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The Great Controversy Bible Study GuideCopyright (C) 2003 by Merlin Beerman

All rights reserved.

P.O. Box 2220, Jasper OR 97438www.RevelationPublications.com

[email protected]

Questions and compilation by Merlin BeermanEditor - V.C. Darmody

Appendix by Merlin BeermanAppendix Content Editors - Ron Ray and Scott Cassell

Illustrations - Copyright (C) Justinen Creative Group, Inc., Nampa IDCover Layout - Adam Dean

Commentary adapted from The Great Controversy by E.G.White

Printed in the U.S.A.

ISBN 0-9668482-5-X

The commentary following the questions is the originaltext adapted from 13 of the last 14 chapters of The GreatControversy by E.G.White. In an effort to keep the studyguide to a practical length some chapters have beenshortened. To omit any text was a difficult task becausethis entire work is a rich blessing. The author highlyrecommends each Bible student acquire and read thiswonderful book in its entirety. To obtain your personalcopy contact the publisher for more information.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IntroductionAn Invitation to the Reader ............................................................ 4Suggestions for Individual Study .................................................. 5Suggestions for Group Study ......................................................... 6

Lessons 1. The Origin of Evil ............................................................................. 7

2. Enmity Between Man and Satan .................................................. 16 3. Agency of Evil Spirits ................................................................... 22 4. Snares of Satan ............................................................................... 28 5. The First Great Deception ............................................................. 37 6. Can the Dead Speak to Us?.......................................................... 50 7. The Impending Conflict ................................................................. 59 8. The Scriptures a Safeguard ........................................................... 68 9. The Final Warning .......................................................................... 76 10. The Time of Trouble ....................................................................... 84 11. God’s People Delivered .................................................................. 97 12. Desolation of the Earth ................................................................ 108 13. The Controversy Ended .............................................................. 114

Supporting Materials

Answer Key ................................................................................... 126

AppendixA. Obedience - The True Test of Loyalty ............. 132B. The History of the Sabbath ................................ 133C. The History of Sunday Observance ................. 134D. Does the Day We Observe Matter? .................. 135E. The Beast of Revelation...................................... 136F. The Image of the Beast ....................................... 139G.. God’s “Seal” and the “Mark” of The Beast ..... 140

Certificate of Excellence ............................................................... 141Inspirational Material Order Form .............................................. 144

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AN INVITATION TO THE READER

We are glad you have received The Great Controversy BibleStudy Guide. It is our prayer that you will go through theselessons and draw closer to Christ; the One who offers youfriendship, peace, and eternal life.

If there is an address in the box below, this guide is offered toyou as a gift from a Bible school. Your school may utilize thisguide in one of two possible ways.

The guide may or may not contain an answer section in theback. When there is one, you may refer to it to verify your answers.Upon completion, if you wish to have your certificate validated,remove and send only your certificate to the address below forsignature by an instructor.

If an address is present but your guide does not contain ananswer section; then, upon completion, you may send your entirecompleted guide for verification and have your certificate signed.

In either situation, all you have mailed to us will be returnedwith additional free study materials. If at any time you haveadditional Bible questions, you may send them, and an instructorwill respond.

You may have been a Christian all your life, or this may be yourfirst opportunity to learn about the wonderful love of Jesus; ineither case, this time you spend in the Word of God will be arich blessing. May the Lord fill you with peace as you seek toknow Him better.

FOR MORE STUDY MATERIALS WRITE:

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SUGGESTIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL STUDY

(1) PRAY FOR Each time you study, pray for discernment andGUIDANCE the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Approach your

study with an open mind. Avoid preconceivedideas that may have a negative influence onyour search for truth.

(2) READ THE Read each question slowly taking extra time toQUESTION contemplate and understand it. This will result

in the greatest benefit from your study.

(3) FIND THE Use any Bible to look up the reference text listedANSWER below the answer space. Read the reference and

surrounding texts to gain an understanding oftheir context. Write a concise answer on theblanks provided in your study guide. If youwant to confirm your answer you may look it upin the answer section located in the back.

For a deeper understanding, read and comparethe reference texts in multiple versionsof Scripture. Use a concordance, columnreferences, and a dictionary to look up unfamiliarwords and search for other related texts.

(4) CONTEMPLATE Reread the question and answer, then read theTHE RESULTS commentary. Contemplate the significance of

what you have just studied and ask for wisdomfrom the Lord to help you know how to apply itto your life.

(5) CONTINUE It is our prayer that you will continue to studyTO STUDY God’s Word. We encourage you to contact your

source for this guide and obtain otherinspirational materials that will aid in yourspiritual growth.

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SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUP STUDY

(1) ASSIGN A It is important to appoint an individual to lead yourLEADER study group. This may be a pastor, church leader, or

a shared responsibility among the group members.This individual’s responsibility is to keep thediscussion objective and encourage participation.

(2) PREDETERMINE Make a group decision whether to include outsideSTUDY METHODS materials in your study sessions. As a rule, study

time will be most fruitful when the focus is onBiblical references.

(3) PRE-STUDY Encourage each member of your group to studyTHE LESSON the lesson prior to meeting. This will result in the

greatest benefit to each individual as well asenhancing his/her ability to participate in discussion.

(4) BEGIN WITH Each time you meet always invite the Lord to be PRAYER present in your study session and the Holy Spirit to

be your guide.

(5) READ QUESTION The group leader may read or appoint anothermember of the group to read the questions.

(6) READ ANSWER The group leader can ask for volunteers to give the& COMMENTARY answer and related commentary. When time allows,

ask for answers derived from various translationsto increase participation and understanding.

(7) DISCUSSION The most benefit will be gained if the leader doesnot lecture the group but rather leads it. Eachmember of the group should be encouraged toparticipate in the capacity he/she is comfortable with.One member of the group should not dominate thediscussion. Encourage sensitivity to the feelingsand opinions of others even in disagreement.

(8) TESTIMONY Have a time at the beginning or end of your sessionfor brief testimonies. This can be general or limitedto the subject matter being studied.

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The Origin of Evil - 1(1) WHY IS GOD NOT RESPONSIBLEFOR SIN?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 1:13

It is impossible to explain the originof sin so as to give a reason for itsexistence. Yet enough may be under-stood concerning both the origin andthe final disposition of sin tomake fully manifest the justice andbenevolence of God in all His dealingswith evil. Nothing is more plainly taughtin Scripture than that God was in nowise responsible for the entrance of sin;

that there was no arbitrary withdrawal ofdivine grace, no deficiency in the divinegovernment, that gave occasion for theuprising of rebellion.

(2) WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL DE-FINITION OF SIN?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 John 3:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:7

Sin is an intruder, for whose presenceno reason can be given. It is mysterious,unaccountable; to excuse it is to defendit. Could excuse for it be found, or causebe shown for its existence, it would ceaseto be sin. Our only definition of sin is

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The Great Controvery Bible Study Guide

that given in the word of God; it is“the transgression of the law;” it is theoutworking of a principle at war with thegreat law of love which is the foundationof the divine government.

(3) WHAT FOUR FUNDAMENTALPRINCIPLES CHARACTERIZE THEGOVERNMENT OF GOD?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 89:14

The law of love being the foundation ofthe government of God, the happinessof all created beings depended upontheir perfect accord with its greatprinciples of righteousness. God desiresfrom all His creatures the service of love-homage that springs from an intelligentappreciation of His character. He takesno pleasure in a forced allegiance, andto all He grants freedom of will, that theymay render Him voluntary service.

(4) WHO VIOLATED GOD’S LAW ANDBECAME THE AUTHOR OF SIN?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 14:12; Revelation 12:7-9

But there was one that chose to pervertthis freedom. Sin originated with him who,next to Christ, had been most honored ofGod and who stood highest in power andglory among the inhabitants of heaven.

(5) IN WHAT STATE DID GODCREATE LUCIFER?_____________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:15

Before his fall, Lucifer was first of thecovering cherubs, holy and undefiled.

(6) WHAT PHYSICAL TRAIT DIDLUCIFER CHOOSE TO DWELL UPONWHICH EVENTUALLY BROUGHTHIM TO THE SINFUL DESIRE OFSELF-EXULTATION?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:17

Lucifer might have remained in favor withGod, beloved and honored by all theangelic host, exercising his noble powersto bless others and to glorify his Maker. .. . Little by little, Lucifer came to indulge adesire for self-exaltation. . . . Instead ofseeking to make God supreme in theaffections and allegiance of His creatures,it was Lucifer’s endeavor to win theirservice and homage to himself. Andcoveting the honor which the infiniteFather had bestowed upon His Son, thisprinceof angels aspired to power which itwas the prerogative of Christ aloneto wield.

(7) WHAT IS THE RESULT OFREBELLION AGAINST GOD’S LAW?____________________________________________

_________________________________________Romans 6:23

All heaven had rejoiced to reflect theCreator’s glory and to show forth Hispraise. And while God was thus honored,all had been peace and gladness. But anote of discord now marred the celestialharmonies. The service and exaltation ofself, contrary to the Creator’s plan,awakened forebodings of evil in mindsto whom God’s glory was supreme. Theheavenly councils pleaded with Lucifer.

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The Origin of Evil

The Son of God presented before himthe greatness, the goodness, and thejustice of the Creator, and the sacred,unchanging nature of His law. GodHimself had established the order ofheaven; and in departing from it, Luciferwould dishonor his Maker, and bringruin upon himself. But the warning, givenin infinite love and mercy, only arouseda spirit of resistance. Lucifer allowedjealousy of Christ to prevail, and hebecame the more determined.

(8) WHAT DID LUCIFER’S SELF-PRIDE LEAD HIM TO DESIRE?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 14:13,14

Pride in his own glory nourished thedesire for supremacy. The high honorsconferred upon Lucifer were notappreciated as the gift of God and calledforth no gratitude to the Creator. Hegloried in his brightness and exaltation,and aspired to be equal with God. Hewas beloved and reverenced by theheavenly host. Angels delighted toexecute his commands, and he wasclothed with wisdom and glory abovethem all. Yet the Son of God was theacknowledged Sovereign of heaven, onein power and authority with the Father.In all the councils of God, Christ was aparticipant, while Lucifer was notpermitted thus to enter into the divinepurposes. “Why,” questioned thismighty angel, “should Christ have thesupremacy? Why is He thus honoredabove Lucifer?”

(9) WHAT REPUTATION DIDLUCIFER’S CONSPIRACY OF DE-CEPTION EARN FOR HIM?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 8:44; Revelation 12:10

Leaving his place in the immediatepresence of God, Lucifer went forth todiffuse the spirit of discontent amongthe angels. Working with mysterioussecrecy, and for a time concealing hisreal purpose under an appearance ofreverence for God, he endeavored toexcite dissatisfaction concerning thelaws that governed heavenly beings,intimating that they imposed anunnecessary restraint. Since theirnatures were holy, he urged that theangels should obey the dictates of theirown will. He sought to create sympathyfor himself by representing that God haddealt unjustly with him in bestowingsupreme honor upon Christ. He claimedthat in aspiring to greater power andhonor he was not aiming at self-exaltation, but was seeking to secureliberty for all the inhabitants of heaven,that by this means they might attain to ahigher state of existence.

(10) WHAT TRAITS OF CHARACTERDID GOD EXHIBIT IN DEALINGWITH LUCIFER?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 2:4

God in His great mercy bore longwith Lucifer. He was not immediatelydegraded from his exalted station whenhe first indulged the spirit of discontent,nor even when he began to presenthis false claims before the loyal angels.Long was he retained in heaven. Againand again he was offered pardon on

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condition of repentance and submis-sion. Such efforts as only infinite loveand wisdom could devise were made toconvince him of his error. The spirit ofdiscontent had never before beenknown in heaven. Lucifer himself didnot at first see whither he was drifting;he did not understand the real nature ofhis feelings. But as his dissatisfactionwas proved to be without cause, Luciferwas convinced that he was in thewrong, that the divine claims were just,and that he ought to acknowledge themas such before all heaven. Had he donethis, he might have saved himself andmany angels. He had not at this timefully cast off his allegiance to God.Though he had forsaken his positionas covering cherub, yet if he had beenwilling to return to God, acknowledgingthe Creator’s wisdom, and satisfied tofill the place appointed him in God’sgreat plan, he would have beenreinstated in his office. But prideforbade him to submit. He persistentlydefended his own course, maintainedthat he had no need of repentance, andfully committed himself, in the greatcontroversy, against his Maker.

(11) DURING HIS REBELLIONHOW MANY ANGELS DID SATANMANAGE TO DECEIVE?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:4

All the powers of his master mind werenow bent to the work of deception, tosecure the sympathy of the angels thathad been under his command. Eventhe fact that Christ had warned andcounseled him was perverted to servehis traitorous designs. To thosewhose loving trust bound them most

closely to him, Satan had representedthat he was wrongly judged, that hisposition was not respected, and thathis liberty was to be abridged. Frommisrepresentation of the words ofChrist he passed to prevarication anddirect falsehood, accusing the Son ofGod of a design to humiliate himbefore the inhabitants of heaven. Hesought also to make a false issuebetween himself and the loyal angels.All whom he could not subvert andbring fully to his side he accused ofindifference to the interests ofheavenly beings. The very workwhich he himself was doing hecharged upon those who remainedtrue to God. And to sustain his chargeof God’s injustice toward him, heresorted to misrepresentation of thewords and acts of the Creator. It washis policy to perplex the angels withsubtle arguments concerning thepurposes of God. Everything thatwas simple he shrouded in mystery,and by artful perversion cast doubtupon the plainest statements ofJehovah. His high position, in suchclose connection with the divineadministration, gave greater force tohis representations, and many wereinduced to unite with him in rebellionagainst Heaven’s authority.

(12) WHY DID GOD IN HIS INFINITEWISDOM ALLOW SATAN TO FULLYREVEAL HIS TRUE CHARACTER?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 10:9; Numbers 32:23

God in His wisdom permitted Satan tocarry forward his work, until the spiritof disaffection ripened into active

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The Origin of Evil

revolt. It was necessary for his plansto be fully developed, that their truenature and tendency might be seen byall. Lucifer, as the anointed cherub, hadbeen highly exalted; he was greatlyloved by the heavenly beings, and hisinfluence over them was strong. God’sgovernment included not only theinhabitants of heaven, but of all theworlds that He had created; and Satanthought that if he could carry the angelsof heaven with him in rebellion, hecould carry also the other worlds. Hehad artfully presented his side of thequestion, employing sophistry andfraud to secure his objects. His powerto deceive was very great, and bydisguising himself in a cloak offalsehood he had gained an advantage.Even the loyal angels could not fullydiscern his character or see to whathis work was leading.

(13) WHY DIDN’T GOD DESTROYSATAN AT THE ONSET OF HISREBELLION?___________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________Job 37:23

Even when it was decided that he couldno longer remain in heaven, InfiniteWisdom did not destroy Satan. Since theservice of love can alone be acceptableto God, the allegiance of His creaturesmust rest upon a conviction of Hisjustice and benevolence. The inhabitantsof heaven and of other worlds, beingunprepared to comprehend the natureor consequences of sin, could not thenhave seen the justice and mercy of Godin the destruction of Satan. Had he beenimmediately blotted from existence, theywould have served God from fear ratherthan from love. The influence of the

deceiver would not have been fullydestroyed, nor would the spirit ofrebellion have been utterly eradicated.Evil must be permitted to come tomaturity. For the good of the entireuniverse through ceaseless ages Satanmust more fully develop his principles,that his charges against the divinegovernment might be seen in their truelight by all created beings, that the justiceand mercy of God and the immutabilityof His law might forever be placedbeyond all question.

Satan’s rebellion was to be a lesson to theuniverse through all coming ages, aperpetual testimony to the nature andterrible results of sin. The working out ofSatan’s rule, its effects upon both men andangels, would show what must be the fruitof setting aside the divine authority. Itwould testify that with the existence ofGod’s government and His law is boundup the well-being of all the creatures Hehas made. Thus the history of this terribleexperiment of rebellion was to be perpetualsafeguard to all holy intelligences, toprevent them from being deceived as tothe nature of transgression, to savethem from committing sin and sufferingits punishments.

(14) TO WHAT CATASTROPHICEVENT DID SATAN’S REBELLIONLEAD?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:7-9; Luke 10:18

To the very close of the controversy inheaven the great usurper continued tojustify himself. When it was announcedthat with all his sympathizers he must beexpelled from the abodes of bliss, then

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the rebel leader boldly avowed hiscontempt for the Creator’s law. Hereiterated his claim that angels neededno control, but should be left to followtheir own will, which would ever guidethem right. He denounced the divinestatutes as a restriction of their libertyand declared that it was his purpose tosecure the abolition of law; that, freedfrom this restraint, the hosts of heavenmight enter upon a more exalted, moreglorious state of existence.

(15) AFTER BEING CAST FROMHEAVEN, WHERE DID SATAN SEEKTO ESTABLISH HIS KINGDOM?____________________________________________

____________________________________________

_________________________________________Revelation 12:9

The same spirit that prompted rebellionin heaven still inspires rebellion onearth. Satan has continued with men thesame policy which he pursued with theangels. His spirit now reigns in thechildren of disobedience. Like him theyseek to break down the restraints ofthe law of God and promise men libertythrough transgression of its precepts.Reproof of sin still arouses the spiritof hatred and resistance. When God’smessages of warning are broughthome to the conscience, Satan leadsmen to justify themselves and to seekthe sympathy of others in their courseof sin. Instead of correcting theirerrors, they excite indignation againstthe reprover, as if he were the solecause of difficulty. From the days ofrighteous Abel to our own time suchis the spirit which has been displayedtoward those who dare to condemn sin.

By the same misrepresentation of thecharacter of God as he had practiced in

heaven, causing Him to be regarded assevere and tyrannical, Satan inducedman to sin. And having succeeded thusfar, he declared that God’s unjustrestrictions had led to man’s fall, as theyhad led to his own rebellion.

(16) WHAT IS THE TRUE NATUREOF GOD’S CHARACTER?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Exodus 34:6,7

(17) HOW DID GOD DEMON-STRATE HIS GREAT LOVE ANDMERCY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 3:16

In the banishment of Satan from heaven,God declared His justice and maintainedthe honor of His throne. But when manhad sinned through yielding to thedeceptions of this apostate spirit, Godgave an evidence of His love by yieldingup His only-begotten Son to die for thefallen race. In the atonement the characterof God is revealed. The mighty argumentof the cross demonstrates to the wholeuniverse that the course of sin whichLucifer had chosen was in no wisechargeable upon the government of God.

(18) HOW DID EVIL MEN VERBALIZESATAN’S MALICIOUS INTENT TODESTROY JESUS DURING HISEARTHLY MINISTRY?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 15:13

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The Origin of Evil

In the contest between Christ andSatan, during the Saviour’s earthlyministry, the character of the greatdeceiver was unmasked. Nothing couldso effectually have uprooted Satan fromthe affections of the heavenly angelsand the whole loyal universe as did hiscruel warfare upon the world’sRedeemer. The daring blasphemy of hisdemand that Christ should pay himhomage, his presumptuous boldnessin bearing Him to the mountain summitand the pinnacle of the temple, themalicious intent betrayed in urgingHim to cast Himself down from thedizzy height, the unsleeping malice thathunted Him from place to place,inspiring the hearts of priests andpeople to reject His love, and at thelast to cry, “Crucify Him! crucify Him!—all this excited the amazement andindignation of the universe.

Now the guilt of Satan stood forthwithout excuse. He had revealed his truecharacter as a liar and a murderer. It wasseen that the very same spirit with whichhe ruled the children of men, who wereunder his power, he would havemanifested had he been permitted tocontrol the inhabitants of heaven. Hehad claimed that the transgression ofGod’s law would bring liberty andexaltation; but it was seen to result inbondage and degradation.

(19) WHAT DID GOD ACCOMPLISHBY THE SACRIFICE OF HIS SONTHAT REVEALED HIS CHARACTERTO THE UNIVERSE?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________2 Corinthians 5:18

God had manifested His abhorrence ofthe principles of rebellion. All heavensaw His justice revealed, both in thecondemnation of Satan and in theredemption of man. Lucifer had declaredthat if the law of God was changeless,and its penalty could not be remitted,every transgressor must be foreverdebarred from the Creator’s favor. He hadclaimed that the sinful race were placedbeyond redemption and were thereforehis rightful prey. But the death of Christwas an argument in man’s behalf thatcould not be overthrown. The penaltyof the law fell upon Him who was equalwith God, and man was free to acceptthe righteousness of Christ and by a lifeof penitence and humiliation to triumph,as the Son of God had triumphed, overthe power of Satan. Thus God is just andyet the justifier of all who believe in Jesus.

(20) WHAT WAS THE SPECIFICMISSION OF CHRIST?_____________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 5:17

But it was not merely to accomplishthe redemption of man that Christ cameto the earth to suffer and to die. Hecame to “magnify the law” and to“make it honorable.” Not alone that theinhabitants of this world might regardthe law as it should be regarded; but itwas to demonstrate to all the worldsof the universe that God’s law isunchangeable. Could its claims havebeen set aside, then the Son of Godneed not have yielded up His life toatone for its transgression. The deathof Christ proves it immutable. And thesacrifice to which infinite love impelledthe Father and the Son, that sinnersmight be redeemed, demonstrates toall the universe—what nothing lessthan this plan of atonement could have

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sufficed to do—that justice andmercy are the foundation of the lawand government of God.

(21) AT THE CLOSE OF THEGREAT CONTROVERSY WHATWILL BE THE CONFESSION OFEVERY CREATED BEING?____________________________________________

____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Philippians 2:10,11

In the final execution of the judgment itwill be seen that no cause for sin exists.When the Judge of all the earth shalldemand of Satan, “Why hast thourebelled against Me, and robbed Me ofthe subjects of My kingdom?” Theoriginator of evil can render no excuse.Every mouth will be stopped, and all thehosts of rebellion will be speechless.

(22) WHAT CRY PROCLAIMED THEIMPENDING DOOM OF SATAN?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 19:30

The cross of Calvary, while it declaresthe law immutable, proclaims to theuniverse that the wages of sin is death.In the Saviour’s expiring cry, “It isfinished,” the death knell of Satan wasrung. The great controversy which hadbeen so long in progress was thendecided, and the final eradication of evilwas made certain. The Son of Godpassed through the portals of the tomb,that “through death He might destroyhim that had the power of death, that is,the devil.” Hebrews 2:14.

(23) WHAT IS THE ULTIMATE FATEOF SATAN AND ALL WHO CLINGTO PRIDE AND WICKEDNESS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Malachi 4:1

Lucifer’s desire for self-exaltation hadled him to say: “I will exalt my throneabove the stars of God: . . . I will be likethe Most High.” God declares: “I willbring thee to ashes upon the earth, . . .and never shalt thou be any more.”Isaiah 14:13, 14; Ezekiel 28:18,19.

(24) AT THE CLOSE OF THE GREATCONTROVERSY WHAT PROMISEWILL THE UNIVERSE CLAIM?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Nahum1:9

The whole universe will have becomewitnesses to the nature and results ofsin. And its utter extermination, whichin the beginning would have broughtfear to angels and dishonor to God, willnow vindicate His love and establishHis honor before the universe ofbeings who delight to do His will, andin whose heart is His law. Never willevil again be manifest. Says the wordof God: “Affliction shall not rise up thesecond time.” The law of God, whichSatan has reproached as the yoke ofbondage, will be honored as the law ofliberty. A tested and proved creation willnever again be turned from allegianceto Him whose character has been fullymanifested before them as fathomlesslove and infinite wisdom.

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The Origin of Evil

Study Notes: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I understand how, by the prideof self, sin was first conceivedin the heart of Lucifer. I knowthat at that moment Godcould have destroyed him butto do so, all His createdbeings would have obeyedout of fear.

Circle: Yes Undecided

I have experienced themisery that violation ofGod’s love-based principlesbring. I see love, fairness andmercy demonstrated by theirobedience.


I now understand that inwisdom God allowed sin torun its malignant course sothe entire universe couldwitness its terrible effects andsee the true character of Satan.


I want to claim the greatmercy God has provided bythe sacrifice of His Son. I amglad that through thisgift the requirements of thelaw are met. In His wisdomHe remains just and theJustifier of all who believe.


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(1) WHAT GREAT PROMISE WASGIVEN BY GOD FOR THE HOPE OFFALLEN MAN?____________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Genesis 3:15

The divine sentence pronounced againstSatan after the fall of man was also aprophecy, embracing all the ages to theclose of time and foreshadowing thegreat conflict to engage all the races ofmen who should live upon the earth. God

declares: “I will put enmity.” This enmityis not naturally entertained. When mantransgressed the divine law, his naturebecame evil, and he was in harmony, andnot at variance, with Satan. There existsnaturally no enmity between sinful manand the originator of sin. Both becameevil through apostasy. The apostate isnever at rest, except as he obtainssympathy and support by inducingothers to follow his example. For thisreason fallen angels and wicked menunite in desperate companionship. Hadnot God specially interposed, Satan andman would have entered into an allianceagainst Heaven; and instead ofcherishing enmity against Satan, thewhole human family would have beenunited in opposition to God.

Enmity Between Man and Satan - 2

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Enmity Between Man and Satan

(2) WHAT WAS GOD’S SPECIFICCOMMAND AND WARNING TOADAM AND EVE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 2:17

(3) WHAT ACT OF DEFIANCEBROUGHT DESTRUCTION TO THEEARTH AND A FALLEN NATURETO ALL MANKIND?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 3:6

(4) WHAT IS TEMPTATION?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 1:2,3

(5) WHO IS THE AUTHOR OF ALLTEMPTATION?___________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________Luke 4:13

Satan tempted man to sin, as he hadcaused angels to rebel, that he mightthus secure cooperation in his warfareagainst Heaven. There was nodissension between himself and thefallen angels as regards their hatred ofChrist; while on all other points therewas discord, they were firmly united inopposing the authority of the Ruler ofthe universe. But when Satan heard thedeclaration that enmity should exist

between himself and the woman, andbetween his seed and her seed, he knewthat his efforts to deprave human naturewould be interrupted; that by somemeans man was to be enabled to resisthis power.

(6) WHY IS SATAN DETERMINEDTO DESTROY MANKIND?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 1:27

Satan’s enmity against the human raceis kindled because, through Christ,they are the objects of God’s love andmercy. He desires to thwart the divineplan for man’s redemption, to castdishonor upon God, by defacing anddefiling His handiwork; he wouldcause grief in heaven and fill the earthwith woe and desolation. And he pointsto all this evil as the result of God’swork in creating man.

(7) WHAT PRECIOUS PROMISEMAY WE CLAIM AND RECEIVE BYTHE POWER OF CHRIST?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 1:4

It is the grace that Christ implants in thesoul which creates in man enmity againstSatan. Without this converting grace andrenewing power, man would continue thecaptive of Satan, a servant ever ready todo his bidding. But the new principle inthe soul creates conflict where hithertohad been peace. The power which Christimparts enables man to resist the tyrantand usurper. Whoever is seen to abhorsin instead of loving it, whoever resists

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and conquers those passions that haveheld sway within, displays the operationof a principle wholly from above.

(8) WHAT GODLY TRAIT OFCHRIST’S LIFE EVOKED ENMITYIN THE HEARTS OF THE UN-GODLY TO THE POINT THAT THEYCRUCIFIED HIM?_____________________________________________________________________________________1 John 3:5

The antagonism that exists between thespirit of Christ and the spirit of Satanwas most strikingly displayed in theworld’s reception of Jesus. It was notso much because He appeared withoutworldly wealth, pomp, or grandeur thatthe Jews were led to reject Him. Theysaw that He possessed power whichwould more than compensate for thelack of these outward advantages. Butthe purity and holiness of Christ calledforth against Him the hatred of theungodly. His life of self-denial andsinless devotion was a perpetualreproof to a proud, sensual people. Itwas this that evoked enmity against theSon of God. Satan and evil angels joinedwith evil men. All the energies ofapostasy conspired against theChampion of truth.

(9) WHAT TREATMENT CAN WEEXPECT FROM THE WORLD ASCHRIST’S FOLLOWERS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 3:12

The same enmity is manifested towardChrist’s followers as was manifestedtoward their Master. Whoever sees the

repulsive character of sin, and instrength from above resists temptation,will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satanand his subjects. Hatred of the pureprinciples of truth, and reproach andpersecution of its advocates, will existas long as sin and sinners remain. Thefollowers of Christ and the servants ofSatan cannot harmonize. The offense ofthe cross has not ceased.

(10) WHAT TWO STEPS MUSTWE FOLLOW TO OVERCOME THEFORCES OF SATAN?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________James 4:7

Satan summons all his forces and throwshis whole power into the combat. Whyis it that he meets with no greaterresistance? Why are the soldiers ofChrist so sleepy and indifferent?Because they have so little realconnection with Christ; because theyare so destitute of His Spirit. Sin is notto them repulsive and abhorrent, as itwas to their Master. They do not meet it,as did Christ, with decisive anddetermined resistance. They do notrealize the exceeding evil and malignityof sin, and they are blinded both to thecharacter and the power of the prince ofdarkness. There is little enmity againstSatan and his works, because there is sogreat ignorance concerning his powerand malice, and the vast extent of hiswarfare against Christ and His church.Multitudes are deluded here. They donot know that their enemy is a mightygeneral who controls the minds of evilangels, and that with well-matured plansand skillful movements he is warringagainst Christ to prevent the salvationof souls. Among professed Christians,

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and even among ministers of the gospel,there is heard scarcely a reference toSatan, except perhaps an incidentalmention in the pulpit. They overlook theevidences of his continual activity andsuccess; they neglect the many warningsof his subtlety; they seem to ignore hisvery existence.

(11) WHAT IS SATAN’S CONSTANTOBJECTIVE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Corinthians 4:4

While men are ignorant of his devices,this vigilant foe is upon their track everymoment. He is intruding his presence inevery department of the household, inevery street of our cities, in the churches,in the national councils, in the courts ofjustice, perplexing, deceiving, seducing,everywhere ruining the souls and bodiesof men, women, and children, breakingup families, sowing hatred, emulation,strife, sedition, murder. And the Christianworld seem to regard these things asthough God had appointed them andthey must exist.

Satan is continually seeking to overcomethe people of God by breaking down thebarriers which separate them from theworld. Ancient Israel were enticed intosin when they ventured into forbiddenassociation with the heathen. In a similarmanner are modern Israel led astray. . .All who are not decided followers ofChrist are servants of Satan. In theunregenerate heart there is love of sinand a disposition to cherish and excuseit. In the renewed heart there is hatred ofsin and determined resistance against it.When Christians choose the society ofthe ungodly and unbelieving, they

expose themselves to temptation. Satanconceals himself from view and stealthilydraws his deceptive covering over theireyes. They cannot see that suchcompany is calculated to do them harm;and while all the time assimilating to theworld in character, words, and actions,they are becoming more and moreblinded.

(12) HOW ONLY WILL WE BESAFE FROM CONFORMITY TOTHE WORLD?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 4:14

Conformity to worldly customs convertsthe church to the world; it never convertsthe world to Christ. Familiarity with sinwill inevitably cause it to appear lessrepulsive. He who chooses to associatewith the servants of Satan will sooncease to fear their master. When in theway of duty we are brought into trial, aswas Daniel in the King’s court, we maybe sure that God will protect us; but ifwe place ourselves under temptation weshall fall sooner or later.

(13) WHO ARE WE WARNED NOTTO FOLLOW OR MAKE THE FOCUSOF OUR ADMIRATION?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 24:1; Psalms 37:1

The tempter often works most success-fully through those who are leastsuspected of being under his control.The possessors of talent and education

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are admired and honored, as if thesequalities could atone for the absence ofthe fear of God or entitle men to His favor.Talent and culture, considered inthemselves, are gifts of God; but whenthese are made to supply the place ofpiety, when, instead of bringing the soulnearer to God, they lead away from Him,then they become a curse and a snare.The opinion prevails with many thatall which appears like courtesy orrefinement must, in some sense, pertainto Christ. Never was there a greatermistake. These qualities should grace thecharacter of every Christian, for theywould exert a powerful influence in favorof true religion; but they must beconsecrated to God, or they also are apower for evil. Many a man of culturedintellect and pleasant manners, whowould not stoop to what is commonlyregarded as an immoral act, is but apolished instrument in the hands ofSatan. The insidious, deceptive characterof his influence and example renders hima more dangerous enemy to the cause ofChrist than are those who are ignorantand uncultured.

(14) WHO IS THE ONLY SOURCEOF WISDOM AND SPIRITUALSTRENGTH?_____________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 46:1

By earnest prayer and dependenceupon God, Solomon obtained thewisdom which excited the wonder andadmiration of the world. But when heturned from the Source of his strength,and went forward relying upon himself,he fell a prey to temptation. Then themarvelous powers bestowed on thiswisest of kings only rendered hima more effective agent of the adversaryof souls.

(15) WHAT STRATEGY HAS SATANEMPLOYED IN HIS EFFORT TO WINTHE GREAT CONTROVERSY?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Peter 5:8

From the days of Adam to our own time,our great enemy has been exercising hispower to oppress and destroy. He isnow preparing for his last campaignagainst the church. All who seek tofollow Jesus will be brought into conflictwith this relentless foe. The more nearlythe Christian imitates the divine Pattern,the more surely will he make himself amark for the attacks of Satan. All whoare actively engaged in the cause ofGod, seeking to unveil the deceptionsof the evil one and to present Christbefore the people, will be able to join inthe testimony of Paul, in which hespeaks of serving the Lord with allhumility of mind, with many tears andtemptations.

(16) WHAT WILL PROTECT USFROM THE WILES OF THE DEVIL?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ephesians 6:11

Satan assailed Christ with his fiercest andmost subtle temptations, but he wasrepulsed in every conflict. Those battleswere fought in our behalf; those victoriesmake it possible for us to conquer. Christwill give strength to all who seek it. Noman without his own consent can beovercome by Satan. The tempter has no

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power to control the will or to force thesoul to sin. He may distress, but hecannot contaminate. He can causeagony, but not defilement. The fact thatChrist has conquered should inspire Hisfollowers with courage to fight manfullythe battle against sin and Satan.

(17) HOW CAN OUR LIVES BEKEPT FREE FROM DEFILEMENT?_____________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 119:9

(18) WHAT PROMISE FROM GODCAN WE CLAIM?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 10:13

Study Notes: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I am grateful that God gavethe promise to put enmity inthe hearts of His childrentowards Satan.


I pray for spiritual wisdomand a greater desire for God’sWord and, by His grace, I amdetermined to resist theadvances of the devil.


I claim God’s promise to notallow me to be temptedabove what I am able tobear and pray for wisdom tochoose the way of escape.


I realize that all those wholive for Christ may sufferpersecution and I am willingto bear it in love for Him.


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Agency of Evil Spirits - 3(1) HOW DOES SCRIPTUREIDENTIFY THE POWERS OF EVILIN THE GREAT CONTROVERSY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ephesians 6:12

The connection of the visible with theinvisible world, the ministration ofangels of God, and the agency of evilspirits, are plainly revealed in theScriptures, and inseparably interwovenwith human history. There is a growingtendency to disbelief in the existence ofevil spirits, while the holy angels that“minister for them who shall be heirs ofsalvation” (Hebrews 1:14) are regarded

by many as spirits of the dead. But theScriptures not only teach the existenceof angels, both good and evil, but presentunquestionable proof that these are notdisembodied spirits of dead men.

(2) WHERE DID ALL ANGELSABIDE BEFORE THE ONSET OFTHE GREAT CONTROVERSY?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 5:11

(3) WHAT NAME IS USED INSCRIPTURE IN REFERENCE TOTHE FALLEN ANGELS?

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Agency of Evil Spirits

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 8:38; Matthew 8:16,28,31;9:34

(4) WHERE DO THESE FALLENBEINGS NOW ABIDE?_____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:9

(5) UPON WHAT LEVEL WAS MANCREATED RELATIVE TO ANGELS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 8:5; Hebrews 2:7

Before the creation of man, angels werein existence; for when the foundationsof the earth were laid, “the morningstars sang together, and all the sons ofGod shouted for joy.” Job 38:7. Afterthe fall of man, angels were sent toguard the tree of life, and this before ahuman being had died. Angels are innature superior to men, for the psalmistsays that man was made “a little lowerthan the angels.”

(6) HOW DOES SCRIPTURE DES-CRIBE THE NUMBER OF ANGELSGOD CREATED?_____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 5:11

We are informed in Scripture as to thenumber, and the power and glory, of theheavenly beings, of their connectionwith the government of God, and also oftheir relation to the work of redemption.

“The Lord hath prepared His throne inthe heavens; and His kingdom rulethover all.” And, says the prophet, “I heardthe voice of many angels round aboutthe throne.” In the presence chamber ofthe King of kings they wait—”angels,that excel in strength,” “ministers of His,that do His pleasure,” “hearkening untothe voice of His word.” Psalm 103:19-21;Revelation 5:11. Ten thousand times tenthousand and thousands of thousands,were the heavenly messengers beheldby the prophet Daniel. The apostle Pauldeclared them “an innumerablecompany.” Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:22.

(7) HOW MANY ANGELS CHOSETHE COURSE OF EVIL?_____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:4

(8) WHAT IS THE PHYSICALAPPEARANCE OF ANGELS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 1:13,14

As God’s messengers they go forth,like “the appearance of a flash oflightning,” ... so dazzling their glory, andso swift their flight. The angel thatappeared at the Saviour’s tomb, hiscountenance “like lightning, and hisraiment white as snow,” caused thekeepers for fear of him to quake, and they“became as dead men.” Matthew 28:3, 4.

(9) WHAT EVENT IN THIS TEXTREVEALS THE POWER THAT ASINGLE ANGEL OF GOD POSSESSES?

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21;Matthew 28:2-4

When Sennacherib, the haughtyAssyrian, reproached and blasphemedGod, and threatened Israel withdestruction, “it came to pass that night,that the angel of the Lord went out, andsmote in the camp of the Assyrians anhundred fourscore and five thousand.”There were “cut off all the mighty menof valor, and the leaders and captains,”from the army of Sennacherib. “So hereturned with shame of face to his ownland.” 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21.

(10) WHAT ROLE DID GODENTRUST TO THE UNFALLENANGELS AFTER THE FALL OF MAN?____________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________Hebrews 1:14

Angels are sent on missions of mercy tothe children of God. To Abraham, withpromises of blessing; to the gates ofSodom, to rescue righteous Lot from itsfiery doom; to Elijah, as he was about toperish from weariness and hunger in thedesert; to Elisha, with chariots andhorses of fire surrounding the little townwhere he was shut in by his foes; toDaniel, while seeking divine wisdomin the court of a heathen king, orabandoned to become the lions’ prey;to Peter, doomed to death in Herod’sdungeon; to the prisoners at Philippi; toPaul and his companions in the night oftempest on the sea; to open the mind of

Cornelius to receive the gospel; todispatch Peter with the message ofsalvation to the Gentile stranger—thusholy angels have, in all ages, ministeredto God’s people.

