Lesson 1 Parents in the training of your children study the lessons that God has given in nature.

Biblical evidence

Mark 10:15-16 15 “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” 16 And He took them up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them.

Practical application for 2008

So how may parents give their children every advantage that the children may form characters after the smilitude of the character of Christ? There are four basic principles to consider:

(1) Follow the method of the gardener

Parents, in the training of your children, study the lessons that God has given in nature.

If you would train a pink, or rose, or lily, how would you do it? Ask the gardener by what process he makes every branch and leaf to flourish so beautifully, and to develop in symmetry and loveliness. He will tell you the following:

1. He will tell you that it was by no rude touch, no violent effort; for this would only break the delicate stems.
2. It was by little attentions, often repeated.
3. He moistened the soil,
4. He protected the growing plants from the fierce blasts
5. He protected the growing plant from the scorching sun,
6. And God caused them to flourish and to blossom into loveliness.

In dealing with your children, follow the method of the gardener. By gentle touches, by loving ministrations, seek to fashion their characters after the pattern of the character of Christ.

(2) Encourage the expression of love toward God and toward one another.

Why is it important to encourage the expression of love toward God and toward one another?

The reason why there are so many hardhearted men and women in the world is that true affection has been regarded as weakness, and has been discouraged and repressed. The better nature of these persons was stifled in childhood; and unless the light of divine love shall melt away their cold selfishness, their happiness will be forever ruined.

Therefore if we wish our children to possess the tender spirit of Jesus, and the sympathy that angels manifest for us, we must encourage the generous, loving impulses of childhood.

(3) Teach the children to see Christ in nature

Teach the children to see Christ in nature. In nature you can teach the children of God’s love and obedience to the law of God.

First, take the children out into the open air, under the noble trees, into the garden; and in all the wonderful works of creation teach them to see an expression of His love.

Second, in the open air, under the noble trees, into the garden and in all the wonderful works of creation teach the children obedience to the law of God. For example you may say to your child the following:

• That He made the laws which govern all living things,
• That He has made laws for us,
• That these laws are for our happiness and joy.

So do not weary children with long prayers and tedious exhortations, but through nature’s object lessons teach them of God’s love and obedience to the law of God.

(4) As you win their confidence in you as a follower of Christ, it will be easy to teach them of the great love wherewith He has loved us.

As you win their confidence in you as followers of Christ, it will be easy to teach them of the great love wherewith He has loved us. Angels will be by your side and God will give to both fathers and mothers grace:

• As you try to make plain the truths of salvation, and point the children to Christ as a personal Saviour, angels will be by your side.
• The Lord will give to fathers and mothers grace to interest their little ones in the precious story of the Babe of Bethlehem, who is indeed the hope of the world.

Lesson 1 Parents should give their children every advantage that the children may form characters after the similitude of the character of Christ.

Biblical evidence

Matthew 19:14 4 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Practical application for 2008

Parent’s should give give their children every advantage (one advantage is education) that they may form character after the similitude of the character of Christ.

(Discussion)

Con:

It is still true that children are the most susceptible to the teachings of the gospel; their hearts are open to divine influences, and strong to retain the lessons received. The little children may be Christians, having an experience in accordance with their years.

Pro:

Children need to be educated in spiritual things,

Parents, therefore, should give their children every advantage which include education, that they may form characters after the similitude of the character of Christ.

Real stories from Real People

In the children who were brought in contact with Him, Jesus saw the men and women who should be heirs of His grace and subjects of His kingdom, and some of whom would become martyrs for His sake.

He knew that these children would listen to Him and accept Him as their Redeemer far more readily than would grown-up people, many of whom were the worldly-wise and hardhearted. In His teaching He came down to their level. He, the Majesty of heaven, did not disdain to answer their questions, and simplify His important lessons to meet their childish understanding. He planted in their minds the seeds of truth, which in after years would spring up, and bear fruit unto eternal life.

Lesson 2 Fathers and mothers should look upon their children as younger members of the Lord’s family, committed to them to be educated for heaven.

Biblical evidence

Luke 18:17 17 “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”

Practical application for 2008

How do fathers and mothers educate their children for heaven?

First, the lessons that they themselves learn from Christ they should give to their children, as the young minds can receive them, little by little opening to them the beauty of the principles of heaven

Thus the Christian home becomes a school, where the parents serve as underteachers, while Christ Himself is the chief instructor.

