STORACALS OF PROPHECY.
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

A Tale of Two Women.

A hush fell over the royal judgment hall, and all eyes were fixed on King Solomon. His servants wondered how the young monarch would resolve this perplexing case. Two single mothers were sharing a room, and each gave birth to a baby boy at about the same time. During the night, one of the mothers had accidentally turned over and smothered her son. When she awoke early and saw her child was cold and still, the distraught woman took her roommate's sleeping baby to herself and laid her dead baby in its place. Later the other mother awoke, saw the dead baby, and began to wail with grief. But after examining the infant, she quickly realized that it was not her child. Across the room, she could see her roommate tightly clutching her baby. Now both women stood before the king, tugging for possession of the living infant. "This child is mine!" one shouted. "No, the dead baby was yours!" the other countered. How would the king determine which was the true mother? Solomon interrupted their debate and told a guard to take a sword and divide the living infant in two. At first the soldier thought the king was jesting, but Solomon began to glare at the guard's hesitation. Slowly he drew his sharp, gleaming sword and made his way toward the woman holding the baby. Suddenly the true mother threw herself at the king's feet and pleaded,?"Let her have the child, but please do not slay it!" But the other woman said, "Let it be neither mine nor thine, but divide it." Now Solomon knew without a doubt who was the true mother. In prophecy, a woman is a symbol of a church (Jeremiah 6:2). With so many churches in the last days, how can we distinguish the true, last-day church that has the living Son from the counterfeits? Like Solomon, we must use the sword of God's Word (Hebrews 4:12)!

1. How does Revelation picture God's true church?

Revelation 12:1, 2, 5. A _______ clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. ... And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In Bible prophecy, God's church is symbolized by a pure woman (Jeremiah 6:2). In Revelation 12, this woman is clothed with the sun, moon, and stars--the natural light of God's creation. Jesus told the church, "Ye are the light of the world." Matthew 5:14. The sun represents the light of Jesus (Psalms 84:11; Malachi 4:2). The moon under her feet represents the types and shadows of the Old Testament sacrificial system. As the moon reflects the light of the sun, so the sacrificial system was helpful because it reflected the light of the Messiah to come (Colossians 2:16, 17; Hebrews 10:1). The 12 stars above her head symbolize the leadership of the

church--12 tribes in the Old Testament and 12 apostles in the New Testament. The one who is to rule all nations with a rod of iron is Jesus (Psalms 2:7-9; Revelation 19:13-16).

2. Who is the "great red dragon," and what does he try to do?

Revelation 12:9. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the devil, and _______.

Revelation 12:4 The dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The dragon is Satan, who at the time of Jesus' birth was working through the pagan Roman Empire. Satan influenced Herod, a ruler under Rome, to try to murder baby Jesus by killing all the infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16).

3. What happens after Satan fails to destroy Jesus?

Revelation 12:5. And her child was caught __ unto God, and to his throne.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: After His resurrection, Jesus ascended up to heaven and to God's throne (Acts 1:9-11), where He was beyond the reach of Satan.

4. After Jesus was caught up to heaven, what did Satan do to the church?

Revelation 12:13. When the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he ________ the woman which brought forth the man child.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: When Satan could no longer vent his hatred on Jesus, he decided to hurt Jesus by turning his fury against the church.

5. Where did the woman go during this terrifying period of persecution? How long did it last?

Revelation 12:6. And the woman fled into the _________, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The woman (God's church) fled into the wilderness (the remote places of earth) to hide from her enemies. It is a well-known historical fact that during the Dark Ages, God's people fled to the caves and solitary places of earth, including the shores of America, to seek religious freedom and protection from papal persecution. The 1,260 days (also described in the Bible as 42 months or as three and a half years) refers to the terrible 1,260-year period of persecution during which millions died for their faith. During this time period, God's church was alive but was not identifiable as an official, visible organization. (See the supplement entitled "Years of Persecution.")

6. What are two other identifying marks of God's true church?

Revelation 12:17. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the ____________ of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's remnant church, into which He is calling all His people, will keep God's Ten Commandments (including the Sabbath). It will also have the testimony of Jesus, which is the spirit, or gift, of prophecy (Revelation 19:10). God calls His end-time church "the remnant," because it is identical in doctrine and characteristics to the apostolic church. A "remnant" is the last remaining portion of a bolt of cloth. It is exactly like the first piece from the same bolt.

7. How did Jesus say that we demonstrate our love for Him?

John 14:15. If ye love me, _____ my commandments.

1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we __________ his commandments.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In our opening story, Solomon was able to identify the true mother by her genuine display of love. In the same way, God's true church will be recognized by its sacrificial love and its willingness to obey His commandments.

8. What three angelic messages will God's end-time church be preaching?

Revelation 14:7. Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his ___________ is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Revelation 14:8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

Revelation 14:9, 10 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: These three angelic statements represent the three urgent messages that God's church will preach before Jesus returns.

9. To whom will God's church preach these messages?

Revelation 14:6. Having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to _____ nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's end-time church will preach this great three-point message to every nation on earth.

10. What specifications has God given in His Word to help us positively identify His end-time church?

Revelation 12:17. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the ______ of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

1. It will appear and do its visible work after it emerges from the wilderness in 1798 (Revelation 12:6, 13-17).

2. It will teach the same truths the apostles taught, and all of its teachings will agree with the Bible (Revelation 12:17).

3. It will keep the Ten Commandments, including the Bible Sabbath (Revelation 12:17).

4. It will have the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 12:17; 19:10).

5. It will proclaim God's three end-time messages with a loud voice (Revelation 14:6-14).

6. It will be a worldwide movement (Revelation 14:6).

7. It will teach the everlasting gospel, which is salvation through Jesus Christ alone (Revelation 14:6).

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Many lovely Christians are members of churches that do not meet the above seven specifications. However, no such church can be God's remnant into which He is calling all His sincere children, because His end-time church must meet all seven specifications.

11. Jesus gives you these seven prophetic identification points and then says, "Go and find My church." What does He promise regarding your search?

Luke 11:9. Seek, and ye shall ______.

Answer : ____________________

12. How many church organizations in the world will fit these seven points?

Ephesians 4:5. One Lord, one _____, one baptism.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Only one church in the entire world fits all of these specifications--the Seventh-day Adventist church, which is bringing you these seminar messages. It is right now preaching the great three angels' messages of Revelation 14:6-12 all over the world. Millions are responding.

13. Many denominations call themselves Christian. Does that make them God's true church?

Isaiah 4:1. And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own _______ and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Bread is a symbol of the Word of God (John 6:35, 51, 52, 63), and apparel is a symbol of righteousness (Revelation 19:8). The seven women in this prophecy have their own bread (concept of truth) and want to keep their own clothing (righteousness). They do not want the spotless robes of Christ's righteousness. All they want is to take the name of Jesus, probably because the Bible says, "There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts 4:12.

14. Once a person discovers God's true end-time church, is it necessary to become a member?

Acts 2:47. And the Lord _____ to the church daily such as should be saved.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Yes, membership in God's end-time church is imperative. Notice how clearly God answers this question about membership:

--We are all called into one body (Colossians 3:15).

--That body is the church (Colossians 1:18).

--We enter that body by baptism (1 Corinthians 12:13).

It is just as imperative to enter God's church today as it was to enter the ark in Noah's day. The Lord says, "Come thou and all thy house into the ark." Genesis 7:1.

15. How many ways of escape were there in Noah's day?

Hebrews 11:7. By faith Noah ... prepared an ___ to the saving of his house.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Jesus says that the time just before His second coming will be like Noah's day (Luke 17:26). There will be only one way of escape, just as there was only one ark in Noah's day.

16. Since there are many faithful Christians in other churches and since God has only one true remnant, what will happen to these sincere Christians?

John 10:16. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall _____ my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

Revelation 18:2, 4 Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen. ... come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Jesus will call all of His faithful, honest followers to come out of Babylon. They will hear His voice, respond, and enter His one true, end-time church.

17. Jesus is calling you today to enter the safety of His great end-time church. You are very precious to Him. Will you respond now to His call?

Answer : ____________________

Supplemental Study

Years of Persecution
The 1,260 years of tribulation is repeatedly mentioned in the Bible, because historically it was the worst ever to face God's people (Matthew 24:21). It is referred to as 1,260 days, 42 months, and three and one-half times, or years (Revelation 12:6, 14 13:5 Daniel 7:25). Using the Jewish calendar, which had 360 days in a year, all three add up to the same amount of time - 1,260 years. One prophetic day equals one literal year (Ezekiel 4:6 Numbers 14:34).

History clearly shows that the papacy was the power which persecuted for 1,260 years. The period began in A.D. 538, when papal power became supreme in Christendom according to the decree of Roman Emperor Justinian. In it, he acknowledged the bishop of Rome as the head of all churches. This letter became a part of Justinian's Code, the fundamental law of the empire. The period ended in 1798 when Napoleon's general, Alexander Berthier, took the pope captive. At least 50 million Christians died for their faith during this period of persecution.

Three Crucial Points
Three facts of utmost importance to God's people are established in Revelation 12:10-12. These facts are:

1. Jesus defeated Satan, the accuser of the brethren, at the cross.

2. All of us can overcome him through the blood of Jesus and by sharing our testimonies.

3. The devil is infuriated because he knows that his time is short. We cannot expect him to behave like a gentleman. He is our bitterest enemy.