(11) WHAT DO ANGELS DO FORUS PERSONALLY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 34:7

A guardian angel is appointed to everyfollower of Christ. These heavenlywatchers shield the righteous from thepower of the wicked one. This Satanhimself recognized when he said: “DothJob fear God for nought? Hast not Thoumade an hedge about him, and about hishouse, and about all that he hath onevery side?” Job 1:9, 10. The agency bywhich God protects His people ispresented in the words of the psalmist:“The angel of the Lord encampeth roundabout them that fear Him, and delivereththem.” Psalm 34:7. Said the Saviour,speaking of those that believe in Him:“Take heed that ye despise not one ofthese little ones; for I say unto you, Thatin heaven their angels do always beholdthe face of My Father.” Matthew 18:10.The angels appointed to minister to thechildren of God have at all times accessto His presence.

Thus God’s people, exposed to thedeceptive power and unsleeping maliceof the prince of darkness, and in conflictwith all the forces of evil, are assured ofthe unceasing guardianship of heavenlyangels. Nor is such assurance givenwithout need. If God has granted toHis children promise of grace andprotection, it is because there are mightyagencies of evil to be met—agenciesnumerous, determined, and untiring, of

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whose malignity and power none cansafely be ignorant or unheeding.

(12) WHAT CHANGED THE HOLYANGELS INTO DEMONS?_____________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6

Evil spirits, in the beginning createdsinless, were equal in nature, power, andglory with the holy beings that are nowGod’s messengers. But fallen throughsin, they are leagued together for thedishonor of God and the destruction ofmen. United with Satan in his rebellion,and with him cast out from heaven, theyhave, through all succeeding ages,cooperate with him in his warfare againstthe divine authority. We are told inScripture of their confederacy andgovernment, of their various orders, oftheir intelligence and subtlety, and oftheir malicious designs against the peaceand happiness of men.

(13) WHAT FEATS DOES SATANEMPLOY TO DECEIVE AND CON-TROL MANKIND?_____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 16:14

Old Testament history presentsoccasional mention of their existence andagency; but it was during the time whenChrist was upon the earth that evil spiritsmanifested their power in the moststriking manner. Christ had come to enterupon the plan devised for man’sredemption, and Satan determined toassert his right to control the world.

(14) WHERE WILL THE FORCESOF EVIL ABIDE WHEN SINFULMAN ALLOWS?

_____________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 8:16

The fact that men have been possessedwith demons, is clearly stated in the NewTestament. The persons thus afflictedwere not merely suffering with diseasefrom natural causes. Christ had perfectunderstanding of that with which He wasdealing, and He recognized the directpresence and agency of evil spirits.

A striking example of their number, power,and malignity, and also of the power andmercy of Christ, is given in the Scriptureaccount of the healingof the demoniacs at Gadara. Thosewretched maniacs, spurning all restraint,writhing, foaming, raging, were filling theair with their cries, doing violence tothemselves, and endangering all whoshould approach them. Their bleedingand disfigured bodies and distractedminds presented a spectacle wellpleasing to the prince of darkness.

(15) HOW MANY DEMONSINHABITED THE MAN FROM THECOUNTRY OF THE GADARENES?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 5:9

In the Roman army a legion consisted offrom three to five thousand men. Satan’shosts also are marshaled in companies,and the single company to which thesedemons belonged numbered no less thana legion.

(16) BY THE POWER OF WHOSENAME MUST THE FORCES OFEVIL FLEE?

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Luke 10:17

At the command of Jesus the evil spiritsdeparted from their victims, leaving themcalmly sitting at the Saviour’s feet,subdued, intelligent, and gentle. . . .

. . . It was also His will that the people ofthat region should behold His power tobreak the bondage of Satan and releasehis captives. And though Jesus Himselfdeparted, the men so marvelouslydelivered, remained to declare the mercyof their Benefactor.

(17) WHAT WAS THE CHOSENPROFESSION OF ELYMAS RE-VEALING THAT DEVIL POSSESSIONCAN BE BY CHOICE?_____________________________________________________________________________________Acts 13:8

Those possessed with devils are usuallyrepresented as being in a conditionof great suffering; yet there wereexceptions to this rule. For the sake ofobtaining supernatural power, somewelcomed the satanic influence. Theseof course had no conflict with thedemons. Of this class were those whopossessed the spirit of divination,—Simon Magus, Elymas the sorcerer, andthe damsel who followed Paul andSilas at Philippi.

(18) HOW DOES THIS VERSEDESCRIBE THE PHYSICAL APPEAR-ANCE OF LUCIFER–NOW CALLEDSATAN?___________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:17

There is nothing that the great deceiverfears so much as that we shall becomeacquainted with his devices. The betterto disguise his real character andpurposes, he has caused himself to be sorepresented as to excite no strongeremotion than ridicule or contempt. He iswell pleased to be painted as a ludicrousor loathsome object, misshapen, halfanimal and half human. He is pleased tohear his name used in sport and mockeryby those who think themselves intelligentand well informed.

(19) WHAT ACTION DOES THEBIBLE TEACH THAT GIVES WISDOMTO PREVENT DECEPTION?___________________________________________________________________________________________Ephesians 6:11____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 2:15

It is because he has masked himself withconsummate skill that the question isso widely asked: “Does such a beingreally exist?” It is an evidence of hissuccess that theories giving the lie tothe plainest testimony of the Scripturesare so generally received in thereligious world. And it is because Satancan most readily control the minds ofthose who are unconscious of hisinfluence, that the word of God givesus so many examples of his malignantwork, unveiling before us his secretforces, and thus placing us on our guardagainst his assaults.

(20) WHAT GREAT PROMISEOF PROTECTION MAY WE CLAIMWHEN WE ARE ATTACKED BYTHE FORCES OF EVIL?

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____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Psalms 97:10

The power and malice of Satan and hishost might justly alarm us were it notthat we may find shelter and deliverancein the superior power of our Redeemer.We carefully secure our houses withbolts and locks to protect our propertyand our lives from evil men; but weseldom think of the evil angels who areconstantly seeking access to us, and

against whose attacks we have, in ourown strength, no method of defense. Ifpermitted, they can distract our minds,disorder and torment our bodies, destroyour possessions and our lives. Theironly delight is in misery and destruction.Fearful is the condition of those whoresist the divine claims and yield toSatan’s temptations, until God givesthem up to the control of evil spirits. Butthose who follow Christ are ever safeunder His watchcare. Angels that excelin strength are sent from heaven toprotect them. The wicked one cannotbreak through the guard which God hasstationed about His people.

Study Notes: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I understand from Scripturethat I am caught in a cosmicstruggle between good andevil. I realize the demonicpowers are not spirits of deadhumans but rather fallenangels seeking my destructionbecause I claim God’s giftof grace.


I am thankful that Godsends His unfallen heavenlymessengers to minister tomy needs and to provideprotection during this greatcontroversy.


I realize that I am no matchfor the intelligence, power,or abilities of Satan and hisevil agents. I thank God Ican claim the supernaturalpower in the name of Christfor deliverance from theseforces of evil.


I know that in the last daysthe powers of darkness willuse miraculous signs andwonders to deceive me. Ipray for the Holy Spirit toguide my study of God’sWord so I will not be deceived.


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(1) WHAT IS SATAN’S ULTIMATEGOAL IN THIS GREAT CONTROVERSY?_____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:3; John 10:10

The great controversy between Christand Satan, that has been carried forwardfor nearly six thousand years, is soon toclose; and the wicked one redoubles hisefforts to defeat the work of Christ inman’s behalf and to fasten souls in hissnares. To hold the people in darknessand impenitence till the Saviour’smediation is ended, and there is nolonger a sacrifice for sin, is the objectwhich he seeks to accomplish.

(2) WHAT TWO-PART INSTRUCTIONARE WE GIVEN TO PROTECT USFROM SATAN’S DECEPTIONS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 4:7

When there is no special effort made toresist his power, when indifferenceprevails in the church and the world,Satan is not concerned; for he is in nodanger of losing those whom he isleading captive at his will. But when theattention is called to eternal things, andsouls are inquiring, “What must I do tobe saved?” he is on the ground, seeking

Snares of Satan - 4

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Snares of Satan

to match his power against the power ofChrist and to counteract the influenceof the Holy Spirit.

(3) WHAT BIBLICAL ADVICEWILL HELP US OVERCOME THELUSTS OF THE FLESH?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Galations 5:16; 6:8

Again, Satan sees the Lord’s servantsburdened because of the spiritualdarkness that enshrouds the people.He hears their earnest prayers fordivine grace and power to break thespell of indifference, carelessness, andindolence. Then with renewed zeal heplies his arts. He tempts men to theindulgence of appetite or to some otherform of self-gratification, and thusbenumbs their sensibilities so that theyfail to hear the very things which theymost need to learn.

(4) WHAT ARE THE THREEMAIN DIVERSIONS SATAN ISUSING TO DISTRACT OURTHOUGHTS FROM E T E R N A LISSUES?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 4:19

Satan well knows that all whom hecan lead to neglect prayer and thesearching of the Scriptures, will beovercome by his attacks. Therefore heinvents every possible device toengross the mind.

(5) HOW DOES SATAN USE THOSEWHO CLAIM TO BE CHRISTIANSBUT ARE NOT?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 16:17

There has ever been a class professinggodliness, who, instead of following onto know the truth, make it their religionto seek some fault of character or errorof faith in those with whom they do notagree. Such are Satan’s right-handhelpers. Accusers of the brethren arenot few, and they are always activewhen God is at work and His servantsare rendering Him true homage. They willput a false coloring upon the words andacts of those who love and obey thetruth. They will represent the mostearnest, zealous, self-denying servantsof Christ as deceived or deceivers. It istheir work to misrepresent the motivesof every true and noble deed, to circulateinsinuations, and arouse suspicion in theminds of the inexperienced. In everyconceivable manner they will seek tocause that which is pure and righteousto be regarded as foul and deceptive.

(6) HOW DOES SCRIPTUREIDENTIFY THESE DECEIVERS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 7:16

But none need be deceived concerningthem. It may be readily seen whosechildren they are, whose example theyfollow, and whose work they do. . . Theircourse resembles that of Satan, theenvenomed slanderer, “the accuser ofour brethren.” Revelation 12:10.

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The great deceiver has many agentsready to present any and every kind oferror to ensnare souls—heresiesprepared to suit the varied tastes andcapacities of those whom he would ruin.It is his plan to bring into the churchinsincere, unregenerate elements thatwill encourage doubt and unbelief, andhinder all who desire to see the work ofGod advance and to advance with it.Many who have no real faith in God orin His word assent to some principles oftruth and pass as Christians, and thusthey are enabled to introduce their errorsas Scriptural doctrines.

(7) WHAT IS THE RESULT OFACCEPTING TRUTH?______________________________________________________________________________________John 8:32

The position that it is of no consequencewhat men believe is one of Satan’s mostsuccessful deceptions. He knows thatthe truth, received in the love of it,sanctifies the soul of the receiver;therefore he is constantly seeking tosubstitute false theories, fables, anothergospel. From the beginning the servantsof God have contended against falseteachers, not merely as vicious men, butas inculcators of falsehoods that werefatal to the soul. Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul,firmly and fearlessly opposed those whowere turning men from the word of God.That liberality which regards a correctreligious faith as unimportant foundno favor with these holy defenders ofthe truth.

(8) WHAT WILL HAPPEN TOTHOSE WHO TWIST SCRIPTURETO FIT THEIR BELIEFS?________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 3:16

The vague and fanciful interpretationsof Scripture, and the many conflictingtheories concerning religious faith, thatare found in the Christian world are thework of our great adversary to confuseminds so that they shall not discern thetruth. And the discord and divisionwhich exist among the churches ofChristendom are in a great measure dueto the prevailing custom of wresting theScriptures to support a favorite theory.Instead of carefully studying God’sword with humility of heart to obtain aknowledge of His will, many seek onlyto discover something odd or original.

(9) WHAT WARNING IS GIVENTO THOSE WHO MIGHT THINKTO CHANGE THE MEANING OFGOD’S WORD?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:18

In order to sustain erroneous doctrinesor unchristian practices, some will seizeupon passages of Scripture separatedfrom the context, perhaps quoting halfof a single verse as proving their point,when the remaining portion wouldshow the meaning to be quite theopposite. With the cunning of theserpent they entrench themselvesbehind disconnected utterancesconstrued to suit their carnal desires.Thus do many willfully pervert theword of God. Others, who have anactive imagination, seize upon thefigures and symbols of Holy Writ,

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Snares of Satan

interpret them to suit their fancy, withlittle regard to the testimony of Scriptureas its own interpreter, and then theypresent their vagaries as the teachingsof the Bible.

Whenever the study of the Scripturesis entered upon without a prayerful,humble, teachable spirit, the plainest andsimplest as well as the most difficultpassages will be wrested from theirtrue meaning.

(10) WHAT WILL THE TESTI-MONY OF THE LORD DO FOR THESIMPLEST MIND?_____________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 19:7

The Bible was designed to be a guideto all who wish to become acquaintedwith the will of their Maker. God gaveto men the sure word of prophecy;angels and even Christ Himself came tomake known to Daniel and John thethings that must shortly come to pass.Those important matters that concernour salvation were not left involved inmystery. They were not revealed in sucha way as to perplex and mislead thehonest seeker after truth. Said the Lordby the prophet Habakkuk: “Write thevision, and make it plain, . . . that hemay run that readeth it.” Habakkuk 2:2.The word of God is plain to all whostudy it with a prayerful heart. Everytruly honest soul will come to the lightof truth. “Light is sown for therighteous.” Psalm 97:11.

(11) HOW DOES GOD VIEW THEWISDOM OF THIS WORLD?___________________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 3:19

To many, scientific research has becomea curse. God has permitted a flood oflight to be poured upon the world indiscoveries in science and art; but eventhe greatest minds, if not guided by theword of God in their research, becomebewildered in their attempts toinvestigate the relations of science andrevelation.

(12) HOW DOES SCRIPTUREREGARD SECULAR SCIENCE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Timothy 6:20

Human knowledge of both material andspiritual things is partial and imperfect;therefore many are unable to harmonizetheir views of science with Scripturestatements. Many accept mere theoriesand speculations as scientific facts, andthey think that God’s word is to betested by the teachings of “sciencefalsely so called.” . . . The Creator and Hisworks are beyond their comprehension;and because they cannot explain theseby natural laws, Bible history is regardedas unreliable. Those who doubt thereliability of the records of the Old andNew Testaments too often go a stepfurther and doubt the existence of Godand attribute infinite power to nature.Having let go their anchor, they are left tobeat about upon the rocks of infidelity.

(13) WHY WILL MAN NEVERFULLY UNDERSTAND GOD?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 11:33

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Thus many err from the faith and areseduced by the devil. Men haveendeavored to be wiser than theirCreator; human philosophy has attemptedto search out and explain mysteries whichwill never be revealed through the eternalages. If men would but search andunderstand what God had made knownof Himself and His purposes, theywould obtain such a view of the glory,majesty, and power of Jehovah thatthey would realize their own littlenessand would be content with that whichhas been revealed for themselves andtheir children.

It is a masterpiece of Satan’s deceptionsto keep the minds of men searching andconjecturing in regard to that which Godhas not made known and which He doesnot intend that we shall understand. Itwas thus that Lucifer lost his place inheaven. He became dissatisfied becauseall the secrets of God’s purposes werenot confided to him, and he entirelydisregarded that which was revealedconcerning his own work in the loftyposition assigned him. By arousing thesame discontent in the angels under hiscommand, he caused their fall. Now heseeks to imbue the minds of men withthe same spirit and to lead them also todisregard the direct commands of God.

(14) WHO IS IN DANGER OFBELIEVING STRONG DELUSIONS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonions 2:10-12

Those who are unwilling to accept theplain, cutting truths of the Bible arecontinually seeking for pleasing fablesthat will quiet the conscience. The less

spiritual, self-denying, and humiliatingthe doctrines presented, the greater thefavor with which they are received.These persons degrade the intellectualpowers to serve their carnal desires. Toowise in their own conceit to search theScriptures with contrition of soul andearnest prayer for divine guidance, theyhave no shield from delusion. Satan isready to supply the heart’s desire, andhe palms off his deceptions in the placeof truth. . . . All who neglect the word ofGod to study convenience and policy,that they may not be at variance withthe world, will be left to receive damnableheresy for religious truth. Everyconceivable form of error will beaccepted by those who willfullyreject the truth. He who looks withhorror upon one deception will readilyreceive another.

Among the most successful agenciesof the great deceiver are the delusiveteachings and lying wonders ofspiritualism. Disguised as an angel oflight, he spreads his nets where leastsuspected. If men would but study theBook of God with earnest prayer thatthey might understand it, they would notbe left in darkness to receive falsedoctrines. But as they reject the truththey fall a prey to deception.

(15) WHAT ARE WE INSTRUCTEDTO AVOID?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 7:13

Innumerable are the erroneous doctrinesand fanciful ideas that are obtainingamong the churches of Christendom. Itis impossible to estimate the evil resultsof removing one of the landmarks fixedby the word of God. Few who venture to

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Snares of Satan

do this stop with the rejection of a singletruth. The majority continue to set asideone after another of the principles oftruth, until they become actual infidels.

The errors of popular theology havedriven many a soul to skepticism whomight otherwise have been a believer inthe Scriptures. It is impossible for him toaccept doctrines which outrage his senseof justice, mercy, and benevolence; andsince these are represented as theteaching of the Bible, he refuses to receiveit as the word of God.

(16) WHAT IS THE DANGER OFHOLDING IN GREAT ESTEEM THETRADITIONS OF MAN?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 7:9

And this is the object which Satanseeks to accomplish. There is nothingthat he desires more than to destroyconfidence in God and in His word.Satan stands at the head of the greatarmy of doubters, and he works tothe utmost of his power to beguilesouls into his ranks. It is becomingfashionable to doubt. There is a largeclass by whom the word of God islooked upon with distrust for the samereason as was its Author—because itreproves and condemns sin. Those whoare unwilling to obey its requirementsendeavor to overthrow its authority.They read the Bible, or listen to itsteachings as presented from the sacreddesk, merely to find fault with theScriptures or with the sermon. Not a fewbecome infidels in order to justify orexcuse themselves in neglect of duty.Others adopt skeptical principlesfrom pride and indolence. Too ease-loving to distinguish themselves by

accomplishing anything worthy ofhonor, which requires effort and self-denial, they aim to secure a reputationfor superior wisdom by criticizing theBible. There is much which the finitemind, unenlightened by divinewisdom, is powerless to comprehend;and thus they find occasion to criticize.There are many who seem to feel that itis a virtue to stand on the side ofunbelief, skepticism, and infidelity. Butunderneath an appearance of candor itwill be found that such persons areactuated by self-confidence and pride.Many delight in finding something inthe Scriptures to puzzle the minds ofothers. Some at first criticize and reasonon the wrong side, from a mere love ofcontroversy. They do not realize thatthey are thus entangling themselves inthe snare of the fowler. But havingopenly expressed unbelief, they feelthat they must maintain their position.Thus they unite with the ungodly andclose to themselves the gates ofParadise.

(17) WHO WILL BE GRANTEDTHE AID OF THE HOLY SPIRIT?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Luke 11:13

God has given in His word sufficientevidence of its divine character. The greattruths which concern our redemption areclearly presented. By the aid of the HolySpirit, which is promised to all who seekit in sincerity, every man may understandthese truths for himself. God has grantedto men a strong foundation upon whichto rest their faith.

(18) WHAT GREAT PROMISE INTHIS VERSE MAY WE CLAIM?

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 118:8

Yet the finite minds of men areinadequate fully to comprehend theplans and purposes of the Infinite One.We can never by searching find outGod. We must not attempt to lift withpresumptuous hand the curtain behindwhich He veils His majesty. . . . We canso far comprehend His dealings with us,and the motives by which He isactuated, that we may discernboundless love and mercy united toinfinite power. Our Father in heavenorders everything in wisdom andrighteousness, and we are not to bedissatisfied and distrustful, but to bowin reverent submission. He will revealto us as much of His purposes as it isfor our good to know, and beyond thatwe must trust the Hand that isomnipotent, the Heart that is full of love.

(19) WHAT IS THE DANGEROUSFRUIT OF UNBELIEF?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Hebrews 3:12,13

While God has given ample evidence forfaith, He will never remove all excuse forunbelief. All who look for hooks to hangtheir doubts upon will find them. Andthose who refuse to accept and obeyGod’s word until every objection hasbeen removed, and there is no longer anopportunity for doubt, will never cometo the light.

(20) WHAT IS THE NATURAL RE-SPONSE FROM A CARNAL MIND?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 14:31

Distrust of God is the natural out-growth of the unrenewed heart, which isat enmity with Him. But faith is inspiredby the Holy Spirit, and it will flourishonly as it is cherished. No man canbecome strong in faith without adetermined effort. Unbelief strengthensas it is encouraged; and if men, insteadof dwelling upon the evidences whichGod has given to sustain their faith,permit themselves to question and cavil,they will find their doubts constantlybecoming more confirmed.

(21) WHAT BIBLICAL PRINCIPLEWILL FOLLOW THOSE WHODOUBT AND DISTRUST GOD?___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Galations 6:7

But those who doubt God’s promisesand distrust the assurance of His graceare dishonoring Him; and their influence,instead of drawing others to Christ,tends to repel them from Him. They areunproductive trees, that spread their darkbranches far and wide, shutting awaythe sunlight from other plants, andcausing them to droop and die under thechilling shadow. The lifework of thesepersons will appear as a never-ceasingwitness against them. They are sowingseeds of doubt and skepticism that willyield an unfailing harvest.

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Snares of Satan

(22) WHAT IS THE FIRST STEPTO FREEDOM FROM DOUBT OFDOCTRINE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 7:17; 1 John 1:7

There is but one course for those topursue who honestly desire to be freedfrom doubts. Instead of questioning andcaviling concerning that which they donot understand, let them give heed to thelight which already shines upon them, andthey will receive greater light. Let themdo every duty which has been made plainto their understanding, and they will beenabled to understand and perform thoseof which they are now in doubt.

(23) WHAT TWO KEYS AREAVAILABLE TO US FOR RECEIVINGSTRONGER FAITH?________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 10:17_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 9:24

(24) WHAT IS PROMISED TOTHOSE WHO SEEK?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 7:7

Satan can present a counterfeit soclosely resembling the truth that itdeceives those who are willing to bedeceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the

truth; but it is impossible for him tohold under his power one soul whohonestly desires, at whatever cost, toknow the truth. Christ is the truth andthe “Light, which lighteth every manthat cometh into the world.” John 1:9.The Spirit of truth has been sent toguide men into all truth.

(25) WHY DOES GOD ALLOW USTO UNDERGO TEMPTATION?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Job 23:10; 1 Peter 1:7

The followers of Christ know little ofthe plots which Satan and his hosts areforming against them. But He whositteth in the heavens will overrule allthese devices for the accomplishmentof His deep designs. The Lord permitsHis people to be subjected to the fieryordeal of temptation, not because Hetakes pleasure in their distress andaffliction, but because this process isessential to their final victory. He couldnot, consistently with His own glory,shield them from temptation; for thevery object of the trial is to prepare themto resist all the allurements of evil.

(26) FROM WHOM WILL POWERTO RESIST TEMPTATION COME?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Zechariah 4:6

Neither wicked men nor devils can hinderthe work of God, or shut out Hispresence from His people, if they will,with subdued, contrite hearts, confessand put away their sins, and in faith claimHis promises. Every temptation, every

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opposing influence, whether open orsecret, may be successfully resisted . . .

(27) WHY DO WE NOT HAVETO FEAR THE POWERS OF EVIL?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Luke 10:19

Satan is well aware that the weakest soulwho abides in Christ is more than a matchfor the hosts of darkness, and that,should he reveal himself openly, hewould be met and resisted. Therefore heseeks to draw away the soldiers of thecross from their strong fortification,while he lies in ambush with his forces,ready to destroy all who venture uponhis ground. Only in humble relianceupon God, and obedience to all Hiscommandments, can we be secure.

(28) WHAT TWO PROVISIONS DIDJESUS GIVE TO PREVENT US FROMENTERING INTO TEMPTATION?_____________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 26:41; Mark 13:33

No man is safe for a day or an hourwithout prayer. Especially should weentreat the Lord for wisdom tounderstand His word. Here are revealedthe wiles of the tempter and the meansby which he may be successfullyresisted. Satan is an expert in quotingScripture, placing his own interpretationupon passages, by which he hopes tocause us to stumble. We should studythe Bible with humility of heart, neverlosing sight of our dependence uponGod. While we must constantly guardagainst the devices of Satan, we shouldpray in faith continually: “Lead us notinto temptation.”

I realize Satan’s goal is todeceive the world and he willuse every method in His powerto bring about my ruin. I amthankful for the promise that ifI sincerely seek wisdom andtruth I will find it and not fallto his deceptions.


I understand that Satan usesboth professing believers andnonbelievers alike as his toolsto lead me astray. My prayeris: ”Lord, please give mewisdom to discern thesesatanic influences.”


I pray for determination tocontinually follow Christ’swarning and not give in tothe temptation of seekingworldly wealth which woulddraw me away f rom myrelationship with Him.


I am thank fu l for thepromises that God will giveus power over evil and neverallow me to be tempted abovewhat I am able to bear. I praythat, by faith and His grace, Ican overcome and give gloryto His name.


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The First Great Deception - 5With the earliest history of man, Satanbegan his efforts to deceive our race. Hewho had incited rebellion in heavendesired to bring the inhabitants of theearth to unite with him in his warfareagainst the government of God. Adamand Eve had been perfectly happy inobedience to the law of God, and thisfact was a constant testimony againstthe claim which Satan had urged inheaven, that God’s law was oppressiveand opposed to the good of Hiscreatures. And furthermore, Satan’s envywas excited as he looked upon thebeautiful home prepared for the sinlesspair. He determined to cause their fall,that, having separated them from Godand brought them under his own power,

he might gain possession of the earthand here establish his kingdom inopposition to the Most High.

(1) WHY IS IMMEDIATE UNYIELD-ING OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WILLESSENTIAL?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Romans 6:16

Had Satan revealed himself in his realcharacter, he would have been repulsedat once, for Adam and Eve had beenwarned against this dangerous foe; but

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he worked in the dark, concealing hispurpose, that he might more effectuallyaccomplish his object. Employing as hismedium the serpent, then a creature offascinating appearance, he addressedhimself to Eve: “Hath God said, Ye shallnot eat of every tree of the garden?”Genesis 3:1. Had Eve refrained fromentering into argument with the tempter,she would have been safe; but sheventured to parley with him and fell avictim to his wiles. It is thus that manyare still overcome. They doubt and argueconcerning the requirements of God; andinstead of obeying the divine commands,they accept human theories, which butdisguise the devices of Satan.

(2) WHAT GREAT DECEPTIONDID ADAM AND EVE CHOOSE TOBELIEVE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 3:4

“The woman said unto the serpent, Wemay eat of the fruit of the trees of thegarden: but of the fruit of the tree whichis in the midst of the garden, God hathsaid, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shallye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpentsaid unto the woman, Ye shall not surelydie: for God doth know that in the dayye eat thereof, then your eyes shall beopened, and ye shall be as gods,knowing good and evil.” Verses 2-5. Hedeclared that they would become likeGod, possessing greater wisdom thanbefore and being capable of a higherstate of existence. Eve yielded totemptation; and through her influence,Adam was led into sin. They acceptedthe words of the serpent, that God didnot mean what He said; they distrustedtheir Creator and imagined that He wasrestricting their liberty and that they

might obtain great wisdom and exaltationby transgressing His law.

(3) WHAT WAS THE IMMEDIATERESULT OF THEIR TRANSGRESSION?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 59:2____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 3:22,23

(4) WHAT IS SIN?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 John 3:4

(5) WHAT IS THE ULTIMATERESULT OF SIN?____________________________________________

____________________________________________

_________________________________________Romans 6:23

But what did Adam, after his sin, find tobe the meaning of the words, “In the daythat thou eatest thereof thou shalt surelydie”? Did he find them to mean, as Satanhad led him to believe, that he was to beushered into a more exalted state ofexistence? Then indeed there was greatgood to be gained by transgression, andSatan was proved to be a benefactor ofthe race. But Adam did not find this tobe the meaning of the divine sentence.God declared that as a penalty for hissin, man should return to the groundwhence he was taken: “Dust thou art,

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The First Great Deception

and unto dust shalt thou return.” Verse19. The words of Satan, “Your eyes shallbe opened,” proved to be true in thissense only: After Adam and Eve haddisobeyed God, their eyes were openedto discern their folly; they did knowevil, and they tasted the bitter fruit oftransgression.

In the midst of Eden grew the tree oflife, whose fruit had the power ofperpetuating life. Had Adam remainedobedient to God, he would havecontinued to enjoy free access to thistree and would have lived forever. Butwhen he sinned he was cut off frompartaking of the tree of life, and hebecame subject to death. The divinesentence, “Dust thou art, and unto dustshalt thou return,” points to the utterextinction of life.

(6) WHAT IS MAN’S ONLY HOPEOF REGAINING IMMORTALITY?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 1:10; Romans 5:12-15

Immortality, promised to man oncondition of obedience, had beenforfeited by transgression. Adam couldnot transmit to his posterity that whichhe did not possess; and there couldhave been no hope for the fallen racehad not God, by the sacrifice of HisSon, brought immortality within theirreach. . . . And only through Christcan immortality be obtained. SaidJesus: “He that believeth on the Sonhath everlasting life: and he thatbelieveth not the Son shall not see life.”John 3:36. Every man may come intopossession of this priceless blessing

if he will comply with the conditions.All “who by patient continuance inwell-doing seek for glory and honorand immortality,” will receive “eternallife.” Romans 2:7.

(7) WHAT HAPPENS TO THE SOULOF A SINNER?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 2:17; Ezekiel 18:20,4

The only one who promised Adam life indisobedience was the great deceiver.And the declaration of the serpent toEve in Eden—”Ye shall not surely die”—was the first sermon ever preachedupon the immortality of the soul. Yet thisdeclaration, resting solely upon theauthority of Satan, is echoed from thepulpits of Christendom and is receivedby the majority of mankind as readily asit was received by our first parents. Thedivine sentence, “The soul that sinneth,it shall die” (Ezekiel 18:20), is made tomean: The soul that sinneth, it shall notdie, but live eternally. We cannot butwonder at the strange infatuation whichrenders men so credulous concerning thewords of Satan and so unbelieving inregard to the words of God.

(8) HOW DID GOD PREVENT THEIMMORTALIZATION OF SIN ANDSINNERS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 3:24

Had man after his fall been allowed freeaccess to the tree of life, he wouldhave lived forever, and thus sin wouldhave been immortalized. But cherubim

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and a flaming sword kept “the way ofthe tree of life” and not one of thefamily of Adam has been permitted topass that barrier and partake of thelife-giving fruit. Therefore there is notan immortal sinner.

(9) WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BODYAND SOUL OF THE WICKED AFTERTHE FINAL JUDGEMENT?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 10:28

(10) HOW DOES THE LORD FEELABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OFTHOSE WHO REJECT SALVATION?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 33:11____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 3:9

But after the Fall, Satan bade his angelsmake a special effort to inculcate thebelief in man’s natural immortality; andhaving induced the people to receivethis error, they were to lead them on toconclude that the sinner would live ineternal misery. Now the prince ofdarkness, working through his agents,represents God as a revengeful tyrant,declaring that He plunges into hell allthose who do not please Him, andcauses them ever to feel His wrath; andthat while they suffer unutterableanguish and writhe in the eternalflames, their Creator looks down uponthem with satisfaction.

Thus the archfiend clothes with his ownattributes the Creator and Benefactor ofmankind. Cruelty is satanic. God is love;and all that He created was pure, holy,and lovely, until sin was brought in bythe first great rebel. Satan himself is theenemy who tempts man to sin, and thendestroys him if he can; and when he hasmade sure of his victim, then he exults inthe ruin he has wrought. If permitted, hewould sweep the entire race into his net.Were it not for the interposition of divinepower, not one son or daughter of Adamwould escape.

(11) WHAT FOUR ATTRIBUTESDESCRIBE THE TRUE CHARACTERAND GOVERNMENT OF GOD?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 89:14

Satan is seeking to overcome mentoday, as he overcame our first parents,by shaking their confidence in theirCreator and leading them to doubt thewisdom of His government and thejustice of His laws. Satan and hisemissaries represent God as even worsethan themselves, in order to justify theirown malignity and rebellion. The greatdeceiver endeavors to shift his ownhorrible cruelty of character upon ourheavenly Father, that he may causehimself to appear as one greatlywronged by his expulsion from heavenbecause he would not submit to sounjust a governor. He presents beforethe world the liberty which they mayenjoy under his mild sway, in contrastwith the bondage imposed by the sterndecrees of Jehovah. Thus he succeedsin luring souls away from theirallegiance to God.

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(12) WHAT WILL REMAIN OF THEWICKED WHEN JUST PUNISHMENTHAS BEEN DELIVERED?_____________________________________________________________________________________Malachi 4:3; Psalm 37:20; Obadiah 1:16

How repugnant to every emotion of loveand mercy, and even to our sense ofjustice, is the doctrine that the wickeddead are tormented with fire andbrimstone in an eternally burning hell;that for the sins of a brief earthly lifethey are to suffer torture as long as Godshall live. Yet this doctrine has beenwidely taught and is still embodied inmany of the creeds of Christendom. . . .

(13) HOW DOES SATAN COMETO HIS END?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:18

What would be gained to God shouldwe admit that He delights in witnessingunceasing tortures; that He is regaledwith the groans and shrieks andimprecations of the suffering creatureswhom He holds in the flames of hell?Can these horrid sounds be music in theear of Infinite Love? It is urged that theinfliction of endless misery upon thewicked would show God’s hatred of sinas an evil which is ruinous to the peaceand order of the universe. Oh, dreadfulblasphemy! As if God’s hatred of sin isthe reason why it is perpetuated. For,according to the teachings of thesetheologians, continued torture withouthope of mercy maddens its wretchedvictims, and as they pour out their ragein curses and blasphemy, they are

forever augmenting their load of guilt.God’s glory is not enhanced by thusperpetuating continually increasing sinthrough ceaseless ages.

It is beyond the power of the humanmind to estimate the evil which hasbeen wrought by the heresy of eternaltorment. The religion of the Bible, full oflove and goodness, and abounding incompassion, is darkened by superstitionand clothed with terror. When weconsider in what false colors Satan haspainted the character of God, can wewonder that our merciful Creator isfeared, dreaded, and even hated? Theappalling views of God which havespread over the world from the teachingsof the pulpit have made thousands, yes,millions, of skeptics and infidels.

(14) WHAT IS THE DESCRIPTIONGIVEN IN THIS VERSE THAT DE-SCRIBES FALSE DOCTRINE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:8; 17:2

The theory of eternal torment is one ofthe false doctrines that constitute thewine of the abomination of Babylon, ofwhich she makes all nations drink.Revelation 14:8; 17:2. That ministers ofChrist should have accepted this heresyand proclaimed it from the sacred desk isindeed a mystery. . . . If we turn from thetestimony of God’s word, and accept falsedoctrines because our fathers taughtthem, we fall under the condemnationpronounced upon Babylon; we aredrinking of the wine of her abomination.

(15) WHAT WILL THE LORDGIVE TO BOTH THE RIGHTEOUSAND THE SINNER?

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________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:12

A large class to whom the doctrine ofeternal torment is revolting are driven tothe opposite error. They see that theScriptures represent God as a being oflove and compassion, and they cannotbelieve that He will consign His creaturesto the fires of an eternally burning hell.But holding that the soul is naturallyimmortal, they see no alternative but toconclude that all mankind will finally besaved. Many regard the threatenings ofthe Bible as designed merely to frightenmen into obedience, and not to beliterally fulfilled. Thus the sinner can livein selfish pleasure, disregarding therequirements of God, and yet expect tobe finally received into His favor. Such adoctrine, presuming upon God’s mercy,but ignoring His justice, pleases thecarnal heart and emboldens the wickedin their iniquity.

God has given in His word decisiveevidence that He will punish thetransgressors of His law. Those whoflatter themselves that He is too mercifulto execute justice upon the sinner, haveonly to look to the cross of Calvary. Thedeath of the spotless Son of Godtestifies that “the wages of sin is death,”that every violation of God’s law mustreceive its just retribution. Christ thesinless became sin for man. He bore theguilt of transgression, and the hiding ofHis Father’s face, until His heart wasbroken and His life crushed out. All thissacrifice was made that sinners mightbe redeemed. In no other way could manbe freed from the penalty of sin. Andevery soul that refuses to become a

partaker of the atonement providedat such a cost must bear in his ownperson the guilt and punishment oftransgression.

(16) WHAT ESSENTIAL REQUIRE-MENTS MUST BE MET BEFORESALVATION IS ASSURED?___________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:6_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:7; Ephesians 5:5;Hebrews 12:14; Revelation 22:14,15

. . . This promise is only to those thatthirst. None but those who feel their needof the water of life, and seek it at the lossof all things else, will be supplied. . . . Inorder to inherit all things, we must resistand overcome sin.

The Lord declares by the prophet Isaiah:“Say ye to the righteous, that it shall bewell with him.” “Woe unto the wicked! itshall be ill with him: for the reward of hishands shall be given him.” Isaiah 3:10,11. “Though a sinner do evil an hundredtimes,” says the wise man, “and his daysbe prolonged, yet surely I know that itshall be well with them that fear God,which fear before Him: but it shall not bewell with the wicked.” Ecclesiastes 8:12,13. And Paul testifies that the sinner istreasuring up unto himself “wrathagainst the day of wrath and revelationof the righteous judgment of God; whowill render to every man according tohis deeds;” “tribulation and anguishupon every soul of man that doeth evil.”Romans 2:5, 6,9.

(17) HOW WILL GOD DEAL WITHREBELLION AND SIN?

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_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Exodus 34:6,7______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 145:20; 37:38

God has given to men a declaration ofHis character and of His method ofdealing with sin. . . . The power andauthority of the divine government willbe employed to put down rebellion; yetall the manifestations of retributivejustice will be perfectly consistent withthe character of God as a merciful, long-suffering, benevolent being.

