

Darkness

Sunlight

PAUL SPOKE OF THE PAST AND PRESENT AND FUTURE

“And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.”

IN THE PAST: In the ages of darkness that had preceded the advent of Christ, the divine Ruler had passed lightly over the idolatry of the heathen;

IN THE PRESENT: but now, through His Son, He had sent men the light of truth; and He expected from all repentance unto salvation,

• not only from the poor and humble,
• but from the proud philosopher and the princes of the earth.

“Because He hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto all men, in that He hath raised Him from the dead.”

As Paul spoke of the resurrection from the dead,

“some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.”

Thus closed the labors of the apostle at Athens, the center of heathen learning, for the Athenians, clinging persistently to their idolatry, turned from the light of the true religion.

• When a people are wholly satisfied with their own attainments, little more need be expected of them.
• Though boasting of learning and refinement, the Athenians were constantly becoming more corrupt and more content with the vague mysteries of idolatry.

Danish translation / Dansk oversættelse

Areopagos

Af denne grund førte de ham op på Areopagos. Dette var et af Athens mest hellige steder og havde sådanne fortidsminder og traditioner, at de fik folk til at betragte det med en overtroisk ærbødighed, der hos nogle grænsede til frygt. Det var på dette sted, at ting, der stod i forbindelse med religionen, ofte blev omhyggeligt diskuteret af mænd, der så afsagde en afgørende dom angående alle de mere vigtige moralske såvel som borgerlige spørgsmål.

Blive hørt uden afbrydelser

Her langt borte fra de befærdede gaders larm og tummel og støjen af tilfældig samtale kunne apostlen blive hørt uden at af brydes. Rundt omkring ham forsamledes digtere, kunstnere og filosoffer Athens videnskabsmænd og lærde der rettede denne henvendelse til ham: “Kan vi ikke få at vide, hvad det er for en ny lære, du taler om? Du fortæller os jo ting, der lyder fremmede i vore øren; derfor vil vi gerne vide, hvad dette skal betyde.”

Apostlen var rolig og fattet

I denne højtidelige og ansvarsfulde stund var apostlen rolig og fattet. Et vigtigt budskab tyngede hans sjæl, og de ord, der lød fra hans mund, overbeviste tilhørerne om, at hans tale ikke var tom snak. “Athenere,” sagde han, “jeg ser, at I i alle måder er ivrige i jeres gudsdyrkelse. Thi da jeg gik omkring og tog jeres helligdomme i øjesyn, fandt jeg blandt andet et alter med den indskrift: “For en ukendt gud.” Det, som I således dyrker uden at kende det, det forkynder jeg jer.” Trods al deres klogskab og viden om mange ting var de uvidende om den Gud, som havde skabt verden. Dog var der nogle, der længtes efter mere lys. De higede efter det evige.

Det som tyngede Pauli sjæl

Med hånden udrakt mod templet, der var fuldt af afgudsbilleder, udøste Paulus det, der tyngede hans sjæl, og påpegede urigtighederne i athenernes religion. De klogeste blandt tilhørerne undredes, mens de lyttede til hans forklaringer. Han viste dem, at han var bekendt med deres kunst, deres litteratur og deres religion. Han pegede på deres statuer og afguder og erklærede, at Gud ikke kunne lignes ved skikkelser, der var skabt ved menneskers snilde. Disse udskårne billeder kunne ikke i ringeste grad fremstille Jehovas herlighed. Han mindede dem om at disse billeder var uden liv,kun beherskede af menneskelig kraft, så de kun bevægede sig ved menneskehænders hjælp; og derfor stod de, som tilbad dem, i enhver henseende over det, de tilbad.

Hinsides grænserne…

Paulus drog sine afgudsdyrkende tilhøreres sind ud over grænserne for deres falske religion til et ærligt syn på den guddom, som de havde kaldt “den ukendte gud”. Denne var, som han nu forklarede dem, uafhængig af mennesker og trængte ikke til menneskehænders hjælp for at føje noget til sin magt og herlighed.