The message is that Jesus, who has defeated Satan, offers His matchless power to us as a free gift. With Jesus' power in our lives, we cannot fail. Satan's fury need not affect us. He is a defeated foe. He was defeated in the war in heaven and cast out. He was defeated by Jesus at the cross and lost his dominion. He will be defeated legally in his case in the judgment, and he will again be defeated when he attacks God's holy city. Finally, he will suffer the defeat of being blotted from the face of the earth in the lake of fire. And, most wonderful of all, Jesus promises that he will be defeated in his bitter fight to destroy you and me. What a tremendous message of hope from Jesus!

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 15
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

A Heavenly Model.

Never before had the Lord manifested such mighty signs and wonders as when He delivered the children of Israel from slavery in Egypt. Plague after plague fell upon the Pharaoh's kingdom until he was forced to release his captives. Then the Lord parted the Red Sea and led the young nation to freedom, while drowning their pursuing enemies behind them. After entering the wilderness, God surprised many of His people by leading them south in the opposite direction of the Promised Land. The Lord knew that before they would be prepared to receive their inheritance, they must be organized and taught to trust Him. As they journeyed to Mount Sinai, God supplied their every need. When they became hungry, God fed them with bread from heaven. When they became thirsty, the Lord brought water cascading from a boulder. When suddenly attacked from behind by an enemy, they were given a miraculous victory. Finally, the Israelites camped at the base of the holy mountain. There God did something He has not done before or since. He spoke, in the hearing of a whole nation, His covenant, the Ten Commandments. After the Lord audibly spoke His law, He called Moses up Mount Sinai to receive a transcript written in stone. But God also gave him something else. While on the mountain with the Lord for 40 days and 40 nights, Moses received detailed instructions to build a beautiful, portable temple for God. It would be a small model of His actual dwelling place in heaven. This unique structure was to serve as a three-dimensional object lesson to the whole world of God's plan to save us from sin.

1. What did God ask Moses to build, and why?

Exodus 25:8. And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may ____ among them.

Answer : ____________________

2. What did God expect His people to learn from the sanctuary and its services?

Psalms 77:13. Thy ____, O God, is in the sanctuary.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's way, or plan, of salvation was revealed in the earthly sanctuary. Everything in the sanctuary, or connected with its services, was a symbol of something Jesus would do in saving us. We cannot fully comprehend the plan of salvation until we understand the sanctuary and its services. It was a huge, 3-D object lesson explaining the process of salvation.

3. Where did Moses obtain the blueprints for the sanctuary?

Exodus 25:40. And look that thou make them after their ________, which was shewed thee in the mount.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The sanctuary blueprints, with full specifications for its construction, were given to Moses by God on Mount Sinai (Hebrews 8:5). This was to be a microcosm of God's genuine sanctuary in heaven.

The first sanctuary, or tabernacle, was an elegant, tent-type structure (15 feet by 45 feet, based on an 18-inch cubit). There the supernatural presence of God dwelt and special services were conducted. The walls were made of upright acacia wood boards set in silver sockets and overlaid with gold (Exodus 26:15-19, 29). The roof was made of four layers of coverings--linen, goats' hair, rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins (verses 1, 7, 14). It had two rooms: the holy place (15 feet by 30 feet), and the most holy place (15 feet by 15 feet.). Refer often to the above diagram as you review this lesson.

4. What furniture was in the courtyard?

Exodus 29:18. And thou shalt burn the whole ram upon the ______: it is a burnt offering unto the Lord.

Exodus 30:18 Thou shalt also make a laver of brass, ... and thou shalt put water therein.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: : The altar of burnt offerings (Exodus 27:1-8) is where animals were sacrificed. It was located in the courtyard just outside the entrance of the sanctuary. This altar represented the cross of Christ. The sacrificial animal represented Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice (John 1:29). The laver (Exodus 30:17-21; 38:8) was a large wash basin of brass located between the entrance of the sanctuary and the altar of burnt offerings. There priests washed their hands and feet before entering the sanctuary or offering a sacrifice. The water represented baptism, cleansing from sin, and the new birth.

5. What three items of furniture were in the holy place?

Numbers 4:7. And upon the table of __________ they shall spread a cloth of blue, ... and the continual bread shall be thereon.

Numbers 8:2 When thou lightest the lamps, the seven lamps shall give light over against the candlestick.

Exodus 30:1 And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The table of shewbread (Exodus 25:23-30) represented Jesus, the living bread (John 6:51). The seven-branch candlestick (Exodus 25:31-40) represented Jesus, the light of the world (John 9:5; 1:9). The lamps of oil symbolized the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:1-6; Revelation 4:5). The altar of incense (Exodus 30:1-8) represented the prayers of God's people (Hebrews 5:7).

6. What special article was in the most holy place?

Exodus 26:34. And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the _____ of the testimony in the most holy place.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The only object in the most holy place (Exodus 25:10-22) was the ark of the testimony, a chest of acacia wood overlaid with gold. Atop the chest were two angels made of solid gold. The cover of the ark was called the mercy seat (Exodus 25:17-22), where God's presence dwelt. This spot symbolized God's throne in heaven, which is likewise located between two angels (Psalms 80:1, Isaiah 6:1, 2).

7. What was inside the ark?

Exodus 25:21. And thou shalt put the mercy seat above the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the _______ that I shall give thee.

Deuteronomy 10:4, 5 And he Bwambale Gilbert wrote on the tables, according to the first writing, the ten commandments. ... And I turned myself and came down from the mount, and put the tables in the ark which I had made; and there they be, as the Lord commanded me.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God wrote His covenant with His own finger on two tables of stone, and they were placed inside the ark. The mercy seat was above them, which signified that as long as God's people confessed and forsook their sins (Proverbs 28:13), mercy would be extended to them through the blood that was sprinkled on the mercy seat by the priest (Leviticus 16:15, 16). That blood represented the blood shed by Jesus to bring all people forgiveness and cleansing (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22).

8. Why did animals need to be sacrificed in the Old Testament sanctuary services?

Hebrews 9:22. Without shedding of _____ is no remission [forgiveness].

Matthew 26:28 For this is my __________ of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Sacrificing animals was necessary to help people understand that without the blood of Jesus shed on the cross, there could be no forgiveness of sin. The shocking truth is that the punishment for sin is death. Since all of us have sinned, we should all die--and we would have died, except that Jesus gave His perfect life by dying in our behalf to pay for our sins. The sinner brought his own sacrificial animal and slew it with his own hand (Leviticus 1:4, 5). It was bloody and shocking, impressing people with the solemn truth that sin caused Jesus' death. Thus, they looked forward to the cross for salvation, while we look back to the cross for salvation. There is no other source of salvation.

9. When animals were sacrificed for sin, what happened to the sin?

Leviticus 1:4, 5. And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make __________ for him. And he shall kill the bullock before the Lord.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: When the sinner placed his hands on the head of the animal and confessed his sins, the sins were symbolically transferred from the sinner to it. Thus, the animal became guilty and had to pay the death penalty. This represented Jesus bearing our sins.

10. When a sacrificial animal was offered for the entire congregation, what happened to the sin?

Leviticus 4:17. The priest shall dip his finger in some of the blood, and ______ it seven times before the Lord, even before the vail.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The priest sprinkled some of the blood before the veil inside the sanctuary, thus symbolically transferring the sin from the people to the sanctuary. When Jesus ascended to heaven after His death, He offered His blood (as did the high priest of old) to show that our sins are forgiven when confessed in Jesus' name (1 John 1:9).

11. What two sanctuary symbols does Jesus fulfill for us?

1 Corinthians 5:7. Christ our ________ is sacrificed for us.

Hebrews 4:14 We have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Jesus serves as the sacrifice for our sins and as our heavenly high priest, thus accomplishing two miraculous things for us. The first is a complete life change called the new birth, with all the sins of the past forgiven (John 3:3-6; Romans 3:25). The second is power to live right in the present and future (Titus 2:14; Philippians 2:13). These two things make a person righteous, which means a right relationship exists between that person and God. There is no way for a person to become righteous by works (his own efforts), because righteousness comes from grace that only Jesus can supply (Acts 4:12). This is righteousness by faith, which is the only true form of righteousness.

12. What six wonderful promises does the Bible give us about the righteousness offered us by Jesus?

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

A. He will cover our past sins and count us guiltless (Isaiah 44:22; 1 John 1:9).
B. Jesus promises to restore us to God's image (Romans 8:29).
C. Jesus gives us the desire and power to do God's will. (Philippians 2:13).
D. Jesus will help us to do only the things that please God (Hebrews 13:20, 21; 1 John 3:22).
E. He removes our death sentence by giving us credit for His sinless life and atoning death (2 Corinthians 5:21).
F. Jesus assumes responsibility for helping to keep us faithful until He returns (Philippians 1:6; Jude 24).

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Jesus is ready to fulfill all of these glorious promises in your life. Are you ready? Kneel down now and ask Him to take control of your life. He will not fail you.

13. Does a person have any role to play in becoming righteous?

Matthew 7:21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that ____ the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Yes, our role is to turn our hearts and will over to Jesus and permit Him to rule. We must trust Him with full control of our lives. Many believe that Jesus will take all who merely profess His name to heaven, regardless of their conduct. But this deadly belief is not true (Matthew 7:14).