(18) WHAT IS GOD’S PLEA TOEVERY SINNER?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 1:18; 2 Chronicles 7:14

God does not force the will or judgmentof any. He takes no pleasure in a slavishobedience. He desires that the creaturesof His hands shall love Him because Heis worthy of love. He would have themobey Him because they have anintelligent appreciation of His wisdom,justice, and benevolence. And all whohave a just conception of these qualitieswill love Him because they are drawntoward Him in admiration of His attributes.

The principles of kindness, mercy, andlove, taught and exemplified by ourSaviour, are a transcript of the will andcharacter of God. Christ declared thatHe taught nothing except that which Hehad received from His Father. Theprinciples of the divine government arein perfect harmony with the Saviour’sprecept, “Love your enemies.” Godexecutes justice upon the wicked, forthe good of the universe, and even forthe good of those upon whom Hisjudgments are visited. He would makethem happy if He could do so inaccordance with the laws of Hisgovernment and the justice of Hischaracter. He surrounds them with thetokens of His love, He grants them aknowledge of His law, and follows themwith the offers of His mercy; but theydespise His love, make void His law,and reject His mercy. While constantlyreceiving His gifts, they dishonor theGiver; they hate God because theyknow that He abhors their sins. TheLord bears long with their perversity;but the decisive hour will come at last,when their destiny is to be decided. WillHe then chain these rebels to His side?Will He force them to do His will?

(19) WHAT CRY WILL COME FROMTHE WICKED AS THEY EXPERIENCETHE PRESENCE OF THE LORD?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 6:16

Those who have chosen Satan as theirleader and have been controlled by hispower are not prepared to enter thepresence of God. Pride, deception,licentiousness, cruelty, have becomefixed in their characters. Can they enterheaven to dwell forever with thosewhom they despised and hated on earth?

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Truth will never be agreeable to a liar;meekness will not satisfy self-esteem andpride; purity is not acceptable to thecorrupt; disinterested love does notappear attractive to the selfish. Whatsource of enjoyment could heaven offerto those who are wholly absorbed inearthly and selfish interests?

Could those whose lives have beenspent in rebellion against God besuddenly transported to heaven andwitness the high, the holy state ofperfection that ever exists there,—everysoul filled with love, every countenancebeaming with joy, enrapturing music inmelodious strains rising in honor of Godand the Lamb, and ceaseless streamsof light flowing upon the redeemed fromthe face of Him who sitteth upon thethrone,—could those whose hearts arefilled with hatred of God, of truth andholiness, mingle with the heavenlythrong and join their songs of praise?Could they endure the glory of Godand the Lamb? No, no; years ofprobation were granted them, that theymight form characters for heaven; butthey have never trained the mind tolove purity; they have never learnedthe language of heaven, and now it istoo late. A life of rebellion against Godhas unfitted them for heaven. Itspurity, holiness, and peace would betorture to them; the glory of God wouldbe a consuming fire. They would longto flee from that holy place. Theywould welcome destruction, that theymight be hidden from the face of Himwho died to redeem them. The destinyof the wicked is fixed by their ownchoice. Their exclusion from heaven isvoluntary with themselves, and justand merciful on the part of God.

(20) WHAT PROCLAMATIONFROM GOD WILL SEAL THE FATEOF ALL HUMANITY FOR ETERNITY?

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:11

Like the waters of the Flood the fires ofthe great day declare God’s verdict thatthe wicked are incurable. They have nodisposition to submit to divineauthority. Their will has been exercisedin revolt; and when life is ended, it istoo late to turn the current of theirthoughts in the opposite direction, toolate to turn from transgression toobedience, from hatred to love.

(21) WHAT WAS THE RESULT OFGOD SPARING CAIN FOLLOWINGTHE MURDER OF ABEL?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 6:5

In sparing the life of Cain the murderer,God gave the world an example of whatwould be the result of permitting thesinner to live to continue a course ofunbridled iniquity. Through theinfluence of Cain’s teaching andexample, multitudes of his descendantswere led into sin, until “the wickednessof man was great in the earth” and “everyimagination of the thoughts of his heartwas only evil continually.” “The earth alsowas corrupt before God, and the earth wasfilled with violence.” Genesis 6:5, 11.

In mercy to the world, God blotted outits wicked inhabitants in Noah’s time. Inmercy He destroyed the corrupt dwellersin Sodom. Through the deceptive power

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of Satan the workers of iniquity obtainsympathy and admiration, and are thusconstantly leading others to rebellion. Itwas so in Cain’s and in Noah’s day, andin the time of Abraham and Lot; it is soin our time. It is in mercy to the universethat God will finally destroy the rejectersof His grace.

(22) HOW CAN THE SACRIFICEOF CHRIST REDEEM ALL REPENT-ANT SINNERS?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 5:17-10; Acts 24:15

In consequence of Adam’s sin, deathpassed upon the whole human race.All alike go down into the grave. Andthrough the provisions of the plan ofsalvation, all are to be brought forthfrom their graves.

(23) WHAT DETERMINES THEMEASURE OF PUNISHMENT THEWICKED WILL RECEIVE?________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 16:27

“There shall be a resurrection of the dead,both of the just and unjust;” 1Cornthians 15:22 . . . But a distinction ismade between the two classes that arebrought forth. “All that are in the gravesshall hear His voice, and shall comeforth; they that have done good, untothe resurrection of life; and they thathave done evil, unto the resurrection ofdamnation.” John 5:28, 29. They whohave been “accounted worthy” of theresurrection of life are “blessed andholy.” “On such the second death hath

no power.” Revelation 20:6. But thosewho have not, through repentance andfaith, secured pardon, must receive thepenalty of transgression—”the wagesof sin.” They suffer punishment varyingin duration and intensity, “according totheir works,” but finally ending in thesecond death. Since it is impossible forGod, consistently with His justice andmercy, to save the sinner in his sins, Hedeprives him of the existence which histransgressions have forfeited and ofwhich he has proved himself unworthy.

(24) WHAT IS THE FINAL STATEOF THE SOUL THAT SINS?________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 6:23________________________________________________________________________________________Obadiah 16; Psalm 37:10

Thus will be made an end of sin, with allthe woe and ruin which have resultedfrom it. Says the psalmist: “Thou hastdestroyed the wicked, Thou hast put outtheir name forever and ever. O thouenemy, destructions are come to aperpetual end.” Psalm 9:5, 6. John, in theRevelation, looking forward to the eternalstate, hears a universal anthem of praiseundisturbed by one note of discord.Every creature in heaven and earth washeard ascribing glory to God. Revelation5:13. There will then be no lost souls toblaspheme God as they writhe in never-ending torment; no wretched beings inhell will mingle their shrieks with thesongs of the saved.

(25) WHAT IS THE CONDITIONOF ALL THOSE WHO DIE?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

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________________________________________________________________________________________Ecclesiastes 9:5

Upon the fundamental error of naturalimmortality rests the doctrine ofconsciousness in death—a doctrine,like eternal torment, opposed to theteachings of the Scriptures, to thedictates of reason, and to our feelingsof humanity. According to the popularbelief, the redeemed in heaven areacquainted with all that takes place onthe earth and especially with the livesof the friends whom they have leftbehind. But how could it be a source ofhappiness to the dead to know thetroubles of the living, to witness thesins committed by their own loved ones,and to see them enduring all thesorrows, disappointments, and anguishof life? How much of heaven’s blisswould be enjoyed by those who werehovering over their friends on earth?And how utterly revolting is the beliefthat as soon as the breath leaves thebody the soul of the impenitent isconsigned to the flames of hell! To whatdepths of anguish must those beplunged who see their friends passingto the grave unprepared, to enter uponan eternity of woe and sin! Many havebeen driven to insanity by thisharrowing thought.

What say the Scriptures concerningthese things? David declares that manis not conscious in death. “His breathgoeth forth, he returneth to his earth;in that very day his thoughts perish.”Psalm 146:4.

(26) WHAT CAN THE LIVINGDO THAT THE DEAD CANNOT?____________________________________________

______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Isaiah 38:18,19

When, in answer to his prayer,Hezekiah’s life was prolonged fifteenyears, the grateful king rendered to Goda tribute of praise for His great mercy.In this song he tells the reason why hethus rejoices: “The grave cannot praiseThee, death cannot celebrate Thee: theythat go down into the pit cannot hopefor Thy truth. The living, the living, heshall praise Thee, as I do this day.”Isaiah 38:18, 19. Popular theologyrepresents the righteous dead as inheaven, entered into bliss and praisingGod with an immortal tongue; butHezekiah could see no such gloriousprospect in death. With his wordsagrees the testimony of the psalmist:“In death there is no remembrance ofThee: in the grave who shall give Theethanks?” “The dead praise not the Lord,neither any that go down into silence.”Psalms 6:5; 115:17.

(27) WHERE IS KING DAVID TODAY?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Acts 2:29

The fact that David remains in the graveuntil the resurrection proves that therighteous do not go to heaven at death.It is only through the resurrection, andby virtue of the fact that Christ hasrisen, that David can at last sit at theright hand of God.

(28) FROM WHERE WILL THEDEAD COME ON RESURRECTIONDAY?

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_____________________________________________________________________________________John 5:28,29

(29) WHY IS IT NOT LOGICALFOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED TOGO TO HEAVEN OR HELL BEFORETHE DAY CHRIST RETURNS?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:12

And said Paul: “If the dead rise not,then is not Christ raised: and if Christbe not raised, your faith is vain; ye areyet in your sins. Then they also whichare fallen asleep in Christ are perished.”I Corinthians 15:16-18. If for fourthousand years the righteous had gonedirectly to heaven at death, how couldPaul have said that if there is noresurrection, “they also which are fallenasleep in Christ are perished”? Noresurrection would be necessary.

(30) AT CHRIST’S ASCENSION,WHAT PRECIOUS PROMISE DIDHE LEAVE FOR THOSE WHOWOULD LONG FOR HIS RETURN?________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________John 14:2,3

But when about to leave His disciples,Jesus did not tell them that they would

soon come to Him. . . . And Paul tellsus, further, that “the Lord Himself shalldescend from heaven with a shout, withthe voice of the Archangel, and withthe trump of God: and the dead in Christshall rise first: then we which are aliveand remain shall be caught up togetherwith them in the clouds, to meet theLord in the air: and so shall we ever bewith the Lord.” And he adds: “Comfortone another with these words.” IThessalonians 4:16-18. . . . Paul pointshis brethren to the future coming of theLord, when the fetters of the tomb shallbe broken, and the “dead in Christ” shallbe raised to eternal life.

(31) WHAT GREAT AND SOLEMNEVENT MUST TAKE PLACE BEFORETHE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKEDRECEIVE THEIR REWARDS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:12

Before any can enter the mansions ofthe blessed, their cases must beinvestigated, and their characters andtheir deeds must pass in review beforeGod. All are to be judged according tothe things written in the books and to berewarded as their works have been. Thisjudgment does not take place at death.Mark the words of Paul: “He hathappointed a day, in the which He willjudge the world in righteousness by thatMan whom He hath ordained; whereofHe hath given assurance unto all men,in that He hath raised Him from the dead.”Acts 17:31. Here the apostle plainlystated that a specified time, then future,had been fixed upon for the judgment ofthe world.

Jude refers to the same period: “Theangels which kept not their first estate,

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but left their own habitation, He hathreserved in everlasting chains underdarkness unto the judgment of the greatday.” And, again, he quotes the wordsof Enoch: “Behold, the Lord cometh withten thousands of His saints, to executejudgment upon all.” Jude 6, 14, 15. . . .

But if the dead are already enjoyingthe bliss of heaven or writhing in theflames of hell, what need of a futurejudgment? The teachings of God’sword on these important points areneither obscure nor contradictory;they may be understood by commonminds. But what candid mind can seeeither wisdom or justice in the currenttheory? Will the righteous, after theinvestigation of their cases at thejudgment, receive the commendation,“Well done, thou good and faithfulservant: . . . enter thou into the joy ofthy Lord,” when they have beendwelling in His presence, perhaps forlong ages? Are the wicked summonedfrom the place of torment to receivesentence from the Judge of all theearth: “Depart from Me, ye cursed,into everlasting fire”? Matthew 25:21,41. Oh, solemn mockery! shamefulimpeachment of the wisdom andjustice of God!

(32) IN WHAT STATE DO THEDEAD REMAIN UNTIL THE RESUR-RECTION?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Daniel 12:2; Psalm 13:3; Job 7:21

Nowhere in the Sacred Scriptures isfound the statement that the righteousgo to their reward or the wicked to theirpunishment at death. The patriarchs and

prophets have left no such assurance.Christ and His apostles have givenno hint of it. The Bible clearly teachesthat the dead do not go immediatelyto heaven. They are represented assleeping until the resurrection. IThessalonians 4:14; Job 14:10-12. Inthe very day when the silver cord isloosed and the golden bowl broken(Ecclesiastes 12:6), man’s thoughtsperish. They that go down to the graveare in silence. They know no more ofanything that is done under the sun.Job 14:21. Blessed rest for the wearyrighteous! Time, be it long or short, isbut a moment to them. They sleep; theyare awakened by the trump of God to aglorious immortality. “For the trumpetshall sound, and the dead shall beraised incorruptible. . . .So when thiscorruptible shall have put onincorruption, and this mortal shall haveput on immortality, then shall be broughtto pass the saying that is written, Deathis swallowed up in victory.” ICorinthians 15:52-54.

(33) WHAT WILL BE THE VICTORYCRY OF THE RESURRECTED RIGHT-EOUS?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 15:55

As they are called forth from their deepslumber they begin to think just wherethey ceased. The last sensation was thepang of death; the last thought, thatthey were falling beneath the powerof the grave. When they arise fromthe tomb, their first glad thought willbe echoed in the triumphal shout:“O death, where is thy sting? O grave,where is thy victory?”

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I realize that the f irstdeception to mankind was,“Ye shall not surely die.” Itis clear that the Bible teachesthat the ultimate result ofunrepented sin brings finaldeath to both the body and soul.


I have discovered in God’sWord that our only hope forimmortality is to accept theatoning sacrifice of Christ.


I see the evidence of the greatcontroversy and Satan’s effortis to convince the world thatGod’s government is sternand unfair. But, it is evidentin Scripture that all God’sjudgements are righteous,just, and merciful.


I see God’s mercy in the factthat after receiving their justreward, the wicked will bedestroyed in the fires of hell.

Neither their body or soul willbe left to suffer for endless ages.


I have found in Scripture thatthe dead are not in heavenpraising God. They have noemotion, thought, or anyawareness of any kind butare asleep in their gravesawaiting the resurrection.


It gives me peace to knowthey are not observing theirloved ones suffering theinjustices of this world. Theyare asleep in their graveawaiting the resurrection atthe second coming of Christ.


It is my prayer that I will beamong those faithful followerswho cry out, “O death, whereis thy sting? O grave, where isthey victory?”.


Study Notes: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Can The Dead Speak to Us? - 6The ministration of holy angels, aspresented in the Scriptures, is a truthmost comforting and precious to everyfollower of Christ. But the Bible teachingupon this point has been obscured andperverted by the errors of populartheology. The doctrine of naturalimmortality, first borrowed from thepagan philosophy, and in the darknessof the great apostasy incorporated intothe Christian faith, has supplanted thetruth, so plainly taught in Scripture, that“the dead know not anything.”Multitudes have come to believe thatit is spirits of the dead who are the“ministering spirits, sent forth to ministerfor them who shall be heirs of salvation.”And this notwithstanding the testimonyof Scripture to the existence of heavenly

angels, and their connection with thehistory of man, before the death of ahuman being.

(1) WHAT WILL THE DEAD NOTDO AFTER ENTERING THE GRAVE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Job 7:9

The doctrine of man’s consciousnessin death, especially the belief thatspirits of the dead return to minister tothe living, has prepared the way formodern spiritualism. If the dead areadmitted to the presence of God and holy

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Can The Dead Speak to Us?

angels, and privileged with knowledgefar exceeding what they beforepossessed, why should they not returnto the earth to enlighten and instruct theliving? If, as taught by populartheologians, spirits of the dead arehovering about their friends on earth,why should they not be permitted tocommunicate with them, to warn themagainst evil, or to comfort them insorrow? How can those who believe inman’s consciousness in death rejectwhat comes to them as divinelight communicated by glorified spirits?Here is a channel regarded as sacred,through which Satan works for theaccomplishment of his purposes. Thefallen angels who do his bidding appearas messengers from the spirit world.While professing to bring the livinginto communication with the dead, theprince of evil exercises his bewitchinginfluence upon their minds.

(2) WHAT ABILITY DO THEFORCES OF EVIL POSSESS ANDUSE IN AN ATTEMPT TO DECEIVETHE WORLD?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 24:24; Revelation 16:14

He has power to bring before men theappearance of their departed friends. Thecounterfeit is perfect; the familiar look,the words, the tone, are reproduced withmarvelous distinctness. Many arecomforted with the assurance that theirloved ones are enjoying the bliss ofheaven, and without suspicion ofdanger, they give ear “to seducingspirits, and doctrines of devils.” Whenthey have been led to believe that thedead actually return to communicate withthem, Satan causes those to appear whowent into the grave unprepared. They

claim to be happy in heaven and even tooccupy exalted positions there, andthus the error is widely taught thatno difference is made between therighteous and the wicked. Thepretended visitants from the world ofspirits sometimes utter cautions andwarnings which prove to be correct.Then, as confidence is gained, theypresent doctrines that directlyundermine faith in the Scriptures. Withan appearance of deep interest in thewell-being of their friends on earth,they insinuate the most dangerouserrors. The fact that they state sometruths, and are able at times to fore-tell future events, gives to theirstatements an appearance of reliability;and their false teachings are acceptedby the multitudes as readily, andbelieved as implicitly, as if they werethe most sacred truths of the Bible.The law of God is set aside, the Spiritof grace despised, the blood of thecovenant counted an unholy thing.The spirits deny the deity of Christand place even the Creator on a levelwith themselves. Thus under a newdisguise the great rebel still carries onhis warfare against God, begun inheaven and for nearly six thousandyears continued upon the earth.

(3) IN THIS BIBLICAL EXAMPLE,WHO WAS IT THAT THE SPIRITSOF EVIL IMPERSONATED?_____________________________________________________________________________________1 Samuel 28:14

Many endeavor to account for spiritualmanifestations by attributing themwholly to fraud and sleight of hand onthe part of the medium. But while it istrue that the results of trickery haveoften been palmed off as genuinemanifestations, there have been, also,

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marked exhibitions of supernaturalpower. The mysterious rapping withwhich modern spiritualism began wasnot the result of human trickery orcunning, but was the direct work of evilangels, who thus introduced one of themost successful of soul-destroyingdelusions. Many will be ensnaredthrough the belief that spiritualism is amerely human imposture; whenbrought face to face with manifestationswhich they cannot but regard assupernatural, they will be deceived, andwill be led to accept them as the greatpower of God.

(4) WHAT THREE CATEGORIESDESCRIBE THE MANIFESTATIONOF SATANIC POWERS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonians 2:9,10

These persons overlook the testimonyof the Scriptures concerning thewonders wrought by Satan and hisagents. It was by satanic aid thatPharaoh’s magicians were enabledto counterfeit the work of God. Paultestifies that before the secondadvent of Christ there will be similarmanifestations of satanic power. . . . Andthe apostle John, describing the miracle-working power that will be manifestedin the last days, declares: “He doethgreat wonders, so that he maketh firecome down from heaven on the earth inthe sight of men, and deceiveth themthat dwell on the earth by the means ofthose miracles which he had power todo.” Revelation 13:13,14. No mereimpostures are here foretold. Men aredeceived by the miracles which Satan’sagents have power to do, not which theypretend to do.

(5) WHAT WILL BE SATAN’SMASTERPIECE OF DECEPTION?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Corinthians 11:13,14

The prince of darkness, who has so longbent the powers of his mastermind to thework of deception, skillfully adapts histemptations to men of all classes andconditions. To persons of culture andrefinement he presents spiritualism in itsmore refined and intellectual aspects, andthus succeeds in drawing many into hissnare. The wisdom which spiritualismimparts is that described by the apostleJames, which “descendeth not fromabove, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.”James 3:15. This, however, the greatdeceiver conceals when concealment willbest suit his purpose. He who couldappear clothed with the brightness of theheavenly seraphs before Christ in thewilderness of temptation, comes to menin the most attractive manner as an angelof light. He appeals to the reason by thepresentation of elevating themes; hedelights the fancy with enrapturingscenes; and he enlists the affections byhis eloquent portrayals of love andcharity. He excites the imagination to loftyflights, leading men to take so great pridein their own wisdom that in their heartsthey despise the Eternal One. That mightybeing who could take the world’sRedeemer to an exceedingly highmountain and bring before Him all thekingdoms of the earth and the glory ofthem, will present his temptations to menin a manner to pervert the senses of allwho are not shielded by divine power.

(6) WHAT IS THE SOURCE OFFORBIDDEN KNOWLEDGE ANDSELF-EXALTATION THAT EVILMEN DESIRE?

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 3:15

Satan beguiles men now as he beguiledEve in Eden by flattery, by kindling adesire to obtain forbidden knowledge,by exciting ambition for self-exaltation.It was cherishing these evils thatcaused his fall, and through them heaims to compass the ruin of men. “Yeshall be as gods,” he declares, “knowinggood and evil.” Genesis 3:5. Spiritualismteaches “that man is the creature ofprogression; that it is his destiny fromhis birth to progress, even to eternity,toward the Godhead.” . . .

Thus, in place of the righteousness andperfection of the infinite God, the trueobject of adoration; in place of theperfect righteousness of His law, the truestandard of human attainment, Satan hassubstituted the sinful, erring nature ofman himself as the only object ofadoration, the only rule of judgment, orstandard of character. This is progress,not upward, but downward.

(7) HOW ONLY CAN MANKINDBE EXALTED?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 4:6; Matthew 23:12

It is a law both of the intellectual andthe spiritual nature that by beholdingwe become changed. The mindgradually adapts itself to the subjectsupon which it is allowed to dwell. Itbecomes assimilated to that which it isaccustomed to love and reverence. Manwill never rise higher than his standardof purity or goodness or truth. If self ishis loftiest ideal, he will never attain to

anything more exalted. Rather, he willconstantly sink lower and lower. Thegrace of God alone has power to exaltman. Left to himself, his course mustinevitably be downward.

(8) WHAT IS MAN’S PARTIN COOPERATION WITH GODAGAINST SELF-INDULGENCE?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________1 Corinthians 9:25

To the self-indulgent, the pleasure-loving,the sensual, spiritualism presents itselfunder a less subtle disguise than to themore refined and intellectual; in its grosserforms they find that which is in harmonywith their inclinations. Satan studies everyindication of the frailty of human nature,he marks the sins which each individualis inclined to commit, and then he takescare that opportunities shall not bewanting to gratify the tendency to evil.He tempts men to excess in that which isin itself lawful, causing them, throughintemperance, to weaken physical,mental, and moral power. He hasdestroyed and is destroying thousandsthrough the indulgence of the passions,thus brutalizing the entire nature of man.And to complete his work, he declares,through the spirits that “true knowledgeplaces man above all law;” that “whateveris, is right;” that “God doth notcondemn;” and that “all sins which arecommitted are innocent.” When thepeople are thus led to believe that desireis the highest law, that liberty is license,and that man is accountable only tohimself, who can wonder that corruptionand depravity teem on every hand?Multitudes eagerly accept teachings thatleave them at liberty to obey thepromptings of the carnal heart. The reins

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of self-control are laid upon the neck oflust, the powers of mind and soul are madesubject to the animal propensities, andSatan exultingly sweeps into his netthousands who profess to be followersof Christ.

(9) WHAT WARNING DOESSCRIPTURE GIVE REGARDING IN-VOLVEMENT IN SPIRITUALISM?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________Leviticus 19:31; Isaiah 8:20

But none need be deceived by the lyingclaims of spiritualism. God has given theworld sufficient light to enable them todiscover the snare. As already shown,the theory which forms the veryfoundation of spiritualism is at war withthe plainest statements of Scripture. TheBible declares that the dead know notanything, that their thoughts haveperished; they have no part in anythingthat is done under the sun; they knownothing of the joys or sorrows of thosewho were dearest to them on earth.

(10) TO REVEAL THE SERIOUS-NESS OF THE ISSUE OF SPIRITU-ALISM, WHAT PENALTY DIDGOD DECREE TO THOSE WHOBECAME INVOLVED?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Leviticus 20:27; 19:31

Furthermore, God has expresslyforbidden all pretended communicationwith departed spirits. In the days of theHebrews there was a class of people

who claimed, as do the spiritualists oftoday, to hold communication with thedead. But the “familiar spirits,” as thesevisitants from other worlds were called,are declared by the Bible to be “thespirits of devils.” (Compare Numbers25:1-3; Psalm 106:28; I Corinthians10:20; Revelation 16:14.) The work ofdealing with familiar spirits waspronounced an abomination to the Lord,and was solemnly forbidden underpenalty of death. The very name ofwitchcraft is now held in contempt. Theclaim that men can hold intercourse withevil spirits is regarded as a fable of theDark Ages. But spiritualism, whichnumbers its converts by hundreds ofthousands, yea, by millions, which hasmade its way into scientific circles,which has invaded churches, and hasfound favor in legislative bodies, andeven in the courts of kings—thismammoth deception is but a revival, ina new disguise, of the witchcraftcondemned and prohibited of old.

If there were no other evidence of thereal character of spiritualism, it shouldbe enough for the Christian that thespirits make no difference betweenrighteousness and sin, between thenoblest and purest of the apostles ofChrist and the most corrupt of theservants of Satan. By representing thebasest of men as in heaven, and highlyexalted there, Satan says to the world:“No matter how wicked you are; nomatter whether you believe or disbelieveGod and the Bible. Live as you please;heaven is your home.” The spiritualistteachers virtually declare: “Everyonethat doeth evil is good in the sight of theLord, and He delighteth in them; or,Where is the God of judgment?” Malachi2:17. Saith the word of God: “Woe untothem that call evil good, and good evil;that put darkness for light, and light fordarkness.” Isaiah 5:20.

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(11) WHY IS THE BIBLE THEONLY RELIABLE SOURCE OFCOUNSEL REGARDING SPIRIT-UALISM?_____________________________________________________________________________________John 17:17

The apostles, as personated by theselying spirits, are made to contradict whatthey wrote at the dictation of the HolySpirit when on earth. They deny thedivine origin of the Bible, and thus tearaway the foundation of the Christian’shope and put out the light that revealsthe way to heaven. Satan is making theworld believe that the Bible is a merefiction, or at least a book suited to theinfancy of the race, but now to be lightlyregarded, or cast aside as obsolete. Andto take the place of the word of God heholds our spiritual manifestations. Hereis a channel wholly under his control;by this means he can make the worldbelieve what he will. The Book that is tojudge him and his followers he puts inthe shade, just where he wants it; theSaviour of the world he makes to be nomore than a common man. And as theRoman guard that watched the tomb ofJesus spread the lying report which thepriests and elders put into their mouthsto disprove His resurrection, so do thebelievers in spiritual manifestations tryto make it appear that there is nothingmiraculous in the circumstances of ourSaviour’s life. After thus seeking to putJesus in the background, they callattention to their own miracles, declaringthat these far exceed the works of Christ.

(12) WHAT SOURCE OF POWERDOES SPIRITUALISM CLAIM?_____________________________________________________________________________________Acts 8:9,10

It is true that spiritualism is nowchanging its form and, veiling some ofits more objectionable features, isassuming a Christian guise. But itsutterances from the platform and thepress have been before the public formany years, and in these its realcharacter stands revealed. Theseteachings cannot be denied or hidden.

Even in its present form, so far from beingmore worthy of toleration than formerly,it is really a more dangerous, because amore subtle, deception. While it formerlydenounced Christ and the Bible, it nowprofesses to accept both. But the Bibleis interpreted in a manner that is pleasingto the unrenewed heart, while its solemnand vital truths are made of no effect.Love is dwelt upon as the chief attributeof God, but it is degraded to a weaksentimentalism, making little distinc-tion between good and evil. God’sjustice, His denunciations of sin, therequirements of His holy law, are all keptout of sight. The people are taught toregard the Decalogue as a dead letter.Pleasing, bewitching fables captivate thesenses and lead men to reject the Bibleas the foundation of their faith. Christ isas verily denied as before; but Satan hasso blinded the eyes of the people thatthe deception is not discerned.

(13) WHAT DIRECTIVE DOESSCRIPTURE GIVE TO SAFEGUARDUS FROM DECEPTION?___________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 2:15

There are few who have any just con-ception of the deceptive power ofspiritualism and the danger of comingunder its influence. Many tamper with itmerely to gratify their curiosity. Theyhave no real faith in it and would be filled

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with horror at the thought of yieldingthemselves to the spirits’ control. Butthey venture upon the forbidden ground,and the mighty destroyer exercises hispower upon them against their will. Letthem once be induced to submit theirminds to his direction, and he holds themcaptive. It is impossible, in their ownstrength, to break away from thebewitching, alluring spell. Nothing butthe power of God, granted in answer tothe earnest prayer of faith, can deliverthese ensnared souls.

(14) WHAT IS THE RESULT OFINDULGENCE IN ANY KNOWN SIN?_____________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 59:2

All who indulge sinful traits of character,or willfully cherish a known sin, areinviting the temptations of Satan. Theyseparate themselves from God and fromthe watchcare of His angels; as the evilone presents his deceptions, they arewithout defense and fall an easy prey.Those who thus place themselves in hispower little realize where their course willend. Having achieved their overthrow,the tempter will employ them as hisagents to lure others to ruin.

(15) WHY WILL MANY BELIEVE“STRONG DELUSIONS”?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonians 2:10,11

Says the prophet Isaiah: “When theyshall say unto you, Seek unto themthat have familiar spirits, and untowizards that peep, and that mutter:should not a people seek unto their

God? for the living to the dead? Tothe law and to the testimony: if theyspeak not according to this word, it isbecause there is no light in them.”Isaiah 8:19, 20. If men had been willingto receive the truth so plainly statedin the Scriptures concerning thenature of man and the state of thedead, they would see in the claims andmanifestations of spiritualism theworking of Satan with power andsigns and lying wonders. But ratherthan yield the liberty so agreeable tothe carnal heart, and renounce the sinswhich they love, multitudes closetheir eyes to the light and walkstraight on, regardless of warnings,while Satan weaves his snares aboutthem, and they become his prey.“Because they received not the loveof the truth, that they might besaved,” therefore “God shall sendthem strong delusion, that theyshould believe a lie.”

(16) WHEN WE STAND ON THETRUTH OF GOD’S WORD WHOARE WE OPPOSING?_____________________________________________________________________________________Romans 8:38

Those who oppose the teachings ofspiritualism are assailing, not men alone,but Satan and his angels. They haveentered upon a contest againstprincipalities and powers and wickedspirits in high places. Satan will not yieldone inch of ground except as he is drivenback by the power of heavenlymessengers. The people of God shouldbe able to meet him, as did our Saviour,with the words: “It is written.” Satan canquote Scripture now as in the days ofChrist, and he will pervert its teachingsto sustain his delusions. Those whowould stand in this time of peril must

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understand for themselves the testimonyof the Scriptures.

(17) IF CONFRONTED BY EVILSPIRITS IMPERSONATING THEDEAD, WHAT TRUTH WILL PRO-TECT US FROM DECEPTION?_____________________________________________________________________________________Ecclesiastes 9:5

Many will be confronted by thespirits of devils personating belovedrelatives or friends and declaring themost dangerous heresies. Thesevisitants will appeal to our tenderestsympathies and will work miracles tosustain their pretensions. We must beprepared to withstand them with theBible truth that the dead know notanything and that they who thusappear are the spirits of devils.

(18) IF WE FOLLOWED GOD’SWORD, WHAT GREAT PROMISEMAY WE CLAIM DURING OUR“HOUR OF TEMPTATION”?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 3:10

Just before us is “the hour oftemptation, which shall come upon allthe world, to try them that dwell uponthe earth.” All whose faith is not firmlyestablished upon the word of God willbe deceived and overcome. Satan“works with all deceivableness ofunrighteousness” to gain control ofthe children of men, and his deceptionswill continually increase. But he cangain his object only as men voluntarilyyield to his temptations. Those whoare earnestly seeking a knowledge of

the truth and are striving to purifytheir souls through obedience, thusdoing what they can to prepare for theconflict, will find, in the God of truth, asure defense. “Because thou hast keptthe word of My patience, I also willkeep thee”, is the Saviour’s promise.He would sooner send every angel outof heaven to protect His people thanleave one soul that trusts in Him to beovercome by Satan.

(19) WHAT DANGER RESTS INBLIND ACCEPTANCE OF COMMONBELIEFS WITHOUT SEARCHINGFOR AND ACCEPTING TRUTH FOROURSELVES?_____________________________________________________________________________________Hosea 4:6

The prophet Isaiah brings to view thefearful deception which will come uponthe wicked, causing them to countthemselves secure from the judgmentsof God: “We have made a covenant withdeath, and with hell are we at agreement;when the overflowing scourge shallpass through, it shall not come untous: for we have made lies our refuge,and under falsehood have we hidourselves.” Isaiah 28:15. In the classhere described are included those whoin their stubborn impenitence comfortthemselves with the assurance thatthere is to be no punishment for thesinner; that all mankind, it matters nothow corrupt, are to be exalted toheaven, to become as the angels of God.But still more emphatically are thosemaking a covenant with death and anagreement with hell, who renounce thetruths which Heaven has provided as adefense for the righteous in the day oftrouble, and accept the refuge of liesoffered by Satan in its stead—thedelusive pretensions of spiritualism.

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(20) WHAT LIE TOLD IN THEGARDEN BY SATAN IS THEBASIS FOR ALL SPIRITUALISM?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 3:4

Satan has long been preparing for hisfinal effort to deceive the world. Thefoundation of his work was laid by theassurance given to Eve in Eden: “Yeshall not surely die.” “In the day ye eatthereof, then your eyes shall be opened,and ye shall be as gods, knowing goodand evil.” Little by little he has preparedthe way for his masterpiece of deceptionin the development of spiritualism. Hehas not yet reached the fullaccomplishment of his designs; but itwill be reached in the last remnant oftime. Says the prophet: “I saw three

unclean spirits like frogs; . . . they arethe spirits of devils, working miracles,which go forth unto the kings of theearth and of the whole world, to gatherthem to the battle of that great day ofGod Almighty.” Revelation 16:13,14.Except those who are kept by thepower of God, through faith in Hisword, the whole world will be sweptinto the ranks of this delusion. Thepeople are fast being lulled to a fatalsecurity, to be awakened only by theoutpouring of the wrath of God.

(21) WHEN THIS GREAT CON-TROVERSY CLOSES WHAT WILLBECOME OF SATAN’S “REFUGEOF LIES”?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 28:17

By my study I am aware thatin the last days the prince ofevil will attempt to exert hisbewitching influence uponour minds professing thatcommunication exists be-tween the living and the dead.


I am grateful to God forexposing Satan’s two majordeceptions – immortality ofthe soul, and consciencious-ness in death, so that by HisWord I won’t be deceived.


I see the importance of thestudy of God’s Word. Iclaim God’s promise toreveal truth to me as I seekit so that I won’t fall preyto Satan’s deceptions.


I realize the Bible warns usof the perilous times we willface at the end of earth’shistory and I am so thankfulfor the promise that if I keepHis Word He will keep me.By His power I will receivethe promise of eternal life.


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(1) WHAT IS THE IMPLICATIONOF BREAKING EVEN ONE OFGOD’S LAWS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________James 2:10

From the very beginning of the greatcontroversy in heaven it has beenSatan’s purpose to overthrow the law ofGod. It was to accomplish this that heentered upon his rebellion against theCreator, and though he was cast out ofheaven he has continued the samewarfare upon the earth. To deceive men,and thus lead them to transgress God’s

law, is the object which he has steadfastlypursued. Whether this be accomplishedby casting aside the law altogether, orby rejecting one of its precepts, the resultwill be ultimately the same. He that offends“in one point,” manifests contempt forthe whole law; his influence and exampleare on the side of transgression; hebecomes “guilty of all.”

(2) WHAT IS SATAN’S PURPOSEIN THE DEGRADATION OF GOD’SLAWS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 7:7; Romans 3:20

The Impending Conflict - 7

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In seeking to cast contempt upon thedivine statutes, Satan has perverted thedoctrines of the Bible, and errors havethus become incorporated into the faithof thousands who profess to believe theScriptures. The last great conflictbetween truth and error is but thefinal struggle of the long-standingcontroversy concerning the law ofGod. Upon this battle we are nowentering—a battle between the laws ofmen and the precepts of Jehovah,between the religion of the Bible and thereligion of fable and tradition.

(3) WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OFGOD’S WORD AND THE LAW ITCONTAINS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 119:105

The agencies which will unite againsttruth and righteousness in this contestare now actively at work. God’s holyword, which has been handed down tous at such a cost of suffering and blood,is but little valued. The Bible is withinthe reach of all, but there are few whoreally accept it as the guide of life.

(4) WHAT IS THE ROOT CAUSEOF INFIDELITY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 8:9

Infidelity prevails to an alarming extent,not in the world merely, but in the church.Many have come to deny doctrineswhich are the very pillars of the Christianfaith. The great facts of creation aspresented by the inspired writers, the fall

of man, the atonement, and theperpetuity of the law of God, arepractically rejected, either wholly or inpart, by a large share of the professedlyChristian world. Thousands who pridethemselves upon their wisdom andindependence regard it as an evidenceof weakness to place implicit confidencein the Bible; they think it a proof ofsuperior talent and learning to cavil atthe Scriptures and to spiritualize andexplain away their most important truths.Many ministers are teaching their people,and many professors and teachers areinstructing their students, that the lawof God has been changed or abrogated;and those who regard its requirementsas still valid, to be literally obeyed, arethought to be deserving only of ridiculeor contempt.

(5) WHAT DANGER LIES INTHE REJECTION OF TRUTH?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 18:37

In rejecting the truth, men reject itsAuthor. In trampling upon the law ofGod, they deny the authority of theLawgiver. It is as easy to make an idolof false doctrines and theories as tofashion an idol of wood or stone. Bymisrepresenting the attributes of God,Satan leads men to conceive of Him ina false character. With many, aphilosophical idol is enthroned in theplace of Jehovah; while the livingGod, as He is revealed in His word, inChrist, and in the works of creation, isworshiped by but few. Thousands deifynature while they deny the God of nature.Though in a different form, idolatryexists in the Christian world today asverily as it existed among ancient Israelin the days of Elijah. The god of many

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The Impending Conflict

professedly wise men, of philosophers,poets, politicians, journalists—the godof polished fashionable circles, of manycolleges and universities, even of sometheological institutions—is little betterthan Baal, the sun-god of Phoenicia.

