• Jeremiah 29:11

    For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

    #GodHasABetterPlanForYou
    Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. #GodHasABetterPlanForYou🙂
    0 Comments 0 Shares 13 Views
  • THE PILGRIMS GUIDE

    SATURDAY APRIL 25, 2026

    CREATED WITH INTENT

    A WORD FROM THE WORD:

    "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me." Psalm 57:2 NIV

    The anchor Scripture above is one of the keys in understanding God’s intention and purpose for your life. God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has intended for you. Nevertheless, the choices you make are part and parcel of determining the outcome of His intention which you're seeking.
    The understanding of your unique destiny begins with getting a grip of what God's Word says about your purpose as one of His children.

    God has an intended purpose and calling on your life. Why wait for His intension and purpose for your life to fulfill itself? Realise and recognise that you were created by God with intent. Get yourself up and seek and pursue God's intention for your life today.

    PRAYER BULLETS:

    ABBA Father, I want to seek and pursue Your intended purpose for my life, help me to discover, walk in it, and pursue it to fulfilment.

    FURTHER READING:

    Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 16:4; Jeremiah 29:11; Job 42:2; 1 Peter 2:9.
    ________________________________________

    Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026.

    If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others.

    And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967.

    #ThePilgrimsGuide.
    THE PILGRIMS GUIDE SATURDAY APRIL 25, 2026 CREATED WITH INTENT A WORD FROM THE WORD: "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me." Psalm 57:2 NIV The anchor Scripture above is one of the keys in understanding God’s intention and purpose for your life. God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has intended for you. Nevertheless, the choices you make are part and parcel of determining the outcome of His intention which you're seeking. The understanding of your unique destiny begins with getting a grip of what God's Word says about your purpose as one of His children. God has an intended purpose and calling on your life. Why wait for His intension and purpose for your life to fulfill itself? Realise and recognise that you were created by God with intent. Get yourself up and seek and pursue God's intention for your life today. PRAYER BULLETS: ABBA Father, I want to seek and pursue Your intended purpose for my life, help me to discover, walk in it, and pursue it to fulfilment. FURTHER READING: Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 16:4; Jeremiah 29:11; Job 42:2; 1 Peter 2:9. ________________________________________ ©️ Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026. If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others. And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967. #ThePilgrimsGuide.
    0 Comments 0 Shares 13 Views
  • God has a beautiful purpose for your life, so stop feeling lost or purposeless.

    #Purpose #Faith #Encouragement #Jeremiah2911 #GodsPlan #Hope #Motivation #SpiritualGrowth #DailyBread #TrustGod
    🚶‍♂️ 🌅 God has a beautiful purpose for your life, so stop feeling lost or purposeless. #Purpose #Faith #Encouragement #Jeremiah2911 #GodsPlan #Hope #Motivation #SpiritualGrowth #DailyBread #TrustGod
    Like
    Love
    2
    0 Comments 0 Shares 116 Views
  • "Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. . . . But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.

    Jeremiah 29:4–5, 7
    If that was true for God’s exiles in Babylon, it would seem to be even more true for Christian exiles in this very “Babylon-like” world. What, then, shall we do?

    We should do the ordinary things that need to be done: build houses; live in them; plant gardens. This does not contaminate you if you do it all for the real King and not just for eye service as men-pleasers.

    Seek the welfare of the place where God has sent you. Think of yourself as sent there by God for His glory. Because you are.

    Pray to the Lord on behalf of your city. Ask for great and good things to happen for the city. Ask that they happen by God’s power and for His glory. Never lose sight of the ultimate good that the city needs a thousand times more than it needs material prosperity. Christians care about all suffering — especially eternal suffering. That’s the greatest danger every city faces.

    But neither God nor His people are indifferent to the health and safety and prosperity and freedom of the city. We all want these things, and Jesus said, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). In fact, the Lord says in Jeremiah that loving your city is a way of loving yourself: “In its welfare you will find your welfare.”

    This does not mean we give up our exile orientation. Peter says that Christians are “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11) and Paul says “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). In fact, we will do most good for this world by keeping a steadfast freedom from its beguiling attractions. We will serve our city best by getting our values from “the city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14). We will do our city most good by calling as many of its citizens as we can to be citizens of “the Jerusalem above” (Galatians 4:26).

    So, let’s live — let’s do so much good (1 Peter 2:12) — that the natives will want to meet our King."

    (Solid Joys April 23 - Excerpt from How Exiles Serve the City - John Piper)
    https://www.desiringgod.org/solid-joys/seek-your-citys-good
    "Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. . . . But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. Jeremiah 29:4–5, 7 If that was true for God’s exiles in Babylon, it would seem to be even more true for Christian exiles in this very “Babylon-like” world. What, then, shall we do? We should do the ordinary things that need to be done: build houses; live in them; plant gardens. This does not contaminate you if you do it all for the real King and not just for eye service as men-pleasers. Seek the welfare of the place where God has sent you. Think of yourself as sent there by God for His glory. Because you are. Pray to the Lord on behalf of your city. Ask for great and good things to happen for the city. Ask that they happen by God’s power and for His glory. Never lose sight of the ultimate good that the city needs a thousand times more than it needs material prosperity. Christians care about all suffering — especially eternal suffering. That’s the greatest danger every city faces. But neither God nor His people are indifferent to the health and safety and prosperity and freedom of the city. We all want these things, and Jesus said, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). In fact, the Lord says in Jeremiah that loving your city is a way of loving yourself: “In its welfare you will find your welfare.” This does not mean we give up our exile orientation. Peter says that Christians are “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11) and Paul says “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). In fact, we will do most good for this world by keeping a steadfast freedom from its beguiling attractions. We will serve our city best by getting our values from “the city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14). We will do our city most good by calling as many of its citizens as we can to be citizens of “the Jerusalem above” (Galatians 4:26). So, let’s live — let’s do so much good (1 Peter 2:12) — that the natives will want to meet our King." (Solid Joys April 23 - Excerpt from How Exiles Serve the City - John Piper) https://www.desiringgod.org/solid-joys/seek-your-citys-good
    0 Comments 0 Shares 17 Views
  • STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 23
    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 Jar of Oil and the Most Powerful Spirit in the World.

    Elisha could see that the young widow was desperate. She threw herself at the old prophet's feet and sobbed, "The creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves!" The woman's husband had died unexpectedly and left her with a huge debt. In Bible times, a lender had a right to repossess property and even take children as payment if a family could not pay the bills (Job 24:9). "What do you have in the house?" Elisha asked the distraught mother. "I have nothing in the house but a jar of oil," she replied. Little by little she had handed over all the furniture and valuables in her home to the cruel creditor until nothing remained but her two boys and this little jar of oil. Olive oil was considered a most basic essential. It was used for lighting, heating, cooking, and healing. Elisha told the widow and her boys to go and borrow as many empty vessels as possible from their neighbors. They should bring them home, shut the door, and then pour the oil from her little jar into the empty containers. They did as Elisha instructed, and a wonderful miracle occurred. The oil in the little jar continued to flow out until all the vessels in the house were filled! "What shall we do now?" the young mother asked the prophet. "Sell the oil, pay your debt, and then you and your sons can live on the surplus," he said. This woman and her boys left Elisha's presence rejoicing and free because of the miracle of the oil. The Lord wants to free you from a ruthless creditor named Satan. This miracle will happen when He fills your cup to overflowing with His special oil!