14. What happened on the day of atonement?

Leviticus 16:30. For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to _______ you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the Lord.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The day of atonement was a solemn day of judgment that took place in Israel once each year (Leviticus 23:27). Every sin had to be confessed and forsaken. Those who refused were on that very day cut off forever from the camp of Israel (verse 29). On that day, two goats were selected. One was the Lord's goat and the other was the scapegoat, which represented Satan (Leviticus 16:7, 8). The Lord's goat was slain and offered for the sins of the people (verse 9). Its blood was taken into the most holy place and sprinkled upon and before the mercy seat (verse 14).

Only on this special judgment day did the high priest enter the most holy place. The sprinkled blood (representing Jesus' sacrifice) was accepted by God, and the confessed sins of the people were transferred from the sanctuary to the high priest.

He then transferred these confessed sins to the scapegoat, which was led into the wilderness and abandoned (verses 16, 20, 22). In this manner, the sanctuary was symbolically cleansed from the sins of the people, which had been transferred there by the sprinkled blood all throughout the previous year.

15. Did the old day of atonement foreshadow a cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary?

Hebrews 9:23. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the ________ things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Yes! That day's services pointed to the blotting out of sin by Jesus, our high priest in the heavenly sanctuary. He is there to mediate for His people and stands ready to blot out the sins of all who will exercise faith in His shed blood. The ancient day of atonement, like modern Israel's Yom Kippur, foreshadowed the final atonement to be made for planet Earth. The final atonement leads to the final judgment, which will forever settle the sin question in the life of every individual. Our next lesson shows how God set the date for the heavenly judgment to begin. Exciting!

16. Are you willing to place your life fully in Jesus' hands so He can work the miracles needed to make you righteous?

Answer : ____________________

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

DAILY BIBLE LESSON.
MISUNDERSTOOD VERSES USED AGAINST THE HEALTH MESSAGE.

Please, share this study with your family, friends co-workers, and all who you can, for the expansion of the Kingdom of GOD.

There are a number of Bible verses that many Christians use to "support" their meat eating (including Biblical "unclean" meat), and which they use against the health message. Let's examine the verses in question.

1. Matthew 15:11 ...'Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.'

If we simply take the whole chapter in context, it can be easily seen that what Jesus is talking about is the Pharisees rules on eating with unwashed hands. And although Jesus is not saying that eating with dirty hands is ok. He is merely pointing out that the Pharisees placed more importance on these ritual rules than they did on love. So Jesus is teaching a "heart" issue, in that what comes from the heart is that which really makes a person "evil", not what goes into the stomach.

2. Acts 10:10-13 ...'And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.'

This is such a well known misunderstood piece of scripture that many Christians use to "validate" their eating of unclean animals. And yet the meaning of the vision is clearly given within the context. Now let's say that the vision DID mean we can now eat anything. Shall we now start eating dogs, cats, rats, horses and such like? Do Christians eat such things? Of course not. And yet they use this verse to support their eating of pigs and other Biblically unclean flesh. Peter even said himself after the vision ... 'Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.' ... He was shocked and troubled by this vision. Why? Because he couldn't believe that God would now pronounce all unclean animals and insects as ok to eat.

So what does this vision REALLY mean? ... Acts 10:28,34,35 ...'And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any MAN common or unclean ... Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.'

Through this vision, God was basically showing Peter that ALL PEOPLE who fear God and do His will are accepted ("clean"). So why did God use a vision to do with eating? Maybe because as verse 10 says, Peter was very hungry before he had the vision. Also in the vision, God spoke THREE times, saying that what He had cleansed, Peter should not call common. Why THREE times? Because THREE NON-JEWS then came to see Peter to take him to Cornelius.

3. 1 Timothy 4:4 ...'For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.'

Again, if we read in context, we can see that in verses 1-3 it says ... 'in the latter times some shall depart from the faith ... Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron ... Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats.' ... Some say that this is speaking about the Adventist church. But note, Paul is saying that these "individuals" teaching to abstain from meats also teach not to marry. The Adventist church does not forbid marriage, but rather promotes marriage between a man and woman. On the other hand, the Roman Catholic church does forbid eating foods on certain holiday celebrations and forbids marriage through it's institutions of the nuns and priests.

Please also notice this important point ... The word "meats" in verse 3 simply means FOOD. When the Bible is talking about animal meat, it says "flesh". But when talking about non-flesh food, it uses the word "meat". For example, in Genesis 1:29 God tells Adam and Eve what He has created for them to eat ... 'every herb bearing seed and the fruit of the tree yielding seed'. And what does God call this food in Genesis 1:29? MEAT. So going back to verse 3 of Timothy above, what "meat" has God CREATED to be received with thanksgiving? Food of the earth. Because God did NOT create animals to be killed and eaten. That was not His plan.

Also, did you notice that in verse 4 it says 'every CREATURE of God is good.'? The word Creature simply means "thing founded" or "created thing". So if "creature" in this verse means anything other than natural products of the earth which God created for us to eat, then people will HAVE to include every crawling thing upon the face of the earth .. INCLUDING HUMANS! So, is it ok to eat rats, spiders, dogs, cats, and people? Is cannibalism now approved? After all, Mark 16:15 says ... 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.'

The only logical conclusion is that Paul is talking about those who would forbid the eating of foods that God originally created for our diet.

1 Timothy 4:5...'For it is sanctified by the word of God AND prayer.'

How is food sanctified (made holy for us to eat)? NOT just by prayer which many Christians seem to believe. But rather by the Word of God AND prayer. Now, where in the Bible is unclean meat like pig, camel, mice, bats, eagle sanctified? Where?!

4. Romans 14:2-3 ...'For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.'

Now let's look at what Paul said in chapter 12:1 ...'I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.' ... Do you really think that Paul would plead with us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, and then turn around and suggest that eating anything, even those things that HARM our bodies is ok? I don't think so. Again, if Paul IS suggesting that eating all things is ok, then you must include ALL THINGS, dogs, cats, rats, horses, etc. Would this be acceptable to God? No way! So what is Paul saying above in chapter 14?

The context of the point Paul is putting across is to do with "those who are weak in the faith". That is, one who has but a limited grasp of the principles of righteousness. He is eager to be saved and is willing to do whatever he believes is required of him. But in the immaturity of his Christian experience and probably also as the result of former education and belief, he attempts to make his salvation more certain by the observance of certain rules and regulations (ceremonial laws) that are in reality not binding upon him. To him these regulations assume great importance. He regards them as absolutely binding upon him for salvation, and he is distressed and confused when he sees other Christians about him, especially those who seem to be more experienced, who do not share his assumptions.

In Corinthians the problem is identified in the practice of eating foods sacrificed to idols. According to the ancient practice, pagan priests carried on an extensive merchandise of the animal sacrifices offered to idols. Paul told the Corinthian believers, which were converts from both Judaism and Paganism that inasmuch as an idol was nothing, there was no wrong, so to speak, in eating foods dedicated to it. However, he explains, because there were some who were beginners in the faith and still fairly weak, and could not with a free conscience eat such foods, Paul urged those who were stronger in the faith not to place a stumbling block in a brother's way by indulging in those foods. And Probably for fear of offending in this matter some Christians abstained from flesh foods (Biblically clean meat) entirely, which means that their food was restricted to "herbs", that is, vegetables.

So what is meant by "all things"? All things that are sanctified (pronounced clean, as per Levitical laws) by the Word of God. Does the Word of God pronounce dogs, cats, pigs and wild beasts as clean to eat? No.

If people would only take the WHOLE of God's Word in context, they would see the clear truth of the matter. God is trying to draw men back to the original plan in the Garden of Eden. And He wants a people in the last days who are living according to that original plan. This is the message of the three angels of Revelation 14. A message of turning away from the world and Babylon's deceptions, and returning back to God. The messages point us to our Creator. And how were we made? We were made in the image of God. So should we act and live in the image of God. This is the health message. Please bring glory to God in all you do.

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

GUIDELINES FOR LIVING.
April 14th, 2026

How Can I Inherit Eternal Life?

When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Luke 18:22



Anyone who has ever visited ancient Jericho can testify to the fact that in the summer it can be unbearably hot. Locals are convinced that hell itself is only ten degrees hotter than Jericho. There is an old aphorism that in China only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noonday sun. That surely applies to Jericho as well—which is why a drama that unfolded as Jesus approached the city on His way to Jerusalem is so remarkable.

So vivid was this happening in the life of Jesus that three of Jesus’s biographers, Matthew, Mark, and Luke: they all wrote about it. Now, the story itself is simple enough. A young man, having heard that Jesus was passing by, came running and knelt before Him, voicing a question that was perplexing to him.

There is an element of urgency in the encounter. The man made no appointment. Neither did he bother to consider whether the interview was convenient. He simply knew this was his opportunity to get something off his chest; he took advantage of the moment.