(6) HOW LONG WILL THE LAWOF GOD REMAIN IN EFFECT?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 119:160

No error accepted by the Christian worldstrikes more boldly against the authorityof Heaven, none is more directlyopposed to the dictates of reason, noneis more pernicious in its results, than themodern doctrine, so rapidly gainingground, that God’s law is no longerbinding upon men. Every nation has itslaws, which command respect andobedience; no government could existwithout them; and can it be conceivedthat the Creator of the heavens and theearth has no law to govern the beingsHe has made? Suppose that prominentministers were publicly to teach that thestatutes which govern their land andprotect the rights of its citizens were notobligatory—that they restricted theliberties of the people, and thereforeought not to be obeyed; how long wouldsuch men be tolerated in the pulpit? Butis it a graver offense to disregard thelaws of states and nations than to trampleupon those divine precepts which arethe foundation of all government?

(7) WHAT IS LAWLESSNESS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 John 3:4

It would be far more consistent fornations to abolish their statutes, andpermit the people to do as they please,than for the Ruler of the universe to annulHis law, and leave the world without astandard to condemn the guilty or justifythe obedient. Would we know the resultof making void the law of God? Theexperiment has been tried. Terrible werethe scenes enacted in France whenatheism became the controlling power.It was then demonstrated to the worldthat to throw off the restraints which Godhas imposed is to accept the rule of thecruelest of tyrants. When the standardof righteousness is set aside, the way isopen for the prince of evil to establishhis power in the earth.

Wherever the divine precepts arerejected, sin ceases to appear sinful orrighteousness desirable. Those whorefuse to submit to the government ofGod are wholly unfitted to governthemselves. Through their perniciousteachings the spirit of insubordinationis implanted in the hearts of children andyouth, who are naturally impatient ofcontrol; and a lawless, licentious stateof society results. While scoffing atthe credulity of those who obey therequirements of God, the multitudeseagerly accept the delusions of Satan.They give the rein to lust and practicethe sins which have called downjudgments upon the heathen.

(8) WHAT BIBLICAL PRINCIPLEWILL RESULT WHEN GOD’S LAWSARE SET ASIDE?_____________________________________________________________________________________Galations 6:7

Those who teach the people to regardlightly the commandments of God sowdisobedience to reap disobedience. Let

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the restraint imposed by the divine lawbe wholly cast aside, and human lawswould soon be disregarded. BecauseGod forbids dishonest practices,coveting, lying, and defrauding, men areready to trample upon His statutes as ahindrance to their worldly prosperity;but the results of banishing theseprecepts would be such as they do notanticipate. If the law were not binding,why should any fear to transgress?Property would no longer be safe. Menwould obtain their neighbor’spossessions by violence, and thestrongest would become richest. Lifeitself would not be respected. Themarriage vow would no longer stand asa sacred bulwark to protect the family.He who had the power, would, if hedesired, take his neighbor’s wife byviolence. The fifth commandment wouldbe set aside with the fourth. Childrenwould not shrink from taking the life oftheir parents if by so doing they couldobtain the desire of their corrupt hearts.The civilized world would become ahorde of robbers and assassins; andpeace, rest, and happiness would bebanished from the earth.

(9) WHAT BLESSING IS LOSTBY DISOBEDIENCE TO GOD’SCOMMANDMENTS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 3:1,2; Revelation 22:14

Already the doctrine that men arereleased from obedience to God’srequirements has weakened the forceof moral obligation and opened thefloodgates of iniquity upon the world.Lawlessness, dissipation, and cor-ruption are sweeping in upon us like anoverwhelming tide. In the family, Satan

is at work. His banner waves, even inprofessedly Christian households. Thereis envy, evil surmising, hypocrisy,estrangement, emulation, strife, betrayalof sacred trusts, indulgence of lust. Thewhole system of religious principles anddoctrines, which should form thefoundation and framework of sociallife, seems to be a tottering mass, readyto fall to ruin. . .

(10) WHAT IS THE RESULT WHENLAWLESSNESS CONTROLS THOSEWHO GOVERN THE PEOPLE?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 59:13,14; Proverbs 28:15

Courts of justice are corrupt. Rulers areactuated by desire for gain and love ofsensual pleasure. Intemperance hasbeclouded the faculties of many so thatSatan has almost complete control ofthem. Jurists are perverted, bribed,deluded. Drunkenness and revelry,passion, envy, dishonesty of every sort,are represented among those whoadminister the laws. “Justice standethafar off: for truth is fallen in the street,and equity cannot enter.”

(11) WHAT IS THE RESULT WHENFAITH IN GOD’S WORD IS LOST?____________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_________________________________________Psalm 119:70

The iniquity and spiritual darknessthat prevailed under the supremacy ofRome were the inevitable result ofher suppression of the Scriptures; but

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where is to be found the cause of thewidespread infidelity, the rejection ofthe law of God, and the consequentcorruption, under the full blaze ofgospel light in an age of religiousfreedom? Now that Satan can no longerkeep the world under his control bywithholding the Scriptures, he resortsto other means to accomplish the sameobject. To destroy faith in the Bibleserves his purpose as well as to destroythe Bible itself. By introducing thebelief that God’s law is not binding, heas effectually leads men to transgressas if they were wholly ignorant of itsprecepts. And now, as in former ages,he has worked through the church tofurther his designs. The religiousorganizations of the day have refused tolisten to unpopular truths plainly broughtto view in the Scriptures, and in combatingthem they have adopted interpretationsand taken positions which have sown andbroadcast the seeds of skepticism . . .

(12) WHAT DIVINE PROMISE ISGIVEN CONCERNING THE STABILITYOF GOD’S LAW?_____________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 119:160; Matthew 5:17

(13) WHAT WILL BE THE FORE-MOST CHARACTERISTIC OF THOSEWHO LOVE GOD AND ARE HISLAST DAY REMNANT PEOPLE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:12; 12:17

(14) THOUGH NEGLECTED BY THEMAJORITY, WHAT DAY HAS GODASKED US TO OBSERVE AS HISSABBATH?

_____________________________________________________________________________________Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27

And as the claims of the fourth command-ment are urged upon the people, it isfound that the observance of theseventh-day Sabbath is enjoined; andas the only way to free themselvesfrom a duty which they are unwillingto perform, many popular teachersdeclare that the law of God is no longerbinding. Thus they cast away the lawand the Sabbath together. As the workof Sabbath reform extends, thisrejection of the divine law to avoid theclaims of the fourth commandment willbecome well-nigh universal. Theteachings of religious leaders haveopened the door to infidelity, tospiritualism, and to contempt for God’sholy law; and upon these leaders restsa fearful responsibility for the iniquitythat exists in the Christian world.

(15) WHAT DOES SCRIPTURE PRE-DICT THE BEAST POWER WOULDATTEMPT TO CHANGE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Daniel 7:25

(16) OF WHAT SUBTLE FALSE-HOODS WHICH TAKE THE PLACEOF TRUTH ARE WE WARNED?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Colossians 2:8

Yet this very class has put forth the claimthat the fast-spreading corruption islargely attributable to the desecration ofthe so-called “Christian sabbath,” and

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that the enforcement of Sundayobservance would greatly improve themorals of society. This claim isespecially urged in America, where thedoctrine of the true Sabbath [seventhday of the week = Exodus 20:8-11] hasbeen most widely preached. Here thetemperance work, one of the mostprominent and important of moralreforms, is often combined with theSunday movement, and the advocatesof the latter represent themselves aslaboring to promote the highest interestof society; and those who refuse tounite with them are denounced as theenemies of temperance and reform. Butthe fact that a movement to establisherror is connected with a work which isin itself good, is not an argument infavor of the error. We may disguisepoison by mingling it with wholesomefood, but we do not change its nature.On the contrary, it is rendered moredangerous, as it is more likely to be takenunawares. It is one of Satan’s devicesto combine with falsehood just enoughtruth to give it plausibility. The leadersof the Sunday movement may advocatereforms which the people need,principles which are in harmony withthe Bible; yet while there is with thesea requirement which is contrary toGod’s law, His servants cannot unitewith them. Nothing can justify them insetting aside the commandments of Godfor the precepts of men.

(17) WHAT IS THE ULTIMATERESULT OF PARTIAL OBEDIENCE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 3:5; Revelation 3:14-16

The line of distinction between pro-fessed Christians and the ungodly isnow hardly distinguishable. Church

members love what the world loves andare ready to join with them, and Satandetermines to unite them in one bodyand thus strengthen his cause bysweeping all into the ranks of spiritualism.Papists, who boast of miracles as acertain sign of the true church, will bereadily deceived by this wonderworkingpower; and Protestants, having cast awaythe shield of truth, will also be deluded.Papists, Protestants, and worldlings willalike accept the form of godliness withoutthe power, and they will see in this uniona grand movement for the conversion ofthe world and the ushering in of the long-expected millennium.

(18) WHAT WILL BE THE ULTI-MATE RESULT OF MANKIND’SREJECTION OF GOD’S LAW?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 24:4,5

Satan works through the elements alsoto garner his harvest of unpreparedsouls. He has studied the secrets ofthe laboratories of nature, and he usesall his power to control the elementsas far as God allows. When he wassuffered to afflict Job, how quicklyflocks and herds, servants, houses,children, were swept away, one troublesucceeding another as in a moment. Itis God that shields His creatures andhedges them in from the power of thedestroyer. But the Christian world haveshown contempt for the law ofJehovah; and the Lord will do justwhat He has declared that He would—He will withdraw His blessings fromthe earth and remove His protectingcare from those who are rebellingagainst His law and teaching and

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forcing others to do the same. Satanhas control of all whom God does notespecially guard. He will favor andprosper some in order to further hisown designs, and he will bring troubleupon others and lead men to believethat it is God who is afflicting them.

While appearing to the children of menas a great physician who can heal all theirmaladies, he will bring disease anddisaster, until populous cities arereduced to ruin and desolation. Evennow he is at work. In accidents andcalamities by sea and by land, in greatconflagrations, in fierce tornadoes andterrific hailstorms, in tempests, floods,cyclones, tidal waves, and earthquakes,in every place and in a thousand forms,Satan is exercising his power. He sweepsaway the ripening harvest, and famineand distress follow. He imparts to the aira deadly taint, and thousands perish bythe pestilence. These visitations are tobecome more and more frequent anddisastrous. Destruction will be uponboth man and beast. “The earth mournethand fadeth away,” “the haughty people. . . do languish. The earth also is defiledunder the inhabitants thereof; becausethey have transgressed the laws,changed the ordinance, broken theeverlasting covenant.”

(19) WHAT IS THE TERRIBLERESULT WHEN THE DECEIVEDONES ACT IN ACCORDANCE WITHSATAN’S PLANS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 16:2

And then the great deceiver will persuademen that those who serve God are causing

these evils. The class that have provokedthe displeasure of Heaven will chargeall their troubles upon those whoseobedience to God’s commandments isa perpetual reproof to transgressors. Itwill be declared that men are offendingGod by the violation of the Sundaysabbath; that this sin has broughtcalamities which will not cease untilSunday observance shall be strictlyenforced; and that those who presentthe claims of the fourth commandment,thus destroying reverence for Sunday,are troublers of the people, preventingtheir restoration to divine favor andtemporal prosperity. Thus theaccusation urged of old against theservant of God will be repeated andupon grounds equally well established:“And it came to pass, when Ahab sawElijah, that Ahab said unto him, Artthou he that troubleth Israel? And heanswered, I have not troubled Israel;but thou, and thy father’s house, in thatye have forsaken the commandments ofthe Lord, and thou hast followedBaalim.” 1 Kings 18:17, 18. As the wrathof the people shall be excited by falsecharges, they will pursue a coursetoward God’s ambassadors very similarto that which apostate Israel pursuedtoward Elijah.

(20) WHAT POWERFUL SOURCEOF DECEPTION WILL SATAN USEIN THE LAST DAYS TO DECEIVETHE MAJORITY TO HIS CAUSE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 16:14; Matthew 24:24

The miracle-working power manifestedthrough spiritualism will exert itsinfluence against those who choose

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to obey God rather than men.Communications from the spirits willdeclare that God has sent them toconvince the rejecters of Sunday oftheir error, affirming that the laws of theland should be obeyed as the law ofGod. They will lament the greatwickedness in the world and secondthe testimony of religious teachers thatthe degraded state of morals is causedby the desecration of Sunday. Great willbe the indignation excited against allwho refuse to accept their testimony.

Satan’s policy in this final conflictwith God’s people is the same that heemployed in the opening of the greatcontroversy in heaven. He professed tobe seeking to promote the stability of thedivine government, while secretly bendingevery effort to secure its overthrow. . .

(21) UTILIZING HIS METHODS OFSEDUCTION AND CONTROL, WHATIS SATAN’S UNDERLYING GOALIN THIS IMPENDING CONFLICT?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Peter 5:8

God never forces the will or the conscience;but Satan’s constant resort—to gaincontrol of those whom he cannototherwise seduce—is compulsion bycruelty. Through fear or force heendeavors to rule the conscience and tosecure homage to himself. To accomplishthis, he works through both religious andsecular authorities, moving them to theenforcement of human laws indefiance of the law of God.

(22) WHAT CHARACTERISTICOF GOD’S LAST DAY REMNANT

PEOPLE WILL EXCITE THE HATREDOF SATAN AND HIS FOLLOWERS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:17

Those who honor the Bible Sabbathwill be denounced as enemies of law andorder, as breaking down the moralrestraints of society, causing anarchyand corruption, and calling downthe judgments of God upon the earth.Their conscientious scruples will bepronounced obstinacy, stubbornness,and contempt of authority. They will beaccused of disaffection toward thegovernment. Ministers who deny theobligation of the divine law will presentfrom the pulpit the duty of yieldingobedience to the civil authorities asordained of God. In legislative halls andcourts of justice, commandment keeperswill be misrepresented and condemned.A false coloring will be given to theirwords; the worst construction will be putupon their motives.

(23) WHAT ACTION WILL BE TAKENBY THE CIVIL AUTHORITIES ANDENDORSED BY THE RELIGIOUSMAJORITY IN AN ATTEMPT TOFORCE GOD’S COMMANDMENTKEEPERS TO VIOLATE THEIR CON-SCIENCE?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 13:17

As the Protestant churches reject theclear, Scriptural arguments in defense of

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God’s law, they will long to silence thosewhose faith they cannot overthrow bythe Bible. Though they blind their owneyes to the fact, they are now adoptinga course which will lead to thepersecution of those who con-scientiously refuse to do what the restof the Christian world are doing, andacknowledge the claims of the papalsabbath.

The dignitaries of church and state willunite to bribe, persuade, or compel allclasses to honor the Sunday. The lackof divine authority will be supplied byoppressive enactments. Politicalcorruption is destroying love of justiceand regard for truth; and even in free

America, rulers and legislators, inorder to secure public favor, will yieldto the popular demand for a lawenforcing Sunday observance.Liberty of conscience, which has costso great a sacrifice, will no longer berespected. In the soon-coming conflictwe shall see exemplified the prophet’swords: “The dragon was wroth withthe woman, and went to make war withthe remnant of her seed, which keepthe commandments of God, and havethe test imony of Jesus Christ .”Revelation 12:17.

[See Appendix B, C, D for a detailedexplanation of the history of the BibleSabbath and man’s attempt to change it.]

I am now aware that Scrip-ture describes clearly animpending conflict “such asnever was” which will beginas we approach the close ofthis world’s history.


I realize that since theconception of sin the focus ofSatan’s attack in this greatcontroversy has been God’seternally sacred laws–thebasis of His government.


Revelation 12:17 reveals thatSatan’s ultimate goal is thedefamation of God’s laws forthe purpose of causing theultimate rejection of thesesacred principles.


I now know that Scripturereveals that God’s command-ments are sacred and eternaldespite Satan’s and man’sattempt to “think to changetimes and laws.” Daniel 7:25.


I now see that the Bibleteaches the importance ofobservance of all of God’ssacred commandments andto break one is to break themall. James 2:10.


I choose to be among theloyal remnant people ofGod who obey His com-mandments and remainfaithful to Jesus. Revelation14:12.


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(1) WHAT WILL BE OUR SAFE-GUARD FROM SATAN’S DELUSIONS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Luke 4:4; Isaiah 8:20

The people of God are directed to theScriptures as their safeguard against theinfluence of false teachers and thedelusive power of spirits of darkness.Satan employs every possible device toprevent men from obtaining a knowledgeof the Bible; for its plain utterancesreveal his deceptions. At every revivalof God’s work the prince of evil isaroused to more intense activity; he is

now putting forth his utmost efforts fora final struggle against Christ and Hisfollowers. The last great delusion issoon to open before us. Antichrist is toperform his marvelous works in oursight. So closely will the counterfeitresemble the true that it will beimpossible to distinguish between themexcept by the Holy Scriptures. By theirtestimony every statement and everymiracle must be tested.

(2) FROM WHAT SOURCE WILLOUR STRENGTH COME TO OBEYGOD OVER MAN?_____________________________________________________________________________________1 Peter 5:10

The Scriptures a Safeguard - 8

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The Scriptures a Safeguard

Those who endeavor to obey all thecommandments of God will be opposedand derided. They can stand only in God.In order to endure the trial before them,they must understand the will of Godas revealed in His word; they canhonor Him only as they have a rightconception of His character, government,and purposes, and act in accordance withthem. None but those who have fortifiedthe mind with the truths of the Bible willstand through the last great conflict. Toevery soul will come the searching test:Shall I obey God rather than men? Thedecisive hour is even now at hand. Areour feet planted on the rock of God’simmutable word? Are we prepared tostand firm in defense of the command-ments of God and the faith of Jesus?

(3) WHY HAS GOD PROVIDEDPROPHECY IN HIS WORD?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 15:4; Deuteronomy 29:29;2 Timothy 3:15

Before His crucifixion the Saviourexplained to His disciples that He was tobe put to death and to rise again fromthe tomb, and angels were present toimpress His words on minds and hearts.But the disciples were looking fortemporal deliverance from the Romanyoke, and they could not tolerate thethought that He in whom all their hopescentered should suffer an ignominiousdeath. The words which they needed toremember were banished from theirminds; and when the time of trial came, itfound them unprepared. The death ofJesus as fully destroyed their hopes asif He had not forewarned them. So in the

prophecies the future is opened beforeus as plainly as it was opened to thedisciples by the words of Christ. Theevents connected with the close ofprobation and the work of preparationfor the time of trouble, are clearlypresented. But multitudes have no moreunderstanding of these important truthsthan if they had never been revealed.Satan watches to catch away everyimpression that would make them wiseunto salvation, and the time of troublewill find them unready.

(4) WHAT THREE FINAL DAYWARNINGS ARE OUR WAKE-UPCALL TO THE WAY OF SALVATION?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:6,7__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:8__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:9,10

When God sends to men warnings soimportant that they are represented asproclaimed by holy angels flying in themidst of heaven, He requires everyperson endowed with reasoning powers

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to heed the message. The fearfuljudgments denounced against theworship of the beast and his image(Revelation 14:9-11), should lead all to adiligent study of the prophecies to learnwhat the mark of the beast is, and howthey are to avoid receiving it. But themasses of the people turn away their earsfrom hearing the truth and are turnedunto fables.

(5) HOW DID PAUL DESCRIBETHE ATTITUDE OF THE LUST DRIVENMAJORITY TOWARD DOCTRINALTRUTH?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 4:3,4

That time has fully come. The multitudesdo not want Bible truth, because itinterferes with the desires of the sinful,world-loving heart; and Satan suppliesthe deceptions which they love.

(6) HOW DO CHRIST’S TRUEFOLLOWERS DETERMINE DOC-TRINAL TRUTH?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 8:20

But God will have a people upon theearth to maintain the Bible, and the Bibleonly, as the standard of all doctrines andthe basis of all reforms. The opinions oflearned men, the deductions of science,the creeds or decisions of ecclesiasticalcouncils, as numerous and discordant

as are the churches which they represent,the voice of the majority—not one nor allof these should be regarded as evidencefor or against any point of religious faith.Before accepting any doctrine or precept,we should demand a plain “Thus saiththe Lord” in its support.

(7) WHAT HAS OUR RESPONSI-BILITY TO DO WITH THE TEACH-INGS OF MEN?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Acts 17:11

Satan is constantly endeavoring to attractattention to man in the place of God. Heleads the people to look to bishops, topastors, to professors of theology, astheir guides, instead of searching theScriptures to learn their duty forthemselves. Then, by controlling theminds of these leaders, he can influencethe multitudes according to his will.

(8) WHAT WAS THE RESULT OFTHE JEWISH NATION’S RELIANCEON THEIR LEADERS FOR UNDER-STANDING SCRIPTURE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 53:3

When Christ came to speak the wordsof life, the common people heard Himgladly; and many, even of the priests andrulers, believed on Him. But the chief ofthe priesthood and the leading men ofthe nation were determined to condemnand repudiate His teachings. Thoughthey were baffled in all their efforts tofind accusations against Him, thoughthey could not but feel the influence of

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the divine power and wisdom attendingHis words, yet they encased themselvesin prejudice; they rejected the clearestevidence of His Messiahship, lest theyshould be forced to become Hisdisciples. These opponents of Jesuswere men whom the people had beentaught from infancy to reverence, towhose authority they had beenaccustomed implicitly to bow. “How isit,” they asked, “that our rulers andlearned scribes do not believe on Jesus?Would not these pious men receive Himif He were the Christ?” It was theinfluence of such teachers that led theJewish nation to reject their Redeemer.

The spirit which actuated those priestsand rulers is still manifested by manywho make a high profession of piety.They refuse to examine the testimony ofthe Scriptures concerning the specialtruths for this time. They point to theirown numbers, wealth, and popularity,and look with contempt upon theadvocates of truth as few, poor, andunpopular, having a faith that separatesthem from the world.

(9) WHAT IS THE ONLY SOURCE OFPREVENTION AGAINST DECEPTION?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 2:15

Christ foresaw that the undueassumption of authority indulged by thescribes and Pharisees would not ceasewith the dispersion of the Jews. He hada prophetic view of the work of exaltinghuman authority to rule the conscience,

which has been so terrible a curse to thechurch in all ages. And His fearfuldenunciations of the scribes andPharisees, and His warnings to thepeople not to follow these blind leaders,were placed on record as an admonitionto future generations.

(10) ACCORDING TO SCRIPTUREWHO WILL BE AMONG US SOWINGFALSE DOCTRINE?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 2:1

Notwithstanding the Bible is full ofwarnings against false teachers, manyare ready thus to commit the keeping oftheir souls to the clergy. There are todaythousands of professors of religion whocan give no other reason for points offaith which they hold than that they wereso instructed by their religious leaders.They pass by the Saviour’s teachingsalmost unnoticed, and place implicitconfidence in the words of the ministers.But are ministers infallible? How can wetrust our souls to their guidance unlesswe know from God’s word that they arelight bearers? A lack of moral courageto step aside from the beaten track ofthe world leads many to follow in thesteps of learned men; and by theirreluctance to investigate for them-selves, they are becoming hopelesslyfastened in the chains of error. Theysee that the truth for this time is plainlybrought to view in the Bible; and theyfeel the power of the Holy Spiritattending its proclamation; yet theyallow the opposition of the clergy toturn them from the light. Though reasonand conscience are convinced, thesedeluded souls dare not think differentlyfrom the minister; and their individualjudgment, their eternal interests, are

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sacrificed to the unbelief, the pride andprejudice, of another.

(11) UPON WHOM DOES THERESPONSIBILITY FOR SEEKINGTHE TRUTHS OF SALVATION REST?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Philippians 2:12

The truth and the glory of God areinseparable; it is impossible for us, withthe Bible within our reach, to honor Godby erroneous opinions. Many claim thatit matters not what one believes, if hislife is only right. But the life is moldedby the faith. If light and truth is withinour reach, and we neglect to improvethe privilege of hearing and seeing it,we virtually reject it; we are choosingdarkness rather than light.

(12) WHY IS IGNORANCE OF THESCRIPTURES DANGEROUS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 16:25

Ignorance is no excuse for error or sin,when there is every opportunity to knowthe will of God. A man is traveling andcomes to a place where there are severalroads and a guideboard indicating whereeach one leads. If he disregards theguideboard, and takes whichever roadseems to him to be right, he may be everso sincere, but will in all probability findhimself on the wrong road.

God has given us His word that we maybecome acquainted with its teachings andknow for ourselves what He requires ofus. When the lawyer came to Jesus withthe inquiry, “What shall I do to inheriteternal life?” the Saviour referred him tothe Scriptures, saying: “What is writtenin the law? how readest thou?” Ignorancewill not excuse young or old, nor releasethem from the punishment due for thetransgression of God’s law; because thereis in their hands a faithful presentation ofthat law and of its principles and claims.It is not enough to have good intentions;it is not enough to do what a man thinksis right or what the minister tells him isright. His soul’s salvation is at stake, andhe should search the Scriptures forhimself. However strong may be hisconvictions, however confident he maybe that the minister knows what is truth,this is not his foundation. He has a chartpointing out every waymark on theheavenward journey, and he ought notto guess at anything.

(13) HOW DOES SCRIPTUREPOINT OUT THE WAY TO STUDYITS PAGES?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 28:10

It is the first and highest duty of everyrational being to learn from theScriptures what is truth, and then towalk in the light and encourage othersto follow his example. We should dayby day study the Bible diligently,weighing every thought and comparingscripture with scripture. With divinehelp we are to form our opinions forourselves as we are to answer forourselves before God.

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(14) IF WE SEARCH THE BIBLESEEKING TO DO GOD’S WILLWHAT PROMISE MAY WE CLAIM?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 7:17

The truths most plainly revealed in theBible have been involved in doubt anddarkness by learned men, who, with apretense of great wisdom, teach that theScriptures have a mystical, a secret,spiritual meaning not apparent in thelanguage employed. These men are falseteachers. It was to such a class that Jesusdeclared: “Ye know not the Scriptures,neither the power of God.” Mark 12:24.The language of the Bible should beexplained according to its obviousmeaning, unless a symbol or figure isemployed. Christ has given the promise:“If any man will do His will, he shallknow of the doctrine.” John 7:17. If menwould but take the Bible as it reads, ifthere were no false teachers to misleadand confuse their minds, a work wouldbe accomplished that would make angelsglad and that would bring into the foldof Christ thousands upon thousandswho are now wandering in error.

(15) WHAT STEPS WILL YIELDCHRIST’S PROMISED RESULTS?_____________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 29:12________________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 29:13

We should exert all the powers of themind in the study of the Scriptures andshould task the understanding tocomprehend, as far as mortals can, the

deep things of God; yet we must notforget that the docility and submissionof a child is the true spirit of the learner.Scriptural difficulties can never bemastered by the same methods thatare employed in grappling withphilosophical problems. We should notengage in the study of the Bible withthat self-reliance with which so manyenter the domains of science, but with aprayerful dependence upon God and asincere desire to learn His will. We mustcome with a humble and teachable spiritto obtain knowledge from the great I AM.Otherwise, evil angels will so blind ourminds and harden our hearts that weshall not be impressed by the truth.

(16) TO WHOM IS BIBLICALWISDOM PROMISED?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 8:31,32; Psalm 19:7

Many a portion of Scripture whichlearned men pronounce a mystery, orpass over as unimportant, is full ofcomfort and instruction to him who hasbeen taught in the school of Christ.One reason why many theologianshave no clearer understanding ofGod’s word is, they close their eyes totruths which they do not wish topractice. As understanding of Bibletruth depends not so much on thepower of intellect brought to thesearch as on the singleness ofpurpose, the earnest longing afterrighteousness.

(17) HOW ARE SPIRITUAL TRUTHSUNDERSTOOD?_____________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 2:14

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The Bible should never be studiedwithout prayer. The Holy Spirit alone cancause us to feel the importance of thosethings easy to be understood, or preventus from wresting truths difficult ofcomprehension. It is the office ofheavenly angels to prepare the heart soto comprehend God’s word that we shallbe charmed with its beauty, admonishedby its warnings, or animated andstrengthened by its promises. Weshould make the psalmist’s petition ourown: “Open Thou mine eyes, that I maybehold wondrous things out of Thylaw.” Psalm 119:18. Temptations oftenappear irresistible because, throughneglect of prayer and the study of theBible, the tempted one cannot readilyremember God’s promises and meetSatan with the Scripture weapons. Butangels are round about those who arewilling to be taught in divine things; andin the time of great necessity they willbring to their remembrance the verytruths which are needed. Thus “whenthe enemy shall come in like a flood, theSpirit of the Lord shall lift up a standardagainst him.” Isaiah 59:19.

(18) IN PERILOUS TIMES HOWWILL WE RECALL SPIRITUALTRUTHS?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 14:26

But the teachings of Christ mustpreviously have been stored in the mindin order for the Spirit of God to bringthem to our remembrance in the time ofperil. “Thy word have I hid in mineheart,” said David, “that I might not sinagainst Thee.” Psalm 119:11.

(19) WHAT IS THE TRAGIC RESULTOF SKEPTICISM OF GOD’S WORD?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 1:28; Hebrews 3:12

All who value their eternal interestsshould be on their guard against theinroads of skepticism. The very pillarsof truth will be assailed. It is impossibleto keep beyond the reach of thesarcasms and sophisms, the insidiousand pestilent teachings, of moderninfidelity. Satan adapts his temptationsto all classes. He assails the illiteratewith a jest or sneer, while he meetsthe educated with scientific objectionsand philosophical reasoning, alikecalculated to excite distrust or contemptof the Scriptures. Even youth of littleexperience presume to insinuate doubtsconcerning the fundamental principlesof Christianity. And this youthfulinfidelity, shallow as it is, has itsinfluence. Many are thus led to jest atthe faith of their fathers and to dodespite to the Spirit of grace. Hebrews10:29. Many a life that promised to bean honor to God and a blessing to theworld has been blighted by the foulbreath of infidelity. All who trust to theboastful decisions of human reason andimagine that they can explain divinemysteries and arrive at truth unaidedby the wisdom of God are entangled inthe snare of Satan.

(20) IF WE HAVE MADE GOD’SWORD OUR STRONGHOLD WHATWILL BE THE RESULT OF OURTRIALS?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Zechariah 13:9; Psalm 119:99,104;Proverbs 3:13; Jeremiah 17:8.

When the testing time shall come,those who have made God’s word theirrule of life will be revealed. In summerthere is no noticeable differencebetween evergreens and other trees;

but when the blasts of winter come, theevergreens remain unchanged, whileother trees are stripped of their foliage.So the falsehearted professor may notnow be distinguished from the realChristian, but the time is just upon uswhen the difference will be apparent.Let opposition arise, let bigotry andintolerance again bear sway, letpersecution be kindled, and thehalfhearted and hypocritical will waverand yield the faith; but the true Christianwill stand firm as a rock, his faithstronger, his hope brighter, than in daysof prosperity.

I realize that in the finaldays o f ear th’s h i s torySatan is employing everypossible device to preventmankind from obtainingknowledge of God’s holyWord.


I understand that thosewho endeavor to obey all thecommandments of God willbe opposed and derided andcan only stand by strengthgleaned from God’s Word.


I realize that the day is herewhere the lust driven majoritydo not want Bible truthbecause it interferes with thedesires of their sinful, world-loving hearts. They gladly areaccepting the deceptions ofSatan which they love.


I see in God’s Word thatin the last days there willbe many fa l se t eachersproc la im ing f a l s e doc -trines. I am thankful to theLord for providing theprophecies to make us wiseunto salvation.


It is my determination thatwith God’s help I will havemy own da i l y s t udy o fGod’s Word and not dependon o thers for i t s in ter -pretation.


I thank God for providingthe stronghold of His Wordin these times of testing andby His grace I will be amongthose who are obedient toHis Word and stand tall inthe day of His coming.


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(1) WHAT FINAL DAY MESSAGEOF WARNING IS PROCLAIMED BYTHE “ANGEL” OF REVELATION 14:8?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:8; Revelation 18:1,2

(2) WHEN THIS WARNING ISRESTATED BY JOHN IN REVELATION18 WHAT PLEA IS GIVEN TO GOD’SLOYAL FOLLOWERS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 18:4

This scripture points forward to a timewhen the announcement of the fall ofBabylon, as made by the second angelof Revelation 14:8 is to be repeated,with the additional mention of thecorruptions which have been enteringthe various organizations that constituteBabylon, since that message was firstgiven, in the summer of 1844. A terriblecondition of the religious world is heredescribed. With every rejection of truththe minds of the people will becomedarker, their hearts more stubborn, untilthey are entrenched in an infidel

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hardihood. In defiance of the warningswhich God has given, they will continueto trample upon one of the precepts ofthe Decalogue, until they are led topersecute those who hold it sacred.Christ is set at nought in the contemptplaced upon His word and His people.As the teachings of spiritualism areaccepted by the churches, the restraintimposed upon the carnal heart isremoved, and the profession of religionwill become a cloak to conceal thebasest iniquity. A belief in spiritualmanifestations opens the door toseducing spirits and doctrines of devils,and thus the influence of evil angels willbe felt in the churches.

(3) TO WHAT LEVEL DO THE“SINS” OF BABYLON ESCALATE?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 18:5

She has filled up the measure of her guilt,and destruction is about to fall uponher. But God still has a people inBabylon; and before the visitation of Hisjudgments these faithful ones must becalled out, that they partake not of hersins and “receive not of her plagues.”Hence the movement symbolized by theangel coming down from heaven,lightening the earth with his glory andcrying mightily with a strong voice,announcing the sins of Babylon. Inconnection with his message the call isheard: “Come out of her, My people.”These announcements, uniting withthe third angel’s message, constitutethe final warning to be given to theinhabitants of the earth.

(4) WHAT PENALTIES WILLTHE BEAST POWER IMAGE INFLICT

UPON GOD’S REMNANT WHOREFUSE TO PARTICIPATE IN HERFALSE DOCTRINES?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 13:17____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 13:15

Fearful is the issue to which the worldis to be brought. The powers ofearth, uniting to war against thecommandments of God, will decree that“all, both small and great, rich and poor,free and bond” (Revelation 13:16), shallconform to the customs of the churchby the observance of the false sabbath[See Appendix B, C, D]. All who refusecompliance will be visited with civilpenalties, and it will finally be declaredthat they are deserving of death [SeeAppendix F].

(5) WHAT WARNING MESSAGEDOES GOD PROCLAIM THROUGHTHE THIRD ANGEL TO THOSEWHO CHOOSE TO WORSHIP THEBEAST?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:9,10

On the other hand, the law ofGod enjoining the Creator’s rest day[Exodus 20:8-11; Hebrew 4:1-11]demands obedience and threatenswrath against all who transgress itsprecepts.

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With the issue thus clearly broughtbefore him, whoever shall trample uponGod’s law to obey a human enactmentreceives the mark of the beast; he acceptsthe sign of allegiance to the power whichhe chooses to obey instead of God.

But not one is made to suffer the wrathof God until the truth has been broughthome to his mind and conscience, andhas been rejected. There are many whohave never had an opportunity to hearthe special truths for this time. Theobligation of the fourth commandmenthas never been set before them in itstrue light. He who reads every heart andtries every motive will leave none whodesire a knowledge of the truth, to bedeceived as to the issues of thecontroversy. The decree is not to beurged upon the people blindly. Everyoneis to have sufficient light to make hisdecision intelligently.

(6) ACCORDING TO SCRIPTUREWHAT DOES THE SABBATH OFTHE FOURTH COMMANDMENTREPRESENT?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 20:20,12; Exodus 31:16,17

The Sabbath will be the great test ofloyalty, for it is the point of truthespecially controverted. When the finaltest shall be brought to bear upon men,then the line of distinction will be drawnbetween those who serve God and thosewho serve Him not. While theobservance of the false sabbath incompliance with the law of the state,contrary to the fourth commandment, willbe an avowal of allegiance to a powerthat is in opposition to God, the keeping

of the true Sabbath, in obedience toGod’s law, is an evidence of loyalty tothe Creator. While one class, byaccepting the sign of submission toearthly powers, receive the mark of thebeast, the other choosing the token ofallegiance to divine authority, receive theseal of God.

Heretofore those who presented thetruths of the third angel’s message haveoften been regarded as mere alarmists.Their predictions that religiousintolerance would gain control in theUnited States, that church and statewould unite to persecute those who keepthe commandments of God, have beenpronounced groundless and absurd. Ithas been confidently declared that thisland could never become other thanwhat it has been—the defender ofreligious freedom. But as the questionof enforcing Sunday observance iswidely agitated, the event so longdoubted and disbelieved is seen to beapproaching, and the third message willproduce an effect which it could not havehad before.

(7) WHO DOES GOD CONSIDERTO BE THE “CHILDREN OF ISRAEL?”________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 9:6-8; Romans 9:25-27

(8) IN THE LAST DAYS WHOWILL THE LUST SEEKING MAJOR-ITY TURN TO FOR SPIRITUALLEADERSHIP?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 4:3,4

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(9) HOW SHOULD GOD’S ENDTIMEMESSAGE BE DELIVERED?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Timothy 4:2

In every generation God has sent Hisservants to rebuke sin, both in the worldand in the church. But the people desiresmooth things spoken to them, andthe pure, unvarnished truth is notacceptable. Many reformers, in enteringupon their work, determined to exercisegreat prudence in attacking the sins ofthe church and the nation. They hoped,by the example of a pure Christian life, tolead the people back to the doctrines ofthe Bible. But the Spirit of God came uponthem as it came upon Elijah, moving himto rebuke the sins of a wicked king andan apostate people; they could notrefrain from preaching the plainutterances of the Bible—doctrineswhich they had been reluctant topresent. They were impelled to zealouslydeclare the truth and the danger whichthreatened souls. The words which theLord gave them they uttered, fearless ofconsequences, and the people werecompelled to hear the warning.

(10) WHO WILL GOD USETO DELIVER THE THREE ANGELSMESSAGES OF REVELATION 14 TOTHE WORLD?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 15:14-16; Matthew 28:19,20;Ezekiel 3:19; Acts 4:20

Thus the message of the third angel willbe proclaimed. As the time comes for itto be given with greatest power, the Lord

will work through humble instruments,leading the minds of those whoconsecrate themselves to His service.The laborers will be qualified rather bythe unction of His Spirit than by thetraining of literary institutions. Men offaith and prayer will be constrained togo forth with holy zeal, declaring thewords which God gives them.