So how do parents work for conversion of the children and further fashion the children’s character after the pattern of the character of Christ?

Working for the conversion of children:

First, In working for the conversion of our children, we should not look for violent emotion as the essential evidence of conviction of sin.

Second, it is not necessary to know the exact time when they are converted.

We should, however, teach them to bring their sins to Jesus, asking His forgiveness, and believing that He pardons and receives them as He received the children when He was personally on earth.

When working for the conversion of their children, both fathers and mothers should treat their children as intelligent beings as they themselves would like to be treated.

The mother:

As the mother teaches her children to obey her because they love her, she is teaching them the first lessons in the Christian life. The mother’s love represents to the child the love of Christ, and the little ones who trust and obey their mother are learning to trust and obey the Saviour.

The father:

Jesus was the pattern for children, and He was also the father’s example. On the one hand Christ exercised authority and power. On the other hand Christ used kind and courteous expressions in his intercouse with the rude and violent:

• He spoke as one having authority, and His word was with power;
• Yet in all His intercourse with rude and violent men He did not use one unkind or discourteous expression.

Fathers need the grace of Christ in the heart This grace of Christ in the heart will…

1. It will impart a heaven-born dignity and sense of propriety.
2. It will soften whatever is harsh, and subdue all that is coarse and unkind.

Lesson 1 The mothers of today are to receive Christ’s words with faith

Biblical evidence

Matthew 19:13-14 13 Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them;”

Practical application for 2008

The mothers of today are to receive His words with faith for the following reasons.

1. Christ is as verily a personal Saviour today as when He lived a man among men.
2. He is as verily the helper of mothers today as when He gathered the little ones to His arms in Judea.
3. The children of our hearts are as much the purchase of His blood as were the children of long ago.

Real stories from real people

Among the Jews it was customary for children to be brought to some rabbi, that he might lay his hands upon them in blessing; but the Saviour’s disciples thought His work too important to be interrupted in this way. When the mothers came to Him with their little ones, the disciples looked on them with disfavor. They thought these children too young to be benefited by a visit to Jesus, and concluded that He would be displeased at their presence. But it was the disciples with whom He was displeased. The Saviour understood the care and burden of the mothers who were seeking to train their children according to the word of God. He had heard their prayers. He Himself had drawn them into His presence.

The mothers were comforted. They returned to their homes strengthened and blessed by the words of Christ. They were encouraged to take up their burden with new cheerfulness, and to work hopefully for their children.

Lesson 2 Jesus knows the burden of every mother’s heart

Biblical evidence

Matthew 2:14 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt,

Luke 2:16 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.

Matthew 15:21-22 21 Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed.”

Luke 7:12-15 12 And when He came near the gate of the city, behold, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother; and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” 15 So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother.

John 19:25-27 25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.

Practical application for 2008

Jesus knows the burden of every mother’s heart. During His life he gave comfort and help to these three women:

• He who had a mother that struggled with poverty and privation sympathizes with every mother in her labors.
• He who made a long journey in order to relieve the anxious heart of a Canaanite woman will do as much for the mothers of today.
• He who gave back to the widow of Nain her only son
• He who in His agony upon the cross remembered His own mother

So in every grief and every need He will give comfort and help to mothers becaue He is touched by the mother’s sorrow

Lesson 3 Let mothers come to Christ with their perplexities

Biblical evidence

Matthew 19:14 14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them…”

Practical application for 2008

Let mothers come to Jesus with their perplexities because:

• They will find grace sufficient to aid them in the management of their children.
• The gates of heaven are open for every mother who would lay her burdens at the Saviour’s feet. He who said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” still invites the mothers to lead up their little ones to be blessed by Him.
• Even the babe in its mother’s arms may dwell as under the shadow of the Almighty through the faith of the praying mother.One good example is the life of John the Baptist. John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit from his birth. If we will live in communion with God, we too may expect the divine Spirit to mold our little ones, even from their earliest moments.

Lesson 1 It is true now as in apostolic days that without the illumination of the divine spirit, humanity cannot discern the glory of Christ.