There is also an element of drama in the situation. All three of the writers of the Gospel point out that this man was very wealthy, and people with lots of money don’t run in the sun. They snap their fingers and give orders and other people do the running for them. Furthermore, there is an element of desperation as well. Now, people with money are used to other people deferring to them, but humiliating himself before Jesus, he knelt in the dusty road. Looking up into Jesus’s face, he asked, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

Now, in the event you’ve never read the Gospels (meaning Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), you need to know that each one represents a different viewpoint. Mark is called the Gospel of Action. Reflecting a Roman viewpoint, he goes right to the heart of things. He never wastes words. Mark points out something that his colleagues Matthew and Luke omit. At this point, Mark says, “Jesus, beholding him, loved him!” (Mark 10:21). Now, there are two Greek words which could have been used for “to see” or “behold”. The first means to casually observe someone, but the other word—and the one that Mark used—means to gaze intently at someone. So, Jesus looked intently into the face of this troubled young man who knelt before Him; He loved him, knowing full well that the great wealth he had would be a stumbling block.

“You still lack one thing,” said Jesus, adding, “Go sell everything you have and give to the poor. Then you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me” (Luke 18:22).

So, he immediately got rid of his money, forsook his easy lifestyle and became a disciple, right? Dead wrong. The record says he walked away very sorrowful because he was very rich.

So, what’s the issue? It’s simple. Who or what comes first? Your money, your position, or your God? Earlier, Jesus had said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

Andrew, my grandson, aged seven, shocked his mother, saying, “Mother, I’m afraid I’m going to go to hell!” “Why?” asked Bonnie, somewhat perturbed. “Because I’m afraid I love my little blue bucket and shovel—a birthday gift—more than God!”

Whether it’s your pride, your wealth, or your little blue bucket that stands between you and doing the will of God, Jesus wants to come first. “Come …, follow me,” is still the invitation He makes to those who ask, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” It is still true.



Resource reading: Luke 18:18-30

The post How Can I Inherit Eternal Life? appeared first on Guidelines International.

Listen on the Website »

April 14, 2026

Commit to 5 Minutes a Day with God

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved … who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15



OK, you’ve decided to take five minutes a day and spend with God. You’ve made the decision to try it. What can you expect? For one thing, you’ll discover that Murphy’s law, “Anything that can happen, will happen,” has your name on it. You will oversleep. You will discover that your socks don’t match. You will have extra work that keeps you up late, so late that as soon as you close your eyes, you are instantly asleep. You will set the alarm early, and an alarm that has never failed before, will not go off! You will settle down with an open Bible or a notebook and begin to ponder your relationship with God, and the phone will ring, or you will immediately think of things that need your attention right now, so you push aside the Bible and skip your quiet time with God.

How do I know? I’ve tried it at least a hundred times, but I’ve started at least 101 times. In other words, I haven’t quit. Interested in five simple guidelines that can help you develop a quiet time or a time of spiritual meditation and study? They are:

Guideline #1: Make the commitment to take at least five minutes a day and spend with the Lord. I’m sure I don’t have to sell you on the importance of the idea. The vast majority of people believe that being in the presence of God is important, but not important enough to make the commitment to include time in His presence in their daily schedule. Remember, the longest journey in the world begins with the first step, and your commitment to enrich your life by taking five minutes a day is the beginning that can change your life.

Guideline #2: Be definite, but flexible, in your plan to schedule five minutes a day. When’s the best time for this? Anytime, right? Dead wrong! Anytime is some other time, and some other time never gets scheduled. So, look at your schedule, or daybook. Determine when you can take five minutes a day and make it a habit. For some, the first thing in the morning is the best time, but for you night people, five minutes at the end of your day is a lot more productive.

Guideline #3: Have a plan. Three ingredients should fit into that plan. First, Scripture, or God’s Word, the Bible. Here you find the strength of the ages; through these pages, God speaks to us. Then, you need some moments of reflection or meditation as you ask yourself, “How does what I’ve read apply to my life, to what I’m facing right now?” Then you need a few minutes to talk to God in prayer. Here you connect with Him by sharing your heart.

Guideline #4: Stay focused. It is so easy to let your mind wander. You read a chapter, close the Bible, and you can’t remember a word or a thought that you’ve read. Do you know why? All of the time, your mind was going over your schedule for the day. You were thinking about your broken-down car, or the problems confronting you. How do you stay focused? Possibly by reading out loud. Perhaps by journaling, or writing down your thoughts, by making the conscious decision to put your mind where your body is, and worship God.

Guideline #5: Discipline yourself, and, if necessary, cut something else out of your overburdened schedule. When it’s all said and done (and usually more is said than done), we have time for what we really want to do. Nobody can honestly say (myself included), “I don’t have at least five minutes a day to nurture my soul and refresh my mind.” But you don’t just find time, you must take it.

What are the rewards? An amazing sense of clarity in your thinking. You begin to see life from a different perspective. You slow down enough to realize you are in the presence of the Almighty. You realize your problems are not so big after all. Five minutes can change your life.

Resource reading: James 4:7-10

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 14
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.7

The Mark of Cain.

Adam and Eve's first two sons differed vastly in their personalities and behavior. Cain longed to farm and build, while Abel loved to roam the hills and meadows with his flocks. After sin entered this new world because of Adam and Eve's disobedience, God established a sacrificial system and explained that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness for sin (Hebrews 9:22). He told them that these sacrifices pointed forward to the time when Jesus would become a man and die as the Lamb of God for the sins of the world. Abel faithfully brought a young lamb as a sacrifice for his sins, but Cain thought it was unnecessary to obey God's command so precisely. He considered the sacrificial system to be messy and reasoned that as long as he brought an offering and worshiped God, the details wouldn't matter. So he brought an offering of his own works, some produce from the field. Cain watched with jealous anger as fire came down from heaven and consumed Abel's sacrifice but left his own offering untouched. The Lord lovingly urged Cain to humble himself and obey, but Cain stubbornly persisted in his rebellion. Abel also tried to gently reason with his older brother, but Cain flew into a rage. By the time he regained his senses, Abel's bloody body lay still at his feet. God pronounced a curse upon Cain, and when Cain complained about his sentence, the Lord placed a mark upon him lest future generations take revenge for this first homicide. The book of Revelation tells us that, in the last days, there will again be a battle between Christians regarding how and when to worship. Soon everyone will be identified either by the seal of God or the mark of the beast.

1. Who will be protected through the seven last plagues?

Revelation 7:3. Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have _________ the servants of our God in their foreheads.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Those who receive God's seal in their foreheads will be protected during the plagues (Psalms 91:7-11).

2. What is this "seal" the righteous have in their foreheads?

Isaiah 8:16. Bind up the testimony; seal the ____ among my disciples.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's seal is found in His law. A seal is what makes a document official, and it normally contains three characteristics: Name, Office, and Territory. An example would be "Cyrus king of Persia" in Ezra 1:1.

3. Which of the Ten Commandments contains all the elements of a seal?

Exodus 20:11. For in six days the ______ ______ heaven and earth, the sea, and ___ that in them is. (three word answer)

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The fourth commandment is the only one that contains all three elements of a seal: (1) "The Lord"--His name, (2) "made"--His office as Creator, (3) "heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is"--His territory.

4. What has God given as a special sign of His power?

Ezekiel 20:12. I gave them my ________, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them.

Ezekiel 20:20 Hallow my __________; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.

Exodus 31:13 Verily my __________ ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God clearly states that He gave the Sabbath as a sign of His power to create and sanctify. It is His seal, or mark of authority. The words "seal," "sign," "mark," and "token" are used interchangeably throughout the Bible (compare Genesis 17:11 with Romans 4:11 and Revelation 7:3 with Ezekiel 9:4).

5. What does the second beast of Revelation 13 force all to receive?

Revelation 13:16. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a _____ in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

Answer : ____________________

6. What is the mark of the beast?

Acts 5:29. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to _____ God rather than _____. (two word answer)

Choosing to obey the laws of the papacy (Sunday) rather than the laws of God (Sabbath) will leave you with the mark of beast.

Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey, whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

What is sin?

1 John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: We identified the first beast of Revelation 13 in Lesson 13. What is its mark of power and authority? The best way to discover its mark of authority is to ask the papacy directly. Notice the following section from a Catholic catechism:

"Q. Which is the Sabbath day?

"A. Saturday is the Sabbath day.

"Q. Why do we observe Sunday instead of Saturday?

"A. We observe Sunday instead of Saturday because the Catholic Church transferred the solemnity from Saturday to Sunday."1

Here is another statement from a catechism:

"Q. Have you any other way of proving that the Church has power to institute festivals of precept?

"A. Had she not such power, she could not have done that in which all modern religionists agree with her--she could not have substituted the observance of Sunday the first day of the week, for the observance of Saturday the seventh day, a change for which there is no Scriptural authority."2

So the papacy is saying that its mark of power and authority is making Sunday a holy day--a change that virtually the entire Christian world accepts. (See supplement entitled "What Important Question Does the Papacy Ask Protestants?")

1Peter Geiermann, The Convert's Catechism of Catholic Doctrine (St. Louis: B. Herder Book Co., 1957 edition), p 50.

2Stephen Keenan, A Doctrinal Catechism (New York: P.J. Kenedy & Sons, third American edition, revised, n.d.), p. 174.

7. Is either the mark of the beast or the seal of God visible?

Hebrews 10:16. Saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their ______ will I write them.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.

Exodus 13:9 And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the Lord's law may be in thy mouth.

Isaiah 59:6, 7 Their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. ... Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Neither the mark of the beast nor the seal of God is outwardly visible. The forehead represents the mind, and the hand is a symbol of work. "On the hand" and "between the eyes" are consistent symbols in Scripture for a person's thoughts and actions (Exodus 13:16; Deuteronomy 6:8; 11:18).