    1. In the Bible, what is symbolized by a vessel and oil?

    Acts 9:15. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen _____________ unto me.

    1 Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the spirit of the Lord came upon David.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The Bible teaches that God is the potter and we are the clay vessels (Jeremiah 18:1-6; Romans 9:20, 21). Everyone is created with a purpose. Oil is used throughout the Bible as a symbol of God's Spirit. Pure olive oil was used to keep the lamp burning bright in the Hebrew temple as an illustration of how His Holy Spirit illuminates our minds. It is God's desire to fill all of His people with His Spirit (Joel 2:28).

    2. Is the Holy Spirit an impersonal force, or is He God?

    Acts 5:3, 4. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy ______? ... thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

    Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The apostle Peter declared that lying to the Holy Spirit is lying to God. Furthermore, Jesus told us to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19, 20), thus indicating that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead, placed in full equality with the Father and the Son.

    The Bible also states that we can grieve the Spirit, which means that He has emotions. He is not simply an impersonal force. In Scripture the Holy Spirit is referred to as Comforter, Holy Ghost, Holy Spirit, Spirit of truth, Spirit of the Lord, the seven Spirits of God, and simply the Spirit. All of these titles denote personality

    3. What is the primary work of the Holy Spirit?

    John 16:13. When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will _____ you into all truth ... and he will shew you things to come.

    John 14:26 He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Jesus promised to be with us always, and it is through the person of the Holy Spirit that He is with us and in us (John 14:17).

    4. What is the one sin that cannot be forgiven?

    Matthew 12:32. But whosoever speaketh _______ the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost is not a single offence, but a progressive resistance to truth that results in a final rejection of God's will (Hebrews 10:26, 27). The conscience is seared when a person repeatedly opposes and neglects the impressions of the Holy Spirit until he no longer hears His voice. Therefore, a person who has a haunting fear that he has committed the "unpardonable sin" very likely has not.

    5. What are some of the gifts of the Spirit a person might receive?

    1 Corinthians 12:8-10. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of _______; to another the word of knowledge ...; To another faith ...; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: When the Holy Spirit comes into our lives, He brings different gifts. Not everyone receives the same gifts (1 Corinthians 12:29-31). Scripture often emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Spirit. Jesus taught in John 3:5 that "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." Sadly, the Holy Spirit and His work is often misunderstood. Some people are taught that the Holy Spirit is an impersonal force; others deny His influence in people's daily affairs; and still others are taught that everyone who is filled with the Holy Spirit must speak in tongues.

    6. Which spiritual gift became a subject of controversy in the Corinthian church?

    1 Corinthians 14:1, 2. Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown _______ speaketh not unto men, but unto God.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: As in the days of the early Christian church, the gift of tongues has again become a subject of confusion and controversy. Therefore we have dedicated a large portion of this lesson to explaining what the Bible teaches about this spiritual gift.

    7. How did Jesus promise to help His disciples preach the gospel to all the world?

    Mark 16:17. They shall speak with new ________.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: In the Bible, the word "tongue" simply means "language." Jesus' disciples were bright men, but most were uneducated. In order to help them take the gospel to the world, Jesus promised to give them a supernatural gift to speak foreign languages they had not formerly studied or known.

    8. What happened when the disciples received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?

    Acts 2:1, 4. And when the day of ___________ was fully come, ... they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Pentecost was a Jewish holy day that was celebrated 50 days after Passover. Devoted Jews from all over the world came to Jerusalem to worship. Through His Spirit, God gave the gift of tongues at this time to empower the disciples to share the gospel with these people in their native languages. Those who believed then carried the good news back to their respective countries.

    9. What did these foreign Jews experience when the Holy Spirit was poured out?

    Acts 2:11. We do _____ them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: It is sometimes suggested that the gift of tongues is a "heavenly language" understood only by God or by those with the gift of interpretation. The Bible clearly shows that both the disciples and those listening understood what was being preached--"the wonderful works of God." There are only three examples of speaking in tongues given in Scripture. We have looked at the first; now let's examine the last two for a clearer picture of this gift.

    10. What happened when Peter preached to Cornelius and his household?

    Acts 10:44, 46. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. ... For they heard them speak with tongues, and ________ God.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Cornelius was of the Italian band (Acts 10:1), while Peter was a Jew and spoke Aramaic. History also tells us that the servants in a Roman home could be from anywhere in the world. Consequently, there were language barriers at this meeting. However, when the Holy Ghost fell on Cornelius and the members of his household, the men who accompanied Peter could understand them speaking in languages other than their native tongues. They heard them "magnify God" in these languages. When later reporting this experience to church leaders in Jerusalem, Peter said, "The Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." Acts 11:15, emphasis added. Cornelius and his household received the same gift of tongues as did the disciples on the day of Pentecost. They spoke languages that could be understood.

    11. What happened when Paul preached to 12 Ephesian disciples?

    Acts 19:6. The Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and _____________.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Paul, who was the most educated and widely traveled of the apostles, spoke many languages (1 Corinthians 14:18). When the Holy Spirit came upon these 12 men of Ephesus, Paul and Luke could understand them prophesying in languages they had not previously known.

    12. What does the Bible say about speaking in a tongue that is not understood?

    1 Corinthians 14:9. Except ye utter by the tongue words _______ to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken?

    1 Corinthians 14:19 I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Paul repeatedly explains that the purpose for a tongue (language) is to communicate or to teach truth. A Greek word for "unknown" is not found in any original Bible manuscripts, but was supplied by translators to indicate that the language was foreign to the majority present. The church at Corinth was a melting pot of many different nationalities, and sometimes the services became confusing when members would pray, testify, or preach in languages unknown to the others present.

    This is why Paul commanded them to keep silent, if speaking in a tongue unknown to the majority, unless someone was there to interpret (1 Corinthians 14:28). The lesson for us is that we should not speak or pray in a tongue that others present cannot understand.

    13. What was one of the main characteristics of ancient Babylon?

    Genesis 11:7, 9. Let us go down, and there _______ their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. ... Therefore is the name of it called Babel.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The tower of Babel is the place where the languages of the world were first confounded. The Hebrew word for both Babel and Babylon is "babel," meaning "confusion." In Revelation 18, God calls His people out of spiritual Babylon. One of the characteristics of spiritual Babylon is a confusion of tongues.