Biblical evidence

Luke 17:20 20 Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation;

1 Corinthians 2:14 14 But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

Practical application for 2008

So why is it as true now as in apostolic days, that without the illumination of the divine Spirit, humanity cannot discern the glory of Christ? The answer is that the truth and the work of God are unappreciated by a world-loving and compromising Christianity. For example the followers of Christ is not found in the ways of ease, of earthly honor or worldly conformity. They are far in advance, in the paths of toil, and humiliation, and reproach, in the front of the battle “against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Eph. 6:12, R. V. And now, as in Christ’s day, they are misunderstood and reproached and oppressed by the priests and Pharisees of their time.

Real stories from real people

Some of the Pharisees had come to Jesus demanding “when the kingdom of God should come.” More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message that like a trumpet call had sounded through the land, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matt. 3:2. And as yet these Pharisees saw no indication of the establishment of the kingdom. Many of those who rejected John, and at every step had opposed Jesus, were insinuating that His mission had failed.

Jesus answered, “The kingdom of God cometh not with outward show; [margin]: neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.” The kingdom of God begins in the heart. Look not here or there for manifestations of earthly power to mark its coming.

What does it mean that the kingdom of God, according to Christ, comes not with observation or like an outward show? First, the gospel of the grace of God, with its spirit of self-abnegation, can never be in harmony with the spirit of the world because the two principles are antagonistic. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Cor. 2:14.

Today, however, in the religious world there are multitudes who, as they believe, are working for the establishment of the kingdom of Christ as an earthly and temporal dominion. The expression “outward show” used by Christ when He answered the Phariesees means an earthly and temporal dominion.

Religious people today desire to establish the kingdom of God with outward show

• Religious people desire to make our Lord the ruler of the kingdoms of this world, the ruler in its courts and camps, its legislative halls, its palaces and market places.
• Religious people expect Christ to rule through legal enactments, enforced by human authority.
• Since Christ is not now here in person, religious people themselves will undertake to act in His stead, to execute the laws of His kingdom.

The establishment of such a kingdom is what the Jews desired in the days of Christ. They would have received Jesus, had He been willing to:

• to establish a temporal dominion,
• to enforce what they regarded as the laws of God
• to make them the expositors of His will and the agents of His authority.

But He said, “My kingdom is not of this world.” John 18:36. He would not accept the earthly throne.

Even in the Wilderness, when Christ was tempted by the Devil, He refused the eathly throne:

Matthew 4:8-10 8 Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” 10 Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”

Since the government under which Jesus lived was corrupt and oppressive; on every hand were crying abuses,–extortion, intolerance, and grinding cruelty, it is, at first hand, difficult to understand why Christ was not willing to establish a temporal kingdom. But Christ had a good reason to refuse the earthly throne, as we soon will understand.

Despite the corrupt and oppressive civil government, the Saviour attempted no civil reforms:

1. Christ attacked no national abuses,
2. Christ did not condemned the national enemies.
3. Christ did not interfere with the authority or administration of those in power.
4. Christ who was our example kept aloof from earthly governments.

So why did Christ not attempt any civil reform, although he would have good reasons for such action? Christ had good reasons to refuse the earthly thorne. Not because He was indifferent to the woes of men, but because the remedy did not lie in merely human and external measures. To be efficient, the cure must reach men individually, and must regenerate the heart.

Lesson 2 Not by the decisions of courts or councils or legislative assemblies, not by the patronage of worldy great men is the kingdom of Christ established, but by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical evidence

Luke 17:20-21 20 Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; 21 “nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”

John 1:12-13 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Practical application for 2008

What is the only power that can work the uplifting of mankind? Where can we find such power? This power is not found in humanity himself. Mankind can not uplift himself or herself without receiving help from outside himself.The idea, often advanced by educational thinkers, that it is necessary only to develop the good that exist in man by nature is a fatal deception. The kingdom is etablished only by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity throught the work of the Holy Spirit. And the human agency (what we  can do to promote the kingdom of God) for the accomplishment of this work is the teaching and practicing of the word of God.

Real stories from real People

When the apostle Paul began his ministry in Corinth, that populous, wealthy, and wicked city, polluted by the nameless vices of heathenism, he said, “I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” 1 Cor. 2:2. Writing afterward to some of those who had been corrupted by the foulest sins, he could say, “But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” “I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 6:11; 1:4.