A person will receive the mark of the beast in his forehead by choosing to believe that Sunday is a holy day in spite of Bible truth. A person will be marked in the right hand by working on God's Sabbath or by outwardly keeping Sunday laws for convenient reasons--such as a job, family, etc. Although the sign is invisible to men, God will know who has which mark (2 Timothy 2:19). In a sense, each person will mark himself. If I respect and regard God's holy Sabbath, He will mark me as His own. If I regard the beast's false Sabbath, He will mark me as belonging to the beast.

8. How does Jesus determine if we are His servants?

Romans 6:16. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to __________, his servants ye are to whom ye _____.

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Answer : ____________________

9. Does anyone have the mark of the beast now?

Revelation 13:17. No man might ____ or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: No person has the mark now. When it becomes a forced issue, only those who have received the mark of the beast will be able to buy or sell. At that time, people who keep God's holy Sabbath will do so at the risk of their lives (Revelation 13:15), and those who choose to profane His holy day and officially cast their votes by placing the laws of men above the Law of God will be marked as belonging to Antichrist. All who are loyal to Jesus and His holy day will receive Jesus' glorious seal, thus making them His forever. Those who try to remain neutral will be counted for Antichrist (Matthew 12:30).

10. What two things does the Antichrist power attempt to change?

Daniel 7:25. He shall ... think to change times and _____.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Daniel 7 reveals an Old Testament description of the Antichrist power. It clearly predicts that the beast would attempt to change both God's laws and times. The papacy has tried to change God's laws by: (1) omitting the second commandment against veneration of images, (2) shortening the fourth commandment from 94 words to just eight in order to avoid mentioning which day is the Sabbath, and (3) dividing the tenth commandment into two commandments. The papacy attempted to change God's times by: (1) teaching people to recognize the first day of the week as the Sabbath instead of the seventh day, and (2) adopting the pagan Roman practice of beginning each day at midnight instead of sundown. God's timing for the Sabbath is from sundown Friday night to sundown Saturday night (Leviticus 23:32). No mortal should ever dare to tamper with God's sacred law or times (Matthew 5:18).

11. What was God's criticism of His ancient priests, or pastors?

Malachi 2:8, 9. Ye have caused many to stumble at the law. ... Ye have not kept my ways, but have been _______ in the law.

Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God is still hurt when His pastors are partial to eight or nine commandments and cause many to stumble over His command to keep the Sabbath holy. Virtually all churches admit in their official writings that there is no Scripture support for Sunday sacredness. Tragically, both Protestantism and Catholicism stand guilty before the judgment bar of God for throwing out the Bible Sabbath! God Himself gave the Sabbath as a sign, or mark, of His power to create and His power to sanctify and save (Exodus 31:17; Ezekiel 20:12). Dare any man tamper with this sacred sign, which represents the great God of heaven and all that He stands for?

12. How did God's ancient leaders regard the great things of His law?

Hosea 8:12. I have written to him the great things of my law, but they were counted as a _______ thing.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Times have not changed. God has placed the Sabbath, His great sign, in the middle of His law and begins that commandment with the word "remember." Yet many people today feel that keeping His seventh-day Sabbath is a strange thing.

13. What specific, solemn rebuke did God give to religious leaders regarding His holy Sabbath?

Ezekiel 22:8. Thou hast ______ mine holy things, and hast profaned my sabbaths.

Ezekiel 22:26 Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane ... and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God pointedly rebukes religious leaders who say that the Sabbath doesn't matter and who claim "Thus saith the Lord" when it is not true.

14. What specific sin does God command His leaders to denounce?

Isaiah 58:1, 13, 14. Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and ______ my people their transgression. ... If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord honourable; ... Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God charges spiritual leaders to call Sabbath-breaking a sin and to insist that His people keep His Sabbath day holy. As with the disciples of old, our only safety is in obeying God rather than men (Acts 5:29).

15. When you decide to accept Jesus and fully follow Him, what happens?

Matthew 11:29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find _____ unto your souls.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Glorious rest and peace enter your heart at conversion. The Sabbath, which means "rest," is a symbol of the rest and peace that comes from the new birth (Hebrews 4:1-10). Those who are truly born again will keep the Sabbath as a blessed sign of that rest (notice verses 4, 9, 10). There is no joy like the joy that comes to a converted person who keeps God's Sabbath holy.

16. Before you can say "no" to the mark of the beast, you must say "yes" to the seal of God. Jesus is waiting at the door of your heart for an answer. Will you decide now to move under His glorious Sabbath banner as evidence that you have accepted Him as your Creator and Saviour?

Answer : ____________________

Supplemental Study

What Important Question Does the Papacy Ask Protestants?

Protestants have repeatedly asked the papacy, "How could you dare to change God's law?" But the question posed to Protestants by the Catholic church is even more penetrating.

Here it is officially: "You will tell me that Saturday was the Jewish Sabbath, but that the Christian Sabbath has been changed to Sunday. Changed! but by whom? Who has authority to change an express commandment of Almighty God? When God has spoken and said, Thou shalt keep holy the seventh day, who shall dare to say, Nay, thou mayest work and do all manner of worldly business on the seventh day but thou shalt keep holy the first day in its stead?

This is a most important question, which I know not how you can answer. You are a Protestant, and you profess to go by the Bible and the Bible only and yet in so important a matter as the observance of one day in seven as a holy day, you go against the plain letter of the Bible, and put another day in the place of that day which the Bible has commanded. The command to keep holy the seventh day is one of the ten commandments you believe that the other nine are still binding who gave you authority to tamper with the fourth? If you are consistent with your own principles, if you really follow the Bible and the Bible only, you ought to be able to produce some portion of the New Testament in which this fourth commandment is expressly altered."1

1Library of Christian Doctrine: Why Don't You Keep Holy the Sabbath-Day? (London: Burns and Oates, Ltd.), pp. 3, 4.

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

THE DANGER OF PRESUMPTION AGAINST THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

A major problem in the life of many believers is presumption. They assume they already know God, already understand His ways, already understand scripture.

A presumption works like this: you are directed to look in a direction, but you look wrongly, and still conclude you have seen correctly. Then you begin to teach others based on what you assumed, not what is true.

That is how many false ideas about God spread. People assume what God is like, what He approves, what He desires, and what He rejects, without checking scripture.

For example, someone hears a statement and builds a doctrine from a wrong interpretation. Then they begin to say, “This is what God says,” when God never said it.

Presumptions block true knowledge of God. They oppose revelation. They make a person feel they already know, so they stop searching.

And once that happens, even scripture becomes filtered through assumption instead of understanding.

A wise person does not assume. A wise person goes back to scripture, asking what God actually says, not what has been assumed over time.
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth.
This is where many of us miss it and until we get back to study what is written about and by Jesus Who is the express image of The True God, we will always continue to assume and continue to build on the knowledge of others about The Truth

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 13
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

Bowing to Babylon.

King Nebuchadnezzar gave the signal, and as the music from a thousand instruments began to swell, the curtain fell, exposing a dazzling, 90-foot image of gold glimmering in the sunlight. Then, according to King's command, all the officials who had gathered on the plain of Dura fell prostrate to the ground in devout worship. All bowed down except three young Hebrew men, who were servants of a greater King. Nebuchadnezzar was beaming with pride and satisfaction until it was reported that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had refused to bow and worship his image. Astonished that anyone would dare to disobey, Nebuchadnezzar assumed these young advisers must have misunderstood his decree. So he offered them one more chance to bow down but they refused! Now the king's expression turned to rage. He ordered his soldiers to heat the nearby furnace seven times hotter than normal. As fuel was piled onto the fire, the three men were firmly tied with ropes. The resulting heat was so intense that it killed the soldiers who threw them into the blazing inferno. As the king peered into the roaring furnace, his mouth suddenly fell open. With a trembling voice he asked, "Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" His counselors agreed that they had. Then the king said, "I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God." Daniel 3:25. God delivered those brave young men in the fiery furnace because they stood up for His truth. In the last days, God's people will have to face a similar test.

1. How does our story in Daniel 3 relate to Revelation?

Revelation 13:15. As many as would not ______ the image of the beast should be killed.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In the last days, God's people will be forced once again to worship contrary to conscience or be slain. They will have to choose between obeying the law of God or the laws of man.

2. What are the three angels' messages of Revelation 14?

Revelation 14:7. Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his _________ is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Revelation 14:8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

Revelation 14:9,10 If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Bible tells us in Revelation 14:6-14 that in the last days, this awesome three-point message of hope and warning will go to the entire world to prepare people for Jesus' return. One of these messages warns against worshipping the beast and receiving its mark. In this lesson, we will identify the beast. In Lesson 14, we will identify the mark. Eternal life itself may be at stake, so pray earnestly for God's guidance and understanding as you study.

3. What does a beast represent in Bible prophecies?

Daniel 7:23. The fourth beast shall be the fourth ________ upon earth.

Daniel 7:17 These great beasts, which are four, are four kings.

Daniel 8:21 And the rough goat is the king of Grecia.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In Bible prophecy, a beast represents a government, kingdom, or political power. God uses beasts to symbolize governments, as we do today--an eagle (the United States of America), a bear (Russia), etc. In the Bible, "beast" is not a disrespectful term. It does not suggest beastly characteristics. The beast that has the mark is pictured in Revelation 13:1-10, 15-18. Please take time to read these verses before proceeding to question 4.