    14. Does the Spirit fill those who deliberately break God's commandments?

    John 14:15-17. If ye love me, keep my _____________. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, ... Even the Spirit of truth.

    Acts 5:32 The Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The tremendous power of the Holy Spirit cannot dwell in those who refuse to obey God's commandments.

    15. Paul emphasized that we should desire which spiritual gift?

    1 Corinthians 14:4, 5. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that __________ edifieth the church. ... Greater is he that ___________ than he that speaketh with tongues.

    1 Corinthians 14:12 Forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: In spite of the fact that Paul attached greater importance to the gift of prophecy than to the gift of tongues, some are now teaching that every person who is filled with the Holy Spirit will speak in tongues.

    Out of more than 25 Bible examples of God filling His people with the Spirit, only three times is the gift of tongues connected with it. Of the 14 New Testament books written by the apostle Paul, he mentions tongues in only one--1 Corinthians. Of the 27 books in the New Testament, only three make any reference at all to speaking in tongues.

    16. What is the main reason why God fills people with His Spirit?

    Acts 1:8. But ye shall receive __________, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me.

    Acts 4:31 They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: God fills us with His Spirit to give us power for witnessing!

    17. Is it possible to tell whether or not a person has been filled with the Holy Spirit?

    Matthew 7:20. Wherefore by their ______ ye shall know them.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: We determine that a person has received the baptism of the Holy Spirit not by the gifts of the Spirit, but by the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22, 23).

    18. How can I receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?

    Luke 11:13. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ___ him?

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Just as Jesus had the Spirit without measure, we may ask God to fill our vessels to overflowing, but we must first be willing to empty ourselves by surrendering our hearts.

    19. Jesus is waiting and yearning to pour the precious oil of the Holy Spirit into your life. Would you like to ask Him now to take possession of your mind and heart?

    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.
    STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 23 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 Jar of Oil and the Most Powerful Spirit in the World. Elisha could see that the young widow was desperate. She threw herself at the old prophet's feet and sobbed, "The creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves!" The woman's husband had died unexpectedly and left her with a huge debt. In Bible times, a lender had a right to repossess property and even take children as payment if a family could not pay the bills (Job 24:9). "What do you have in the house?" Elisha asked the distraught mother. "I have nothing in the house but a jar of oil," she replied. Little by little she had handed over all the furniture and valuables in her home to the cruel creditor until nothing remained but her two boys and this little jar of oil. Olive oil was considered a most basic essential. It was used for lighting, heating, cooking, and healing. Elisha told the widow and her boys to go and borrow as many empty vessels as possible from their neighbors. They should bring them home, shut the door, and then pour the oil from her little jar into the empty containers. They did as Elisha instructed, and a wonderful miracle occurred. The oil in the little jar continued to flow out until all the vessels in the house were filled! "What shall we do now?" the young mother asked the prophet. "Sell the oil, pay your debt, and then you and your sons can live on the surplus," he said. This woman and her boys left Elisha's presence rejoicing and free because of the miracle of the oil. The Lord wants to free you from a ruthless creditor named Satan. This miracle will happen when He fills your cup to overflowing with His special oil! 1. In the Bible, what is symbolized by a vessel and oil? Acts 9:15. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen _____________ unto me. 1 Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the spirit of the Lord came upon David. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The Bible teaches that God is the potter and we are the clay vessels (Jeremiah 18:1-6; Romans 9:20, 21). Everyone is created with a purpose. Oil is used throughout the Bible as a symbol of God's Spirit. Pure olive oil was used to keep the lamp burning bright in the Hebrew temple as an illustration of how His Holy Spirit illuminates our minds. It is God's desire to fill all of His people with His Spirit (Joel 2:28). 2. Is the Holy Spirit an impersonal force, or is He God? Acts 5:3, 4. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy ______? ... thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The apostle Peter declared that lying to the Holy Spirit is lying to God. Furthermore, Jesus told us to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19, 20), thus indicating that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead, placed in full equality with the Father and the Son. The Bible also states that we can grieve the Spirit, which means that He has emotions. He is not simply an impersonal force. In Scripture the Holy Spirit is referred to as Comforter, Holy Ghost, Holy Spirit, Spirit of truth, Spirit of the Lord, the seven Spirits of God, and simply the Spirit. All of these titles denote personality 3. What is the primary work of the Holy Spirit? John 16:13. When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will _____ you into all truth ... and he will shew you things to come. John 14:26 He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Jesus promised to be with us always, and it is through the person of the Holy Spirit that He is with us and in us (John 14:17). 4. What is the one sin that cannot be forgiven? Matthew 12:32. But whosoever speaketh _______ the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost is not a single offence, but a progressive resistance to truth that results in a final rejection of God's will (Hebrews 10:26, 27). The conscience is seared when a person repeatedly opposes and neglects the impressions of the Holy Spirit until he no longer hears His voice. Therefore, a person who has a haunting fear that he has committed the "unpardonable sin" very likely has not. 5. What are some of the gifts of the Spirit a person might receive? 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of _______; to another the word of knowledge ...; To another faith ...; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: When the Holy Spirit comes into our lives, He brings different gifts. Not everyone receives the same gifts (1 Corinthians 12:29-31). Scripture often emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Spirit. Jesus taught in John 3:5 that "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." Sadly, the Holy Spirit and His work is often misunderstood. Some people are taught that the Holy Spirit is an impersonal force; others deny His influence in people's daily affairs; and still others are taught that everyone who is filled with the Holy Spirit must speak in tongues. 6. Which spiritual gift became a subject of controversy in the Corinthian church? 1 Corinthians 14:1, 2. Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown _______ speaketh not unto men, but unto God. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: As in the days of the early Christian church, the gift of tongues has again become a subject of confusion and controversy. Therefore we have dedicated a large portion of this lesson to explaining what the Bible teaches about this spiritual gift. 7. How did Jesus promise to help His disciples preach the gospel to all the world? Mark 16:17. They shall speak with new ________. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: In the Bible, the word "tongue" simply means "language." Jesus' disciples were bright men, but most were uneducated. In order to help them take the gospel to the world, Jesus promised to give them a supernatural gift to speak foreign languages they had not formerly studied or known. 8. What happened when the disciples received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:1, 4. And when the day of ___________ was fully come, ... they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Pentecost was a Jewish holy day that was celebrated 50 days after Passover. Devoted Jews from all over the world came to Jerusalem to worship. Through His Spirit, God gave the gift of tongues at this time to empower the disciples to share the gospel with these people in their native languages. Those who believed then carried the good news back to their respective countries. 9. What did these foreign Jews experience when the Holy Spirit was poured out? Acts 2:11. We do _____ them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: It is sometimes suggested that the gift of tongues is a "heavenly language" understood only by God or by those with the gift of interpretation. The Bible clearly shows that both the disciples and those listening understood what was being preached--"the wonderful works of God." There are only three examples of speaking in tongues given in Scripture. We have looked at the first; now let's examine the last two for a clearer picture of this gift. 10. What happened when Peter preached to Cornelius and his household? Acts 10:44, 46. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. ... For they heard them speak with tongues, and ________ God. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Cornelius was of the Italian band (Acts 10:1), while Peter was a Jew and spoke Aramaic. History also tells us that the servants in a Roman home could be from anywhere in the world. Consequently, there were language barriers at this meeting. However, when the Holy Ghost fell on Cornelius and the members of his household, the men who accompanied Peter could understand them speaking in languages other than their native tongues. They heard them "magnify God" in these languages. When later reporting this experience to church leaders in Jerusalem, Peter said, "The Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." Acts 11:15, emphasis added. Cornelius and his household received the same gift of tongues as did the disciples on the day of Pentecost. They spoke languages that could be understood. 11. What happened when Paul preached to 12 Ephesian disciples? Acts 19:6. The Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and _____________. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Paul, who was the most educated and widely traveled of the apostles, spoke many languages (1 Corinthians 14:18). When the Holy Spirit came upon these 12 men of Ephesus, Paul and Luke could understand them prophesying in languages they had not previously known. 12. What does the Bible say about speaking in a tongue that is not understood? 1 Corinthians 14:9. Except ye utter by the tongue words _______ to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? 1 Corinthians 14:19 I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Paul repeatedly explains that the purpose for a tongue (language) is to communicate or to teach truth. A Greek word for "unknown" is not found in any original Bible manuscripts, but was supplied by translators to indicate that the language was foreign to the majority present. The church at Corinth was a melting pot of many different nationalities, and sometimes the services became confusing when members would pray, testify, or preach in languages unknown to the others present. This is why Paul commanded them to keep silent, if speaking in a tongue unknown to the majority, unless someone was there to interpret (1 Corinthians 14:28). The lesson for us is that we should not speak or pray in a tongue that others present cannot understand. 13. What was one of the main characteristics of ancient Babylon? Genesis 11:7, 9. Let us go down, and there _______ their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. ... Therefore is the name of it called Babel. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The tower of Babel is the place where the languages of the world were first confounded. The Hebrew word for both Babel and Babylon is "babel," meaning "confusion." In Revelation 18, God calls His people out of spiritual Babylon. One of the characteristics of spiritual Babylon is a confusion of tongues. 14. Does the Spirit fill those who deliberately break God's commandments? John 14:15-17. If ye love me, keep my _____________. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, ... Even the Spirit of truth. Acts 5:32 The Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The tremendous power of the Holy Spirit cannot dwell in those who refuse to obey God's commandments. 15. Paul emphasized that we should desire which spiritual gift? 1 Corinthians 14:4, 5. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that __________ edifieth the church. ... Greater is he that ___________ than he that speaketh with tongues. 1 Corinthians 14:12 Forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: In spite of the fact that Paul attached greater importance to the gift of prophecy than to the gift of tongues, some are now teaching that every person who is filled with the Holy Spirit will speak in tongues. Out of more than 25 Bible examples of God filling His people with the Spirit, only three times is the gift of tongues connected with it. Of the 14 New Testament books written by the apostle Paul, he mentions tongues in only one--1 Corinthians. Of the 27 books in the New Testament, only three make any reference at all to speaking in tongues. 16. What is the main reason why God fills people with His Spirit? Acts 1:8. But ye shall receive __________, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me. Acts 4:31 They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: God fills us with His Spirit to give us power for witnessing! 17. Is it possible to tell whether or not a person has been filled with the Holy Spirit? Matthew 7:20. Wherefore by their ______ ye shall know them. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: We determine that a person has received the baptism of the Holy Spirit not by the gifts of the Spirit, but by the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22, 23). 18. How can I receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit? Luke 11:13. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ___ him? Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Just as Jesus had the Spirit without measure, we may ask God to fill our vessels to overflowing, but we must first be willing to empty ourselves by surrendering our hearts. 19. Jesus is waiting and yearning to pour the precious oil of the Holy Spirit into your life. Would you like to ask Him now to take possession of your mind and heart? 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.
    0 Comments 0 Shares 11 Views
  • Jeremiah 17:5-10
    Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the LORD. [6] For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, And shall not see when good comes, But shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, In a salt land which is not inhabited. [7] "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD. [8] For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit. [9] "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? [10] I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.
    Jeremiah 17:5-10 Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the LORD. [6] For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, And shall not see when good comes, But shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, In a salt land which is not inhabited. [7] "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD. [8] For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit. [9] "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? [10] I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.
    0 Comments 0 Shares 28 Views
  • •A Prayer for Timing*