Now in 2008 , as in Christ’s day, the work of God’s kingdom lies not with those who are clamoring for recognition and support by earthly rulers and human laws, but with those who are declaring to the people in His name those spiritual truths that will work in the receivers the experience of Paul:

Galatians 2:20 20 “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me;

Then the Christians will labor as did Paul for the benefit of men. Paul said:

2 Corinthians 5:20 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.

Lesson 1 In the story of the good Samaritan, Christ illustrates the nature of true religion.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:30-35 30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

Practical application for 2008

So what is the nature of true religion? According to Christ, true religion consists not in systems, creeds or rites, but true religion consist in the performance of loving deeds, in bringing the greatest good to others, in genuine goodness.

Lesson 2 In the story of the good Samaritan, Jesus gave a picture of Himself and His mission

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:30-35 30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

Practical application for 2008

In the story of the good Samaritan, Jesus gave a picture of man’s condition, Himself and His mission.

Man’s condition when Christ came to the world:

Man had been deceived, bruised, robbed, and ruined by Satan, and left to perish

A picture of Jesus and His mission:

The Saviour had compassion on our helpless condition. His mission is the following:

• He left His glory, to come to our rescue.
• He found us ready to die, and He undertook our case.
• He healed our wounds.
• He covered us with His robe of righteousness.
• He opened to us a refuge of safety, and made complete provision for us at His own charges.
• He died to redeem us.

Therefore pointing to His own example, Christ says to His followers, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 15:17; 13:34.

Lesson 3 Doing, and not saying merely, is expected of the children of God.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:25 25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

Luke 10:27-28 27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. 28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

Luke 10:36-37 36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? 37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

1 John 2:6 6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

Practical application for 2008

Why is the lesson that doing and not saying merely is expected of the children of God, no less needed in the world today in 2008 than when it fell from the lips of Jesus? The answer is the following:

1. Selfishness and cold formality have well-nigh extinguished the fire of love, and dispelled the graces that should make fragrant the character.
2. Many who profess His name have lost sight of the fact that Christians are to represent Christ.
3. Unless there is practical self-sacrifice for the good of others, in the family circle, in the neighborhood, in the church, and wherever we may be, then whatever our profession, we are not Christians.

In order to understand why we are not christians if we are passing by like the priest and the Levite, we need to understand our link to Christ and the principle of the law, the principle that is illustrated in the story of the good Samaritan and made manifest in the life of Christ.

First, Christ has linked His interest with that of humanity, and He asks us to become one with Him for the saving of humanity.

This link between Christ and humanity is based on the gospel as described in the scriptural text:

“Freely ye have received,” He says, “freely give.” Matt. 10:8.

Sin is the greatest of all evils, and it is ours to pity and help the sinner who err. We can compare the sinner with the traveler in the story who was attacked by the robbers .

1. There are many who err, and who feel their shame and their folly.
2. They are hungry for words of encouragement.
3. They look upon their mistakes and errors, until they are driven almost to desperation.

These souls we are not to neglect. If we are Christians, we shall not pass by on the other side, keeping as far as possible from the very ones who most need our help.
So when we see human beings in distress (distress is bad stress and so common in our time and distress is negative to human health and not like eustress which is considered good stress), whether through affliction or through sin, we shall never say, This does not concern me.

Second, never should we pass by one suffering soul in distress without seeking to impart to him or her of the comfort wherewith we are comforted of God. This action is in harmony with the Bible text found in Galatians:

Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

By faith and prayer press back the power of the enemy. Speak words of faith and courage that will be as a healing balsam to the bruised and wounded one. Many, many, have fainted and become discouraged in the great struggle of life, when one word of kindly cheer would have strengthened them to overcome.

When we spak words of faith and courage to the distressed and wounded and by faith and prayer press back the power of the enemy, we may fullfill the principle of the law – the principle that is illustrated in the story of the good Samaritan and made manifest in the life of Jesus.

• Christ character reveals the true significance of the law, and shows what is meant by loving our neighbor as ourselves.
• Similarly, when the children of God manifest mercy, kindness, and love toward all men, they also are witnessing to the character of the statutes of heaven. They are bearing testimony to the fact that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” Ps. 19:7.

So what is the true principle of the law then? The true principle is very much related to the essence of the gospel:

First, whoever fails to manifest this love, that is illustrated in the story of the good Samaritan and made manifest in the life of Jesus, is breaking the law which he professes to revere.

Second, the spirit we manifest toward our brethren declares what is our spirit toward God.

Third, the love of God in the heart is the only spring of love toward our neighbor. “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” Beloved, “if we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:20, 12.