4. How does the Bible identify the beast?

Revelation 13:1. And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a _______ rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In Revelation 13:1-10, 15-18, God gives 10 clues to help us identify the beast. He gives us a long list of characteristics so that we can be absolutely certain of the beast's identity.

Point 1 - Rises up out of the sea (verse 1)

Point 2 - Receives its power, seat, and authority from the dragon (verse 2)

Point 3 - Becomes a worldwide power (verses 3, 7)

Point 4 - Is guilty of blasphemy (verses 1, 5, 6)

Point 5 - Rules for 42 prophetic months (verse 5)

Point 6 - Receives a deadly wound that heals (verse 3)

Point 7 - Is a religious power that receives worship (verses 4, 8)

Point 8 - Persecutes God's saints (verse 7)

Point 9 - Has the mysterious number 666 (verse 18)

Point 10- Is led by one supreme man (verse 18)

Only one power fits all 10 of these identifying marks--the papacy. But in order to be certain, we will carefully consider them one at a time, beginning with question 5.

5. This beast arises from the sea. What does the sea, or water, symbolize?

Revelation 17:15. The waters which thou sawest ... are _______, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In prophecy, water represents great multitudes of people, or heavily populated areas. Prophecy predicted that the beast would arise from amid the established nations of the then-known world. The papacy arose in western Europe, so it fits Point 1. But what about the other nine identifying points?

6. Who gives the beast its power and position?

Revelation 13:2. And the _______ gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The beast--which has a mark that we must avoid--obtained its power, authority, and capital city from the dragon. According to Revelation 12:3-5, the dragon is the power that sought to destroy the child Jesus at the time of His birth. It was Satan who inspired Herod, a king for the pagan Roman empire, to slay all the male babies in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:13, 16). To whom did pagan Rome give her authority and capital city? History is clear that pagan Rome turned over its power and capital city to the church of Rome. The following historical quote is typical: "The Roman church ... pushed itself into the place of the Roman World-Empire, of which it is the actual continuation. ... The Pope, who calls himself 'King' and 'Pontifex Maximus,' is Caesar's successor."* So Point 2 fits the papacy, as well.

*Adolph Harnack, What Is Christianity? (New York: Putnam, second edition, revised, 1901), p. 270.

7. How far-reaching is the influence of the beast?

Revelation 13:3. And all the _____ wondered after the beast.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: No one would question that during the Middle Ages, the papacy was indeed a worldwide power. In fact, the word "catholic" means "universal." We can see that Point 3 also fits the papacy.

8. What comes out of the mouth of the beast?

Revelation 13:6. And he opened his mouth in ________ against God, to blaspheme his name.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Bible defines blasphemy as man claiming to forgive sins (Luke 5:21) and claiming to be God (John 10:33). The papacy boldly claims the power to forgive sins. Notice the following section from a Catholic catechism: "Does the Priest truly forgive the sins, or does he only declare that they are remitted? The Priest does really and truly forgive the sins in virtue of the power given to him by Christ."1

The papacy also claims that the pope is equal with God. Pope Leo XIII said, "We [the popes] hold upon this earth the place of God Almighty."2 Here is another startling statement about the pope: "Thou art another God on earth."3 So Point 4 also fits the papacy.

1Joseph Deharbe, S.J., A Complete Catechism of the Catholic Religion (New York: Schwartz, Kirwin & Fauss, 1924), p. 279.

2Christopher Marcellus, Oration in the Fifth Lateran Council, Session IV (1512), manuscript SC, Vol. 32, col. 761 (Latin).

3Pope Leo XIII, Encyclical Letter "The Reunion of Christendom," dated June 20, 1894, trans. in The Great Encyclical letters of Pope Leo XIII (New York: Benziger, 1903), p. 304.

9. How long would this first beast rule?

Revelation 13:5. And power was given unto him to continue _____ and ___ months.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Remember that in prophecy, one prophetic day equals one literal year (Ezekiel 4:6). This time period is repeatedly referred to in prophecy as three and a half years, 42 months, or 1,260 days. Based on the 30-day calendar used by the Jews, all three time periods total the same 1,260 prophetic days, or 1,260 literal years. The worldwide power of papal Rome became official in A.D. 538, when Emperor Justinian's decree making the papacy supreme was no longer opposed. The papacy was dealt what appeared to be a death blow in 1798 when the pope was captured by Napoleon's general, Alexander Berthier. You will notice that the time period between A.D. 538 and 1798 is precisely 1,260 years. Point 5 also fits the papacy.

10. What happened to the beast after the 42 months?

Revelation 13:3. And I saw one of his heads as it were __________ed to death; and his deadly ______ was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: As already mentioned, the papacy received what appeared to be a deadly wound in 1798 when General Berthier took the pope captive to France, where he died in exile.1 Half of Europe thought that this event signaled the end of the papacy, but God had said that the wound would be healed and that the papacy's power and influence would be restored until the entire world would follow her leading. Malachi Martin, consummate Vatican insider, reveals the following in his book The Keys of This Blood: "The pope is the best-known person of the 20th century (p. 123), has formed personal relationships with the leaders of 91 countries (p. 490), and is prepared for worldwide rule now" (p. 143).2 Even a novice would recognize that today the papacy is, in many ways, the most influential power on earth. And with each trip the pope makes, his power and influence grow. Multiplied millions worldwide look to the papacy as the only hope for world unity, peace, and decency--precisely as God predicted. The papacy clearly fits Point 6.

1Joseph Rickaby, "The Modern Papacy," Lectures on the History of Religion, (London: Catholic Truth Society, 1910), Vol. 3, Lecture 24, p. 1.

2Malachi Martin, The Keys of This Blood (New York: Simon & Schuster, 1990).

11. Is the beast a religious power?

Revelation 13:15. And cause that as many as would not _______ the image of the beast should be killed.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: It is obvious that this entity would be involved in spiritual matters. The words "worship" or "worshiped" are used five times in Revelation 13 in reference to this power. Surely no one doubts that the papacy fits Point 7.

12. What does the beast do to the saints?

Revelation 13:7. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to _________ them.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: It is common knowledge that the papacy did persecute and destroy conscientious Christians, especially during the Middle Ages, the peak period of its control. Many historians say that more than 50 million people died for their faith during this period of great tribulation. Apparently the church felt it was doing God a favor by stamping out "heresy." The pope has asked that the church be forgiven for its atrocities, but the fact remains that it did persecute and destroy. The papacy fits Point 8 also.

13. What is the mysterious number that identifies the beast?

Revelation 13:18. His number is __________ hundred threescore and ______.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: In Revelation 13:18, God says to count the number of the beast's name and that it is the number of a man. When we think of the papacy, the man we naturally think of is the pope. What is his name? One of the pope's official titles is "Vicar of the Son of God," which is "Vicarius Filii Dei" in Latin (the official language of the church). Newspaper articles, when referring to the pope as "Vicar of Christ," will often enclose the words in quotation marks to show that they are a translation of his title, or name. The book of Revelation is saying that the Roman numeral value of the letters of his name will equal 666. Let's see whether or not Point 9 fits the papacy:

VICARIUS FILII DEI

V = 5
I = 1
C = 100
A = 0
R = 0
I = 1
U = 5
S = 0

F = 0
I = 1
L = 50
I = 1
I = 1

D = 500
E = 0
I = 1

=======

=======

=======

112

53

501

TOTAL 112 + 53 + 501 = 666

There should be no doubt remaining. We have shown that all 10 characteristics portrayed in Revelation 13:1-8, 15-18 fit the papacy. And this power has a specific mark that we dare not receive.

Now please note that there are many godly, loving Roman Catholic Christians whom God counts as His children. There have also been many gracious and courageous popes who loved God. This lesson is not an attack upon our Catholic friends. It is an attack upon the devil, who lures churches away from scriptural truth. However, God Himself has told us that this institution has a mark we dare not receive. Sincere Protestants, Catholics, Jews, and non-Christians will all be eager to discover what this mark is so they can avoid receiving it. Let's thank God that in His word He has exposed Satan's ugly plans to destroy us all.

In our next lesson, we will clearly identify the "mark" of the beast. If you receive the mark of the beast, you will be lost. Many will discover that avoiding the mark will involve a tremendous struggle. But God can give us the faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who were willing to face death in order to honor God.

14. Are you willing to follow Jesus wherever He leads, even though you may lose your friends?

Answer : ____________________

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

The New Covenant, established through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, replaces the Old Covenant (Mosaic Law), rendering it obsolete. Hebrews 8:13

The covenant of God shifts from law written on stone or the letter of the word to the the Holy Spirit writing his law on our hearts. Hebrews 8:10 (and Hebrews 10:16), which quote Jeremiah 31:33)

The sacrifice of Jesus Christ offers forgiveness, heart transformation, and grace over death and condemnation.
Acts 2:38 Matthew 26:28

This "better covenant" is based on superior promises. According to the world of God. Hebrews 8:6

Instead of external legal obedience (Ten Commandments), the new covenant gives internal transformation by the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:6

Trying to keep the law in our own power is being in works. That is trying to gain God's approval through good deeds or good behavior. Ephesians 2:8-10, Titus 3:5, Romans 11:6

No one is good enough under the Mosaic law. One must be absolutely perfect to be approved by a Holy God. Mark 10:18 Romans 3:23

One bad thought will result in eternal death. Matthew 5:28, Mark 7: 20-23,
Matthew 5:21-22, 5:28

Adding works to the gospel makes Christ non effective
In our life.
When we do that we fall from grace, and put ourself under the condemnation of the law. Which results in death. Both spiritual eternal death and in death in this life which is condemnation and judgement.