    Author: Anthony Valente

    “He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
    (Acts 1:7-8 NLT)

    There are a million reasons I would like to race into the future and see what my daughter is going to do with her life so I know how best to prepare her for it. It would be nice if we had a time machine to see when relationships would work and when we need to prepare for the fallout of heartbreak. It’s difficult to open ourselves up to the possibility of friendship when we have no idea if it will work out long-term for us. We are always searching for a guarantee in life.

    Luke recorded the verses above to remind the disciples God holds the authority over all dates and times. “They are not for you to know,” he wrote! “Like other Jews, the disciples chafed under their Roman rulers. They wanted Jesus to free Israel from Roman power and then become their king,” The Life Application Bible explains, “Jesus replied that God the Father sets the timetable for all events — worldwide, national, and personal. If you want changes that God hasn’t yet made, don’t become impatient. Instead, trust His timetable.”

    Let’s pray today for the patience to wait on God’s perfect timing.

    Heavenly Father,
    Today we are reminded by Luke’s recording in the book of Acts, You alone have the authority over the timetable of our lives, and it is not for us to know. But, oh, God! How we long to see around the next corner and into a new season in our lives. We desperately want to fix things and know they will be ok. We long to fix people and know they will be ok!

    You are clear, Father, in your directives for our lives: we will be Your witnesses, telling people about Christ Jesus everywhere! And You supply us with the power of the Holy Spirit to walk out Your will in our lives.

    So, Father, although we cannot have the answers we want to see, we can hold on to the promise that Your plan for our lives is good. To the ends of the earth, we are to proclaim Your name and live our everyday lives to bring glory to Your name. Father, when our daily trials and tribulations are difficult to put at bay, snap our attention and re-focus our thoughts on You and Your purpose for each day of our lives.

    This is the day YOU have made. Help us to rejoice and be glad in it. Not when it’s over …not when it goes the way we wanted it to …but IN IT. Help us to rejoice and be glad, Father. We all spend way too much time frustrated over things we cannot change, cannot foresee, and we never meant to ponder on or provide solutions to. Let us be faithful to look to You in all things, on all days, and know the authority is Yours and Yours alone.