Therefore, if we say that we abide in Christ, we ought ourself also so to walk as Christ walked. We can conclude that we have nothing in ourself of which to boast. We have no ground for self-exaltation. Our only ground of hope is in the rightousness of Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His spirit working in and through us.

Lesson 1 There are Christians who think and speak altogether too much about the power of Satan.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:17-18 17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.

Practical application for 2008

There are three reasons why Christians think and speak altogether too much about the power of Satan.

• They think of Satan
• They pray about Satan
• They talk about Satan

So Satan looms up greater and greater in their imagination.

(Discussion)

Although it is true that Satan is a powerful being; we have, thank God, a mighty Saviour, who cast out the evil one from heaven. Satan is pleased when we magnify his power. Why not talk of Jesus? Why not magnify Jesus power and His love?

The rainbow of promise encircling the throne on high is an everlasting testimony that:

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

The rainbow of promise encircling the throne on high testifies both to the universe and to us the following:

• To the unfallen created universe it testifies that God will never forsake His people in their struggle with evil.
• To us it is an assurance of strength and protection as long as the throne itself shall endure.

Lesson 2 Rejoice that you are one with God, one with Christ and with the whole family of heaven

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:20 20 “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

Practical application for 2008

So when are we not to rejoice and why and when are we to rejoice?

When not to rejoice and why:

We are not to rejoice in the posession of (divine) power for the following reasons:

1. Rejoice not in the possession of power, lest you lose sight of your dependence upon God.
2. Be careful lest self-sufficiency come in, and you work in your own strength, rather than in the spirit and strength of your Master.
3. Self is ever ready to take the credit if any measure of success attends the work. Self is flattered and exalted, and the impression is not made upon other minds that God is all and in all.

When are we to rejoice

The apostle Paul says:

“When I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Cor. 12:10.

When we have a realization of our weakness, we learn to depend upon a power not inherent.

• Nothing can take so strong a hold on the heart as the abiding sense of our responsibility to God.
• Nothing reaches so fully down to the deepest motives of conduct as a sense of the pardoning love of Christ.

We are to come in touch with God, then we shall be imbued with His Holy Spirit, that enables us to come in touch with our fellow men.

So rejoice that through Christ you have become connected with God, members of the heavenly family.

While you look higher than yourself, you will have a continual sense of the weakness of humanity.

• The less you cherish self, the more distinct and full will be your comprehension of the excellence of your Saviour.
• The more closely you connect yourself with the source of light and power, the greater light will be shed upon you, and the greater power will be yours to work for God.

Therefore rejoice that you are one with God, one with Christ, and with the whole family of heaven

Lesson 3 The only way in which we can gain a more perfect apprehension of truth is by keeping the heart tender adn subdued by the spirit of Christ.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:21-22 21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 22 “All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.”

Luke 10:24 24 “for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”

Practical application for 2008 (Desire of Ages (DA) By Ellen G. White)

The only way in which we can gain a more perfect apprehension of truth is by keeping the heart tender and subdued by the Spirit of Christ. The soul must be cleansed from vanity and pride, and vacated of all that has held it in possession, and Christ must be enthroned within. Human science is too limited to comprehend the atonement. The plan of redemption is so far-reaching that philosophy cannot explain it. It will ever remain a mystery that the most profound reasoning cannot fathom. The science of salvation cannot be explained; but it can be known by experience. Only he who sees his own sinfulness can discern the preciousness of the Saviour. {DA 494.4}

Lesson 1 As the shepherd goes before his sheep, himself first encountering the perils of the way, so does Jesus with His people

Biblical evidence

John 10:4 4 “And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.

Practical application for 2008

As the shepherd goes before his sheep, himself first encountering the perils of the way, so does Jesus with His people. “When He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them.” The way to heaven is consecrated by the Saviour’s footprints, because:

1. The path may be steep and rugged, but Jesus has traveled that way; His feet have pressed down the cruel thorns, to make the pathway easier for us.
2. Every burden that we are called to bear He Himself has borne.

Lesson 2 Although now in 2008 Christ has ascended to the presence of God, and shares today the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature in two ways:

1. Today in 2008 the same tender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity.

2. Today in 2008 the hand that was pierced is reached forth to bless more abundantly His people that are in the world.

Biblical evidence

John 10:27-29 27 “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 “And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.

Practical application for 2008

Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature today for the following reasons:

1. The soul that has given himself to Christ is more precious in His sight than the whole world.
2. The Saviour would have passed through the agony of Calvary that one might be saved in His kingdom.
3. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast.