Mark 7:13, Galatians 5:4, Romans 3:19–20,

Turn to Jesus Christ for your salvation today! Romans 10:13, Acts 2:21, and Joel 2:32.

He paid the price in full! IT IS FINISHED.
John 19:30

#Bible #faith #Jesus
#salvation #devotional

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 12
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

Resting the Land.

Our world was first created with a perfect balance in nature. Man, animals, and plants lived in total harmony. But with the entrance of sin, everything changed. Man started eating animals, and animals began eating each other. Thorns and thistles sprouted everywhere. The scourge of sin depleted even the soil. God told Cain, "When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength." Genesis 4:12. This is one reason the Lord commanded the children of Israel to rest the farmlands every seventh year (Exodus 23:10, 11). It would give the ground a chance to recover its vitality and provide a volunteer crop for the poor to eat. But most of God's people ignored this law or simply refused to obey it. Then came a day of awful judgment. Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king, came to Judah and executed those who had rebelled against him. Others were carried off to the golden city of Babylon. Meanwhile, the land of Israel lay quietly in ruins, "until it had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath." 2 Chronicles 36:21. At the end of 70 years, the survivors returned to Canaan to replant the promised land and to rebuild Jerusalem. For 6,000 years now, Jesus has been sowing the seed of the gospel. The Bible tells us that "one day is with the Lord as a thousand years." 2 Peter 3:8. Soon King Jesus will come to harvest the world. Some will be slain by the brightness of His coming, and the rest will be carried off to His golden kingdom. Then this tired old planet will keep a 1,000-year Sabbath!

1. What events mark the beginning of the 1,000 years?

1 Thessalonians 4:16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, ... and the dead in Christ shall ____ first.

Revelation 20:4, 5 And they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The one thousand years of Revelation 20 is often called the millennium. The word "millennium" is simply a Latin composite of two words: "milli," meaning "one thousand," and "annum," meaning "years." The second coming of Jesus and the resurrection of the righteous mark the beginning of the 1,000 years. The saints of all ages (described as "blessed and holy" in verse 6) will be raised in this first resurrection.

2. What else will happen at the first resurrection?

1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be ______________, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised.

Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body.

2 Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord ... shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.

Revelation 16:18, 20, 21 And there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. ... And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent [about 75 pounds].

Revelation 20:1, 2 An angel ... laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: See the 1,000-year chart at the end of this lesson for a summary of the events that will take place as the 1,000 years begin.

3. Who will be raised in the second resurrection, and when will it take place?

John 5:28, 29. All that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done ________, unto the resurrection of damnation.

Revelation 20:5 But the rest of the dead [the wicked] lived not again until the thousand years were finished.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The wicked are raised in the second general resurrection at the close of the 1,000 years.

4. What is the condition of the earth during the 1,000 years?

Isaiah 24:1. Behold, the Lord maketh the earth __________, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down.

Jeremiah 4:23-26 I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light. I beheld the mountains, and, lo, they trembled. ... There was no man, and all the birds of the heavens were fled. ... The fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the Lord, and by his fierce anger.

Jeremiah 25:33 And the slain of the Lord shall be at that day from one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth: they shall not be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The earth will be totally devastated by the earthquake and hailstorm that strike at Jesus' second coming. It will be left in complete darkness. Dead people will lie strewn across the earth's surface, with no one mourning, because none will be left alive. The righteous will all be in heaven, and the wicked will all be dead. (See supplement on "The Bottomless Pit.")

5. Where will the saints be during the 1,000 years, and what will they be doing?

John 14:3. I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that __________ __ ____, there ye may be also. (three word answer)

Revelation 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: ... and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

1 Corinthians 6:2, 3 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? ... Know ye not that we shall judge angels?

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: During the 1,000 years the saints will be in heaven, participating in the judgment. They will not decide who is saved or lost, because God will already have that determined. They will simply confirm the judgments of God. "For thy judgments are made manifest." Revelation 15:4. The fairness of God's punishment for the lost will be affirmed, as well as the rewards for the righteous (Revelation 22:11, 12). This phase of the judgment is for the benefit of the saints. For example, suppose you get to heaven and discover that your beloved pastor is not there--yet some infamous criminal is there! You would probably need an explanation. The angels will guide us through the record books to settle any doubts. At the end of this phase of the judgment, all will be totally convinced of God's justice, love, and His impartial dealings with all. They will declare, "For true and righteous are his judgments." Revelation 19:2. (See supplement entitled "The 1,000-Year Chart.")

6. What will happen at the close of the 1,000 years?

Zechariah 14:1, 4, 5, 9. Behold the day of the Lord cometh, ... And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of ________, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of __________ shall cleave in the midst thereof. ... And the Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with thee. ... And the Lord shall be king over all the earth.

Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: At the close of the 1,000 years, the New Jerusalem with the saints inside will descend from heaven and land on what is now the Mount of Olives. The Lord will flatten the hill to make a great plain for the city's landing site.

7. What will happen next to free Satan from his prison?

Revelation 20:5, 7. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. ... And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be ________ out of his prison.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: After the wicked are resurrected, Satan will once again be free to deceive and manipulate them.

8. What will Satan do when the wicked are raised?

Revelation 20:8, 9. And shall go out to ______________ the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Satan will deceive people into believing that he was unjustly deposed from heaven and that together they can capture the city and take control. Realizing they are shut out of the holy city, the wicked will organize an attack to conquer the New Jerusalem.

9. At this crucial moment, what will stop everything?

Revelation 20:11, 12. And I saw a great white _________, and him that sat on it, ... and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's throne will suddenly appear in the heavens above the city, and the final phase of the judgment begins. The assault on the city of God is thus brought to an instant halt. The books will be opened, and every person's life will be made to pass before him. Everything will be open for the wicked and righteous to see (Luke 12:2, 3).

10. What will happen after the wicked are judged?

Romans 14:11. As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall ______ to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

Philippians 2:10, 11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should __________, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Revelation 19:1, 2 I heard a great voice of much people in heaven saying, ... true and righteous are his judgments.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The wicked will all freely admit that God has been fair and just and that He tried desperately to save them, but they openly chose to reject Him and to live a selfish life of sin. After this universal admission, the sin controversy will be forever settled and it will be safe to destroy sinners.

11. What will happen next?

Revelation 20:9. ______ came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.

Revelation 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of __________.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: God's fire will then fall upon the wicked and form a vast lake of fire all around the city of God. This fire will eventually turn them all to ashes (Malachi 4:3). The devil will have no control over this fire, which is called hell. Instead, he and his angels will also be punished in the fire and then turned into ashes (Revelation 20:10; Ezekiel 28:18). There is no resurrection from this fire, which is called the second death (Revelation 20:14).

12. After the fire goes out, what will God do for His people?

Isaiah 65:17. For, behold, I ______ new heavens and a new earth.

2 Peter 3:13 We, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: At the end of the 70 years of Babylonian captivity, the children of Israel returned to the promised land and rebuilt the city. After the millennium, the saints will witness Jesus create a new heavens (atmosphere) and a perfect new earth, where sin will never again rear its ugly head (Nahum 1:9). The paradise that Adam and Eve lost by sin will be restored in all of its Edenic glory. Peace, joy, love, and perfect happiness will rest upon God's people forever!

13. Where will God and the righteous finally live?

Matthew 5:5. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the __________.

Revelation 21:3 Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Both God the Father and God the Son will live with their saints on the new earth. Just think of it--having God for a neighbor!

14. Jesus says, "I go to prepare a place for you." John 14:2. He has a mansion for you in the holy city. Will you now accept His offer of life eternal so He may give you the new birth and prepare you for His kingdom?

Answer : ____________________

Supplemental Study

The 1,000-Year Chart
Events that begin the 1,000 years:

1. Jesus returns FOR His saints, and the righteous dead are resurrected.

2. Wicked are slain by the Lord's coming, plus devastating earthquake and hail.

3. Living righteous are changed, then caught up to meet the Lord in the air.

4. Cloud carries the righteous to heaven.

Conditions and events during the 1,000 years:

1. Saints in heaven participate in judgment of the wicked.

2. Satan and his angels are forced to remain on earth in total devastation and darkness.

3. No people are alive on earth.

Events at the close of the 1,000 years:

1. Jesus returns WITH His saints, and the holy city descends upon the Mount of Olives.

2. Wicked are resurrected, and Satan persuades wicked to attack the holy city.

3. Wicked are judged, then punished by fire from heaven that eventually devours the lost.

4. God creates new heaven and a new earth on ashes of a purified earth.

The Bottomless Pit
The term "bottomless pit" from Revelation 20:1 is often misunderstood. It is translated from the Greek word "abusos," the root of the English word "abyss." In the Greek Old Testament, this word is used to refer to the formless, dark earth as it was before Creation. "And the earth was without form and void and darkness was upon the face of the deep." Genesis 1:1, 2. The word "abusos" is used again in Luke 8:31 to illustrate a condition where demons have no one to possess or manipulate.