    Let us be sure of the direction You are leading us every day, God, and faithful to follow Your steps. Bless our day today, and let Your will reign over our lives. We trust and love You Lord.

    In Jesus’ Name, we pray,
    AMEN

    “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
    (2 Peter 3:8-9)

    “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
    (Mark 13:32)

    Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
    (Romans 12:12)

    “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
    (Proverbs 16:9)

    He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.
    (Daniel 2:21)

    “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens”
    (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

    But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
    (Romans 8:25)

    Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
    (Matthew 28:19)

    “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”
    (Proverbs 27:1)

    And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
    (Galatians 6:9)

    And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things. “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”
    (Luke 24:46-49)

    “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.”
    (Jeremiah 29:11-12)

    And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.
    (John 15:27)

    “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
    (Lamentations 3:25-26)

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
    (Proverbs 3:5-6)

    But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
    (Isaiah 40:31)

    “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
    (Revelation 22:12-13)

    “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.
    (Matthew 24:36)

    We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.
    (Romans 6:4-5)

    (pic verse)
    But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.
    (Luke 5:16)

    Artist
    I Am With You Always - David Delfeld
    •A Prayer for Timing* Author: Anthony Valente 👉 “He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:7-8 NLT) There are a million reasons I would like to race into the future and see what my daughter is going to do with her life so I know how best to prepare her for it. It would be nice if we had a time machine to see when relationships would work and when we need to prepare for the fallout of heartbreak. It’s difficult to open ourselves up to the possibility of friendship when we have no idea if it will work out long-term for us. We are always searching for a guarantee in life. Luke recorded the verses above to remind the disciples God holds the authority over all dates and times. “They are not for you to know,” he wrote! “Like other Jews, the disciples chafed under their Roman rulers. They wanted Jesus to free Israel from Roman power and then become their king,” The Life Application Bible explains, “Jesus replied that God the Father sets the timetable for all events — worldwide, national, and personal. If you want changes that God hasn’t yet made, don’t become impatient. Instead, trust His timetable.” Let’s pray today for the patience to wait on God’s perfect timing. ✝️ Heavenly Father, Today we are reminded by Luke’s recording in the book of Acts, You alone have the authority over the timetable of our lives, and it is not for us to know. But, oh, God! How we long to see around the next corner and into a new season in our lives. We desperately want to fix things and know they will be ok. We long to fix people and know they will be ok! You are clear, Father, in your directives for our lives: we will be Your witnesses, telling people about Christ Jesus everywhere! And You supply us with the power of the Holy Spirit to walk out Your will in our lives. So, Father, although we cannot have the answers we want to see, we can hold on to the promise that Your plan for our lives is good. To the ends of the earth, we are to proclaim Your name and live our everyday lives to bring glory to Your name. Father, when our daily trials and tribulations are difficult to put at bay, snap our attention and re-focus our thoughts on You and Your purpose for each day of our lives. This is the day YOU have made. Help us to rejoice and be glad in it. Not when it’s over …not when it goes the way we wanted it to …but IN IT. Help us to rejoice and be glad, Father. We all spend way too much time frustrated over things we cannot change, cannot foresee, and we never meant to ponder on or provide solutions to. Let us be faithful to look to You in all things, on all days, and know the authority is Yours and Yours alone. Let us be sure of the direction You are leading us every day, God, and faithful to follow Your steps. Bless our day today, and let Your will reign over our lives. We trust and love You Lord. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, AMEN 🙏 “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9) “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. (Mark 13:32) Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. (Romans 12:12) “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. (Daniel 2:21) “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:25) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19) “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” (Proverbs 27:1) And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9) And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things. “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” (Luke 24:46-49) “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29:11-12) And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning. (John 15:27) “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.” (Lamentations 3:25-26) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31) “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. (Revelation 22:12-13) “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. (Matthew 24:36) We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. (Romans 6:4-5) (pic verse) But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. (Luke 5:16) Artist 👨‍🎨 I Am With You Always - David Delfeld
    Like
    1
    0 Comments 0 Shares 21 Views
  • God has a beautiful purpose for your life, so stop feeling lost or purposeless.

    #Purpose #Faith #Encouragement #Jeremiah2911 #GodsPlan #Hope #Motivation #SpiritualGrowth #DailyBread #TrustGod
    🚶‍♂️🌅 God has a beautiful purpose for your life, so stop feeling lost or purposeless. #Purpose #Faith #Encouragement #Jeremiah2911 #GodsPlan #Hope #Motivation #SpiritualGrowth #DailyBread #TrustGod
    Like
    1
    0 Comments 0 Shares 145 Views
  • From; Brenda Walsh Ministries.
    Live Life . . . Now!

    Some people live in the past, always looking back at what “used to be” or wishing they could relive past experiences, either to correct their mistakes or just re-experience wonderful memories. Then there are those who live in the future, deciding that when they get the perfect job, find a spouse, have a baby, buy a house, or make a million dollars, then... they will be happy! Waiting for happiness based on some milestone you want to accomplish in the future will only make you miss out on all the joy that surrounds you today. The best way to enjoy this journey here on earth is to live your life now, in the present, deciding to live each day for Jesus! Smell the roses, breathe in fresh air, take in the beauty all around you, and appreciate the many blessings God gives you every day! If you are constantly living in the past or the future, you’ll miss out on everyday pleasures of life that only God can give. God wants you to live as if each day was your last, but plan for the future! There’s a big difference between “waiting” for the future and “planning” for the future. Live life . . .now - in the present - and live your life with Jesus as your example! When you focus on Jesus and never take your eyes off of Him . . . you are planning for your future, which is eternity with Jesus Christ your Lord. Text: Proverbs 16:1-4, 1 Peter 1:3-4, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Jeremiah 29:11, 1 Corinthians 2:9-10
    From; Brenda Walsh Ministries. Live Life . . . Now! Some people live in the past, always looking back at what “used to be” or wishing they could relive past experiences, either to correct their mistakes or just re-experience wonderful memories. Then there are those who live in the future, deciding that when they get the perfect job, find a spouse, have a baby, buy a house, or make a million dollars, then... they will be happy! Waiting for happiness based on some milestone you want to accomplish in the future will only make you miss out on all the joy that surrounds you today. The best way to enjoy this journey here on earth is to live your life now, in the present, deciding to live each day for Jesus! Smell the roses, breathe in fresh air, take in the beauty all around you, and appreciate the many blessings God gives you every day! If you are constantly living in the past or the future, you’ll miss out on everyday pleasures of life that only God can give. God wants you to live as if each day was your last, but plan for the future! There’s a big difference between “waiting” for the future and “planning” for the future. Live life . . .now - in the present - and live your life with Jesus as your example! When you focus on Jesus and never take your eyes off of Him . . . you are planning for your future, which is eternity with Jesus Christ your Lord. Text: Proverbs 16:1-4, 1 Peter 1:3-4, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Jeremiah 29:11, 1 Corinthians 2:9-10
    0 Comments 0 Shares 6 Views
  • STORACALS OF PROPHECY #22
    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.