(11) WHEN THE FALSE DOCTRINESOF BABYLON ARE REVEALED,WHAT PROMISE CAN THOSE WHOEARNESTLY SEEK TO FOLLOWTHE TRUE DOCTRINES OF CHRISTCLAIM?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 8:31,32

The sins of Babylon will be laid open.The fearful results of enforcing theobservances of the church by civilauthority, the inroads of spiritualism, thestealthy but rapid progress of the papalpower—all will be unmasked. By thesesolemn warnings the people will bestirred. Thousands upon thousands willlisten who have never heard words likethese. In amazement they hear thetestimony that Babylon is the church,fallen because of her errors and sins,because of her rejection of the truth sentto her from heaven. As the people go totheir former teachers with the eagerinquiry, Are these things so? theministers present fables, prophesysmooth things, to soothe their fears andquiet the awakened conscience. Butsince many refuse to be satisfied withthe mere authority of men and demanda plain “Thus saith the Lord,” thepopular ministry, like the Pharisees of old,filled with anger as their authority is

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questioned, will denounce the messageas of Satan and stir up the sin-lovingmultitudes to revile and persecute thosewho proclaim it.

(12) WHAT PROPHECY IN THISVERSE WILL BE FULFILLED AGAINSTTHOSE WHO CHOOSE OBEDIENCETO GOD’S COMMANDMENTSOVER THE FALSE DOCTRINES OFBABYLON?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:17; Mark 13:9-11

As the controversy extends into newfields and the minds of the people arecalled to God’s downtrodden law, Satanis astir. The power attending themessage will only madden those whooppose it. The clergy will put forth almostsuperhuman efforts to shut away thelight lest it should shine upon their flocks.By every means at their command theywill endeavor to suppress the discussionof these vital questions. The churchappeals to the strong arm of civil power,and, in this work, papists and Protestantsunite. As the movement for Sundayenforcement becomes more bold anddecided, the law will be invoked againstcommandment keepers. They will bethreatened with fines and imprisonment,and some will be offered positions ofinfluence, and other rewards andadvantages, as inducements torenounce their faith. But their steadfastanswer is: “Show us from the word ofGod our error”—the same plea thatwas made by Luther under similarcircumstances. Those who are arraignedbefore the courts make a strongvindication of the truth, and some whohear them are led to take their stand to

keep all the commandments of God. Thuslight will be brought before thousandswho otherwise would know nothing ofthese truths. Conscientious obedience tothe word of God will be treated as rebellion.

(13) WHAT WILL HAPPEN EVENBETWEEN FAMILY MEMBERSBECAUSE SOME CHOOSE OBEDIENCETO THE TRUTH?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mark 13:12

Blinded by Satan, the parent will exerciseharshness and severity toward thebelieving child; the master or mistresswill oppress the commandment-keepingservant. Affection will be alienated;children will be disinherited and drivenfrom home. The words of Paul will beliterally fulfilled: “All that will live godlyin Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”2 Timothy 3:12. As the defenders of truthrefuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath,some of them will be thrust into prison,some will be exiled, some will be treatedas slaves. To human wisdom all this nowseems impossible; but as the restrainingSpirit of God shall be withdrawn frommen, and they shall be under the controlof Satan, who hates the divine precepts,there will be strange developments. Theheart can be very cruel when God’s fearand love are removed.

(14) WHAT MUST ACCOMPANYOUR KNOWLEDGE OF TRUTH TOKEEP US FROM BECOMING ITSGREATEST ADVERSARY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 John 2:4,5; John 8:31,32

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As the storm approaches, a large classwho have professed faith in the thirdangel’s message, but have not beensanctified through obedience to thetruth, abandon their position and jointhe ranks of the opposition. By unitingwith the world and partaking of its spirit,they have come to view matters in nearlythe same light; and when the test isbrought, they are prepared to choose theeasy, popular side. Men of talent andpleasing address, who once rejoiced inthe truth, employ their powers to deceiveand mislead souls. They become themost bitter enemies of their formerbrethren. When Sabbathkeepers arebrought before the courts to answer fortheir faith, these apostates are the mostefficient agents of Satan to misrepresentand accuse them, and by false reportsand insinuations to stir up the rulersagainst them.

(15) LIKE PETER AND JOHN, WHATWILL BE THE DECISION OF THOSESUFFERING PERSECUTION WHENPROCLAIMING TRUTH?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Acts 4:19

In this time of persecution the faith ofthe Lord’s servants will be tried. Theyhave faithfully given the warning,looking to God and to His word alone.God’s Spirit, moving upon theirhearts, has constrained them to speak.Stimulated with holy zeal, and with thedivine impulse strong upon them, theyentered upon the performance of theirduties without coldly calculating theconsequences of speaking to the peoplethe word which the Lord had given them.They have not consulted their temporalinterests, nor sought to preserve theirreputation or their lives. Yet when the

storm of opposition and reproach burstsupon them, some, overwhelmed withconsternation, will be ready to exclaim:“Had we foreseen the consequences ofour words, we would have held ourpeace.” They are hedged in withdifficulties. Satan assails them with fiercetemptations. The work which they haveundertaken seems far beyond theirability to accomplish. They arethreatened with destruction. Theenthusiasm which animated them isgone; yet they cannot turn back. Then,feeling their utter helplessness, they fleeto the Mighty One for strength. Theyremember that the words which theyhave spoken were not theirs, but Hiswho bade them give the warning. Godput the truth into their hearts, and theycould not forbear to proclaim it.

(16) IN THESE MOMENTS OFPERIL FROM WHOM CAN WEDRAW STRENGTH?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 40:28-31; Psalm 46

As the opposition rises to a fiercerheight, the servants of God are againperplexed; for it seems to them that theyhave brought the crisis. But conscienceand the word of God assure them thattheir course is right; and although thetrials continue, they are strengthened tobear them. The contest grows closer andsharper, but their faith and courage risewith the emergency. Their testimony is:“We dare not tamper with God’s word,dividing His holy law; calling one portionessential and another nonessential, togain the favor of the world. The Lordwhom we serve is able to deliver us.

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Christ has conquered the powers ofearth; and shall we be afraid of a worldalready conquered?”

(17) WHEN WE SERVE CHRISTWITHOUT RESERVATION, WHATTREATMENT CAN BE EXPECTED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 24:9; Psalm 11:2

Persecution in its varied forms is thedevelopment of a principle which willexist as long as Satan exists andChristianity has vital power. No man canserve God without enlisting againsthimself the opposition of the hosts ofdarkness. Evil angels will assail him,alarmed that his influence is taking theprey from their hands. Evil men, rebukedby his example, will unite with them inseeking to separate him from God byalluring temptations. When these do notsucceed, then a compelling power isemployed to force the conscience.

(18) EVEN IN THESE PERILOUSTIMES, WHO ULTIMATELY CON-TROLS EARTHLY RULERS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 21:1; Romans 13:1

But so long as Jesus remains man’sintercessor in the sanctuary above, therestraining influence of the Holy Spiritis felt by rulers and people. It still controlsto some extent the laws of the land. Wereit not for these laws, the condition of theworld would be much worse than it nowis. While many of our rulers are activeagents of Satan, God also has His agents

among the leading men of the nation.The enemy moves upon his servants topropose measures that would greatlyimpede the work of God; but statesmenwho fear the Lord are influenced by holyangels to oppose such propositionswith unanswerable arguments. Thus afew men will hold in check a powerfulcurrent of evil. The opposition of theenemies of truth will be restrained thatthe third angel’s message may do itswork. When the final warning shall begiven, it will arrest the attention of theseleading men through whom the Lord isnow working, and some of them willaccept it, and will stand with the peopleof God through the time of trouble.

(19) WHO WILL GOD SEND TOMOVE THE HEARTS OF MEN TOACCEPT HIS LAST DAY WARNINGMESSAGE?____________________________________________________________________________________Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28

The work will be similar to that of theDay of Pentecost. As the “former rain”was given, in the outpouring of the HolySpirit at the opening of the gospel, tocause the upspringing of the preciousseed, so the “latter rain” will be given atits close for the ripening of the harvest.“Then shall we know, if we follow on toknow the Lord: His going forth isprepared as the morning; and He shallcome unto us as the rain, as the latterand former rain unto the earth.” Hosea6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion,and rejoice in the Lord your God: for Hehath given you the former rainmoderately, and He will cause to comedown for you the rain, the former rain,and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23.

The great work of the gospel is not toclose with less manifestation of the

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power of God than marked its opening.The prophecies which were fulfilled inthe outpouring of the former rain at theopening of the gospel are again to befulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Hereare “the times of refreshing” to whichthe apostle Peter looked forward whenhe said: “Repent ye therefore, and beconverted, that your sins may be blottedout, when the times of refreshing shallcome from the presence of the Lord; andHe shall send Jesus.” Acts 3:19, 20.

(20) AS SIGNS AND WONDERS GOOUT FROM GOD TO IMPACT HISWARNING MESSAGE, WHAT WILLSATAN ALSO DO THROUGH HISAGENTS IN AN EFFORT TO REFUTETHE POWER OF GOD’S SPIRIT ANDDECEIVE THE MULTITUDES?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 13:13

Servants of God, with their faces lightedup and shining with holy consecration,will hasten from place to place toproclaim the message from heaven. Bythousands of voices, all over the earth,the warning will be given. Miracles willbe wrought, the sick will be healed, andsigns and wonders will follow thebelievers [Acts 2:19]. Satan also works,with lying wonders, even bringing downfire from heaven in the sight of men.Thus the inhabitants of the earth will bebrought to take their stand.

(21) WHAT WILL BE THE RESULTOF GOD’S SPIRIT CONVICTINGHEARTS OF THE FINAL WARNINGMESSAGE?________________________________________________________________________________________Acts 2:17-21

The message will be carried not so muchby argument as by the deep convictionof the Spirit of God. The arguments havebeen presented. The seed has beensown, and now it will spring up and bearfruit. The publications distributed bymissionary workers have exerted theirinfluence, yet many whose minds wereimpressed have been prevented fromfully comprehending the truth or fromyielding obedience. Now the rays of lightpenetrate everywhere, the truth is seenin its clearness, and the honest childrenof God sever the bands which have heldthem. Family connections, churchrelations, are powerless to stay them now.Truth is more precious than all besides.Notwithstanding the agencies combinedagainst the truth, a large number taketheir stand upon the Lord’s side.

I am thankful to the Lordfor giving us the warningmessages of Revelation 14 toprepare us against deception.


I pray for the Holy Spirit toguide me and remove anypreconceived ideas thatmay hinder my acceptanceof the truth.


These warning messagesreveal that th is greatcontroversy i s aboutloyalty to God. I pray forstrength and courage tofollow His commandmentscome what may.


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(1) WHAT PROCLAMATION BYCHRIST FROM THE HEAVENLYSANCTUARY WILL MARK THE ENDOF PROBATION FOR MANKIND?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:11; Revelation 16:17

When the third angel’s message closes[Revelation 14:9,10], mercy no longerpleads for the guilty inhabitants ofthe earth. The people of God haveaccomplished their work. They have

received “the latter rain,” “the refreshingfrom the presence of the Lord,” and theyare prepared for the trying hour beforethem. Angels are hastening to and fro inheaven. An angel returning from theearth announces that his work is done;the final test has been brought upon theworld, and all who have provedthemselves loyal to the divine precepts[Revelation 14:12] have received “theseal of the living God.” Then Jesusceases His intercession in the sanctuaryabove. He lifts His hands and with a loudvoice says, “It is done;” and all theangelic host lay off their crowns as Hemakes the solemn announcement: “Hethat is unjust, let him be unjust still: andhe which is filthy, let him be filthy still:

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and he that is righteous, let him berighteous still: and he that is holy, let himbe holy still.” Revelation 22:11. Every casehas been decided for life or death. Christhas made the atonement for His peopleand blotted out their sins. The number ofHis subjects is made up; “the kingdomand dominion, and the greatness of thekingdom under the whole heaven,” isabout to be given to the heirs of salvation,and Jesus is to reign as King of kings andLord of lords [Revelation 17:14].

(2) WHAT CATASTROPHICEVENT WILL OCCUR BETWEENTHE CLOSE OF PROBATION ANDTHE FIRST RESURRECTION?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Daniel 12:1

When He leaves the sanctuary,darkness covers the inhabitants of theearth. In that fearful time the righteousmust live in the sight of a holy Godwithout an intercessor. The restraintwhich has been upon the wicked isremoved, and Satan has entire controlof the finally impenitent. God’s long-suffering has ended. The world hasrejected His mercy, despised His love,and trampled upon His law. The wickedhave passed the boundary of theirprobation; the Spirit of God, persistentlyresisted, has been at last withdrawn.Unsheltered by divine grace, they haveno protection from the wicked one.Satan will then plunge the inhabitantsof the earth into one great, final trouble.

(3) WHAT DIVINE AGENCY ISCURRENTLY HOLDING BACK THESEDREADED WINDS OF STRIFE UNTILTHE SEALING OF GOD’S PEOPLE?

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 7:1

As the angels of God cease to hold incheck the fierce winds of humanpassion, all the elements of strife will belet loose. The whole world will beinvolved in ruin more terrible than thatwhich came upon Jerusalem of old.

A single angel destroyed all the firstbornof the Egyptians and filled the land withmourning. When David offendedagainst God by numbering the people,one angel caused that terribledestruction by which his sin waspunished. The same destructive powerexercised by holy angels when Godcommands, will be exercised by evilangels when He permits. There areforces now ready, and only waitingthe divine permission, to spreaddesolation everywhere.

(4) WHAT TWO CHARACTERISTICSOF GOD’S PEOPLE WILL KINDLEUNDUE ANGER AND PERSECUTIONIN THE HEARTS OF THE WICKED?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:12

Those who honor the law of God havebeen accused of bringing judgmentsupon the world, and they will be regardedas the cause of the fearful convulsionsof nature and the strife and bloodshedamong men that are filling the earth withwoe. The power attending the lastwarning has enraged the wicked; theiranger is kindled against all who have

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received the message, and Satan willexcite to still greater intensity the spiritof hatred and persecution.

(5) WHAT SAME SPIRITUALSTATE WILL THE SELF-PROCLAIMEDSPIRITUAL MAJORITY POSSESS INTHE LAST DAYS, AS IN CHRIST’S DAY?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 15:8,9

When God’s presence was finallywithdrawn from the Jewish nation,priests and people knew it not. Thoughunder the control of Satan, and swayedby the most horrible and malignantpassions, they still regarded themselvesas the chosen of God. The ministrationin the temple continued; sacrifices wereoffered upon its polluted altars, anddaily the divine blessing was invokedupon a people guilty of the blood ofGod’s dear Son and seeking to slay Hisministers and apostles. So when theirrevocable decision of the sanctuaryhas been pronounced and the destinyof the world has been forever fixed, theinhabitants of the earth will know it not.The forms of religion will be continuedby a people from whom the Spirit ofGod has been finally withdrawn; andthe satanic zeal with which the princeof evil will inspire them for theaccomplishment of his malignantdesigns, will bear the semblance of zealfor God.

(6) WHAT WILL THE WICKEDATTEMPT TO DO, THINKING IT ISA SERVICE FOR GOD?

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 16:2; Revelation 13:15

As the Sabbath has become the specialpoint of controversy throughoutChristendom, and religious and secularauthorities have combined to enforcethe observance of the Sunday, thepersistent refusal of a small minority toyield to the popular demand will makethem objects of universal execration. Itwill be urged that the few who stand inopposition to an institution of thechurch and a law of the state ought notto be tolerated; that it is better for themto suffer than for whole nations to bethrown into confusion and lawlessness.The same argument eighteen hundredyears ago was brought against Christby the “rulers of the people.” “It isexpedient for us,” said the wilyCaiaphas, “that one man should die forthe people, and that the whole nationperish not.” John 11:50. This argumentwill appear conclusive; and a decree willfinally be issued against those whohallow the Sabbath of the fourthcommandment [Exodus 20:8-11],denouncing them as deserving of theseverest punishment and giving thepeople liberty, after a certain time, toput them to death. Romanism in the OldWorld and apostate Protestantism inthe New will pursue a similar coursetoward those who honor all the divineprecepts [See Appendix E, F].

(7) TO WHAT EVENT IS THISTERRIBLE LAST DAY HOLOCAUSTAGAINST GOD’S PEOPLE COMPARED?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 30:7

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The people of God will then be plungedinto those scenes of affliction anddistress described by the prophet as thetime of Jacob’s trouble. “Thus saith theLord: We have heard a voice of trembling,of fear, and not of peace. . . . All faces areturned into paleness. Alas! for that dayis great, so that none is like it: it is eventhe time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shallbe saved out of it.” Jeremiah 30:5-7. . .Jacob’s night of anguish, when hewrestled in prayer for deliverance fromthe hand of Esau (Genesis 32:24-30),represents the experience of God’speople in the time of trouble. . .

(8) WHO IS THE DRAGON?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:9

(9) WHAT IS THE DRAGON’SREACTION TOWARDS THOSE WHOARE LOYAL TO GOD’S COMMAND-MENTS?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 12:17

As Satan influenced Esau to marchagainst Jacob, so he will stir up the wickedto destroy God’s people in the time oftrouble. And as he accused Jacob, hewill urge his accusations against thepeople of God. He numbers the world ashis subjects; but the little company whokeep the commandments of God areresisting his supremacy. If he could blotthem from the earth, his triumph wouldbe complete. He sees that holy angelsare guarding them, and he infers thattheir sins have been pardoned; but he

does not know that their cases have beendecided in the sanctuary above. He hasan accurate knowledge of the sins whichhe has tempted them to commit, and hepresents these before God in the mostexaggerated light, representing thispeople to be just as deserving as himselfof exclusion from the favor of God. Hedeclares that the Lord cannot in justiceforgive their sins and yet destroy himand his angels. He claims them as hisprey and demands that they be giveninto his hands to destroy.

(10) WHAT IMPORTANT ASPECTOF THE CHRISTIAN’S CHARACTERWILL BE TESTED IN THIS PERI-LOUS TIME?____________________________________________________________________________________1 Peter 1:7; James 1:3

As Satan accuses the people of God onaccount of their sins, the Lord permitshim to try them to the uttermost. Theirconfidence in God, their faith andfirmness, will be severely tested. As theyreview the past, their hopes sink; forin their whole lives they can see littlegood. They are fully conscious of theirweakness and unworthiness. Satanendeavors to terrify them with thethought that their cases are hopeless,that the stain of their defilement will neverbe washed away. He hopes so to destroytheir faith that they will yield to histemptations and turn from theirallegiance to God.

(11) WHAT PROMISE HAS GODGIVEN TO HIS CHILDREN, WHOTHROUGH FAITH, PERSEVERE?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 3:10; Matthew 10:22

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Though God’s people will be surroundedby enemies who are bent upon theirdestruction, yet the anguish which theysuffer is not a dread of persecution forthe truth’s sake; they fear that every sinhas not been repented of, and thatthrough some fault in themselves theywill fail to realize the fulfillment of theSaviour’s promise: I “will keep thee fromthe hour of temptation, which shall comeupon all the world.” Revelation 3:10. Ifthey could have the assurance of pardonthey would not shrink from torture ordeath; but should they prove unworthy,and lose their lives because of their owndefects of character, then God’s holyname would be reproached.

They afflict their souls before God,pointing to their past repentance of theirmany sins, and pleading the Saviour’spromise: “Let him take hold of Mystrength, that he may make peace withMe; and he shall make peace withMe.” Isaiah 27:5. Their faith does notfail because their prayers are notimmediately answered. Though sufferingthe keenest anxiety, terror, and distress,they do not cease their intercessions.They lay hold of the strength of God asJacob laid hold of the Angel; and thelanguage of their souls is: “I will not letThee go, except Thou bless me.”

(12) HOW WILL GOD REGARDTHE PRAYERS OF THOSE WHOCONTINUE TO NEGLECT HIS LAWSAND LIVE WITH UNCONFESSEDSINS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Proverbs 28:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:8

Had not Jacob previously repented ofhis sin in obtaining the birthright byfraud, God would not have heard his

prayer and mercifully preserved his life.So, in the time of trouble, if the peopleof God had unconfessed sins to appearbefore them while tortured with fear andanguish, they would be overwhelmed;despair would cut off their faith, andthey could not have confidence to pleadwith God for deliverance. But while theyhave a deep sense of their unworth-iness, they have no concealed wrongsto reveal. Their sins have gonebeforehand to judgment and have beenblotted out, and they cannot bring themto remembrance.

(13) HOW DOES GOD REWARDTHOSE WHO HAVE BEEN FAITHFULIN SMALL THINGS?____________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 25:21

Satan leads many to believe that Godwill overlook their unfaithfulness in theminor affairs of life; but the Lord showsin His dealings with Jacob that He will inno wise sanction or tolerate evil. All whoendeavor to excuse or conceal their sins,and permit them to remain upon thebooks of heaven, unconfessed andunforgiven, will be overcome by Satan.The more exalted their profession andthe more honorable the position whichthey hold, the more grievous is theircourse in the sight of God and the moresure the triumph of their great adversary.Those who delay a preparation for theday of God cannot obtain it in the timeof trouble or at any subsequent time. Thecase of all such is hopeless.

(14) WHAT IS THE FRUIT OF TRUEREPENTANCE?________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 38:18; Ezekiel 36:31

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Those professed Christians who comeup to that last fearful conflict unpreparedwill, in their despair, confess their sins inwords of burning anguish, while thewicked exult over their distress. Theseconfessions are of the same characteras was that of Esau or of Judas. Thosewho make them, lament the result oftransgression, but not its guilt. They feelno true contrition, no abhorrence of evil.They acknowledge their sin, through fearof punishment; but, like Pharaoh of old,they would return to their defiance ofHeaven should the judgments beremoved.

(15) IF WE HAVE RETURNED TO THELORD IN TRUE REPENTANCE, WHATWILL BE THE RESULT OF THE FIREOF AFFLICTION?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Job 23:10; 1 Peter 1:7; Isaiah 13:12

Jacob’s history is also an assurance thatGod will not cast off those who havebeen deceived and tempted and betrayedinto sin, but who have returned unto Himwith true repentance. While Satan seeksto destroy this class, God will send Hisangels to comfort and protect them inthe time of peril. The assaults of Satanare fierce and determined, his delusionsare terrible; but the Lord’s eye is uponHis people, and His ear listens to theircries. Their affliction is great, the flamesof the furnace seem about to consumethem; but the Refiner will bring themforth as gold tried in the fire. God’s lovefor His children during the period of theirseverest trial is as strong and tender asin the days of their sunniest prosperity;but it is needful for them to be placed inthe furnace of fire; their earthliness mustbe consumed, that the image of Christmay be perfectly reflected.

(16) WHAT TYPE OF PRAYERSAVAIL MUCH?____________________________________________________________________________________James 5:16

The season of distress and anguishbefore us will require a faith that canendure weariness, delay, and hunger—a faith that will not faint thoughseverely tried. The period of probationis granted to all to prepare for that time.Jacob prevailed because he waspersevering and determined. Hisvictory is an evidence of the power ofimportunate prayer. All who will layhold of God’s promises, as he did, andbe as earnest and persevering as hewas, will succeed as he succeeded.Those who are unwilling to deny self,to agonize before God, to pray longand earnestly for His blessing, will notobtain it. Wrestling with God—how fewknow what it is! How few have everhad their souls drawn out after Godwith intensity of desire until everypower is on the stretch. When wavesof despair which no language canexpress sweep over the suppliant, howfew cling with unyielding faith to thepromises of God.

(17) WHAT IS THE LIFELINE OF THETRUE CHRISTIAN, BOTH NOW ANDIN THE PERILOUS TIMES TO COME?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 1:17; Galations 3:11

Those who exercise but little faith now,are in the greatest danger of falling underthe power of satanic delusions and thedecree to compel the conscience. Andeven if they endure the test they will beplunged into deeper distress and

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anguish in the time of trouble, becausethey have never made it a habit to trustin God. The lessons of faith which theyhave neglected they will be forced tolearn under a terrible pressure ofdiscouragement.

(18) WHAT IS THE KEY TOMAINTAINING OUR LIFELINE OFFAITH?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Thessalonians 5:17

We should now acquaint ourselves withGod by proving His promises. Angelsrecord every prayer that is earnest andsincere. We should rather dispense withselfish gratifications than neglectcommunion with God. The deepestpoverty, the greatest self-denial, with Hisapproval, is better than riches, honors,ease, and friendship without it. We musttake time to pray. If we allow our mindsto be absorbed by worldly interests, theLord may give us time by removing fromus our idols of gold, of houses, or offertile lands.

(19) WHY CAN WE NOT RELYON FAMILY, FRIENDS, OR OURRELIGIOUS LEADERS TO MAINTAINOUR SPIRITUAL LIFELINE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Philippians 2:12

The “time of trouble, such as neverwas,” is soon to open upon us; and weshall need an experience which we donot now possess and which many aretoo indolent to obtain. It is often the case

that trouble is greater in anticipationthan in reality; but this is not true ofthe crisis before us. The most vividpresentation cannot reach themagnitude of the ordeal. In that time oftrial, every soul must stand for himselfbefore God. “Though Noah, Daniel, andJob” were in the land, “as I live, saiththe Lord God, they shall deliver neitherson nor daughter; they shall but delivertheir own souls by their righteousness.”Ezekiel 14:20.

(20) IF WE UNITE OUR WEAKNESSWITH GOD’S STRENGTH, WHATTYPE OF NATURE IS POSSIBLEFOR US TO OBTAIN?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 1:4

It is in this life that we are to separatesin from us, through faith in theatoning blood of Christ. Our preciousSaviour invites us to join ourselvesto Him, to unite our weakness to Hisstrength, our ignorance to Hiswisdom, our unworthiness to Hismerits. God’s providence is the schoolin which we are to learn the meeknessand lowliness of Jesus. The Lord isever setting before us, not the waywe would choose, which seems easierand pleasanter to us, but the true aimsof life. It rests with us to cooperatewith the agencies which Heavenemploys in the work of conformingour characters to the divine model.None can neglect or defer this workbut at the most fearful peril to theirsouls.

(21) WHAT THREE STRATEGIESWILL SATAN AND HIS EVILAGENTS EMPLOY TO DECEIVETHE MULTITUDES?

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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonians 2:9

Fearful sights of a supernatural characterwill soon be revealed in the heavens, intoken of the power of miracle-workingdemons. The spirits of devils will go forthto the kings of the earth and to the wholeworld, to fasten them in deception, andurge them on to unite with Satan in hislast struggle against the government ofheaven. By these agencies, rulers andsubjects will be alike deceived. Personswill arise pretending to be Christ Himself,and claiming the title and worship whichbelong to the world’s Redeemer. Theywill perform wonderful miracles ofhealing and will profess to haverevelations from heaven contradictingthe testimony of the Scriptures.

(22) WHAT WILL BE THE CROWNINGACT OF DECEPTION?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 24:24

As the crowning act in the great dramaof deception, Satan himself willpersonate Christ. The church has longprofessed to look to the Saviour’s adventas the consummation of her hopes. Nowthe great deceiver will make it appearthat Christ has come. In different partsof the earth, Satan will manifest himselfamong men as a majestic being ofdazzling brightness, resembling thedescription of the Son of God given byJohn in the Revelation 1:13-15. The glorythat surrounds him is unsurpassed byanything that mortal eyes have yet

beheld. The shout of triumph rings outupon the air: “Christ has come! Christhas come!” The people prostratethemselves in adoration before him,while he lifts up his hands andpronounces a blessing upon them, asChrist blessed His disciples when Hewas upon the earth. His voice is softand subdued, yet full of melody. Ingentle, compassionate tones hepresents some of the same gracious,heavenly truths which the Saviouruttered; he heals the diseases of thepeople, and then, in his assumedcharacter of Christ, he claims to havechanged the Sabbath to Sunday, andcommands all to hallow the day whichhe has blessed. He declares that thosewho persist in keeping holy the seventhday are blaspheming his name byrefusing to listen to his angels sent tothem with light and truth. This is thestrong, almost overmastering delusion.Like the Samaritans who were deceivedby Simon Magus, the multitudes, fromthe least to the greatest, give heed tothese sorceries, saying: This is “thegreat power of God.” Acts 8:10.

(23) WHAT WILL PREVENT GOD’SPEOPLE FROM BEING DECEIVED?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 8:20

But the people of God will not be misled.The teachings of this false Christ are notin accordance with the Scriptures. Hisblessing is pronounced upon theworshipers of the beast and his image,the very class upon whom the Bibledeclares that God’s unmingled wrathshall be poured out.

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(24) IN WHAT MANNER WILL THETRUE CHRIST RETURN?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 24:30,31

Satan is not permitted to counterfeitthe manner of Christ’s advent. TheSaviour has warned His people againstdeception upon this point, and hasclearly foretold the manner of Hissecond coming. “There shall arise falsechrists, and false prophets, and shallshow great signs and wonders;insomuch that, if it were possible, theyshall deceive the very elect. . . .Wherefore if they shall say unto you,Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth;behold, He is in the secret chambers;believe it not. For as the lightningcometh out of the east, and shineth evenunto the west; so shall also the comingof the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This comingthere is no possibility of counterfeiting.It will be universally known—witnessedby the whole world.

(25) WHY WILL THE MAJORITYBE DECEIVED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonians 2:10

Only those who have been diligentstudents of the Scriptures and who havereceived the love of the truth will beshielded from the powerful delusion thattakes the world captive. By the Bibletestimony these will detect the deceiverin his disguise.

(26) WHAT THREE SNARES AREWE WARNED TO AVOID?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 John 2:16

To all the testing time will come. By thesifting of temptation the genuineChristian will be revealed. Are thepeople of God now so firmly establishedupon His word that they would notyield to the evidence of their senses?Would they, in such a crisis, cling tothe Bible and the Bible only? Satan will,if possible, prevent them from obtaininga preparation to stand in that day. Hewill so arrange affairs as to hedge uptheir way, entangle them with earthlytreasures, cause them to carry a heavy,wearisome burden, that their hearts maybe overcharged with the cares of thislife and the day of trial may come uponthem as a thief.

(27) WHERE WILL MANY OFGOD’S FAITHFUL SEEK REFUGEIN THIS GREAT TIME OF TROUBLE?____________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 33:16

As the decree issued by the various rulersof Christendom against commandmentkeepers shall withdraw the protection ofgovernment and abandon them to thosewho desire their destruction, the peopleof God will flee from the cities and villagesand associate together in companies,dwelling in the most desolate and solitaryplaces. Many will find refuge in thestrongholds of the mountains. Like theChristians of the Piedmont valleys, theywill make the high places of the earth theirsanctuaries and will thank God for “themunitions of rocks.”

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(28) AS MANY SUFFER IMPRISON-MENT FOR THEIR FAITH, WHATPROMISE MAY THEY CLAIM?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 49:15,16; 44:21; 1 Samuel 2:30

But many of all nations and of allclasses, high and low, rich and poor,black and white, will be cast into themost unjust and cruel bondage. Thebeloved of God pass weary days, boundin chains, shut in by prison bars,sentenced to be slain, some apparentlyleft to die of starvation in dark andloathsome dungeons. No human ear isopen to hear their moans; no humanhand is ready to lend them help.

Will the Lord forget His people in thistrying hour? Did He forget faithful Noahwhen judgments were visited upon theantediluvian world? Did He forget Lotwhen the fire came down from heaven toconsume the cities of the plain? Did Heforget Joseph surrounded by idolatersin Egypt? Did He forget Elijah when theoath of Jezebel threatened him with thefate of the prophets of Baal? Did Heforget Jeremiah in the dark and dismalpit of his prison house? Did He forgetthe three worthies in the fiery furnace?or Daniel in the den of lions?

Though enemies may thrust them intoprison, yet dungeon walls cannot cut offthe communication between their soulsand Christ. One who sees their everyweakness, who is acquainted with everytrial, is above all earthly powers; andangels will come to them in lonely cells,bringing light and peace from heaven.The prison will be as a palace; for therich in faith dwell there, and the gloomy

walls will be lighted up with heavenlylight as when Paul and Silas prayed andsang praises at midnight in the Philippiandungeon.

(29) HOW DOES THIS VERSEDESCRIBE THE ACT OF GODDELIVERING JUDGMENT ON THEWICKED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 28:21

God’s judgments will be visited uponthose who are seeking to oppress anddestroy His people. His longforbearance with the wicked emboldensmen in transgression, but theirpunishment is nonetheless certain andterrible because it is long delayed. . . .To our merciful God the act ofpunishment is a strange act. “As I live,saith the Lord God, I have no pleasurein the death of the wicked.” Ezekiel33:11. The Lord is “merciful andgracious, long-suffering, and abundantin goodness and truth, . . . forgivinginiquity and transgression and sin.” YetHe will “by no means clear the guilty.”The Lord is slow to anger, and great inpower, and will not at all acquit thewicked.” Exodus 34:6, 7; Nahum 1:3. Byterrible things in righteousness He willvindicate the authority of Hisdowntrodden law. The severity of theretribution awaiting the transgressormay be judged by the Lord’s reluctanceto execute justice. The nation with whichHe bears long, and which He will notsmite until it has filled up the measureof its iniquity in God’s account, willfinally drink the cup of wrath unmixedwith mercy.

(30) WHAT SEVEN DREADFULPLAGUES OF JUDGMENT WILL

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THOSE POSSESSING THE MARK OFDISOBEDIENCE EXPERIENCE?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 16:2,3,4,8,10,12,18

When Christ ceases His intercession inthe sanctuary, the unmingled wraththreatened against those who worshipthe beast and his image and receive hismark (Revelation 14:9, 10), will be pouredout. The plagues upon Egypt when Godwas about to deliver Israel were similarin character to those more terrible andextensive judgments which are to fallupon the world just before the finaldeliverance of God’s people. . . . Terribleas these inflictions are, God’s justicestands fully vindicated. The angel of Goddeclares: “Thou art righteous, O Lord, . .. because Thou hast judged thus. Forthey have shed the blood of saints andprophets, and Thou hast given themblood to drink; for they are worthy.”Revelation 16:2-6. By condemning thepeople of God to death, they have astruly incurred the guilt of their blood asif it had been shed by their hands. In likemanner Christ declared the Jews of Histime guilty of all the blood of holy menwhich had been shed since the days ofAbel; for they possessed the same spiritand were seeking to do the same workwith these murderers of the prophets.

These plagues are not universal, or theinhabitants of the earth would be whollycut off. Yet they will be the most awfulscourges that have ever been known tomortals. All the judgments upon men,

prior to the close of probation, have beenmingled with mercy. The pleading bloodof Christ has shielded the sinner fromreceiving the full measure of his guilt;but in the final judgment, wrath is pouredout unmixed with mercy.

(31) WHEN THE WICKED ARESUFFERING FROM HUNGER WHATWILL SUSTAIN THE FAITHFUL?____________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 33:15,16; 41:17; Isaiah 51:23

The people of God will not be free fromsuffering; but while persecuted anddistressed, while they endure privationand suffer for want of food they will notbe left to perish. That God who cared forElijah will not pass by one of His self-sacrificing children. He who numbers thehairs of their head will care for them, andin time of famine they shall be satisfied.While the wicked are dying from hungerand pestilence, angels will shield therighteous and supply their wants. To himthat “walketh righteously” is thepromise: “Bread shall be given him; hiswaters shall be sure.”

(32) WHEN ALL HOPE APPEARSLOST, LIKE JACOB IN HIS TIMEOF TROUBLE, WHAT WILL BETHE PLEA OF THE RIGHTEOUS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Genesis 32:26

Yet to human sight it will appear that thepeople of God must soon seal theirtestimony with their blood as did themartyrs before them. They themselvesbegin to fear that the Lord has left themto fall by the hand of their enemies. It isa time of fearful agony. Day and night

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they cry unto God for deliverance. Thewicked exult, and the jeering cry is heard:“Where now is your faith? Why doesnot God deliver you out of our hands ifyou are indeed His people?” But thewaiting ones remember Jesus dyingupon Calvary’s cross and the chiefpriests and rulers shouting in mockery:“He saved others; Himself He cannotsave. If He be the King of Israel, let Himnow come down from the cross, and wewill believe Him.” Matthew 27:42. LikeJacob, all are wrestling with God. Theircountenances express their internalstruggle. Paleness sits upon everyface. Yet they cease not their earnestintercession.

(33) WHO HAS GOD COMMIS-SIONED FOR THE PROTECTIONOF HIS FAITHFUL?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 34:7; Psalm 91:11

Could men see with heavenly vision,they would behold companies of angelsthat excel in strength stationed aboutthose who have kept the word of Christ’spatience. With sympathizing tenderness,angels have witnessed their distress andhave heard their prayers. They arewaiting the word of their Commander tosnatch them from their peril. But theymust wait yet a little longer. The peopleof God must drink of the cup and bebaptized with the baptism. The verydelay, so painful to them, is the bestanswer to their petitions. As theyendeavor to wait trustingly for the Lordto work they are led to exercise faith,hope, and patience, which have been toolittle exercised during their religiousexperience. Yet for the elect’s sake thetime of trouble will be shortened. “Shallnot God avenge His own elect, which

cry day and night unto Him? . . . I tellyou that He will avenge them speedily.”Luke 18:7, 8. The end will come morequickly than men expect. The wheat willbe gathered and bound in sheaves forthe garner of God; the tares will be boundas fagots for the fires of destruction.

(34) AT THE COMMAND OFTHE FATHER, WHAT WONDERFULPROPHECY OF PROMISE WILL BEFULFILLED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 91:3-8

The heavenly sentinels, faithful to theirtrust, continue their watch. Though ageneral decree has fixed the time whencommandment keepers may be put todeath, their enemies will in some casesanticipate the decree, and before the timespecified, will endeavor to take their lives.But none can pass the mighty guardiansstationed about every faithful soul.Some are assailed in their flight from thecities and villages; but the swords raisedagainst them break and fall powerless asa straw. Others are defended by angelsin the form of men of war.

The eye of God, looking down the ages,was fixed upon the crisis which Hispeople are to meet, when earthly powersshall be arrayed against them. Like thecaptive exile, they will be in fear of deathby starvation or by violence. But theHoly One who divided the Red Sea beforeIsrael, will manifest His mighty powerand turn their captivity. “They shall beMine, saith the Lord of hosts, in thatday when I make up My jewels; and Iwill spare them, as a man spareth his ownson that serveth him.” Malachi 3:17. Ifthe blood of Christ’s faithful witnesseswere shed at this time, it would not, like

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the blood of the martyrs, be as seedsown to yield a harvest for God. Theirfidelity would not be a testimony toconvince others of the truth; for theobdurate heart has beaten back thewaves of mercy until they return no more.If the righteous were now left to fall aprey to their enemies, it would be atriumph for the prince of darkness. Saysthe psalmist: “In the time of trouble Heshall hide me in His pavilion: in the secretof His tabernacle shall He hide me.”

Psalm 27:5. Christ has spoken: “Come,My people, enter thou into thy chambers,and shut thy doors about thee: hidethyself as it were for a little moment, untilthe indignation be overpast. For, behold,the Lord cometh out of His place topunish the inhabitants of the earth fortheir iniquity.” Isaiah 26:20, 21.Glorious will be the deliverance ofthose who have patiently waited forHis coming and whose names arewritten in the book of life.