Forsamlingens beundring over Paulus

Forsamlingen blev grebet af beundring over Paulus alvor og hans logiske fremstilling af den sande Guds væsen, af hans skabende kraft og tilstedeværelsen af et altbeherskende forsyn. Med alvorlig og glødende veltalenhed erklærede apostlen: “Gud, som har skabt verden og alt, hvad der er i den, han, som er Himmelens og jordens Herre, bor ikke i templer gjorte med hænder, han tjenes heller ikke af menneskers hænder, som om han trængte til noget, han, som jo selv giver alle liv og ånde og alt andet.” Himlene var ikke store nok til at rumme Gud; hvor meget mindre så de templer, der var bygget af menneskehænder.

Menneskelig fællesskab

I denne kasteprægede tid, da menneskerettighederne tit ikke blev anerkendt, fremsatte Paulus den store sandhed om det menneskelige fællesskab og erklærede, at Gud “lod alle folk nedstamme fra ét menneske og lod dem bosætte sig på hele jordens flade.” I Guds øjne er vi alle lige, og et hvert menneske skylder Skaberen ubetinget lydighed. Så påviste apostlen, hvorledes Guds nåde og barmhjertighed løber som en gylden tråd gennem hele Guds handlemåde med mennesker. “Han fastsatte bestemte tider og landegrænser for dem, for at de skulle søge Gud, om de dog kunne famle sig frem til ham og finde ham, så sandt han ikke er langt fra en eneste af os.”

Den evige Gud som en far for alle

Paulus lånte ord fra en af deres egne digtere

Idet han henvendte sig til de ædle repræsentanter for menneskeheden, som omgav ham, skildrede han den evige Gud som deres Fader med ord, der var lånt fra en af deres egne digtere: “I ham lever og røres og er vi” erklærede han, “sådan som nogle af jeres digtere har sagt: “Thi vi er også af hans slægt.” Når vi nu er Guds slægt, må vi ikke mene, at guddommen er lig guld eller sølv eller sten, formet ved menneskers kunst og snilde.”

“Vel har Gud båret over med uvidenhedens tider, men nu sender han mennesker det budskab, at de alle og alle vegne skal omvende sig.” I de mørke tider, der var gået forud for Kristi komme, havde den guddommelige hersker set gennem fingre med hedningernes afgudsdyrkelse; men nu havde han ved sin Søn sendt sandhedens lys til mennesker, og han ventede omvendelse til frelse af alle, ikke blot de fattige og ringe, men også af verdens stolte filosoffer og jordens fyrster. “Thi han har fastsat en dag, da han vil dømme jorderig med retfærdighed ved en mand, som han har bestemt dertil, og det har han gjort troværdigt for alle ved at lade ham opstå fra de døde.” Da Paulus talte om opstandelse fra de døde, “spottede nogle; men andre sagde: Det vil vi høre dig tale om en anden gang.”

Athen som midtpunkt for hedensk videnskab

Hermed endte apostlens virksomhed i Athen, midtpunktet for den hedenske videnskab; thi athenerne, der stædigt klamrede sig til deres afgudsdyrkelse, vendte sig fra den sande religions lys. Når et folk er helt og fuldt tilfreds med, hvad det selv har opnået, kan man kun forvente lidt af dem. Skønt athenerne pralede af deres lærdom og dannelse, blev de stadig mere fordærvede og slog sig mere og mere til ro med afgudsdyrkelsens tågede mysterier.

Source: Steps to Christ by Ellen G. White p. 83

The Opinion has Prevailed…

Lesson 1 Many have excused themselves from rendering their gifts to the service of Christ because others were possessed of superior endowments and advantages.

Biblical evidence

Matthew 25:14-15  14 ” For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.  15 “And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.

Luke 19:12-15  12 Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return.  13 “So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’  14 “But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’  15 “And so it was that when he returned, having received the kingdom, he then commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

Colossians 3:23   23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,

Practical application

Bury Talent

Many have excused themselves from rendering their gifts to the service of Christ because others were possessed of superior endowments and advantages.