    Proving the Prophets.

    Ahab, the wicked king of Israel, wanted to recapture the town of Ramoth-gilead from the Syrians. But he needed help, so he asked good King Jehoshaphat of Judah to join his campaign against their common enemy. Jehoshaphat said he was willing to join forces with Ahab, but that they should first seek God's counsel. Ahab had forsaken the Lord years earlier to worship the pagan god Baal, so he called in 400 hired prophets to come before the two monarchs. With dramatic display, these false prophets said, "Go and fight the Syrians, and you will be victorious!" But King Jehoshaphat requested to hear from a true prophet of the Lord. Ahab said that there was one prophet of Jehovah left whose name was Micaiah, but he added, "I hate him for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil." Verse 8. At Jehoshaphat's insistence, Ahab reluctantly sent a servant to fetch Micaiah. The brave prophet came and made a very unpopular prediction. He told Ahab that he would die in the battle with Syria. Now Ahab faced a tough decision. Should he believe 400 prophets who say nice things, or one lone prophet of the Lord? Stubborn King Ahab persuaded Jehoshaphat to disregard the warnings of the prophet Micaiah and join him in the war. He thought he could outsmart the Lord by dressing in full armor and avoiding the front lines of battle. But Ahab learned too late that you can never escape the Word of God. During the battle, a stray arrow flying through the air struck Ahab in the joints of his armor, and he bled to death in his chariot. Jesus warned that there will be many false prophets in the last days (Matthew 24:11). That is why we must know how to distinguish the true from the counterfeit. It may be a matter of life or death!

    1. To whom does the Lord reveal His final plans?

    Amos 3:7. Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the _______.

    Answer : ____________________

    2. Will there be both true and false prophets in the last days?

    Matthew 24:11. And many _______ prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.

    Acts 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Yes, there will be both true and false prophets in the end time. The Scriptures also teach that prophets can be either men or women.

    3. What types of false prophets are specifically condemned in the Bible?

    Deuteronomy 18:10. "One ... that useth ________ [fortune teller]." Deuteronomy 18:10.

    "An observer of times [astrologer]." Deuteronomy 18:10.

    "An enchanter [magician]." Deuteronomy 18:10.

    "A witch [female psychic]." Deuteronomy 18:10.

    "A charmer [person who casts spells or charms]." Deuteronomy 18:11.

    "A consulter with familiar spirits [spirit medium]." Deuteronomy 18:11.

    "A wizard [male psychic]." Deuteronomy 18:11.

    "A necromancer [person who claims to consult with the dead]." Deuteronomy 18:11.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Deuteronomy 18:9-12 says that all who do these things are an "abomination" to the Lord. For this reason, Christians should have nothing to do with them.

    4. Will God's end-time church have the gift of prophecy?

    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 commandments of God, and have the ______________ of Jesus Christ.

    Revelation 19:10 I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the __________ of Jesus: worship God: for the __________ of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: As we learned in Lesson 17, God's end-time remnant church has "the testimony of Jesus," which is "the spirit of prophecy." By comparing Revelation 19:10 and 22:9, we see that the angel defines John's "brethren" that have the spirit of prophecy as "the prophets" and "them which keep the sayings of this book." In 1 Corinthians 1:5-8, Paul writes that the church will have "the testimony of Christ" and will "come behind in no gift" until Jesus' second coming. So God's last-day church will indeed still have the gift of prophecy.

    5. In what ways does God speak to a true prophet?

    Numbers 12:6, 8. If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a _______, and will speak unto him in a dream. ... With him will I speak mouth to mouth.

    Zechariah 4:1 And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The Lord speaks to His prophets by visions, in dreams, face to face, and through angels. Crystal balls, palm readings, tea leaf deciphering, star gazing, and claiming to talk with the dead are not God's methods of communicating with a prophet.

    6. Are miracles definite evidence of a true prophet?

    Revelation 16:14. For they are the spirits of _______, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: No, miracles are not proof that someone is a true prophet. They prove only one thing--supernatural power. But supernatural power may come either from God or from Satan. That is why the Lord tells us: "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." 1 John 4:1.

    7. What is the most important test of a prophet?

    Isaiah 8:20. To the ______ and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: The "law and the testimony" was an Old Testament expression for "Bible." In other words, a message from someone who claims to have a prophetic utterance from God must be compared with the Bible. We must test the prophet by the Bible, and not the Bible by the prophet. Any true prophet of God will always agree 100 percent with Scripture. This is the true test.

    8. What is the second test of a prophet?

    1 John 4:2. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that _______ Christ is come in the flesh is of God.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: A prophet of God must acknowledge and teach the truth about Jesus Christ--that He was God in human form. True prophets must also exalt Jesus, not themselves. Most false prophets seek to draw attention away from God's Word and to their own ideas.

    9. What is the third test of a prophet?

    Matthew 7:16. Ye shall know them by their _________.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: This does not mean that the prophet will be perfect. God's prophets have always had faults. However, there must be consistency between what true prophets teach and the lives they live.

    10. What is the fourth test of a prophet?

    Jeremiah 28:9. When the word of the prophet shall come to _____, then shall the prophet be known, that the Lord hath truly sent him.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: A true prophet will not make false predictions. If a prophet is of God, the things he or she says will come to pass. However, accuracy alone does not automatically qualify a person as a true prophet. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns that false prophets can give signs that will come to pass and then use their influence to lead people to follow other gods. A true prophet must lead people to worship God according to the Bible.

    11. What three things does Paul command regarding prophecy?

    1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21. Despise not prophesyings. _______ all things; hold fast that which is good.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: Paul says that we are not to despise, or reject, the gift of prophecy. Rather, we must test a prophet's messages by Scripture and follow what is good and true.

    12. Whose counsel do we reject when we reject the words of a true prophet?

    Luke 7:28-30. There is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: ... And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified __________. ... But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of ___ against themselves.

    Answer : ____________________

    NOTE: When we reject the words of a true prophet, we reject the counsel of God. A solemn thought! The Bible tells us to listen to God's prophets and promises that all who follow the counsel of a true prophet will prosper.

    2 Chronicles 20:20 Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

    13. Since God still speaks through prophets, and since a true prophet's words are the personal "testimony of Jesus" to you, are you willing to test modern prophets by the Bible and follow the counsel of those who agree with Scripture?

    Answer : ____________________

    Supplemental Study

    Modern-Day Prophet
    In December of 1844, a group of young Methodist ladies were kneeling in prayer in Portland, Maine, when Ellen Harmona 17-year-old girl in frail health received her first vision. As Ellen (who became Ellen White after her marriage to a young minister named James White) related what God had revealed to her, she continued to receive visions and dreams for about 70 years until her death in 1915.