I love the Lord with all myheart. I pray that I am countedon His side when He pro-claims, “He that is righteouslet him be righteous still.”


I now realize that Satan is,like a roaring lion, seekingwhom he may devour. I prayfor wisdom to continue tostudy and accept God’s Wordto avoid the deceptions thatSatan will manifest in thefinal moments of this world’shistory.


I am grateful to God forwarning us of the great “time

Study Notes: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

of trouble” that will come tothose who honor His divineprecepts.


I pray that God will refine mycharacter and strengthen myfaith so, by His grace, I canovercome for His glory.


In love and faith, I trust-fully give all into God’shands . I pray that bymiraculous preservation oflife or in a martyr’s death,He will use me to glorifyHis name.


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God’s People Delivered - 11When the protection of human lawsshall be withdrawn from those whohonor the law of God, there will be,in different lands, a simultaneousmovement for their destruction. As thetime appointed in the decree draws near,the people will conspire to root out thehated sect. It will be determined tostrike in one night a decisive blow,which shall utterly silence the voice ofdissent and reproof.

(1) WHAT PROMISE CAN THOSEWHO REMAIN FAITHFUL CLAIM?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 3:8-11

The people of God—some in prison cells,some hidden in solitary retreats in theforests and the mountains—still pleadfor divine protection, while in everyquarter companies of armed men, urgedon by hosts of evil angels, are preparingfor the work of death. It is now, in thehour of utmost extremity, that the God ofIsrael will interpose for the deliveranceof His chosen. Saith the Lord; “Ye shallhave a song, as in the night when a holysolemnity is kept; and gladness of heart,as when one goeth . . . to come into themountain of the Lord, to the Mighty Oneof Israel. And the Lord shall cause Hisglorious voice to be heard, and shallshow the lighting down of His arm, withthe indignation of His anger, and withthe flame of a devouring fire, with

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scattering, and tempest, and hailstones.”Isaiah 30:29, 30.

With shouts of triumph, jeering, andimprecation, throngs of evil men areabout to rush upon their prey, when, lo,a dense blackness, deeper than thedarkness of the night, falls upon theearth. Then a rainbow, shining with theglory from the throne of God, spans theheavens and seems to encircle eachpraying company. The angry multitudesare suddenly arrested. Their mockingcries die away. The objects of theirmurderous rage are forgotten. Withfearful forebodings they gaze upon thesymbol of God’s covenant and long tobe shielded from its overpoweringbrightness.

(2) WHAT WORDS OF JOYWILL SPRING FORTH FROM THELIPS OF THE FAITHFUL?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 25:9; Psalm 46:1-3

By the people of God a voice, clear andmelodious, is heard, saying, “Look up,”and lifting their eyes to the heavens,they behold the bow of promise. Theblack, angry clouds that covered thefirmament are parted, and like Stephenthey look up steadfastly into heaven andsee the glory of God and the Son of manseated upon His throne. In His divineform they discern the marks of Hishumiliation; and from His lips they hearthe request presented before His Fatherand the holy angels: “I will that they also,whom Thou hast given Me, be with Mewhere I am.” John 17:24. Again a voice,musical and triumphant, is heard, saying:“They come! they come! holy, harmless,and undefiled. They have kept the wordof My patience; they shall walk among

the angels;” and the pale, quivering lipsof those who have held fast their faithutter a shout of victory.

(3) WHAT WORDS COME FROMTHE MOUTH OF GOD?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 16:17

It is at midnight that God manifests Hispower for the deliverance of His people.The sun appears, shining in its strength.Signs and wonders follow in quicksuccession. The wicked look with terrorand amazement upon the scene, whilethe righteous behold with solemn joy thetokens of their deliverance. Everythingin nature seems turned out of its course.The streams cease to flow. Dark, heavyclouds come up and clash against eachother. In the midst of the angry heavensis one clear space of indescribable glory,whence comes the voice of God like thesound of many waters, saying: “It isdone.”

(4) WHAT GREAT EVENT WILLTHE VOICE OF GOD CAUSE?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 16:18

That voice shakes the heavens and theearth . . . The firmament appears to openand shut. The glory from the throne ofGod seems flashing through. Themountains shake like a reed in the wind,and ragged rocks are scattered on everyside. There is a roar as of a comingtempest. The sea is lashed into fury.There is heard the shriek of a hurricane

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like the voice of demons upon a missionof destruction. The whole earth heavesand swells like the waves of the sea. Itssurface is breaking up. Its veryfoundations seem to be giving way.Mountain chains are sinking. Inhabitedislands disappear. The seaports thathave become like Sodom for wickednessare swallowed up by the angry waters.Babylon the great has come inremembrance before God, “to give untoher the cup of the wine of the fiercenessof His wrath.” Great hailstones, everyone “about the weight of a talent,” aredoing their work of destruction. Verses19, 21. The proudest cities of the earthare laid low. The lordly palaces, uponwhich the world’s great men havelavished their wealth in order to glorifythemselves, are crumbling to ruin beforetheir eyes. Prison walls are rent asunder,and God’s people, who have been heldin bondage for their faith, are set free.

(5) WHO WILL WITNESS THESECOND COMING OF CHRIST?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 1:7; Daniel 12:2; 2 Peter 3:10

Graves are opened, and “many of themthat sleep in the dust of the earth . . .awake, some to everlasting life, andsome to shame and everlastingcontempt.” All who have died in thefaith of the third angel’s message comeforth from the tomb glorified, to hearGod’s covenant of peace with thosewho have kept His law. “They alsowhich pierced Him” (Revelation 1:7),those that mocked and derided Christ’sdying agonies, and the most violentopposers of His truth and His people,are raised to behold Him in His gloryand to see the honor placed upon theloyal and obedient.

(6) WHAT WILL BE THE RESPONSEOF THE WICKED AS THEY REALIZETHEY ARE ABOUT TO WITNESS THESECOND COMING OF CHRIST?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 6:16; Isaiah 2:10-12,20,21

Thick clouds still cover the sky; yet thesun now and then breaks through,appearing like the avenging eye ofJehovah. Fierce lightnings leap from theheavens, enveloping the earth in a sheetof flame. Above the terrific roar ofthunder, voices, mysterious and awful,declare the doom of the wicked. Thewords spoken are not comprehended byall; but they are distinctly understoodby the false teachers. Those who a littlebefore were so reckless, so boastfuland defiant, so exultant in theircruelty to God’s commandment-keepingpeople, are now overwhelmed withconsternation and shuddering in fear.Their wails are heard above the soundof the elements. Demons acknowledgethe deity of Christ and tremble beforeHis power, while men are supplicatingfor mercy and groveling in abject terror.

(7) WHAT SONG OF TRIUMPHALRESPONSE WILL RESOUND FROMTHE RIGHTEOUS?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 46:1-3

Through a rift in the clouds there beamsa star whose brilliancy is increasedfourfold in contrast with the darkness. Itspeaks hope and joy to the faithful, but

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severity and wrath to the transgressorsof God’s law. Those who have sacrificedall for Christ are now secure, hidden asin the secret of the Lord’s pavilion. Theyhave been tested, and before the worldand the despisers of truth they haveevinced their fidelity to Him who diedfor them. A marvelous change has comeover those who have held fast theirintegrity in the very face of death. Theyhave been suddenly delivered from thedark and terrible tyranny of mentransformed to demons. Their faces, solately pale, anxious, and haggard, arenow aglow with wonder, faith, and love.Their voices rise in triumphant song . . .

(8) WHAT WILL BE DECLARED INTHE HEAVENS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 50:6

While these words of holy trust ascendto God, the clouds sweep back, and thestarry heavens are seen, unspeakablyglorious in contrast with the black andangry firmament on either side. The gloryof the celestial city streams from thegates ajar. Then there appears againstthe sky a hand holding two tables ofstone folded together. Says the prophet:“The heavens shall declare Hisrighteousness: for God is judge Himself.”. . . That holy law, God’s righteousness,that amid thunder and flame wasproclaimed from Sinai as the guide of life,is now revealed to men as the rule ofjudgment. The hand opens the tables,and there are seen the precepts of theDecalogue, traced as with a pen of fire.The words are so plain that all can readthem. Memory is aroused, the darknessof superstition and heresy is swept fromevery mind, and God’s ten words, brief,comprehensive, and authoritative, are

presented to the view of all theinhabitants of the earth.

(9) WHAT TRUTH CONCERNINGGOD’S COMMANDMENTS WILLSTRIKE TERROR IN THE HEARTSOF THE WICKED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 119:160; Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 5:18

It is impossible to describe the horrorand despair of those who have trampledupon God’s holy requirements. The Lordgave them His law; they might havecompared their characters with it andlearned their defects while there was yetopportunity for repentance and reform;but in order to secure the favor of theworld, they set aside its precepts andtaught others to transgress. They haveendeavored to compel God’s people toprofane His Sabbath. Now they arecondemned by that law which they havedespised. With awful distinctness theysee that they are without excuse. Theychose whom they would serve andworship. “Then shall ye return, and discernbetween the righteous and the wicked,between him that serveth God and himthat serveth Him not.” Malachi 3:18.

(10) WHAT IS THE RESULTOF KNOWING TRUTH AND NOTSHARING THIS KNOWLEDGE WITHTHE LOST?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 3:18,19

The enemies of God’s law, from theministers down to the least among them,

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have a new conception of truth and duty.Too late they see that the Sabbath ofthe fourth commandment is the seal ofthe living God. Too late they see thetrue nature of their spurious sabbathand the sandy foundation upon whichthey have been building. They find thatthey have been fighting against God.Religious teachers have led souls toperdition while professing to guidethem to the gates of Paradise. Not untilthe day of final accounts will it beknown how great is the responsibilityof men in holy office and how terribleare the results of their unfaithfulness.Only in eternity can we rightly estimatethe loss of a single soul. Fearful will bethe doom of him to whom God shall say:Depart, thou wicked servant.

(11) WHERE WILL CHRIST BE SEENAT HIS COMING?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 26:64

Soon there appears in the east a smallblack cloud, about half the size of a man’shand. It is the cloud which surroundsthe Saviour and which seems in thedistance to be shrouded in darkness.The people of God know this to be thesign of the Son of man. In solemn silencethey gaze upon it as it draws nearer theearth, becoming lighter and moreglorious, until it is a great white cloud,its base a glory like consuming fire, andabove it the rainbow of the covenant.Jesus rides forth as a mighty conqueror.Not now a “Man of Sorrows,” to drinkthe bitter cup of shame and woe, Hecomes, victor in heaven and earth, tojudge the living and the dead. “Faithfuland True,” “in righteousness He dothjudge and make war.” And “the armieswhich were in heaven” (Revelation 19:11,

14) follow Him. With anthems of celestialmelody the holy angels, a vast,unnumbered throng, attend Him on Hisway. The firmament seems filled withradiant forms—”ten thousand times tenthousand, and thousands of thousands.”

(12) HOW DOES THE PROPHETHABAKKUK DESCRIBE THE SECONDCOMING OF CHRIST?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Habakkuk 3:3,4

No human pen can portray the scene;no mortal mind is adequate to conceiveits splendor. . . . As the living cloud comesstill nearer, every eye beholds the Princeof life. No crown of thorns now mars thatsacred head; but a diadem of glory restson His holy brow. His countenanceoutshines the dazzling brightness of thenoonday sun. “And He hath on Hisvesture and on His thigh a name written,King of kings, and Lord of lords.”Revelation 19:16.

(13) HOW DOES THE PROPHETJEREMIAH DESCRIBE THE REAC-TION OF HUMANITY TO THISGREAT EVENT?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 30:6,7

Before His presence “all faces are turnedinto paleness;” upon the rejecters ofGod’s mercy falls the terror of eternaldespair. “The heart melteth, and theknees smite together, . . . and the facesof them all gather blackness.” Jeremiah30:6; Nahum 2:10. The righteous cry with

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trembling: “Who shall be able to stand?”The angels’ song is hushed, and there isa period of awful silence. Then the voiceof Jesus is heard, saying: “My grace issufficient for you.” The faces of therighteous are lighted up, and joy fillsevery heart. And the angels strike a notehigher and sing again as they draw stillnearer to the earth.

(14) WHAT PROPHECY GIVENBY CHRIST INVOLVING THOSERESPONSIBLE FOR HIS CRUCIFIC-TION WILL BE FULFILLED?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 26:64; Revelation 1:7

There are those who mocked Christ inHis humiliation. With thrilling powercome to their minds the Sufferer’s words,when, adjured by the high priest, Hesolemnly declared: “Hereafter shall yesee the Son of man sitting on the righthand of power, and coming in the cloudsof heaven.” Now they behold Him in Hisglory, and they are yet to see Him sittingon the right hand of power.

Those who derided His claim to be theSon of God are speechless now. There isthe haughty Herod who jeered at Hisroyal title and bade the mocking soldierscrown Him king. There are the very menwho with impious hands placed uponHis form the purple robe, upon Hissacred brow the thorny crown, and inHis unresisting hand the mimic scepter,and bowed before Him in blasphemousmockery. The men who smote and spitupon the Prince of life now turn from Hispiercing gaze and seek to flee from theoverpowering glory of His presence.

Those who drove the nails through Hishands and feet, the soldier who piercedHis side, behold these marks with terrorand remorse.

In the lives of all who reject truth thereare moments when conscience awakens,when memory presents the torturingrecollection of a life of hypocrisy andthe soul is harassed with vain regrets.But what are these compared with theremorse of that day when “fear comethas desolation,” when “destructioncometh as a whirlwind”! Proverbs 1:27.Those who would have destroyed Christand His faithful people now witness theglory which rests upon them. In the midstof their terror they hear the voices of thesaints in joyful strains exclaiming: “Lo,this is our God; we have waited for Him,and He will save us.” Isaiah 25:9.

(15) WHAT CRY WILL FILL THEHEAVENS AS CHRIST CALLS THERIGHTEOUS DEAD TO LIFE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 15:55

Amid the reeling of the earth, the flashof lightning, and the roar of thunder, thevoice of the Son of God calls forth thesleeping saints. He looks upon thegraves of the righteous, then, raising Hishands to heaven, He cries: “Awake,awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust,and arise!” Throughout the length andbreadth of the earth the dead shall hearthat voice, and they that hear shall live.And the whole earth shall ring with thetread of the exceeding great army ofevery nation, kindred, tongue, andpeople. From the prison house of deaththey come, clothed with immortal glory,crying: “O death, where is thy sting? Ograve, where is thy victory?” And the

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living righteous and the risen saints unitetheir voices in a long, glad shout ofvictory.

(16) WHAT CHANGE WILL OCCURIN THE RIGHTEOUS?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 15:52,53

All come forth from their graves the samein stature as when they entered the tomb.Adam, who stands among the risenthrong, is of lofty height and majesticform, in stature but little below the Sonof God. He presents a marked contrastto the people of later generations; inthis one respect is shown the greatdegeneracy of the race. But all arise withthe freshness and vigor of eternal youth.In the beginning, man was created in thelikeness of God, not only in character,but in form and feature. Sin defaced andalmost obliterated the divine image; butChrist came to restore that which hadbeen lost. He will change our vile bodiesand fashion them like unto His gloriousbody. The mortal, corruptible form,devoid of comeliness, once polluted withsin, becomes perfect, beautiful, andimmortal. All blemishes and deformitiesare left in the grave. Restored to the treeof life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemedwill “grow up” (Malachi 4:2) to the fullstature of the race in its primeval glory.The last lingering traces of the curse ofsin will be removed, and Christ’s faithfulones will appear in “the beauty of theLord our God,” in mind and soul andbody reflecting the perfect image oftheir Lord. Oh, wonderful redemption!long talked of, long hoped for,contemplated with eager anticipation,but never fully understood.

(17) WHERE WILL THE ELECT GOIMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THISCHANGE?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Thessalonians 4:17

The living righteous are changed “in amoment, in the twinkling of an eye.” Atthe voice of God they were glorified;now they are made immortal and withthe risen saints are caught up to meettheir Lord in the air. Angels “gathertogether His elect from the four winds,from one end of heaven to the other.”Little children are borne by holy angelsto their mothers’ arms. Friends longseparated by death are united, nevermoreto part, and with songs of gladnessascend together to the City of God.

(18) WHAT WILL CHRIST OURRIGHTEOUS JUDGE BESTOW ONEACH OF HIS REDEEMED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Peter 5:4

Before entering the City of God, theSaviour bestows upon His followers theemblems of victory and invests them withthe insignia of their royal state. Theglittering ranks are drawn up in the formof a hollow square about their King,whose form rises in majesty high abovesaint and angel, whose countenancebeams upon them full of benignant love.Throughout the unnumbered host of theredeemed every glance is fixed upon Him,every eye beholds His glory whose“visage was so marred more than anyman, and His form more than the sons of

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men.” Upon the heads of theovercomers, Jesus with His own righthand places the crown of glory. For eachthere is a crown, bearing his own “newname” (Revelation 2:17), and theinscription, “Holiness to the Lord.” Inevery hand are placed the victor’s palmand the shining harp. Then, as thecommanding angels strike the note, everyhand sweeps the harp strings with skillfultouch, awaking sweet music in rich,melodious strains. Rapture unutterablethrills every heart, and each voice israised in grateful praise: “Unto Him thatloved us, and washed us from our sinsin His own blood, and hath made us kingsand priests unto God and His Father; toHim be glory and dominion for ever andever.” Revelation 1:5, 6.

(19) WHAT JOYOUS INVITATIONWILL CHRIST EXTEND TO HISREDEEMED?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 25:34

Before the ransomed throng is the HolyCity. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates,and the nations that have kept the truthenter in. There they behold the Paradiseof God, the home of Adam in hisinnocency. Then that voice, richer thanany music that ever fell on mortal ear, isheard, saying: “Your conflict is ended.”“Come, ye blessed of My Father, inheritthe kingdom prepared for you from thefoundation of the world.”

Now is fulfilled the Saviour’s prayer forHis disciples: “I will that they also, whomThou hast given Me, be with Me whereI am.” “Faultless before the presence of

His glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 24),Christ presents to the Father thepurchase of His blood, declaring: “Heream I, and the children whom Thou hastgiven Me.” “Those that Thou gavest MeI have kept.” Oh, the wonders ofredeeming love! the rapture of that hourwhen the infinite Father, looking uponthe ransomed, shall behold His image,sin’s discord banished, its blightremoved, and the human once more inharmony with the divine!

With unutterable love, Jesus welcomesHis faithful ones to the joy of their Lord.The Saviour’s joy is in seeing, in thekingdom of glory, the souls that havebeen saved by His agony andhumiliation. And the redeemed will besharers in His joy, as they behold, amongthe blessed, those who have been wonto Christ through their prayers, theirlabors, and their loving sacrifice. As theygather about the great white throne,gladness unspeakable will fill theirhearts, when they behold those whomthey have won for Christ, and see thatone has gained others, and these stillothers, all brought into the haven of rest,there to lay their crowns at Jesus’ feetand praise Him through the endlesscycles of eternity.

(20) WHAT GROUP WILL BEPRIVILEGED TO SING A UNIQUE SONGOF PRAISE TO THEIR REDEEMER?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:3

Upon the crystal sea before the throne,that sea of glass as it were mingled withfire,—so resplendent is it with the gloryof God,—are gathered the company thathave “gotten the victory over the beast,and over his image, and over his mark,

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and over the number of his name.” Withthe Lamb upon Mount Zion, “havingthe harps of God,” they stand, thehundred and forty and four thousandthat were redeemed from among men;and there is heard, as the sound ofmany waters, and as the sound of agreat thunder, “the voice of harpersharping with their harps.” And they sing“a new song” before the throne, a songwhich no man can learn save thehundred and forty and four thousand.It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but thehundred and forty-four thousand canlearn that song; for it is the song oftheir experience—an experience such asno other company have ever had.“These are they which follow the Lambwhithersoever He goeth.” These,having been translated from the earth,from among the living, are counted as“the first fruits unto God and to theLamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.

(21) WHAT DISTINGUISHES THISGROUP FROM THE MULTITUDEOF THE REDEEMED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 7:13,14___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 14:4

“These are they which came out of greattribulation;” they have passed throughthe time of trouble such as never wassince there was a nation; they haveendured the anguish of the time ofJacob’s trouble; they have stoodwithout an intercessor through the finaloutpouring of God’s judgments. But theyhave been delivered, for they have

“washed their robes, and made themwhite in the blood of the Lamb.” “In theirmouth was found no guile: for they arewithout fault” before God. “Therefore arethey before the throne of God, and serveHim day and night in His temple: and Hethat sitteth on the throne shall dwellamong them.” They have seen the earthwasted with famine and pestilence, thesun having power to scorch men withgreat heat, and they themselves haveendured suffering, hunger, and thirst. But“they shall hunger no more, neither thirstany more; neither shall the sun light onthem, nor any heat. For the Lambwhich is in the midst of the throne shallfeed them, and shall lead them untoliving fountains of waters: and Godshall wipe away all tears from theireyes.” Revelation 7:14-17.

(22) WHAT PRINCIPLE WILLINSPIRE THE REDEEMED TO SHARETHEIR TESTIMONY THROUGHOUTTHE UNIVERSE?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Luke 7:42,43

In all ages the Saviour’s chosen havebeen educated and disciplined in theschool of trial. They walked in narrowpaths on earth; they were purified in thefurnace of affliction. For Jesus’ sake theyendured opposition, hatred, calumny.They followed Him through conflictssore; they endured self-denial andexperienced bitter disappointments. Bytheir own painful experience they learnedthe evil of sin, its power, its guilt, its woe;and they look upon it with abhorrence.A sense of the infinite sacrifice made forits cure humbles them in their own sight

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and fills their hearts with gratitude andpraise which those who have never fallencannot appreciate. They love muchbecause they have been forgiven much.Having been partakers of Christ’ssufferings, they are fitted to be partakerswith Him of His glory.

(23) WHAT WILL BE REMOVEDFROM THE RIGHTEOUS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 25:8

The heirs of God have come from garrets,from hovels, from dungeons, fromscaffolds, from mountains, from deserts,from the caves of the earth, from thecaverns of the sea. On earth they were“destitute, afflicted, tormented.” Millionswent down to the grave loaded withinfamy because they steadfastly refusedto yield to the deceptive claims of Satan.By human tribunals they were adjudgedthe vilest of criminals. But now “God isjudge Himself.” Psalm 50:6. Now thedecisions of earth are reversed. “Therebuke of His people shall He takeaway.” Isaiah 25:8. “They shall call them,The holy people, The redeemed of theLord.” He hath appointed “to give untothem beauty for ashes, the oil of joy formourning, the garment of praise for thespirit of heaviness.” Isaiah 62:12; 61:3.They are no longer feeble, afflicted,scattered, and oppressed. Henceforththey are to be ever with the Lord. Theystand before the throne clad in richerrobes than the most honored of the earthhave ever worn. They are crowned withdiadems more glorious than were everplaced upon the brow of earthlymonarchs. The days of pain and weepingare forever ended. The King of glory haswiped the tears from all faces; everycause of grief has been removed. Amid

the waving of palm branches they pourforth a song of praise, clear, sweet, andharmonious; every voice takes up thestrain, until the anthem swells throughthe vaults of heaven: “Salvation to ourGod which sitteth upon the throne, andunto the Lamb.” And all the inhabitantsof heaven respond in the ascription:“Amen: Blessing, and glory, andwisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor,and power, and might, be unto our Godfor ever and ever.” Revelation 7:10, 12.

(24) HOW DOES THE BIBLE DE-SCRIBE THE PLAN OF REDEMPTION?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________1 Timothy 3:16; Ephesians 6:19

In this life we can only begin tounderstand the wonderful theme ofredemption. With our finite compre-hension we may consider most earnestlythe shame and the glory, the life and thedeath, the justice and the mercy, thatmeet in the cross; yet with the utmoststretch of our mental powers we fail tograsp its full significance. The lengthand the breadth, the depth and theheight, of redeeming love are but dimlycomprehended. The plan of redemptionwill not be fully understood, even whenthe ransomed see as they are seen andknow as they are known; but throughthe eternal ages new truth willcontinually unfold to the wondering anddelighted mind. Though the griefs andpains and temptations of earth are endedand the cause removed, the people ofGod will ever have a distinct, intelligentknowledge of what their salvationhas cost.

(25) WHAT IS THE PAST, PRESENT,AND FUTURE SCIENCE AND SONGOF THE REDEEMED?

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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ephesians 3:18,19;1 Corinthians1:17,18; Matthew ll:29; Romans 11:33

The cross of Christ will be the scienceand the song of the redeemed throughall eternity. In Christ glorified they willbehold Christ crucified. Never will it beforgotten that He whose power createdand upheld the unnumbered worldsthrough the vast realms of space, theBeloved of God, the Majesty of heaven,He whom cherub and shining seraphdelighted to adore—humbled Himself touplift fallen man; that He bore the guiltand shame of sin, and the hiding of HisFather’s face, till the woes of a lost worldbroke His heart and crushed out His lifeon Calvary’s cross. That the Maker ofall worlds, the Arbiter of all destinies,should lay aside His glory and humiliateHimself from love to man will ever excitethe wonder and adoration of theuniverse. As the nations of the savedlook upon their Redeemer and beholdthe eternal glory of the Father shining inHis countenance; as they behold Histhrone, which is from everlasting toeverlasting, and know that His kingdomis to have no end, they break forth in

rapturous song: “Worthy, worthy is theLamb that was slain, and hath redeemed usto God by His own most precious blood!”

The mystery of the cross explains allother mysteries. In the light thatstreams from Calvary the attributes ofGod which had filled us with fear andawe appear beautiful and attractive.Mercy, tenderness, and parental loveare seen to blend with holiness,justice, and power. While we beholdthe majesty of His throne, high andlifted up, we see His character inits gracious manifestations, andcomprehend, as never before, thesignificance of that endearing title,“Our Father.”

It will be seen that He who is infinite inwisdom could devise no plan for oursalvation except the sacrifice of His Son.The compensation for this sacrifice isthe joy of peopling the earth withransomed beings, holy, happy, andimmortal. The result of the Saviour’sconflict with the powers of darkness isjoy to the redeemed, redounding to theglory of God throughout eternity. Andsuch is the value of the soul that theFather is satisfied with the price paid;and Christ Himself, beholding the fruitsof His great sacrifice, is satisfied.

I am looking forward tothat great day when Christcomes in the c louds o fheaven to de l iver Hispeople from the wicked-ness of this earth and theterrible t ime of troublethat is before us.


I look forward with greatan t ic ipa t ion to accep tChrist’s joyous invitation,“Come, ye blessed of myFather, inherit the king-dom prepared for you fromthe foundat ion o f theworld.”


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Desolation of the Earth - 12(1) WHAT MESSAGE OF MERCY ISHEAVEN PROCLAIMING TO THOSEWHO ARE UNKNOWINGLY FOL-LOWING THE FALSE DOCTRINESOF BABYLON?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 18:4; 14:8

(2) WHAT JUDGMENTS WILLBEFALL BABYLON AND THOSEWHO CLING TO HER TEACHINGS?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 18:8; Revelation 18:3-17

Such are the judgments that fall uponBabylon in the day of the visitation ofGod’s wrath. She has filled up themeasure of her iniquity; her time hascome; she is ripe for destruction. Whenthe voice of God turns the captivity ofHis people, there is a terrible awakeningof those who have lost all in the greatconflict of life. While probationcontinued they were blinded by Satan’sdeceptions, and they justified theircourse of sin. The rich prided themselvesupon their superiority to those who were

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less favored; but they had obtained theirriches by violation of the law of God.

(3) WHAT BASIC PRINCIPLE HAVETHOSE WHO PERISH WILLFULLYVIOLATED?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Matthew 25:43-45; Matthew 6:33;2 Thessalonians 2:10

They had neglected to feed the hungry,to clothe the naked, to deal justly, and tolove mercy. They had sought to exaltthemselves and to obtain the homage oftheir fellow creatures. Now they arestripped of all that made them great andare left destitute and defenseless. Theylook with terror upon the destruction ofthe idols which they preferred beforetheir Maker. They have sold their soulsfor earthly riches and enjoyments, andhave not sought to become rich towardGod. The result is, their lives are a failure;their pleasures are now turned to gall,their treasures to corruption. The gainof a lifetime is swept away in a moment.The rich bemoan the destruction of theirgrand houses, the scattering of their goldand silver. But their lamentations aresilenced by the fear that they themselvesare to perish with their idols.

(4) WHAT CHANGE OCCURS INTHE LIFE WHEN THE WICKEDTRULY REPENT?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Chronicles 7:14; Isaiah 55:7

The wicked are filled with regret, notbecause of their sinful neglect of God

and their fellow men, but because Godhas conquered. They lament that theresult is what it is; but they do not repentof their wickedness. They would leaveno means untried to conquer if theycould.

(5) WHAT WONDERFUL PROMISEIS FULFILLED TO THE RIGHTEOUS?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 91:3-7

The world see the very class whom theyhave mocked and derided, and desiredto exterminate, pass unharmed throughpestilence, tempest, and earthquake. Hewho is to the transgressors of His law adevouring fire, is to His people a safepavilion.

(6) WHAT JUDGMENT WILL BEPRONOUNCED UPON THE SPIRITUALLEADERS WHO HAVE IGNOREDTRUTH AND LEAD THEIR FLOCKASTRAY?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 23:1,2; 25:34; Matthew 18:6

The minister who has sacrificed truth togain the favor of men now discerns thecharacter and influence of his teachings.It is apparent that the omniscient eyewas following him as he stood in thedesk, as he walked the streets, as he

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mingled with men in the various scenesof life. Every emotion of the soul, everyline written, every word uttered, everyact that led men to rest in a refuge offalsehood, has been scattering seed; andnow, in the wretched, lost souls aroundhim, he beholds the harvest.

(7) WHAT HAVE THESE UN-FAITHFUL LEADERS FAILED TOACKNOWLEDGE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 119:160,142

Ministers and people see that they havenot sustained the right relation to God.They see that they have rebelledagainst the Author of all just andrighteous law. The setting aside of thedivine precepts gave rise to thousandsof springs of evil, discord, hatred,iniquity, until the earth became one vastfield of strife, one sink of corruption.This is the view that now appears tothose who rejected truth and chose tocherish error. No language can expressthe longing which the disobedient anddisloyal feel for that which they havelost forever—eternal life. Men whomthe world has worshiped for theirtalents and eloquence now see thesethings in their true light. They realizewhat they have forfeited bytransgression, and they fall at the feetof those whose fidelity they havedespised and derided, and confess thatGod has loved them.

(8) HOW WILL THE LOST REACTTOWARDS THOSE WHO HAVEBETRAYED THEM?______________________________________________________________________________________Zechariah 14:13

The people see that they have beendeluded. They accuse one another ofhaving led them to destruction; but allunite in heaping their bitterestcondemnation upon the ministers.Unfaithful pastors have prophesiedsmooth things; they have led theirhearers to make void the law of God andto persecute those who would keep itholy. Now, in their despair, these teachersconfess before the world their work ofdeception. The multitudes are filled withfury. “We are lost!” they cry, “and youare the cause of our ruin;” and they turnupon the false shepherds. The very onesthat once admired them most willpronounce the most dreadful cursesupon them. The very hands that oncecrowned them with laurels will be raisedfor their destruction. The swords whichwere to slay God’s people are nowemployed to destroy their enemies.Everywhere there is strife and bloodshed.

(9) AFTER THE CLOSE OF PROBATIONTHE CONTROVERSY BETWEEN GODAND SATAN EXTENDS TO INCLUDEWHOM?____________________________________________________________________________________Jeremiah 25:31; 26:21

For six thousand years the greatcontroversy has been in progress;the Son of God and His heavenlymessengers have been in conflict withthe power of the evil one, to warn,enlighten, and save the children of men.Now all have made their decisions; thewicked have fully united with Satan inhis warfare against God. The time hascome for God to vindicate the authorityof His downtrodden law. Now thecontroversy is not alone with Satan, butwith men. “The Lord hath a controversywith the nations;” “He will give themthat are wicked to the sword.”

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(10) WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THEWICKED AS THEY SEE CHRISTCOMING IN THE CLOUDS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Thessalonians 2:8; Revelation 6:16,17

At the coming of Christ the wicked areblotted from the face of the wholeearth—consumed with the spirit of Hismouth and destroyed by the brightnessof His glory. Christ takes His people tothe City of God, and the earth is emptiedof its inhabitants. “Behold, the Lordmaketh the earth empty, and maketh itwaste, and turneth it upside down, andscattereth abroad the inhabitantsthereof.” “The land shall be utterlyemptied, and utterly spoiled: for the Lordhath spoken this word.” Isaiah 24:1,3.

(11) WHAT IS THE FUNDAMENTALCAUSE FOR THE DESTRUCTIONOF THE WICKED?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 24:5,6

“... Therefore hath the curse devouredthe earth, and they that dwell thereinare desolate: therefore the inhabitantsof the earth are burned.” Isaiah 24:5,6. [Everlasting covenant see Exodus31:16,17; Ezekiel 20:12; Exodus 20:8,11;Isaiah 66:22,23].

(12) WHAT PHYSICAL EFFECTWILL THE LORD’S COMING HAVEUPON THE EARTH?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Peter 3:10

The whole earth appears like a desolatewilderness. The ruins of cities andvillages destroyed by the earthquake,uprooted trees, ragged rocks thrown outby the sea or torn out of the earth itself,are scattered over its surface, while vastcaverns mark the spot where themountains have been rent from theirfoundations.

(13) WHAT IS THE FATE OF SATANFOLLOWING THE SECOND COMINGOF CHRIST?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:2

Now the event takes place fore-shadowed in the last solemn service ofthe Day of Atonement. When theministration in the holy of holies hadbeen completed, and the sins of Israelhad been removed from the sanctuaryby virtue of the blood of the sin offering,then the scapegoat was presented alivebefore the Lord; and in the presence ofthe congregation the high priestconfessed over him “all the iniquities ofthe children of Israel, and all theirtransgressions in all their sins, puttingthem upon the head of the goat.”Leviticus 16:21. In like manner, when thework of atonement in the heavenlysanctuary has been completed, then inthe presence of God and heavenly

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angels and the hosts of the redeemedthe sins of God’s people will be placedupon Satan; he will be declared guilty ofall the evil which he has caused them tocommit. And as the scapegoat was sentaway into a land not inhabited, so Satanwill be banished to the desolate earth,an uninhabited and dreary wilderness.

(14) WHAT RESTRICTION DOESGOD PLACE UPON SATAN’SACTIVITIES DURING THE 1,000YEARS OF HIS BONDAGE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:3

Here is to be the home of Satan with hisevil angels for a thousand years. Limitedto the earth, he will not have access toother worlds to tempt and annoy thosewho have never fallen. It is in this sensethat he is bound: there are noneremaining, upon whom he can exercisehis power. He is wholly cut off from thework of deception and ruin which for somany centuries has been his sole delight.

For six thousand years, Satan’s work ofrebellion has “made the earth totremble.” He had “made the world as awilderness, and destroyed the citiesthereof.” And he “opened not the houseof his prisoners.” For six thousand yearshis prison house has received God’speople, and he would have held themcaptive forever; but Christ had brokenhis bonds and set the prisoners free.Even the wicked are now placed beyondthe power of Satan, and alone with hisevil angels he remains to realize the effectof the curse which sin has brought. “Thekings of the nations, even all of them, liein glory, everyone in his own house [thegrave]. But thou art cast out thy gravelike an abominable branch. . . . Thou shalt

not be joined with them in burial,because thou hast destroyed thy land,and slain thy people.” Isaiah 14:18-20.

For a thousand years, Satan will wanderto and fro in the desolate earth to beholdthe results of his rebellion against thelaw of God. During this time hissufferings are intense. Since his fall hislife of unceasing activity has banishedreflection; but he is now deprived of hispower and left to contemplate the partwhich he has acted since first he rebelledagainst the government of heaven, andto look forward with trembling and terrorto the dreadful future when he mustsuffer for all the evil that he has doneand be punished for the sins that he hascaused to be committed.

(15) WHAT WILL BE THE ACTIVITYOF THE REDEEMED DURING THE1,000 YEARS?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:4

During the thousand years between thefirst and the second resurrection thejudgment of the wicked takes place. Theapostle Paul points to this judgment asan event that follows the second advent.“Judge nothing before the time, until theLord come, who both will bring to lightthe hidden things of darkness, and willmake manifest the counsels of thehearts.” 1 Corinthians 4:5. Danieldeclares that when the Ancient of Dayscame, “judgment was given to the saintsof the Most High.” Daniel 7:22. At thistime the righteous reign as kings andpriests unto God. . . It is at this time that,as foretold by Paul, “the saints shalljudge the world.” 1 Corinthians 6:2. Inunion with Christ they judge the wicked,comparing their acts with the statute

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book, the Bible, and deciding every caseaccording to the deeds done in the body.Then the portion which the wicked mustsuffer is meted out, according to theirworks; and it is recorded against theirnames in the book of death.

(16) WHO WILL BE INCLUDED INTHIS JUDGMENT?____________________________________________________________________________________1 Corinthians 6:2,3Satan also and evil angels are judgedby Christ and His people. Says Paul:“Know ye not that we shall judgeangels?” Verse 3. And Jude declares that“the angels which kept not their firstestate, but left their own habitation, Hehath reserved in everlasting chainsunder darkness unto the judgment ofthe great day.” Jude 6.

(17) WHAT WILL TAKE PLACEAT THE CLOSE OF THE 1,000 YEARPERIOD?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:5

At the close of the thousand years thesecond resurrection will take place.Then the wicked will be raised from thedead and appear before God for theexecution of “the judgment written.”Thus the revelator, after describing theresurrection of the righteous, says: “Therest of the dead lived not again until thethousand years were finished.”Revelation 20:5. And Isaiah declares,concerning the wicked: “They shall begathered together, as prisoners aregathered in the pit, and shall be shut upin the prison, and after many days shallthey be visited.” Isaiah 24:22.

The Scriptures have revealedto me the momentous eventsthat will end this greatcontroversy. I understand thatbefore the close of this conflict,every individual will havemade a decision as to wherehis loyalty will be placed.


I realize that in his quest formy destruction Satan willemploy every method withinhis power to deceive me andwhen these fail, persecutionmay follow.


I am thank fu l t ha t Godin His love and mercy is

calling His people out oft he f a l s e doc t r ine s o fBabylon and revealing thetruths that wi l l preventdecep t ion . I p ray f o rguidance from the HolySp i r i t t o d i s ce rn t ru thfrom error so that I will notbe among the deceived.