• The opinion has prevailed that only those who are especially talented are required to consecrate their abilities to the service of God.
• It has come to be understood by many that talents are given to only a certain favored class to the exclusion of others who of course are not called upon to share in the toils or the rewards.

But it is not so represented in the parable. When the master of the house called his servants, he gave to every man his work.

With a loving spirit we may perform life’s humblest duties

“as to the Lord.” Colossians 3:23.

If the love of God is in the heart, it will be manifested in the life. The sweet savor of Christ will surround us, and our influence will elevate and bless.

You are not to wait…

1) for great occasions BEFORE YOU GO TO WORK FOR GOD

2) to expect extraordinary abilities before you go to work for God.

You need not have a thought of what the world will think of you.

• If your daily life is a testimony to the purity and sincerity of your faith, and others are convinced that you desire to benefit them, your efforts will not be wholly lost.

The humblest and poorest of the disciples of Jesus can be a blessing to others.

• They may not realize that they are doing any special good, but by their unconscious influence they may start waves of blessing that will widen and deepen, and the blessed results they may never know until the day of final reward.
• They do not feel or know that they are doing anything great.
• They are not required to weary themselves with anxiety about success.
• They have only to go forward quietly, doing faithfully the work that God’s providence assigns, and their life will not be in vain.

Their own souls will be growing more and more into the likeness of Christ; they are workers together with God in this life and are thus fitting for the higher work and the unshadowed joy of the life to come.

Danish translation / Dansk Oversættelse

Den mening har gjort sig gældende

Lektie 1 Mange har undladt at bruge deres evner i Kristi tjeneste, fordi andre har bedre gaver og fortrin.

Bibelsk bevis

Matthew 25:14-15  14 ” For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.  15 “And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.

Praktisk liv

(1)

Mange har undladt at bruge deres evner i Kristi tjeneste, fordi andre har bedre gaver og fortrin.

• Den mening har gjort sig gældende, at kun de, der er særlig godt begavet, bør hellige deres evner til Guds tjeneste.
• Mange har den forestilling, at talenter kun gives til en vis begunstiget klasse, og at alle andre af denne grund ikke er kaldet til at deltage i besværlighederne eller opnå belønningen.

Men dette er ikke, hvad lignelsen om talenterne lærer os. Da husets herre kaldte sine tjenere, gav han hver mand sin gerning.

(2)

Vi kan udføre livets mest ydmyge pligter i en kærlig ånd

»som for Herren« Kol. 3,23.

Hvis Guds kærlighed er i hjertet, vil den vise sig i livet. Kristi vellugt vil omgive os, og vor indflydelse vil,blive til højnelse og velsignelse for andre.

(3)

Du bør ikke vente på…

• store anledninger før du begynder at arbejde for Gud
• forlange usædvanlige evner, før du begynder at arbejde for Gud.

Du behøver ikke at bekymre dig om, hvad verden vil tænke om dig.

• Hvis dit daglige liv er et vidnesbyrd om din tros renhed og oprigtighed, og andre overbevises om, at du gerne vil gøre dem godt, vil dine bestræbelser ikke være ganske spildt.

(4)

De ringeste og fattigste af Jesu disciple kan være til velsignelse for andre.

• De forstår måske ikke selv, at de udretter noget videre godt; men ved deres ubevidste indflydelse kan de sætte bølger af velsignelse i gang, som vil udvides og uddybes, medens de velsignede frugter deraf måske aldrig bliver åbenbarede for dem før på den sidste store regnskabsdag.
• De synes ikke og ved ikke, at de udretter noget stort. Det fordres ikke af dem, at de skal besvære sig med bekymring om resultaterne.
• De behøver kun at gå fremad i stilhed og med troskab udføre den gerning Gud i sit forsyn giver dem, så vil deres liv ikke være forgæves. De vil vokse sjæleligt og udvikles mere og mere efter Kristi billede.

De er Guds medarbejdere i dette liv, og således beredes de til en højere gerning og en ufordunklet glæde i det tilkommende liv.