    As was true for the biblical prophets, certain supernatural physical phenomena accompanied Ellen White during her visions. Like the prophet Daniel, she did not breathe while in vision and often initially lost physical strength (Daniel 10:8, 17). Some of her visions lasted as long as four hours, but she did not breathe the entire time. Doctors who examined her while she was in vision attested to this fact.

    At other times, she was also given supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19). Though Ellen weighed only 95 pounds, witnesses saw her hold a 17-pound family Bible in her outstretched hand for 30 minutes while in vision. These and other physical phenomena indicate that there is something supernatural about the experience of a prophet. However, they do not tell us whether the prophet is from God or from Satan. When faced with a supernatural claim to the prophetic gift, Christians must test the claim by the Bible to see if it is true.

    Applying the Four Biblical Tests
    Let's look together to see whether or not the life and ministry of Ellen White meet the four biblical tests of a true prophet.

    First Test - Harmony with Scriptures
    Read any one of Ellen White's books, and you will discover that it consistently leads you to the Bible and is in total agreement with Scripture. However, she did not regard her writings as an addition to Scripture. Their purpose was to call the attention of God's people to the Bible and bring them back to the Bible as the only source of truth. Notice Ellen White's emphatic declaration that the Bible is the only rule of faith: "In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle - the Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty."1

    She also wrote: "The written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man's duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God's word yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse."2

    Although Ellen White emphatically stressed that her writings were never to be considered part of the Bible, they are nonetheless inspired. Many of God's greatest prophets such as Elijah, Elisha, and John the Baptist were inspired, yet they did not write any books of the Bible. Ellen White's writings may be described as a lesser light to lead to the greater light, the Bible. They act as an inspired commentary on Scripture, but the Bible is still the supreme authority.

    Second Test - Teach the Truth About Jesus
    Ellen White's bookssuch as The Desire of Ages, Christ's Object Lessons, Steps to Christ, and Thoughts from the Mount of Blessingall testify to her fulfillment of this test. She says nothing of herself in these volumes, but constantly points others to Jesus.

    Third Test - A Godly Life
    The press, commenting on the death of Ellen White, said: "The life of Mrs. White is an example worthy of emulation by all. ... She was a humble, devout disciple of Christ, and ever went about doing good. ... She was honored and respected by all who appreciate noble womanhood consecrated to unselfish labor for the uplifting and betterment of mankind. Her death marks the calling of another noted leader of religious thought and one whose almost ninety years were full to overflowing with good deeds, kind words, and earnest prayers for all mankind."3

    Fourth Test - Accurate Prophecies
    The few prophecies of the future made by Ellen White can be easily validated. The following prediction reads like this morning's newspaper, but was written before most modern means of travel were invented. "Disasters by rail will become more and more frequent confusion, collision, and death without a moment's warning will occur on the great lines of travel."4

    Ellen White lived during a time when doctors advocated smoking to benefit the lungs. Varying medical opinions existed, but no real scientific proof was available. Nutrition was an unknown science. Yet in this setting, Ellen White wrote volumes in the field of health and nutrition. Dr. Clive McCay, former professor of nutrition at Cornell University, confirmed the accuracy of Ellen White's writings in the field of nutrition: "In spite of the fact that the works of Mrs. White were written long before the advent of modern scientific nutrition, no better overall guide is available today."5

    The Bible predicted that in the last days the prophetic gift would appear. Evidence declares that Ellen White met every Bible specification for a true prophet. We would encourage you to obtain and read some of her writings and follow the biblical injunction to "despise not prophesyings. Prove all things hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.

    1The Great Controversy (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1950), p. 204, 205.

    2 Testimonies for the Church (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1949), Vol. 2, p. 605.

    3 Star (St. Helena, California), July 23, 1915.

    4 Messages to Young People (Washington, DC: Review and Herald, 1930), p. 90 (reprinted from article in The Signs of the Times, April 21, 1890).