I realize that after all man-kind has chosen allegianceGod’s judgements will bringdesolation to this earth. Ichoose to remain loyal toHim regardless of the costand am thankful for Hispromises for my deliverance.


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The Controversy Ended - 13

At the close of the thousand years,Christ again returns to the earth. He isaccompanied by the host of theredeemed and attended by a retinue ofangels. As He descends in terrificmajesty He bids the wicked dead ariseto receive their doom. They come forth,a mighty host, numberless as the sandsof the sea. What a contrast to thosewho were raised at the first resurrection!The righteous were clothed withimmortal youth and beauty. The wickedbear the traces of disease and death.

(1) WHAT WORDS WILL SPRINGFORTH FROM UNWILLING LIPSDRIVEN BY THE POWER OF TRUTH?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Luke 13:35

Every eye in that vast multitude is turnedto behold the glory of the Son of God.With one voice the wicked hosts exclaim:“Blessed is He that cometh in the nameof the Lord!” It is not love to Jesus thatinspires this utterance. The force of truthurges the words from unwilling lips. Asthe wicked went into their graves, so theycome forth with the same enmity to Christ

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The Controversy Ended

and the same spirit of rebellion. Theyare to have no new probation in whichto remedy the defects of their past lives.Nothing would be gained by this. Alifetime of transgression has not softenedtheir hearts. A second probation, were itgiven them, would be occupied as wasthe first in evading the requirements ofGod and exciting rebellion against Him.

(2) WHAT DESCENDS FROMHEAVEN AS A “BRIDE PREPAREDFOR HER HUSBAND”?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:2

Christ descends upon the Mount ofOlives, whence, after His resurrection,He ascended, and where angelsrepeated the promise of His return. Saysthe prophet: “The Lord my God shallcome, and all the saints with Thee.”“And His feet shall stand in that dayupon the Mount of Olives, which isbefore Jerusalem on the east, and theMount of Olives shall cleave in themidst thereof, . . . and there shall be avery great valley.” “And the Lord shallbe king over all the earth: in that dayshall there be one Lord, and His nameone.” Zechariah 14:5, 4, 9. As the NewJerusalem, in its dazzling splendor,comes down out of heaven, it rests uponthe place purified and made ready toreceive it, and Christ, with His peopleand the angels, enters the Holy City.

(3) WHAT ACTIVITY WILLSATAN RESUME WHEN THE 1,000YEARS END AND THE WICKEDARE RESURRECTED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:7,8

Now Satan prepares for a last mightystruggle for the supremacy. Whiledeprived of his power and cut off from hiswork of deception, the prince of evil wasmiserable and dejected; but as the wickeddead are raised and he sees the vastmultitudes upon his side, his hopes revive,and he determines not to yield the greatcontroversy. He will marshal all the armiesof the lost under his banner and throughthem endeavor to execute his plans. Thewicked are Satan’s captives. In rejectingChrist they have accepted the rule of therebel leader. They are ready to receive hissuggestions and to do his bidding. Yet,true to his early cunning, he does notacknowledge himself to be Satan. He claimsto be the prince who is the rightful ownerof the world and whose inheritance hasbeen unlawfully wrested from him. Herepresents himself to his deluded subjectsas a redeemer, assuring them that his powerhas brought them forth from their gravesand that he is about to rescue them fromthe most cruel tyranny. The presence ofChrist having been removed, Satan workswonders to support his claims. He makesthe weak strong and inspires all with hisown spirit and energy. He proposes to leadthem against the camp of the saints and totake possession of the City of God. Withfiendish exultation he points to theunnumbered millions who have beenraised from the dead and declares that astheir leader he is well able to overthrowthe city and regain his throne and hiskingdom.

(4) WITH WHAT DOES SCRIPTURECOMPARE THE GREAT THRONGOF THE LOST?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:8

In that vast throng are multitudes of thelong-lived race that existed before the

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Flood; men of lofty stature and giantintellect, who, yielding to the controlof fallen angels, devoted all their skilland knowledge to the exaltation ofthemselves; men whose wonderful worksof art led the world to idolize their genius,but whose cruelty and evil inventions,defiling the earth and defacing the imageof God, caused Him to blot them from theface of His creation. There are kings andgenerals who conquered nations, valiantmen who never lost a battle, proud,ambitious warriors whose approach madekingdoms tremble. In death theseexperienced no change. As they come upfrom the grave, they resume the currentof their thoughts just where it ceased.They are actuated by the same desire toconquer that ruled them when they fell.

Satan consults with his angels, and thenwith these kings and conquerors andmighty men. They look upon thestrength and numbers on their side, anddeclare that the army within the city issmall in comparison with theirs, and thatit can be overcome. They lay theirplans to take possession of the richesand glory of the New Jerusalem. Allimmediately begin to prepare for battle.Skillful artisans construct implements ofwar. Military leaders, famed for theirsuccess, marshal the throngs of warlikemen into companies and divisions.

(5) WHAT DOES THIS VASTARMY ATTEMPT UNDER SATAN’SCOMMAND?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:9

At last the order to advance is given, andthe countless host moves on—an armysuch as was never summoned by earthlyconquerors, such as the combined forces

of all ages since war began on earth couldnever equal. Satan, the mightiest ofwarriors, leads the van, and his angels unitetheir forces for this final struggle. Kingsand warriors are in his train, and themultitudes follow in vast companies, eachunder its appointed leader. With militaryprecision the serried ranks advance overthe earth’s broken and uneven surface tothe City of God. By command of Jesus, thegates of the New Jerusalem are closed, andthe armies of Satan surround the city andmake ready for the onset.

Now Christ again appears to the view ofHis enemies. Far above the city, upon afoundation of burnished gold, is athrone, high and lifted up. Upon thisthrone sits the Son of God, and aroundHim are the subjects of His kingdom.The power and majesty of Christ nolanguage can describe, no pen portray.The glory of the Eternal Father isenshrouding His Son. The brightnessof His presence fills the City of God, andflows out beyond the gates, floodingthe whole earth with its radiance.

(6) WHO NUMBERS THE VASTTHRONG STANDING BEFORE THETHRONE OF GOD?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 7:14

Nearest the throne are those who wereonce zealous in the cause of Satan, butwho, plucked as brands from the burning,have followed their Saviour with deep,intense devotion. Next are those whoperfected Christian characters in themidst of falsehood and infidelity, thosewho honored the law of God when theChristian world declared it void, and themillions, of all ages, who were martyredfor their faith. And beyond is the “great

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multitude, which no man could number,of all nations, and kindreds, and people,and tongues, . . .before the throne, andbefore the Lamb, clothed with whiterobes, and palms in their hands.”Revelation 7:9. Their warfare is ended,their victory won. They have run therace and reached the prize. The palmbranch in their hands is a symbol of theirtriumph, the white robe an emblem of thespotless righteousness of Christ whichnow is theirs.

(7) WHAT PHRASE OF ADORATIONWILL RESOUND FROM THE LIPSOF THE REDEEMED?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 7:10

The redeemed raise a song of praise thatechoes and re-echoes through the vaultsof heaven . . . And angel and seraph unitetheir voices in adoration. As the redeemedhave beheld the power and malignity ofSatan, they have seen, as never before,that no power but thatof Christ could have made themconquerors. In all that shining throngthere are none to ascribe salvation tothemselves, as if they had prevailedby their own power and goodness.Nothing is said of what they have doneor suffered; but the burden of every song,the keynote of every anthem, is: Salvationto our God and unto the Lamb.

(8) FOR WHAT GREAT EVENT ARETHE WICKED DEAD RESURRECTED?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:12,13; Romans 14:10,11

In the presence of the assembledinhabitants of earth and heaven the finalcoronation of the Son of God takes place.And now, invested with supreme majestyand power, the King of kings pronouncessentence upon the rebels against Hisgovernment and executes justice uponthose who have transgressed His lawand oppressed His people. Says theprophet of God: “I saw a great whitethrone, and Him that sat on it, fromwhose face the earth and the heaven fledaway; and there was found no place forthem. And I saw the dead, small andgreat, stand before God; and the bookswere opened: and another book wasopened, which is the book of life: andthe dead were judged out of those thingswhich were written in the books,according to their works.”

(9) WHAT WILL BE REVEALEDAT THE GREAT JUDGMENT?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________2 Corinthians 5:10

As soon as the books of record areopened, and the eye of Jesus looksupon the wicked, they are conscious ofevery sin which they have evercommitted. They see just where theirfeet diverged from the path of purityand holiness, just how far pride andrebellion have carried them in theviolation of the law of God. Theseductive temptations which theyencouraged by indulgence in sin, theblessings perverted, the messengers ofGod despised, the warnings rejected,the waves of mercy beaten back by thestubborn, unrepentant heart—allappear as if written in letters of fire.

(10) WHAT FACTS DESCRIBEDIN THESE VERSES WILL STRIKE

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TERROR INTO THE HEARTS OFTHE LOST ON JUDGEMENT DAY?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 53:3,5; Isaiah 53:1-12

Above the throne is revealed the cross;and like a panoramic view appear thescenes of Adam’s temptation and fall,and the successive steps in the greatplan of redemption. The Saviour’s lowlybirth; His early life of simplicity andobedience; His baptism in Jordan; thefast and temptation in the wilderness;His public ministry, unfolding to menheaven’s most precious blessings; thedays crowded with deeds of love andmercy, the nights of prayer and watchingin the solitude of the mountains; theplottings of envy, hate, and malice whichrepaid His benefits; the awful, mysteriousagony in Gethsemane beneath thecrushing weight of the sins of the wholeworld; His betrayal into the hands of themurderous mob; the fearful events ofthat night of horror—the unresistingprisoner, forsaken by His best-loveddisciples, rudely hurried through thestreets of Jerusalem; the Son of Godexultingly displayed before Annas,arraigned in the high priest’s palace, inthe judgment hall of Pilate, before thecowardly and cruel Herod, mocked,insulted, tortured, and condemned todie—all are vividly portrayed.And now before the swaying multitudeare revealed the final scenes—thepatient Sufferer treading the path toCalvary; the Prince of heaven hangingupon the cross; the haughty priests andthe jeering rabble deriding His expiring

agony; the supernatural darkness; theheaving earth, the rent rocks, the opengraves, marking the moment when theworld’s Redeemer yielded up His life.

The awful spectacle appears just as itwas. Satan, his angels, and his subjectshave no power to turn from the pictureof their own work. Each actor recallsthe part which he performed. Herod,who slew the innocent children ofBethlehem that he might destroy theKing of Israel; the base Herodias, uponwhose guilty soul rests the blood ofJohn the Baptist; the weak, timeservingPilate; the mocking soldiers; the priestsand rulers and the maddened throngwho cried, “His blood be on us, and onour children!”—all behold the enormityof their guilt. They vainly seek to hidefrom the divine majesty of Hiscountenance, outshining the glory ofthe sun, while the redeemed casttheir crowns at the Saviour’s feet,exclaiming: “He died for me!”

(11) WHAT IS THE FINAL FATEOF THE WICKED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:15; Galations 6:8

The whole wicked world stand arraignedat the bar of God on the charge of hightreason against the government ofheaven. They have none to plead theircause; they are without excuse; and thesentence of eternal death is pronouncedagainst them.

It is now evident to all that the wages ofsin is not noble independence andeternal life, but slavery, ruin, and death.The wicked see what they have forfeitedby their life of rebellion. The far moreexceeding and eternal weight of glory

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was despised when offered them; buthow desirable it now appears. “All this,”cries the lost soul, “I might have had;but I chose to put these things far fromme. Oh, strange infatuation! I haveexchanged peace, happiness, and honorfor wretchedness, infamy, and despair.”All see that their exclusion from heavenis just. By their lives they have declared:“We will not have this Man [Jesus] toreign over us.”

(12) WHAT SONG OF PRAISEWILL THE REDEEMED PROCLAIM?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 15:3

As if entranced, the wicked havelooked upon the coronation of the Sonof God. They see in His hands thetables of the divine law, the statuteswhich they have despised andtransgressed. They witness theoutburst of wonder, rapture, andadoration from the saved; and as thewave of melody sweeps over themultitudes without the city, all with onevoice exclaim, “Great and marvelousare Thy works, Lord God Almighty;just and true are Thy ways, Thou Kingof saints”; and, falling prostrate, theyworship the Prince of life.

(13) WHAT TRAIT OF SATAN’SCHARACTER WILL FINALLY BEREVEALED TO THE UNIVERSE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:15-17; Ecclesiastes 12:14

The aim of the great rebel has ever beento justify himself and to prove the divinegovernment responsible for therebellion. To this end he has bent allthe power of his giant intellect. He hasworked deliberately and systematically,and with marvelous success, leadingvast multitudes to accept his versionof the great controversy which has beenso long in progress. For thousands ofyears this chief of conspiracy haspalmed off falsehood for truth. But thetime has now come when the rebellionis to be finally defeated and the historyand character of Satan disclosed. In hislast great effort to dethrone Christ,destroy His people, and takepossession of the City of God, thearchdeceiver has been fully unmasked.Those who have united with him seethe total failure of his cause. Christ’sfollowers and the loyal angels beholdthe full extent of his machinationsagainst the government of God. He isthe object of universal abhorrence.

(14) WHAT WILL BE THE RE-SPONSE OF EVERY CREATED BEING?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Philippians 2:10,11

Satan sees that his voluntary rebellionhas unfitted him for heaven. He hastrained his powers to war against God;the purity, peace, and harmony ofheaven would be to him supremetorture. His accusations against themercy and justice of God are nowsilenced. The reproach which he hasendeavored to cast upon Jehovahrests wholly upon himself. And nowSatan bows down and confesses thejustice of his sentence.

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(15) WHAT TRUTH ABOUT GOD’SGOVERNMENT AND CHARACTERWILL BECOME APPARENT TOTHE ENTIRE UNIVERSE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalm 97:2; Psalm 98:9___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 15:4

Every question of truth and error in thelong-standing controversy has nowbeen made plain. The results of rebellion,the fruits of setting aside the divinestatutes, have been laid open to the viewof all created intelligences. The workingout of Satan’s rule in contrast with thegovernment of God has been presentedto the whole universe. Satan’s own workshave condemned him. God’s wisdom, Hisjustice, and His goodness stand fullyvindicated. It is seen that all His dealingsin the great controversy have beenconducted with respect to the eternalgood of His people and the good of allthe worlds that He has created. “All Thyworks shall praise Thee, O Lord; and Thysaints shall bless Thee.” Psalm 145:10.The history of sin will stand to alleternity as a witness that with theexistence of God’s law is bound up thehappiness of all the beings He hascreated. With all the facts of the greatcontroversy in view, the whole universe,both loyal and rebellious, with oneaccord declare: “Just and true are Thyways, Thou King of saints.”

(16) WHAT IS THE REACTIONOF THOSE DECEIVED BY SATANWHEN HIS CHARACTER AND TRUEMOTIVES HAVE BEEN REVEALED?

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:19; Ezekiel 28:6-8

Notwithstanding that Satan has beenconstrained to acknowledge God’sjustice and to bow to the supremacyof Christ, his character remainsunchanged. The spirit of rebellion, likea mighty torrent, again bursts forth.Filled with frenzy, he determines not toyield the great controversy. The timehas come for a last desperate struggleagainst the King of heaven. He rushesinto the midst of his subjects andendeavors to inspire them with his ownfury and arouse them to instant battle.But of all the countless millions whomhe has allured into rebellion, thereare none now to acknowledge hissupremacy. His power is at an end. Thewicked are filled with the same hatredof God that inspires Satan; but theysee that their case is hopeless, that theycannot prevail against Jehovah. Theirrage is kindled against Satan and thosewho have been his agents in deception,and with the fury of demons they turnupon them.

(17) WHAT JUST SENTENCE ISGIVEN BY GOD REVEALING THEULTIMATE FATE OF SATAN?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:16-19

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(18) WHAT JUDGMENT IS PRO-NOUNCED UPON THOSE WHOSENAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN INTHE BOOK OF LIFE?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 20:15

“Every battle of the warrior is withconfused noise, and garments rolled inblood; but this shall be with burningand fuel of fire.” “The indignation ofthe Lord is upon all nations, and Hisfury upon all their armies: He hathutterly destroyed them, He hathdelivered them to the slaughter.” “Uponthe wicked He shall rain quick burningcoals, fire and brimstone and an horribletempest: this shall be the portion of theircup.” Isaiah 9:5; 34:2; Psalm 11:6,margin. Fire comes down from God outof heaven. The earth is broken up. Theweapons concealed in its depths aredrawn forth. Devouring flames burstfrom every yawning chasm. The veryrocks are on fire. The day has come thatshall burn as an oven. The elements meltwith fervent heat, the earth also, andthe works that are therein are burnedup. Malachi 4:1; 2 Peter 3:10. The earth’ssurface seems one molten mass—avast, seething lake of fire. It is the timeof the judgment and perdition ofungodly men—”the day of the Lord’svengeance, and the year of recompensesfor the controversy of Zion.” Isaiah 34:8.

(19) WHAT WILL BE THE BASISOF GOD’S JUDGEMENT A N DTHE ULTIMATE DELIVERY OFJUSTICE?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Romans 2:6; Romans 2:7-11; Revelation20:13; Isaiah 3:10,11

The wicked receive their recompense inthe earth. Proverbs 11:31. They “shallbe stubble: and the day that cometh shallburn them up, saith the Lord of hosts.”Malachi 4:1. Some are destroyed as in amoment, while others suffer many days.All are punished “according to theirdeeds.” The sins of the righteous havingbeen transferred to Satan, he is made tosuffer not only for his own rebellion, butfor all the sins which he has causedGod’s people to commit. His punishmentis to be far greater than that of thosewhom he has deceived. After all haveperished who fell by his deceptions, heis still to live and suffer on.

(20) WHAT WILL REMAIN OFSATAN AND ALL EVIL AFTERTHE CLEANSING FLAMES HAVESTOPPED?____________________________________________________________________________________Ezekiel 28:18; Malachi 4:1,3

In the cleansing flames the wicked are atlast destroyed, root and branch—Satanthe root, his followers the branches. Thefull penalty of the law has been visited;the demands of justice have been met;and heaven and earth, beholding, declarethe righteousness of Jehovah.

(21) HOW DOES SCRIPTUREDESCRIBE THE FINAL FATE OFTHE WICKED?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Psalms 104:35; 37:20; Obadiah 16

(22) WHAT PROMISE WILL ALLWHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THEDEVASTATION OF SIN GLADLYCLAIM?

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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Nahum 1:9

Satan’s work of ruin is forever ended.For six thousand years he haswrought his will, filling the earth withwoe and causing grief throughout theuniverse. The whole creation hasgroaned and travailed together in pain.Now God’s creatures are foreverdelivered from his presence andtemptations. “The whole earth is atrest, and is quiet: they [the righteous]break forth into singing.” Isaiah 14:7.And a shout of praise and triumphascends from the whole loyal universe.“The voice of a great multitude,” “asthe voice of many waters, and as thevoice of mighty thunderings,” is heard,saying: “Alleluia: for the Lord Godomnipotent reigneth.” Revelation 19:6.

(23) WHAT PASSES AWAY ANDIS REPLACED BY THE NEW?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:1

The fire that consumes the wickedpurifies the earth. Every trace of the curseis swept away. No eternally burninghell will keep before the ransomed thefearful consequences of sin.

(24) WHAT SINGLE REMINDEROF SIN WILL CHRIST FOREVERBEAR?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 20:25

One reminder alone remains: OurRedeemer will ever bear the marks of Hiscrucifixion. Upon His wounded head,upon His side, His hands and feet, arethe only traces of the cruel work thatsin has wrought. Says the prophet,beholding Christ in His glory: “He hadbright beams coming out of His side: andthere was the hiding of His power.”Habakkuk 3:4, margin. That pierced sidewhence flowed the crimson stream thatreconciled man to God—there is theSaviour’s glory, there “the hiding of Hispower.” “Mighty to save,” through thesacrifice of redemption, He was thereforestrong to execute justice upon them thatdespised God’s mercy. And the tokensof His humiliation are His highest honor;through the eternal ages the wounds ofCalvary will show forth His praise anddeclare His power.

(25) WHAT IS CHRIST PREPARINGFOR THE FAITHFUL?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________John 14:2; 2 Peter 3:13

A fear of making the future inheritanceseem too material has led many tospiritualize away the very truths whichlead us to look upon it as our home. Christassured His disciples that He went toprepare mansions for them in the Father’shouse. Those who accept the teachingsof God’s word will not be wholly ignorantconcerning the heavenly abode. And yet,“eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neitherhave entered into the heart of man, thethings which God hath prepared for themthat love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9. Humanlanguage is inadequate to describe thereward of the righteous. It will be knownonly to those who behold it. No finitemind can comprehend the glory of theParadise of God.

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(26) TO WHAT IS THE LAND OFINHERITANCE COMPARED?_____________________________________________________________________________________Hebrews 11:14; 11:11-16____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 3:12

In the Bible the inheritance of the savedis called “a country.” . . . There theheavenly Shepherd leads His flock tofountains of living waters. The tree oflife yields its fruit every month, and theleaves of the tree are for the service ofthe nations. There are ever-flowingstreams, clear as crystal, and beside themwaving trees cast their shadows uponthe paths prepared for the ransomed ofthe Lord. There the widespreadingplains swell into hills of beauty, and themountains of God rear their loftysummits. On those peaceful plains,beside those living streams, God’speople, so long pilgrims and wanderers,shall find a home.

(27) WHAT WILL BE THE APPEAR-ANCE OF THE NEW JERUSALEM?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:11; 21:10-27

(28) WHAT WILL BE THEATMOSPHERE IN THE LAND WEINHABIT?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 32:18; Isaiah 60:18

There, “the wilderness and the solitaryplace shall be glad for them; and the desertshall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.”“Instead of the thorn shall come up the firtree, and instead of the brier shall comeup the myrtle tree.” “The wolf also shalldwell with the lamb, and the leopard shalllie down with the kid; . . . and a little childshall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nordestroy in all My holy mountain,” saiththe Lord. Isaiah 35:1; 55:13; 11:6, 9.

(29) WHAT WONDERFUL AC-TIVITIES WILL THE REDEEMEDHAVE THE JOY OF PERFORMINGIN THE NEW EARTH?____________________________________________________________________________________Isaiah 65:21,22

(30) WHAT 4 EVIDENCES OF SINWILL NO LONGER EXIST?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:4; Isaiah 33:24

Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere ofheaven. There will be no more tears, nofuneral trains, no badges of mourning.. . . for the former things are passedaway.” “The inhabitant shall not say, Iam sick: the people that dwell thereinshall be forgiven their iniquity.”

(31) WHAT WILL BE THE SOURCEOF LIGHT IN THE CITY OF GOD?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 22:5

In the City of God “there shall be nonight.” None will need or desire repose.There will be no weariness in doing the

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will of God and offering praise to Hisname. We shall ever feel the freshness ofthe morning and shall ever be far from itsclose. . . .The light of the sun will besuperseded by a radiance which isnot painfully dazzling, yet whichimmeasurably surpasses the brightnessof our noontide. The glory of God andthe Lamb floods the Holy City withunfading light. The redeemed walk in thesunless glory of perpetual day.

(32) WHOSE DIVINE PRESENCEWILL NO LONGER BEAR THEVEIL OF AN EARTHLY TEMPLE?____________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 21:22

The people of God are privileged to holdopen communion with the Father and theSon. “Now we see through a glass,darkly.” 1 Corinthians 13:12. We beholdthe image of God reflected, as in a mirror,in the works of nature and in His dealingswith men; but then we shall see Him faceto face, without a dimming veil between.We shall stand in His presence andbehold the glory of His countenance.

There the redeemed shall know, evenas also they are known. The loves andsympathies which God Himself hasplanted in the soul shall there findtruest and sweetest exercise. The purecommunion with holy beings, theharmonious social life with the blessedangels and with the faithful ones ofall ages who have washed their robesand made them white in the blood ofthe Lamb, the sacred ties that bindtogether “the whole family in heavenand earth” (Eph. 3:15)—these help toconstitute the happiness of the redeemed.

There, immortal minds will contemplate withnever-failing delight the wonders of

creative power, the mysteries of redeeminglove. There will be no cruel, deceiving foeto tempt to forgetfulness of God. Everyfaculty will be developed, every capacityincreased. The acquirement of knowledgewill not weary the mind or exhaust theenergies. There the grandest enterprisesmay be carried forward, the loftiestaspirations reached, the highest ambitionsrealized; and still there will arise new heightsto surmount, new wonders to admire, newtruths to comprehend, fresh objects to callforth the powers of mind and soul and body.

(33) WHAT TESTIMONY WILLRESOUND FROM THE REDEEMEDTHROUGHOUT ETERNITY?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 5:12

All the treasures of the universe will beopen to the study of God’s redeemed.Unfettered by mortality, they wing theirtireless flight to worlds afar—worlds thatthrilled with sorrow at the spectacle ofhuman woe and rang with songs ofgladness at the tidings of a ransomed soul.With unutterable delight the children ofearth enter into the joy and the wisdom ofunfallen beings. They share the treasuresof knowledge and understanding gainedthrough ages upon ages in contemplationof God’s handiwork. With undimmedvision they gaze upon the glory ofcreation—suns and stars and systems,all in their appointed order circling thethrone of Deity. Upon all things, fromthe least to the greatest, the Creator’sname is written, and in all are the richesof His power displayed.

(34) WHAT SONG WILL FLOWFROM THE LIPS OF ALL GOD’S

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REDEEMED AS THEY REFLECTUPON THE OUTCOME OF THEGREAT CONTROVERSY?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Revelation 5:13

And the years of eternity, as they roll,will bring richer and still more gloriousrevelations of God and of Christ. Asknowledge is progressive, so will love,reverence, and happiness increase. Themore men learn of God, the greaterwill be their admiration of His character.As Jesus opens before them theriches of redemption and the amazing

achievements in the great controversywith Satan, the hearts of the ransomedthrill with more fervent devotion, andwith more rapturous joy they sweep theharps of gold; and ten thousand timesten thousand and thousands ofthousands of voices unite to swell themighty chorus of praise.

The great controversy is ended. Sinand sinners are no more. The entireuniverse is clean. One pulse of harmonyand gladness beats through the vastcreation. From Him who created all,flow life and light and gladness,throughout the realms of illimitablespace. From the minutest atom to thegreatest world, all things, animate andinanimate, in their unshadowed beautyand perfect joy, declare that God is love.

I am thankful that, in love,God has revealed throughScripture the l i fe-givingknowledge of the Great Con-troversy. I realize the finalbattleground of this struggleis my heart and the ultimateissue of the controversy ismy allegiance.


I now understand how thecontroversy began , theprinciples involved, howlong it will continue, andhow i t w i l l end . I amthank fu l tha t I am nowaware of Satan’s deceptionsand be t ter prepared tomake the critical decisionstha t wi l l determine myeternal destiny.


I am looking forward to theyears of eternity that willbring a richer and still moreglorious revelation in theknowledge of God and Christ.


My sincere prayer is, “DearLord, I give my life as ahumble offering. Changeme by Your grace into Yourimage. Please g ive meconfidence to share theselifegiving messages withothers . Provide me thewisdom and grace to livein obedience to Your holylaws. Give me the strengthto remain faithful to thisimportant convic t ion a tany cost. Please come soonLord Jesus!


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The wording of your answers will varyaccording to the translation of the Bible youuse, but the meaning should remain constant.

Lesson 1(1) God cannot be tempted with evil and

He tempts no man.(2) Sin is to break or transgress the law.(3) Justice, judgement, mercy, and truth.(4) Lucifer or Son of the Morning, later

called Satan or a Serpent.(5) He was created perfect by God,

blameless in all ways.(6) His heart was filled with pride

because of his beauty and brightness.(7) The wages of sin is death.(8) To have a throne above God’s and be

like the Most High.(9) As a murderer and the father of lies.(10) Kindness, tolerance, and patience.(11) A third.(12) Perverted ways will be known.(13) Because in His justice and great right-

eousness He does not oppress.(14) To a conflict that resulted in the

eviction of Satan and his followersfrom heaven.

(15) The earth.(16) He is merciful, gracious, long-

suffering, forgiving and full of truthand goodness.

(17) He gave His only Son for ourredemption.

(18) “Crucify Him”.(19) Reconciled the world to Himself.(20) To fulfill the law–not destroy it.(21) Every knee will bow and tongue

confess the Lordship of Christ.(22) “It is finished.”(23) They will be destroyed, they shall be

stubble without root or branch.(24) Sin will be destroyed, affliction will

not rise up a second time.Lesson 2

(1) He (God) will put enmity (hatred)between Thee (Satan) and the Woman(the true church).

(2) You must not eat from the Tree ofKnowledge of Good and Evil. If youeat you will surely die.

(3) Eve defied God and took and ate ofthe fruit.

(4) The testing of your faith.(5) The devil.(6) Because man was created in the image

of God.(7) We may become partakers of the

divine nature.(8) He was without sin.(9) Everyone who lives Godly lives will

be persecuted.(10) Submit to God and resist the devil.(11) To blind the minds of God’s believers.(12) Do not set foot on the path of the

wicked or walk in the ways of evil men.(13) Do not envy the wicked or desire

their company.(14) God is our refuge and strength.(15) He is like a roaring lion seeking whom

he may devour.(16) The armor of God.(17) The Word of God.(18) God will not allow us to be tempted

above what we are able to bear andHe will provide a way of escape fromevery temptation.

Lesson 3(1) The rulers, powers, and authorities

of darkness.(2) Around God’s throne.(3) Demons or Devils.(4) The earth.(5) A little lower then the angels.(6) Thousands and thousands and ten

thousand times ten thousand.(7) One third.(8) Like burning coals of fire or like

torches. Also like flashes of lightning.(9) A single angel slew a hundred and

eighty five thousand men in one night.(10) Ministering spirits sent to serve those

who will inherit salvation.(11) Protect and deliver those who fear

(respect) the Lord.(12) They chose to sin.(13) Miraculous signs.(14) Many People.(15) A legion.(16) The Lord Jesus Christ.(17) A sorcerer.(18) He is beautiful and full of splendor or

brightness.(19) (a) Put on the full armor of God.

(b) Study to show ourselves approved.

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Answer Key

(20) He guards His faithful ones anddelivers them from the hand of evil.

Lesson 4(1) To deceive the nations.(2) Submit ourselves to God and resist

the devil.(3) Walk in the Spirit and you will not

fulfill the lusts of the flesh.(4) The worries of life, love of riches, and

other earthly desires entering in andcrowding out the Word.

(5) He uses them to cause divisions,plant seeds of doubt concerningdoctrine.

(6) By their fruits.(7) The truth sets us free!(8) They will wrestle them to their own

destruction.(9) Those who would think to alter

God’s Word will receive the plaguesdescribed therein.

(10) It will make wise the simple.(11) He sees it as foolishness.(12) Profane talk and foolish arguments

falsely called science.(13) His judgements are unsearchable and

ways past finding out.(14) Those that have not received the love

for the truth that they may be saved.(15) Making the Word of God to have no

effect because of traditions.(16) Your traditions may lead you to reject

the commandments of God.(17) Those who ask.(18) It is better to trust the Lord than put

our confidence in man.(19) It leads us to depart from God and

have a hardened heart because of thedeceitfulness of sin.

(20) To be filled with doubt and lack faith.(21) What we sow we shall also reap.(22) Make the choice to do God’s will and

then continue in the light we havebeen given.

(23) (a) Through hearing the Word of God.(b) Cry out for God to help your

unbelief.(24) Those who seek will find.(25) Trials purify our faith as flames

purify gold.(26) Not by our might or power but by

the Spirit of the Lord.

(27) As His followers He has given uspower over the enemy.

(28) Watch and pray.Lesson 5

(1) We are servants to whom we obey.(2) You will not surely die.(3) (a) Separation from God.

(b) They were banished from thetree of life and the garden.

(4) Sin is transgression of the law.(5) The wages of sin is death.(6) Accepting Jesus Christ who has

destroyed death and brought life andimmortality to light through thegospel.

(7) It will surely die.(8) An angel with a flaming sword was

sent to guard the tree of life.(9) Destroyed in the fires of hell.(10) (a) He takes no pleasure in the death

of the wicked.(b) He doesn’t want anyone to perish

but all to come to repentance.(11) (a) Righteousness

(b) Justice(c) Love(d) Faithfulness

(12) Only ashes.(13) Fire will consume him, reduce him to

ashes and will be no more.(14) The wine of her fornication or

adulteries.(15) He will come and give each one their

just reward.(16) (a) We must first thirst.

(b) We must overcome.(17) (a) Mercy, graciousness, long-suffer-

ing, abundant goodness, andforgiveness for rebellion and sinbut He will by no means clearthose who choose to remain guilty.

(b) All the wicked He will destroy.(18) Come now let us reason together

though your sins are as scarlet theyshall be white as snow.

(19) They will call for the rocks andmountains to fall on them to hidethem from His face.

(20) He that is unjust, let him be unjuststill and he that is righteous, let himbe righteous still.

(21) Every tendency and thought of man

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became continually evil.(22) Because by the trespass of one man

death reigned how much more willthose who accept God’s grace gain lifethrough the one man Jesus.

(23) Every person will be rewardedaccording to his works.

(24) (a) The wages of sin is death.(b) They shall be as though theyhad not been.

(25) The dead know nothing, theirmemory is gone, and theiremotions of love, hate, and envyare departed.

(26) The living praise You but those inthe grave cannot sing Your praises.

(27) He died, was buried and his tombremains today.

(28) They will come from their graves.(29) He is coming with His reward on that

day.(30) I go to prepare a place for you then I

will come again and receive you untoMyself.

(31) The great judgement before God’sthrone.

(32) Asleep in the dust.(33) Death where is your sting, grave

where is your victory!Lesson 6

(1) The dead do not return.(2) The ability to perform great signs and

miracles.(3) Samuel the prophet.(4) (a) Counterfeit miracles

(b) Signs and wonders(c) Every sort of evil imaginable

(5) He masquerades as an angel of light.(6) It is of the devil.(7) God is the Giver, humility is the basis.(8) Temperance in all things.(9) Do not turn to mediums or seek out

spiritualists because they will defileyou.

(10) The death penalty.(11) The Word of God is truth.(12) Spiritualism gives false claims that

God’s divine power is its source.(13) Study God’s Word to show ourselves

approved.(14) Sin separates us from God.(15) Because they refuse to love the truth.

(16) Fallen angels and the powers of evil.(17) The dead know not anything.(18) Since we have followed His

commandments He will keep us from“the hour of trial.”

(19) Destruction due to lack of knowledge.(20) You will not surely die.(21) They will be swept away and destroyed.

Lesson 7(1) If you break one you are as guilty as if

you broke them all.(2) To make us blind to sin because the

law makes us aware of sin.(3) It is a lamp for our feet and a light for

our path.(4) Rejection of the Word of the Lord.(5) Rejection of truth leads to the

rejection of Christ.(6) All His righteous laws are eternal.(7) Lawlessness is sin.(8) We will reap what we have sown.(9) Long life and prosperity.(10) Justice and righteousness are turned

away and honesty cannot enter.(11) Hearts become calloused and unfeeling.(12) All God’s laws are eternal.(13) They will keep God’s commandments(14) The seventh day of the week.(15) He would “think” to change set times

and laws.(16) Deceptive philosophy and human

traditions.(17) Having a form of godliness but denial

of the power thereof.(18) The earth dries up and withers, it is

defiled by its inhabitants becausethey have transgressed the laws.

(19) Restrict God’s loyal followers fromplaces of worship and kill them andbelieve they are doing this for God.

(20) Spirits of devils working great signsand miracles to try and deceive eventhe elect.

(21) The devil, our adversary, goes aboutas a roaring lion, seeking whom hemay devour.

(22) They keep the commandments ofGod and have the testimony ofJesus.

(23) Restrictions will be imposedprohibiting God’s commandmentkeepers from buying or selling.

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Answer Key

Lesson 8(1) Living by every Word of God.(2) God Himself will restore you making

you strong, firm, and steadfast.(3) They are given to us and our children

that we may follow the words ofGod’s law and to teach us what iscoming so we will have encourage-ment and hope.

(4) (a) Fear (respect) God and giveglory for the hour of Hisjudgement has come.

(b) Babylon is fallen, that great city,which made all nations drink ofher wine of adulteries orfornications (false doctrines).

(c) If anyone worships the beast orhis image and therefore receivedhis mark will receive thejudgements of God.

(5) The time will come when they willnot endure sound doctrine and willturn away from the truth.

(6) If they do not speak to the law andthe testimony of God’s Word there isno light in them.

(7) Search the Scriptures daily with anopen mind.

(8) They despised and rejected Christ.(9) Study to show thyself approved of

God, a workman that needeth not tobe ashamed, rightly dividing the Wordof truth.

(10) There will be false teachers who willbring in false doctrine.

(11) We are each responsible to search itout for ourselves.

(12) There is a way that seemeth rightunto a man, but the end thereofare the ways of death.

(13) In a topical fashion–precept uponprecept; line upon line.

(14) We shall know of the doctrine.(15) (a) Communion with Him in prayer.

(b) Then seek to find Him and thetruth He reveals with all our heart.

(16) Those who continue in His Word willbe His disciples and know the truth.

(17) Spiritual matters are spirituallydiscerned.

(18) The Father will send the Holy Spiritto bring things to our remembrance.

(19) God allows those who choose to turnaway from the knowledge of the Bibleto reap the fruit of their depraved minds.

(20) They will be refined like silver andgold, they will call on His name andHe will answer, He will call us Hispeople and we will call Him our Lordand God.

Lesson 9(1) Babylon is fallen because she made all

nations drink of the maddening wineof her adulteries (false doctrines).

(2) Come out of her My people so youdo not take part in her sins andreceive not her plagues.

(3) Reached unto heaven.(4) (a) Economic sanctions preventing

them from buying or selling.(b) The death penalty.

(5) If any man worship the beast and hisimage and receive his mark he shallexperience the fury of God’s wrath.

(6) It is a sign between us and Godshowing He is our Lord.

(7) Not the natural children (literal bloodline) but those who claim the promise.

(8) They will choose teachers who saythings their ears want to hear.

(9) We should preach the Word at alltimes correcting, rebuking, andencouraging.

(10) Those that Christ died for and callsHis friends He has chosen to go bearfruit for His kingdom.

(11) You will know the truth and the truthwill make you free!

(12) Satan, the dragon, will use his humaninstruments to make war againstthose who obey God’scommandments and hold to thetestimony of Jesus.

(13) There will be betrayal between familymembers to the point of death.

(14) Obedience to God’s commands.(15) Decide to obey God over man.(16) From God who does notweary and

whose understanding has no end forHe strengthens the weary and weak.

(17) Because we follow Christ, we will behated, persecuted, and possibly putto death.