Through all our trials we have a never-failing Helper. Christ does not leave us alone to:

• To struggle with temptation
• To battle with evil
• To be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow

It is true that Christ is Hidden from mortal sight now. Yet the ear of faith can hear His voice saying:

Revelation 1:18 18 “I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

So the ear of faith can hear His voice saying:

• I have endured your sorrows, experienced your struggles, encountered your temptations. I know your tears; I also have wept.
• The griefs that lie too deep to be breathed into any human ear, I know.
• Think not that you are desolate and forsaken.
• Though your pain touch no responsive chord in any heart on earth, look unto Me, and live. “The mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.” Isa. 54:10.

Lesson 3 However much a shepherd may love his sheep, he loves his sons and daughters more. Jesus is not only our shepherd; Christ is our “everlasting father”

Biblical evidence

John 10:14-15 14 “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. 15 “As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father;

Practical application for 2008

In the RV Bible translation the text is like this:

“I know Mine own, and Mine own know Me, even as the Father knoweth Me, and I know the Father.” John 10:14, 15, R. V

This Bible statement is unique!! Because:

The communion between Christ and the eternal God is taken to represent the communion between Christ and His children on the earth!

And remember that Christ is:

1. Christ is the only-begotten Son of God,
2. Christ who is in the bosom of the Father
3. Christ whom God has declared to be “the Man that is My fellow” (Zech. 13:7).

Real stories from real people

The great sacrifice of Christ in the wilderness, in Gethsemane and upon the cross was not made to create in the Fathers heart a love for man, nor to make God willing to save . NO, NO. Because God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.

John 3:16 16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

John 10:17 17 “Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again.

Lesson 1 It is no part of Christ’s mission to compel men to receive him

Biblical evidence

Luke 9:54-56 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 “For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.

Practical application for 2008

So why is it no part of Christ’s mission to compel men to receive Him? The answer is the following reasons:

1. It is Satan, and men actuated by his spirit, that seek to compel the conscience. Under a pretense of zeal for righteousness, men who are confederate with evil angels bring suffering upon their fellow men, in order to convert them to their ideas of religion
2. In contrast, Christ is ever showing mercy, ever seeking to win by the revealing of His love.
3. It is true though, that Christ can admit no rival in the soul, nor accept of partial service; but Christ desires only voluntary service, the willing surrender of the heart under the constraint of love.
4. There can be no more conclusive evidence that we possess the spirit of Satan than the disposition to hurt and destroy those who do not appreciate our work, or who act contrary to our ideas.

Lesson 2 Our condemnation in the judgment will not be the result from the fact that we have been in error, but from the fact that we have neglected heaven-sent opportunities for learning what is truth.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:10-16 10 “But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.’ 12 “But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for that city. 13 ” Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 “But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15 “And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades. 16 “He who hears you hears Me, he who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me.”

Practical application for 2008

Since Christ does not compel men to receive Him, he stands at the “at the door” of the heart and knock, asking for entrance.

The True Witness in the Revelation says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock.” Rev. 3:20. Every warning, reproof, and entreaty in the word of God or through His messengers is a knock at the door of the heart. It is the voice of Jesus asking for entrance.

What happens if we are not willing to open the door when Christ ask for entrance? The answer is the following:

• With every knock unheeded, the disposition to open becomes weaker.
• The impressions of the Holy Spirit if disregarded today, will not be as strong tomorrow.
• The heart becomes less impressible, and lapses into a perilous unconsciousness of the shortness of life, and of the great eternity beyond.

Therefore, our condemnation in the judgment will not result from the fact that we have been in error, but from the fact that we have neglected heaven-sent opportunities for learning what is truth

Lesson 3 The omnipotent power of the Holy Spirit is the defence of every contrite soul.

Biblical evidence

Luke 10:17-19 17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Practical application for 2008

So why is the omnipotent power of the Holy Spirit the defence of every contrite soul? The answer is:

1. Not one that in penitence and faith has claimed His protection will Christ permit to pass under the enemy’s power.
2. The Saviour is by the side of His tempted and tried ones.
3. With Christ there can be no such thing as failure, loss, impossibility, or defeat; we can do all things through Him who strengthens us.

Therefore when temptations and trials come, do not wait to adjust all the difficulties, but look to Jesus, your helper.