During the 1,000 years, the devil is chained by circumstances, "that he should deceive the nations no more." Revelation 20:3. A literal chain could never chain a spiritual being. Only one thing would prevent him from tempting people, and that is if there were no people alive! When Jesus comes, the wicked are all slain and the righteous taken to heaven, so Satan and his angels are confined to this planet with no one to tempt. For 1,000 years they will roam and behold the fruit of their rebellion. No more galling chain of circumstances has ever been forged. It is in this manner that Satan and his angels are bound. "And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited." Isaiah 24:22.

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 11
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

A River of Life.

Naaman was a brave, rich, and famous commander for the armies of Syria who contracted leprosy, the most dreaded disease of Bible times. Leprosy meant isolation from loved ones and a slow, wretched death. A Hebrew slave girl who worked in Naaman's house said that if her master would only go to the prophet Elisha in Israel, he would heal Naaman of his leprosy. Willing to grasp at any thread of hope, Naaman made the long trip to Israel. With him was a small band of personal bodyguards and a king's ransom to pay for this miracle of healing. When Naaman finally stood before the humble house of the prophet, Elisha would not come out. Instead, he sent his servant with these simple instructions: "Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean." 2 Kings 5:10. The prophet's command to wash implied that Naaman was dirty! Being told to wash seven times and in a muddy river, no less, was too much for the proud Syrian general. In a rage, Naaman spun his horse around and began riding home. But in order to reach Damascus, Naaman had to ride by the Jordan River. As he passed by, Naaman's servants urged him to try the prophet's advice. So he stopped his horse, slid down, and laid aside the armor that covered the awful evidence of his leprosy. Naaman slowly stepped down into the waters of the Jordan. Six times he plunged under the water with no results, but when he came up the seventh time, the leprosy was gone! His skin was as pure and healthy as a baby's. Just as Naaman experienced restoration, you too can have a healing new-birth experience!

1. What New Testament prophet used the Jordan River for baptizing, or cleansing?

Matthew 3:1, 5, 6. In those days came ________ the baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea. ... Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Gospel stories begin and end with the subject of baptism. Obviously this is a very important teaching to Jesus (Matthew 28:18, 19).

2. What glorious Bible ceremony symbolizes a "washing" from the leprosy of sin?

Acts 22:16. Arise, and be ___________, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Bible ordinance of baptism symbolizes the washing away of sin from a person's life, as well as the new birth.

3. According to the Bible, how many different kinds of baptism are acceptable?

Ephesians 4:5. __________ Lord, __________ faith, ____ baptism.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: At least 15 different ceremonies are called baptism today, but according to the Bible, there is only one true baptism.

4. What does the word "baptize" mean?

Colossians 2:12. __________ with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Greek word "baptizo" means "submerge," "plunge under," or "immerse." A person has not been baptized unless he has been completely submerged, or buried, in water. This word "baptizo" is always used in the Bible in reference to the sacred ordinance of baptism. The Greek words for "sprinkling" or "pouring" are never used.

5. Jesus is our example. How was He baptized?

Mark 1:9, 10. Jesus came ... and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up ____ of the water, he saw the heavens opened.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: John baptized Jesus by immersion in the same river where Naaman was cleansed from leprosy. Note that they were "in" Jordan (not on the riverbank) and that Jesus came "up out" of the water. This is why John was baptizing in "Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there" John 3:23. Christians are to follow the example of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21), who was baptized by immersion "to fulfil all righteousness." Matthew 3:15.

6. How did Philip baptize the treasurer of Ethiopia?

Acts 8:38, 39. They went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come __ out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip.

Answer : ____________________

7. What other truths are symbolized by baptism?

Romans 6:4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was ____________ up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Baptism symbolizes Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. There is first death to sin, then burial of the old life of sin in the water, and finally resurrection from the water to a new life. Baptism by immersion fits the symbolism perfectly. The life of sin dies, then there is brief suspension of breath while the person being baptized is leaned backward into the water until the body is fully covered, or buried, in the water. Then the person is raised up out of the water, taking a fresh breath as a newborn baby, to live an entirely new life, symbolizing the resurrection. No other form of baptism fits this Bible symbolism. Some say they keep Sunday holy in honor of the resurrection, but this practice is never mentioned in the Bible.

8. How important is baptism?

Mark 16:16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be _______; but he that believeth not shall be damned [lost].

John 3:5 Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he can not enter into the kingdom of God.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Baptism is clearly mandated by Scripture as essential. However, when baptism is impossible, as it was for the thief on the cross, Jesus gives that person credit for His baptism (Matthew 3:15).

9. What blessed ceremony can be compared to baptism?

Galatians 3:27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have _____ on Christ.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Baptism is like the marriage ceremony. The Bible says, "For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is his name." Isaiah 54:5. As a woman takes her husband's name in marriage, so Christians take the name of Christ--thereafter to be called Christians. Both ceremonies must be based on love and commitment if they are to be meaningful. Baptism is as essential to the Christian life as a wedding is to a marriage.

10. What command did Jesus give to His people just before His ascension?

Matthew 28:19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, _________ them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Peter followed this command when on the day of Pentecost he told the penitent people, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ." Acts 2:38.

11. What biblical qualifications must precede baptism?

Acts 2:38. Then Peter said unto them, _______ , and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

A. Understand Jesus' teachings (Matthew 28:19, 20)
B. Believe all of Jesus' teachings (Mark 16:16)
C. __________ of past sins (Acts 2:38)
D. Believe with all your heart (Acts 8:37)
E. Agree to turn from sin (Luke 3:7, 8; Romans 6:5, 6)
F. Accept Christ as your personal Saviour and experience the new birth (2 Corinthians 5:17; John 3:3, 5)

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Since an infant cannot comply with any of the above steps, obviously it is not scriptural to baptize a child until he is old enough to comprehend the gospel.

12. Where did all of the counterfeit forms of baptism originate?

Mark 7:8. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the _________ of men.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Baptism by immersion was the only form of baptism practiced during Bible times and for centuries after the cross. But then, misguided men introduced other forms of baptism for the sake of convenience. Thus, God's sacred ordinance of baptism was distorted and its rich symbolic meaning obscured.

13. What does the Bible say about those who put the teachings of men before the truth of God?

Matthew 15:9. But in ______ they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Galatians 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

Answer : ____________________

14. But doesn't the baptism of the Holy Spirit replace baptism by immersion?

Acts 2:38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be ___________ every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: No! Notice that while Peter was preaching (Acts 10:44-48), the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening, many of whom had not been baptized. But even though they had already received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, Peter insisted that they be baptized in water as well.

15. Is rebaptism ever proper?

Acts 19:2-5. They said unto him, We have not so much as __________ whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they ________ this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: One day when Paul was preaching in Ephesus, he found 12 men who had been baptized by John the Baptist, but who had never heard of the Holy Spirit. So upon receiving this substantial new light, they were rebaptized. Likewise, if a person has completely lost his Christian experience, he should be rebaptized upon returning to the Lord. Rebaptism is also appropriate if a person was not baptized in the biblical method.

16. Is baptism connected with joining a church?

Acts 2:41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were ________ unto them about three thousand souls.

Acts 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord __________ to the church daily such as should be saved.

Colossians 3:15 Ye are called in one body.

Colossians 1:18 He is the head of the body, the church...

1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Scriptures are unequivocal. All of God's people are called into one body, which is the church, and we enter it by baptism. After birth, a baby must be placed in a family for nurturing, protection, and growth.

17. If I refuse baptism, whose counsel am I refusing?

Luke 7:30. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of ______ against themselves, being not baptized of him.

Answer : ____________________

18. When Jesus was baptized, what did His Father say?

Mark 1:9, 11. And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. ... And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well ___________.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: When any of God's children repent of their sins and are baptized, He is well pleased.

19. Would you like to begin preparing for the sacred rite of baptism so God can say of you, "Thou art my beloved son [or daughter], in whom I am well pleased"?

Answer : ____________________

Supplemental Study

The Model Baptism
Jesus was not baptized because He needed cleansing from sin, for He was sinless (1 Peter 2:22). This is why John the Baptist was so perplexed when Jesus came to the Jordan River, asking to be baptized by him. John said, "I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?" Matthew 3:14.

So why was Jesus baptized? There are three main reasons. First, He was baptized in behalf of those who cannot be baptized themselves. Sometimes when people accept the Lord in prison or in a hospital, circumstances do not allow them to be baptized. Jesus gives them credit for His baptism. The thief on the cross was one example (Luke 23:43). Second, Jesus was baptized as an example, that we should follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21). And third, Jesus was baptized so we can, by studying His experience, know what to expect by faith.

To illustrate, let's take the following verses word by word and see what we can expect from our baptism. Matthew 3:16 and 17 reads: "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

"The heavens were opened" = We receive access to God.

"He saw" = Our spiritual eyes are now opened, giving us new understanding and perception.

"The Spirit of God" = We recognize His leading.

"Descending like a dove" = Peace gently enters our hearts.

"A voice from heaven" = We will begin to hear that still, small voice.

"My beloved son" = We are adopted into His royal family and become citizens of a different country.

"I am well pleased" = God gives us complete acceptance and forgiveness.

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.