(18) The Lord directs the heart of our

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rulers where He pleases.(19) He will pour out His Spirit on all His

people.(20) Perform great and miraculous signs in

an effort to deceive the inhabitants ofthe earth.

(21) Many will prophesy, have visionsand dreams, and everyone who callson the name of the Lord will be saved.

Lesson 10(1) “...He which is filthy, let him be filthy

still: and he that is righteous, let himbe righteous still . . .”

(2) A great “Time of trouble” such as nothappened from the beginning.

(3) Four angels encompassing the earth.(4) Obey God’s commandments and

remain faithful to Jesus.(5) They claim to honour Me but their

hearts are far from Me. They worshipin vain teaching their own doctrines.

(6) They will seek to kill God’s truefollowers thinking it is God’s will.

(7) Like Jacob’s “Time of trouble.”(8) Satan.(9) He will become enraged and make war

against those who obey God’s law.(10) Their faith.(11) He will keep them from the hour of

temptation, which shall comeupon all the world.

(12) God will consider them detestable oran abomination.

(13) If we are faithful in few things Hewill put us in charge of many.

(14) Sorrow for sin.(15) When we are tested we will come

forth as gold.(16) The effectual fervent prayer.(17) The righteous will live by faith.(18) Be joyful always and pray

continually giving thanks in allcircumstances.

(19) We are each responsible to work outour own salvation with fear andtrembling.

(20) We may partake of His divine natureand escape the corruption of the world.

(21) (a) Counterfeit miracles(b) Signs(c) Wonders

(22) False christs and false prophets

performing miracles.(23) By the law and testimony in God’s

Word.(24) He will appear in the clouds of the

sky with power and great glory.(25) Because they had no love for the truth.(26) (a) Lust of the flesh.

(b) Lust of the eyes.(c) Pride of life.

(27) The mountains.(28) He will not forget us. We are engraved

in the palms of His hands.(29) His “strange work” or “strange act”.(30) (a) Painful sores.

(b) Sea turned to blood.(c) Rivers and springs turned to blood.(d) Scorching heat of the sun.(e) Terrible darkness.(f) Waters dried up.(g) Great earth quake.

(31) Bread and water.(32) “I will not let Thee go, except Thou

bless me.”(33) The angel of the Lord!(34) He will save us from the fowler’s snare,

from pestilence, and the plagues.Thousands will fall around us but wewill be protected. We will observe thepunishment of the wicked.

Lesson 11(1) Because they have remained faithful

He will keep them from the hour oftemptation.

(2) “Lo, this is our God; we have waitedfor Him, and He will save us...”

(3) “It is done!”(4) Lightning, thunder, and an earthquake

as has never occurred before.(5) Every eye shall see Him.(6) They will call out for the mountains

and rocks to fall on them to hide themfrom His face who sits on the throne.

(7) God is our refuge and strength, avery present help in troubleTherefore will not we fear.

(8) His righteousness because God isjudge Himself.

(9) His Word is true and His righteouslaws are eternal.

(10) If we do not warn them we will beheld accountable for his blood.

(11) In the clouds of heaven.

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Answer Key

(12) His splendor will cover the heavenswith the brightness of lightning.

(13) All faces turn to paleness, they grabtheir loins as if in child birth.

(14) Hereafter shall ye see the Son ofman sitting on the right hand ofPower, and coming in the cloudsof heaven.

(15) Death, where is thy sting? Grave,where is thy victory?

(16) We will be changed, God will give usimmortality.

(17) They shall be taken up together in theclouds, to meet the Lord in the air.

(18) A crown of glory that will never fade.(19) Come you bless of my Father, inherit

the kingdom prepared for you fromthe foundation of the world.

(20) The “144,000” who have beenredeemed from the earth.

(21) (a) These are the ones who camethrough the “Great tribulation.”

(b) These are the ones who did notdefile themselves with women(fallen churches.)

(22) He will love much who is forgiven much.(23) To remove the disgrace from His people.(24) The “mystery of godliness.”(25) To comprehend with all saints what is

the breadth, and length, and depth,and height of the love of Christ.

Lesson 12(1) Come out of her my people so you will

not share in her sins, so you will notreceive her plagues.

(2) Plagues will overtake her, mourning,and famine. She will be consumedby fire.

(3) They neglected the hungry, thestranger, the naked, the sick, andthose in prison–they failed todemonstrate the principle of love andseeking first the kingdom of heaven.

(4) With true repentance (sorrow for sin)the sinner will turn from his ways.

(5) They are saved from the Fowler’ssnare; from deadly pestilence; theyare protected by His wings of refuge;they will not fear bodily harm or theplagues that destroy the wicked;thousands will fall around them butthey will not be harmed.

(6) God will bestow punishment on themfor the evil they have done.

(7) That all of God’s Words are true andHis righteous laws are eternal.

(8) Stricken with by panic they willattack one another.

(9) With the nations.(10) Will be destroyed by the splendor of

His coming.(11) Because they have transgressed

the laws, changed the ordinance,broken the everlasting covenant.

(12) The heavens will disappear with aroar, the elements will be destroyedby fire, and the earth will be laid bare.

(13) He is bound to this desolate earth fora thousand years to reflect on his ways.

(14) He will be kept from deceiving thenations.

(15) They will be given authority to judgeand reign with Him a thousand years.

(16) The fallen angels.(17) The resurrection of the wicked that

were destroyed at the second comingof Chirst–the second resurrection.

Lesson 13(1) “Blessed is He that cometh in the name

of the Lord.”(2) The Holy City, the New Jerusalem.(3) The deception of the nations.(4) The number of whom is as the sand

of the sea.(5) To surround and overtake the city.(6) These are they who have come out of

the great tribulation and have washedtheir robs in the blood of the Lamb.

(7) They will proclaim, “Salvation toour God which sitteth upon thethrone, and unto the Lamb.”

(8) The great judgement before the throneof God.

(9) Things done in the body–good and bad.(10) He was despised and rejected by men.

He was pierced for our transgressionsand crushed for our iniquities.

(11) Destruction in the lake of fire.(12) The song of Moses and the song of

the Lamb–Great and marvelous areYour deeds, Lord God Almighty. Justand true are your ways.

(13) The pride that resulted in wickednessand violence.

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(14) Every knee will bow and everytongue confess that Jesus Christ isLord to the glory of the Father.

(15) (A) God’s government is based onrighteousness and justice.

(B) His character is holy and Hisrighteousness will be revealed.

(16) They will be appalled at him.(17) “I will destroy thee, O covering

cherub, from the midst of thestones of fire. . . . I will cast theeto the ground, I will lay theebefore kings, that they maybehold thee. . . . I will bring thee toashes upon the earth in the sightof all them that behold thee. . . .Thou shalt be a terror, and nevershalt thou be any more.”

(18) Whoever is not found in the Book ofLife will be cast into the lake of fire.

(19) God will reward each personaccording to what they have done.

(20) He and his companions will bereduced to ashes.

(21) They will vanish from the earth andbe no more.

(22) Affliction shall not rise a second time.(23) The first earth passes away and is

replaced by the earth made new.(24) Scars on His hands and side.(25) A new heaven and a new earth to be

the home of the righteous.(26) (a) “A Country.”

(b) The “New Jerusalem.”(27) It is described as having the glory of

God: and her light was like unto astone most precious, even like ajasper stone, clear as crystal.

(28) Peaceable habitation, and in suredwellings, and quiet resting places.

(29) Build houses and plant vineyards.(30) Death, crying, sorrow, or pain.(31) The Lord God gives the light.(32) Lord God Almighty and the Lamb.(33) Worthy is the Lamb that was

slain to receive power, and riches,and wisdom, and strength, andhonor, and glory, and blessing.

(34) Blessing, and honor, and glory,and power, be unto Him thatsitteth upon the throne, and untothe Lamb for ever and ever.

Appendix A Obedience –The True Test of Loyalty

God, in His great wisdom, has set up fund-amental laws based on mercy, truth, and justice[Ps.97:2]. His love-based laws are notrestrictive but rather are a source of securityand happiness to those who wisely abide[Ps.119:1]. By definition, sin is separation fromGod [Isa.59:1-2] and caused by transgressionof His love-based laws [1Jn.3:4]. God couldforesee that, if left unchecked, sin wouldspread throughout the universe with the effectof a malignant cancer. To prevent this Hedeclared the penalty of death for violationof the law [Rom.6:23]. God demonstratedto the universe His perfect balance of justiceand mercy [Ps.89:14] by providing a wayof salvation for the truly repentanttransgressors [1Pet.1:20].

The great controversy continues within usand it is all about obedient allegiance of theheart. Satan’s strategy is to gain our allegianceby convincing us that the law–the very toolthat makes us aware of our sins and calls usto obedience, is of none effect. He knowsthat without the law in place our coursetowards sin and the separation it brings isinevitable [Pv.5:22]. Cleverly, Satan hasbrought about the infiltration of this falsedoctrine and the cry resounding from themasses is, “God’s laws are void!” Colossians2:14 is quoted that states that the ordinancesagainst us were “nailed to the cross.” Toread but three verses further [Col.2:17] makesthe issue perfectly clear–“these are a shadowof things to come” [Eph.2:14]. The tencommandment law and the ceremonial lawsare distinctly separate [Deut.31:26;Ex.40:20]. At the moment of Christ’s deathan unseen hand tore the temple veil from topto bottom to mark the end of these ordinancesthat dictated the sacrificial practices[Matt.27:51; Mk.15:38]. They were at thatmoment fulfilled by the lamb of God dyingfor the sins of the world. The laws that ceasedwere the ceremonial laws and practices ofthe sacrificial system that pointed toChrist and were a shadow of the cross [2Chron.8:13,14; Lev.23:37,38] that was yetto come. The current validity of the ten

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Commandments is confirmed in the finalchapters of Revelation where we are told thatGod’s people, who ultimately enter heaven,will be commandment keepers [Rev.14:12;Rev.22:14 KJV].

The law is simply a mirror to reflect thecondition of our heart [Ez.11:19,20]. To doaway with the law is to take away theknowledge of sin [Rom.5:13]. God is love[1Jn.4:8] and the ten commandment lawis simply a written explanation of howto demonstrate love. The first four command-ments show love and respect for God andthe last six for our fellow man [Mk.12:29-31].

God has specifically said, “If ye love me,keep my commandments” [1Jn.5:3;Jn.14:15,21,23,24]. The keeping of Hiscommandments out of love makes Him ourLord because we are servants to whom weobey [Rom.6:16]. It is a blessing to obey[Deut.11:27,28]. To show respect to Godby obedience to His commandments is thewhole duty of man [Ecc.12:13]; He is theAuthor of Salvation to those who obey[Heb.5:9], and He promises to send the Spiritof Truth to those who obey [Jn.14:16]. Atthe judgement many will say, “Lord, Lord...but then I will profess unto them, I neverknew you: depart from me, ye that workiniquity.” The definition of iniquity isviolation of the law. The highest form ofworship is to love Him enough to obey[2Jn.1:6] and to claim to worship and thenintentionally not obey is contradictory–seeking a form of Godliness but denying theauthority and power thereof [2Tim.3:1-5].

We are now in a dilema. Like Paul, we seethe significance of obedience of the law andthat we should obey but we give in to theflesh [Rom.7:19]. Our natures are evil[Ecc.9:3], we are all sinners [Rom.3:23], ourrighteousness is as filthy rags [Isa.64:6]. Inour heart we have the conviction to obeybut, with pure motives, in ourselves we donot possess the ability [Jer.13:23].

The good news is we can come to Christjust as we are –wretched and miseralbly lostin sin–and claim the blood that was shed at

the cross. By the blood of Jesus we areforgiven of our sins and freed from thecondemnation and penalty of the law[Gal.3:13; Rom.5:8-11]. Then, after fullsurrender, He will replace our sin-hardenedhearts with hearts of love [Ezek.11:19]. Wefind peace and contenment [Matt.11:28-30;Jn.14:27] as He writes the commandmentsof love in our hearts [Heb.10:16]. We spendtime with Him he demonstrates Hischaracter in us by giving us the ability tokeep His commandments [Ez.11:20]. Byfaith [Gal.3:6] we are privileged to becomepartakers in His divine nature and escapethe corruption and lust of this world[Pet.1:4]. We are given the power to obeyby His Spirit [Acts 5:32]. The curse ofcondemnation is gone and the blessing ofthe law remains as a light unto our path[Ps.37:31; Jam.1:23-25].

Appendix BThe History of the Sabbath

At the end of creation week God set asidea special time and “rested” from all Hiswork. God did not “rest” due to physicalexhaustion. He rested, blessed, and made holythe Sabbath so that by His command andexample we would be blessed with thisweekly memorial of Him as our Lord andCreator [Gen.2:1-3]. He stamped His seal ofauthority on this specific time each week andasked us to set aside our secular activitiesand spend this time with Him. But Satan’saim is to keep us so preoccupied with theissues of life that we fail to know or experiencethe true blessing that observing the fourthcommandment brings [Isa.56:2; 58:13,14;Deut.5:29; Heb.4:4-9; Lev.26:2-4; Rev. 22:14].

The Bible clearly outlines the institution ofthe Sabbath from creation to its observancein the earth made new. The Sabbath was agift to all mankind at creation 2,000 yearsbefore Abraham, the first Jew, existed. Atthe end of creation week God rested fromHis creative work and instituted the Sabbathfor man [Gen.2:3; Mk.2:27]. Sabbathworship was carried on by the Patriarchsuntil, due to their cruel treatment during theperiod of slavery in Egypt, they ceased to

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observe it. After leaving Egypt they werereminded of its importance by God’s provisionof a double portion of manna on Friday so theycould honor His Sabbath [Ex.16:4,5]. Thisoccurred before the law was given at MountSinai confirming it existed prior to Sinai. Then, atSinai, God reinforced the existence, sacredness,and importance of the 4th commandment bysaying “Remember” [Ex.20:8].

The practice of Sabbath observance wascontinued on by those entering the land ofCanaan and was proclaimed by the Prophetsand kept by God’s faithful [Neh.13:15]. Yearslater Christ came as our example [1Pet.2:21]and faithfully kept the Sabbath [Luk.4:16;Mk.1:21; 6:2]. Even in His crucifixion anddeath He observed the Sabbath by resting inthe tomb until the first day of the week. Thereis no record of Him asking for the day to bechanged. He specifically said He came to fulfillthe law [Matt.5:17,18] and made a statementthat indicates the Sabbath would still beconsidered holy, years after His death whenJerusalem would be destroyed [Mat.24:20].It is evident that no directions were given byChrist for the observance of Sunday becausesome of his closest followers prepared hisbody for burial and then observed the Sabbath“according to the commandment” [Luk.23:56KJV; Mk.16:1] and continued to observe theSabbath from that point forward [Act.18:4,13:27, 13:14, 13:42, 15:21, 17:2].

In the New Testament book of Hebrews,written following Christ’s death andresurrection, Sabbath observance wasreiterated [Heb.4:8-11]. We are told thatthe Sabbath is a perpetual covenant[Ex.31:16]– a sign of sanctification in ourlives from God [Ez.20:12; Ex.31:13]. Weare also told that following the close ofthis world’s history when we enter thenew earth we will be observing the seventhday Sabbath [Isa.66:22,23].

With no directions given for a change prior toChrist’s death, a change from Sabbath toSunday worship was not a part of the NewCovenant. For something to be part ofsomeone’s last will and testament it has to bestated before death [Heb.9:16-18; Gal.3:15].

Appendix CThe History of Sunday Observance

Historical records verify that men in boththe church and government instituted thetradition that Sunday worship be observedin honor of Christ’s resurrection butScripture has ordained baptism andcommunion [Rom.6:4; 1 Pet.3:21; Col. 2:12]for this purpose [Luk.22:19]. The word“Sunday” does not occur in the King JamesVersion of Scripture and the phrase ”the firstday of the week” is mentioned only eighttimes, each without any command for a change[Matt.28:1; Mk.16:2; 16:9; Luk.24:1; Jn.20:1;20:19; Acts20:7; 1Cor.16:2]. Traditions,especially if they involve worshipping theLord, are great, but we are warned that theymust not interfere with the law of God[Matt.15:3; Col.2:8; Acts 5:29].

Study of historical sources reveal thetransition from Saturday to Sundayobservance and also the institution that claimsresponsibility for the attempted change. Thetransition from Saturday to Sunday worshipwas not immediately implemented followingChrist’s death but was a slow process thatoccurred over time.

“Sunday, the first day of the week. ItsEnglish name and its German name(Sonntag) are drived from the Latin diessolis, “sun’s day,” the name of a paganRoman holiday . . . In the early days ofChristianity, Sunday began to replace theSabbath and to be observed to honor theresurrection of Christ. Sunday was institutedas a day of rest, consecrated especially tothe service of God, by the Roman emperorConstantine the Great. Since the 4th century,ecclesiastical and civil legislation hasfrequently regulated work on Sunday andservice attendance. In the United States, lawslimiting business activity and amusementson Sunday have become known as bluelaws.” [Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia].

The institution of the Papal church of Romeproudly claims authority above God in thisattempted change of the Lord’s holy day.The following are some published statements

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from the Catholic Church proudly claimingfull responsibility:

Question - Have you any other way ofproving that the church (Roman Catholic)has power to institute festivals of precept?Answer - “Had she not such power, she couldnot have done that in which all modernreligionists agree with her–she could not havesubstituted the observance of Saturday, theseventh day, a change for which there is noScriptural authority.” A DoctrinalCatechism, by S. Keenan, P.174, 354.

“The observance of Sunday by theProtestants is an homage they pay, in spiteof themselves, to the authority of the CatholicChurch.” Plain Talk About Protestantism,by Father Segur, P.213.

“The Catholic church by virtue of her divinemission changed the day from Saturday toSunday.” The Convert’s Catechism ofCatholic Doctrine, P.50, 3rd edition.

“Reason and common sense demandthe acceptance of one or the other alternatives;either Protestism and keeping Saturday, orCatholicity and keeping of Sunday.Compromise is impossible.” AmericanCatholic Quarterly Review, Jan.1883.

“If you look to the Bible as an authorityfor the observance of the day (Sunday),you will not find it. It is well to remindthe Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists,and all other Christians outside the paleof the Mother Church, that the Bible doesnot support them anywhere in theobservance of Sunday.” Clifton Tracts,Vol.4, P.15.

This attempted change was predicted in thebook of Daniel, “... he shall speak great wordsagainst the most High, and shall wear out thesaints of the most High, and think to changetimes and laws...” [Dan.7:25]. The only lawinvolving time is the 4th Commandment[Ex.20:3-17].

Appendix DDoes the Day We Observe Matter?

Does it matter the specific day we“remember” or how we observe it? The 4thCommandment is located in the heart of God’slaw. It is the one Commandment that on aspecific day, and in a specific way, serves asa perpetual memorial and honor to God asour Creator and Lord. Is full obedienceimportant? Does it matter? When you tellyour toddler to do something, do you expectthe child to fully understand and agree beforeobeying? No, you expect obedience out oflove, respect, and trust. You expect obediencebased on the knowledge of your love. God,our heavenly Father, who is much wiser thenus asks and deserves this same love and trust-based obedience.

It is on this issue of faith all mankind istested. It was on this very issue that Adamand Eve fell. They were given specificinstructions not to eat the fruit of a specifictree [Gen.2:16,17]! The significance wasthat they failed to give love-based trustand obedience to God’s commands eventhough they didn’t fully understand. Thetest of faith was given to Abraham tosacrifice Isaac and praise God he passed!It is the same principle with Sabbathobservance of the fourth Commandment.The fundamental issue is: To whom willwe give our obedience, worship, andallegiance? It is a test of faith.

For six thousand years the basis of the greatcontroversy has been about allegiance and itis no surprise that it will be the issue at theclosing of the conflict. Satan’s goal was, andstill is, to deface God’s laws that instruct inallegiance and worship to God and to receivethe worship only God deserves. Revelationtells us that in earth’s closing moments threeimportant messages of warning will beproclaimed to the world and all three involvethe issue of worship [Rev.14:6-9].

When in the final days of earth’s history youare being called to “Fear God and give gloryto him...” How will you choose to show yourallegiance? Will you follow His specificinstructions to “Remember the Sabbath dayby keeping it holy...” [Ex.20:8-11]. Will youclaim the special blessing He offers: “If thou

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turn away thy foot from the sabbath, fromdoing thy pleasure on my holy day; and callthe sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD,honourable; and shalt honour him, not doingthine own ways, nor finding thine ownpleasure, nor speaking thine own words:Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD;and I will cause thee to ride upon the highplaces of the earth, and feed thee with theheritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth ofthe LORD hath spoken it.” [Isa.58:13,14].

Giving worship to our Creator any time is ablessing; but, a richer and fuller spiritualblessing results from full obedience andsubmission to God’s commands [Rev.22:14KJV; Jn.15:10,11].

Appendix EThe Beast of Revelation

In the last days we are warned, “If anyman worship the beast and his image, andreceive his mark in his forehead, or in hishand, The same shall drink of the wine ofthe wrath of God...” Rev.14:9,10. Becauseit is God’s desire for every person to besaved [2 Pet.3:9] He has given us elevenidentifying characteristics of the “beast”in His Word to prevent being deceived.

Before we reveal who the “beast” is it isimportant to preface this information bysaying that there are many God-loving,heaven-bound Christian friends affiliatedwith this religious institution who do notrealize the they have been taught falsedoctrine. This is why, in mercy and love,God makes the plea “come out of her mypeople” [Rev.17:2-4].

According to Scripture a “beast” is a kingor kingdom or ruler with great politicalpower [Dan.7:17,23; 8:21]. Even todayanimals are symbols of nations–the UnitedStates being an eagle. The political powerthat has been clearly identified by Biblescholars from protestant denominations asthe “beast” [Revelation 13:1; 14:9,10] isthe Papacy or Roman Catholic Church.History reveals that this “diverse”ecclesiastical power controlled kingdoms and

dominated the religious world for manycenturies. Daniel described it as the “LittleHorn” [Dan.7:8; 20-25; 8:9-12] and Paulreferred to it as the “man of sin” [2Thes.2:2-4]. There is clearly no other power on earththat so precisely fits the following elevenBible criteria. [Rev.13:1-10; 15-18].

(1) THE BEAST RISES OUT OF THESEA (Rev.13:1) = In Scripture water suchas “sea” represents a multitude of people,nations, and tongues [Rev.17:15]. So thesebeasts arose from an area of the denselypopulated civilized world. This describesperfectly the densely populated area ofRome in Western Europe where the Papalpower arose and has its seat of power.

(2) THE BEAST HAS SEVEN HEADSAND TEN HORNS (Rev.13:1) = Topositively identify the papacy as the sevenheaded and ten horned beast we can referenceother Scriptures concerning the same subjectmatter. The beast described in Revelation 13is actually an amalgamation of the forth beastdescribed in Daniel’s vision [Dan.7:15-20]and is also related to the toes of the statue inNebuchadnezzar’s dream [Dan.2:31-35].

It is well established in secular history andaccepted by the Christian world that thebeasts and parts of the statue in theseprophecies represent the four major empiresdominating the world [Dan.7:17,23] from 600years before Christ to the final climax ofearth’s history. [The Decline and Fall of theRoman Empire, vol.3, p.634]. Review ofthese will establish who the seven headsand ten horns on the beast represent.

I. The Lion [Dan.7:4] or The Head ofGold [Dan.2:32] = Babylon’s rule from 605- 538 B.C. and was like a lion with eaglewings. A lion and head of gold perfectlydescribed the empire of Babylon because itwas the greatest of all kingdoms and thewings described the swiftness in which itconquered the civilized world.

II. The Bear [Dan.7:5] or The Breast andArms of Silver [Dan.2:32] = Medo-Persiaruled from 538 - 331 B.C. The bear perfectly

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describes the cruel and rapaciouscharacteristics of the Medes and Persians.The three ribs signify the three provinces ofBabylon, Lydia, and Egypt. The bear beinginferior to the lion and silver inferior to gold,describes how Medio-Persia was inferior toBabylon in wealth and magnificence.

III. The Leopard [Dan.7:6] or The Bellyand Thighs of brass [Dan.2:32] = Greeceruled from 331 - 168 B.C. The four wingsrepresent the conquests of Greece underAlexander that had no parallel in ancient timesfor rapidity in conquest of the then civilizedworld. The four heads represents the fourgenerals to whom his kingdom was dividedfollowing his death.

IV. The Dreadful and Terrible Beast[Dan.7:7] or The Great Legs of Iron[Dan.2:33] = Rome and the ten horns ruledfrom 168 B.C. - 476 A.D. At its inceptionthe empire of Rome was unequaled in thedread and terror it inspired as it groundnations into the dust beneath its feet.

The seven heads and ten horns [Rev.13:1]= Rome spilt into ten kingdoms between 351A.D. - 476 A.D. Scripture also describes theseas the ten horns of Daniel 7:7,20 and the tentoes on the statue of Daniel 2:4. The feet thatwere “iron mixed with miry clay” [Dan.2:43]represented these ten final divisions of theRoman empire. God said they “shall notcleave one to another” [Dan.2:43] and historyproves with the futile efforts of Hitler inWW II that God’s Word is true and thesenations will never be reunited. These tendivisions were the Alamanni (Germans),Visigoths (Spanish), Franks (French), Suevi(Portugese), Burgundians (Swiss), Anglo-Saxons (English), Lombards (Italians) and thethree who are now extinct the Ostrogoths,Vandals, and Heruli [Dan.7:24; Dan.2:4].

Then “another shall arise after them”[Dan.7:24; 7:8] also called the “LittleHorn” [Dan.7:8], and a “diverse”kingdom [Dan.7:24] = While the first tenwere political kingdoms this one was a diverseecclesiastical power. This is the same powerthat rose up after the ten horns in Revelation

13:2. Out of the ruins of political Rome, arosethe great Empire in the giant form of theRoman Church (A. C. Flick, The Rise of theMediaeval Church [1900], p. 150). Heremergence began in the year of 476 and sherose to full power by 538 A.D. History andthe Bible prove beyond a doubt that the“Little Horn”– [the dreaded beast of Rev.13:1;Dan.7:8; 7:24; Rev.14:9] is the Papacy.

She plucked up three horns by the roots[Dan.7:8; 7:20]. Proving her power, thePope of Rome destroyed the Ostrogoths,Vandals, and Heruli because they refused tobecome “Christian” leaving seven heads.

(3) RECEIVES POWER, SEAT, ANDAUTHORITY FROM THE DRAGON[Rev.13:2] = Satan is the “dragon” [Rev.20:2]giving the beast its power and politicalposition. The “seat” of a kingdom is itscapital. Herod, Rome’s ruler, was clearlycontrolled by Satanic influence as he soughtthe death of Christ [Rev.12:3-5;12:9; 13:2;Matt.2:13]. It was this same pagan Rome,under the decree of Justinian, that fulfilledthis prophecy by turning over her authorityand capital city to the Papacy– “the dragongave him his power, and his seat, and greatauthority.”

(4) SEEKS WORSHIP AND IS GUILTYOF BLASHPHEMY [Rev.13:1,4,5,6,8;Dan.7:8,20] = The Bible describesblasphemy as an attack on the name of God[Rev.13:6]. In other words to claim to be Godand claim the rights that only He has[Jn.10:32,33]. One specific privilege that onlymembers of the Godhead can grant isforgiveness [Mk.2:9,10]. Here is a directquote from a Catholic catechism: “The Priestdoes really and truly forgive the sins in virtueof the power given to him by Christ.” JosephDeharbe, S.J., A Complete Catechism of theCatholic Religion (New York: Schwartz,Kirwin & Fauss, 1924), p.279.

The Papal organization’s leader has alsoclaimed power over the angels of God. “In-deed, the excellence and power of the Romanpontiff is not only in the sphere of heavenlythings, earthly things, and those of the lower

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regions, but even above the angels, than whomhe himself is greater” (translated from LuciusFerraris, Papa II, Prompta Bibliotheca,Vol. VI, p. 27

(5) THE BEAST WAS “LIKE” ALEOPARD, WITH FEET OF A BEAR,AND THE MOUTH OF A LION(Rev.13:2) = The “Leopard” headed byAlexander ordered his people to worshiphim as a god. The Papacy beast power ofRevelation 13 ruled by the Pope took onthe Greek culture of claiming worship asGod.

The “bear” power, Medo-Persia, is stillknown today for its claims of infallibility.Once a law was made it could not be reversed[Dan.6:15]. The Pope “as the feet of a bear”claims this same infallibility.

The “Lion” empire Babylon, is still knowntoday as a wonder of the world. Its pridefulrulers blasphemously claim status andworship as God and so does the Pope–“hismouth as the mouth of a lion.”

(6) RULES FOR 42 PROPHETICMONTHS [Rev.13:5; 11:2; Dan.7:25] =The Bible says that the beast was givenpower to reign for 42 months. In prophecyone day equals one year [Ezek.4:6;Numb.14:34]. A Jewish month contained30 days so 30 x 42 days equals 1260 years[Rev.11:3; 12:6]. The Little Horn or Papalpowers ruled from 538 A.D. to 1798exactly 1,260 years. This era was termed“The Dark Ages” because the churchforbade all but the church leaders to readthe Scriptures.

(7) PERSECUTED THE SAINTS[Rev.13:10; 17:6; Dan.7:25] = During thePapal rule those who did not submit toher dogmatic apostate beliefs wereconsidered enemies of the church.Pressured by her power, the civilauthorities under the direction of the“Inquisitional Courts,” persecuted andkilled Christians unwilling to recant theirBible-based beliefs. [New CatholicEncyclopedia - Washington, D.C.: The

Catholic University of America, 1967,vol.14, p. 208: Torture and the Church].

(8) RECEIVES A DEADLY WOUND[Rev.13:3] = The Papal power temporarilyended when Rome was forced to retreat fromthe Arian invaders and the French generalBerthier arrested and exiled Pope Pius VI–who died in prison. This deadly wound wasdelivered in 1798 right on the Biblical schedule.

(9) DEADLY WOUND HEALS AND“ALL THE WORLD WONDERED AFTERTHE BEAST” [Rev.13:3] = The Scripturesalso predicted that the deadly wound wouldheal. Since 1798 the Papal leaders havecontinued to regain influence and power. Theleaders of all the countries of the worldconsider it a privilege to give honor to thePope. As he travels the globe, the Pope isoften the focus of television and newspaperheadlines, gaining prestige as the world“wonders” after him.

(10) THE MAN HAS THE NUMBER666 [Rev.13:18] = The man representing thePapal power is the Pope. The title he claimsis, “Vicar of the Son of God.” which is“Vicarious Filii Dei” in the official languageof Latin. If you convert each letter of thistitle to Roman numerals–they total 666.

(11) HE WOULD ATTEMPT TOCHANGE “TIMES AND LAWS”[Dan.7:25] = The Beast power in its ownpublications blatantly claims authority overGod to alter His laws. “The Pope has powerto change times, to abrogate laws, and todispense with all things, even the preceptsof Christ.” Decretal, de Tranlatic Episcop

The Catholic church has attempted to changeGod’s ten commandments. The secondcommandment which forbids bowing downto images is removed, and the tenth whichforbids coveting, is divided into two.

There is clearly no person or organizationother than the Catholic Papacy that fits allthese Bible-based criteria that God hasprovided in His Word to warn us who thebeast power is.

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Appendix F - The “Image” of the Beast

The “image” of the Beast must also beidentified to avoid “the mark” [Rev.14:9]. Justas God provides information on how toidentify the beast He has also provided 5characteristics of its “image” so we can befully informed and avoid receiving its mark.

There is only one nation that exists on earthtoday that meets the first three of these fivepredictions that have come to pass. Theobvious is that the United States is on trackto become the “image of the beast.”

(1) CAME OUT OF THE EARTH[Rev.13:11] = Since we earlier discovered thatBible prophecy uses “water” to describe aheavily populated area [Rev.17:15] then we mayconclude that the “earth” is a sparsely populatedarea. The United States did not conquer byforce as the four beasts of Daniel 2 and 7 andRevelation 13 and 14. The United State rose topower in a sparsely populated land.

(2) WAS “COMING UP OUT OF THEEARTH” WHEN THE PAPACYRECEIVING ITS DEADLY WOUND[Rev.3:3,11] = We know from our study ofthe Beast that this deadly wound wasdelivered in 1798. On March 1, 1789 theConstitution of the United States went intoeffect. As predicted this newly emergingworld power came into existence as thePapacy received her deadly wound.

(3) IT WAS “ANOTHER BEAST”[Rev.13:11] = According to John it was“another beast” so it could not be any otherpreexisting power. This criteria would ruleout all the preexisting European countries asbeing the “image of the beast.”

(4) HAD 2 HORNS AS A LAMB BUTSPAKE AS A DRAGON [Rev.13:11] =The lamb represents the gentleness offeredin religious freedom to all. Then speakingas a “dragon” represents a later change inits original nature. The United StatesConstitution, based on the philosophy offreedom of worship, perfectly fits thedescription of the Lamb. The term “lamb”

also indicates youthfulness–the UnitedStates came into existance after all thepreviously discussed beasts. The “twohorns” on the lamb represents the UnitedStates’ greatest claims of both civil andreligious freedom.

(5) EXERCISES ALL THE POWER OFTHE FIRST BEAST BEFORE ITTO FORCE WORSHIP [Rev.13:12;15]=In opposition to the forced participation inthe “mother church” apostate teachingsMartin Luther nailed the 95 Thesis ondoctrinal error to the church door inWhittenburg marking the beginning of thegreat religious Reformation. The pursuingof this religious freedom was the motivatingfactor for those coming on the May Flowerto establish this nation.

One hundred years ago it was common tohear this same information identifying thebeast resounding from virtually all Protestantpulpits. This fact can be easily establishedby reading the sermons and historical notesabout the founders of the differentdenominations. Now from the majority ofthem you don’t hear this message. This isthe wound of the Papacy continuing to heal.The theme of the day is to put away the pastand join hands with the “mother church” thatonce forced her views on the people. NowProtestant churches, once a part of theReformation, are readopting the beliefs of the“beast” power.

It doesn’t take much effort to observe theterrible rise in crime over the last fewdecades. In fulfillment of Paul’s predictionin the last days we are witnessing,“...fornication, wickedness, covetousness,maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate,deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters,haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters,inventors of evil things, disobedient toparents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection,implacable, unmerciful” [Rom.1:29-31].The religious majority are tired of it andare ready to do something about it. Theyare organizing political parties and votingin leaders to use the church-state union to

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attempt to force their religious beliefs onothers. They will “speak like a dragon” tochange the very foundation of religiousfreedom that this great nation is based on–civil and religious freedom. All theseefforts will be “to bring our nation backinto God’s favor.”

In resemblance of the papal reign of terrorthis power will use civil government toinflict economic sanctions [Rev.13:15-17]and eventually the death penalty to thosewho refuse to participate in its religiousdictates. This reuniting with the “motherchurch” in her apostate beliefs is what isreferred to as the “image” of the beast[Rev.14:9].

Appendix GGod’s “Seal” and the “Mark” of the Beast

The great controversy began and will endover the issue of worship–the demonstrationof loyalty. The “mark” of the beast or the“seal” of God is a sign of who has ourallegiance. Every living person will receivethe “mark” of the beast by joining Satanin rebellion to God’s law or receivingGod’s “seal” by choosing to obey all Hiscommandments.

We are told that the “seal” or “mark”which indicates true or false worship, islocated in the “forehead” or on the “hand”[Rev.14:9] . The “forehead” is thedecision making portion of the brain andthe “hand” represents action. These arenot visible marks [Heb.10:16] but rathera choice followed by an action. God’ssealed people “keep the commandmentsof God, and the fa i th of Jesus .”[Rev.14:12]. The individuals who havereceived God’s seal as commandmentkeepers will be protected through theseven plagues [Rev.9:4; 7:3]. Those whofollow the apostate religious practices ofthe beast will receive its “mark” and sufferdestruction [Rev.14:9-11].

You may ask, “Why is keeping God’scommandments and specifically the fourthsuch an important issue?” We were warned

by the prophet Daniel, in his vision that thebeast power, motivated by Satanic influence,would “Think to change times and laws”[Dan.7:25]. The fourth commandment is theonly one that involves time.

A “seal” contains three things: the ruler’sname, title, and the domain undercommand. An earthly example is thepresidential seal which contains the ruler’sname, the title: “President” and the domain:“The United States of America.” Locatedin the heart of God’s law is the fourthcommandment which contains everyelement of God’s seal, “...the LORD [Hisname] made [title of Creator] heaven andearth, the sea [His domain].” Satan hasfocused his attack on the fourthcommandment which calls us to rememberand worship God as our Creator by keepingHis day holy [Ex.20:8-11; Mk.2:28]. Satanhas cleverly, over time, managed to blindthe majority of the Christian world to theblessing and importance of the Sabbath.Just as God used Sabbath observance as atest of loyalty for the Children of Israelin the desert [Ex.16:4-6] it will be a testingpoint of our allegiance in the last days.

You may ask, “When is the mark of thebeast received?” The Bible predicts thelamb-like beast will be transformed intothe image of the beast and speak as a dragon[Rev.13:11]. Because of influence from thePapacy [the beast], the image of the beast[the Protestant churches reunited in theapostasy of false doctrine with thePapacy] will speak as a dragon by exertingpressure for all Christians to conform tothe beast’s religious practices. This willbe done first by economic sanctions andeventually physical force. At that pointevery living person will have made thechoice to accept God’s “seal” by obeyingHis commandments [Rev.14:12; 12:17]despite persecution or receive the “mark”of the beast by observing its false doctrines[Rev.14:7-9]. Until the above events occurthe mark of the beast will not be receivedby anyone. In mercy God is still callingHis people out of the false doctrines ofBabylon [Rev.18:1-4].

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The Great Controversy Bible Study





This certificate is an official acknowledgment from a qualified

instructor that the person named above has diligently and success-

fully completed The Great Controversy Bible Study Course.

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This study guide, based on the classic soul winning book, “Steps To Christ”,points the reader to Jesus Christ – the only One who is able to meet the needsof the soul. It unfolds the simplicity of Christ’s saving grace and the victoryoffered to you by His keeping power. This life-changing book is now availablein a Bible study format in Spanish or simplified English.

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The commentary following the questions is the original text adapted from13 of the last 14 abridged chapters of The Great Controversy. In a Biblestudy format, this life-changing publication presents the Biblical history ofthe great conflict between the powers of good and evil, between life anddeath. Starting from the origin of sin and concluding with its extermination,you will search out knowledge that will affect your eternal destiny. Just a fewof the important topics covered are: communication with the dead; the lawof God; observance of God’s holy day; the mark of the beast; the time oftrouble; the coming of Christ; and the destruction of the earth.

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