    5 Clive M. McCay, "A Nutritional Authority Discusses Mrs. E.G. White," Review and Herald, February 26, 1959, p. 10.

    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 #22 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. Proving the Prophets. Ahab, the wicked king of Israel, wanted to recapture the town of Ramoth-gilead from the Syrians. But he needed help, so he asked good King Jehoshaphat of Judah to join his campaign against their common enemy. Jehoshaphat said he was willing to join forces with Ahab, but that they should first seek God's counsel. Ahab had forsaken the Lord years earlier to worship the pagan god Baal, so he called in 400 hired prophets to come before the two monarchs. With dramatic display, these false prophets said, "Go and fight the Syrians, and you will be victorious!" But King Jehoshaphat requested to hear from a true prophet of the Lord. Ahab said that there was one prophet of Jehovah left whose name was Micaiah, but he added, "I hate him for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil." Verse 8. At Jehoshaphat's insistence, Ahab reluctantly sent a servant to fetch Micaiah. The brave prophet came and made a very unpopular prediction. He told Ahab that he would die in the battle with Syria. Now Ahab faced a tough decision. Should he believe 400 prophets who say nice things, or one lone prophet of the Lord? Stubborn King Ahab persuaded Jehoshaphat to disregard the warnings of the prophet Micaiah and join him in the war. He thought he could outsmart the Lord by dressing in full armor and avoiding the front lines of battle. But Ahab learned too late that you can never escape the Word of God. During the battle, a stray arrow flying through the air struck Ahab in the joints of his armor, and he bled to death in his chariot. Jesus warned that there will be many false prophets in the last days (Matthew 24:11). That is why we must know how to distinguish the true from the counterfeit. It may be a matter of life or death! 1. To whom does the Lord reveal His final plans? Amos 3:7. Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the _______. Answer : ____________________ 2. Will there be both true and false prophets in the last days? Matthew 24:11. And many _______ prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. Acts 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Yes, there will be both true and false prophets in the end time. The Scriptures also teach that prophets can be either men or women. 3. What types of false prophets are specifically condemned in the Bible? Deuteronomy 18:10. "One ... that useth ________ [fortune teller]." Deuteronomy 18:10. "An observer of times [astrologer]." Deuteronomy 18:10. "An enchanter [magician]." Deuteronomy 18:10. "A witch [female psychic]." Deuteronomy 18:10. "A charmer [person who casts spells or charms]." Deuteronomy 18:11. "A consulter with familiar spirits [spirit medium]." Deuteronomy 18:11. "A wizard [male psychic]." Deuteronomy 18:11. "A necromancer [person who claims to consult with the dead]." Deuteronomy 18:11. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Deuteronomy 18:9-12 says that all who do these things are an "abomination" to the Lord. For this reason, Christians should have nothing to do with them. 4. Will God's end-time church have the gift of prophecy? 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 commandments of God, and have the ______________ of Jesus Christ. Revelation 19:10 I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the __________ of Jesus: worship God: for the __________ of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: As we learned in Lesson 17, God's end-time remnant church has "the testimony of Jesus," which is "the spirit of prophecy." By comparing Revelation 19:10 and 22:9, we see that the angel defines John's "brethren" that have the spirit of prophecy as "the prophets" and "them which keep the sayings of this book." In 1 Corinthians 1:5-8, Paul writes that the church will have "the testimony of Christ" and will "come behind in no gift" until Jesus' second coming. So God's last-day church will indeed still have the gift of prophecy. 5. In what ways does God speak to a true prophet? Numbers 12:6, 8. If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a _______, and will speak unto him in a dream. ... With him will I speak mouth to mouth. Zechariah 4:1 And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The Lord speaks to His prophets by visions, in dreams, face to face, and through angels. Crystal balls, palm readings, tea leaf deciphering, star gazing, and claiming to talk with the dead are not God's methods of communicating with a prophet. 6. Are miracles definite evidence of a true prophet? Revelation 16:14. For they are the spirits of _______, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: No, miracles are not proof that someone is a true prophet. They prove only one thing--supernatural power. But supernatural power may come either from God or from Satan. That is why the Lord tells us: "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." 1 John 4:1. 7. What is the most important test of a prophet? Isaiah 8:20. To the ______ and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: The "law and the testimony" was an Old Testament expression for "Bible." In other words, a message from someone who claims to have a prophetic utterance from God must be compared with the Bible. We must test the prophet by the Bible, and not the Bible by the prophet. Any true prophet of God will always agree 100 percent with Scripture. This is the true test. 8. What is the second test of a prophet? 1 John 4:2. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that _______ Christ is come in the flesh is of God. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: A prophet of God must acknowledge and teach the truth about Jesus Christ--that He was God in human form. True prophets must also exalt Jesus, not themselves. Most false prophets seek to draw attention away from God's Word and to their own ideas. 9. What is the third test of a prophet? Matthew 7:16. Ye shall know them by their _________. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: This does not mean that the prophet will be perfect. God's prophets have always had faults. However, there must be consistency between what true prophets teach and the lives they live. 10. What is the fourth test of a prophet? Jeremiah 28:9. When the word of the prophet shall come to _____, then shall the prophet be known, that the Lord hath truly sent him. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: A true prophet will not make false predictions. If a prophet is of God, the things he or she says will come to pass. However, accuracy alone does not automatically qualify a person as a true prophet. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns that false prophets can give signs that will come to pass and then use their influence to lead people to follow other gods. A true prophet must lead people to worship God according to the Bible. 11. What three things does Paul command regarding prophecy? 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21. Despise not prophesyings. _______ all things; hold fast that which is good. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: Paul says that we are not to despise, or reject, the gift of prophecy. Rather, we must test a prophet's messages by Scripture and follow what is good and true. 12. Whose counsel do we reject when we reject the words of a true prophet? Luke 7:28-30. There is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: ... And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified __________. ... But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of ___ against themselves. Answer : ____________________ NOTE: When we reject the words of a true prophet, we reject the counsel of God. A solemn thought! The Bible tells us to listen to God's prophets and promises that all who follow the counsel of a true prophet will prosper. 2 Chronicles 20:20 Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper. 13. Since God still speaks through prophets, and since a true prophet's words are the personal "testimony of Jesus" to you, are you willing to test modern prophets by the Bible and follow the counsel of those who agree with Scripture? Answer : ____________________ Supplemental Study Modern-Day Prophet In December of 1844, a group of young Methodist ladies were kneeling in prayer in Portland, Maine, when Ellen Harmona 17-year-old girl in frail health received her first vision. As Ellen (who became Ellen White after her marriage to a young minister named James White) related what God had revealed to her, she continued to receive visions and dreams for about 70 years until her death in 1915. As was true for the biblical prophets, certain supernatural physical phenomena accompanied Ellen White during her visions. Like the prophet Daniel, she did not breathe while in vision and often initially lost physical strength (Daniel 10:8, 17). Some of her visions lasted as long as four hours, but she did not breathe the entire time. Doctors who examined her while she was in vision attested to this fact. At other times, she was also given supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19). Though Ellen weighed only 95 pounds, witnesses saw her hold a 17-pound family Bible in her outstretched hand for 30 minutes while in vision. These and other physical phenomena indicate that there is something supernatural about the experience of a prophet. However, they do not tell us whether the prophet is from God or from Satan. When faced with a supernatural claim to the prophetic gift, Christians must test the claim by the Bible to see if it is true. Applying the Four Biblical Tests Let's look together to see whether or not the life and ministry of Ellen White meet the four biblical tests of a true prophet. First Test - Harmony with Scriptures Read any one of Ellen White's books, and you will discover that it consistently leads you to the Bible and is in total agreement with Scripture. However, she did not regard her writings as an addition to Scripture. Their purpose was to call the attention of God's people to the Bible and bring them back to the Bible as the only source of truth. Notice Ellen White's emphatic declaration that the Bible is the only rule of faith: "In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle - the Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty."1 She also wrote: "The written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man's duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God's word yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse."2 Although Ellen White emphatically stressed that her writings were never to be considered part of the Bible, they are nonetheless inspired. Many of God's greatest prophets such as Elijah, Elisha, and John the Baptist were inspired, yet they did not write any books of the Bible. Ellen White's writings may be described as a lesser light to lead to the greater light, the Bible. They act as an inspired commentary on Scripture, but the Bible is still the supreme authority. Second Test - Teach the Truth About Jesus Ellen White's bookssuch as The Desire of Ages, Christ's Object Lessons, Steps to Christ, and Thoughts from the Mount of Blessingall testify to her fulfillment of this test. She says nothing of herself in these volumes, but constantly points others to Jesus. Third Test - A Godly Life The press, commenting on the death of Ellen White, said: "The life of Mrs. White is an example worthy of emulation by all. ... She was a humble, devout disciple of Christ, and ever went about doing good. ... She was honored and respected by all who appreciate noble womanhood consecrated to unselfish labor for the uplifting and betterment of mankind. Her death marks the calling of another noted leader of religious thought and one whose almost ninety years were full to overflowing with good deeds, kind words, and earnest prayers for all mankind."3 Fourth Test - Accurate Prophecies The few prophecies of the future made by Ellen White can be easily validated. The following prediction reads like this morning's newspaper, but was written before most modern means of travel were invented. "Disasters by rail will become more and more frequent confusion, collision, and death without a moment's warning will occur on the great lines of travel."4 Ellen White lived during a time when doctors advocated smoking to benefit the lungs. Varying medical opinions existed, but no real scientific proof was available. Nutrition was an unknown science. Yet in this setting, Ellen White wrote volumes in the field of health and nutrition. Dr. Clive McCay, former professor of nutrition at Cornell University, confirmed the accuracy of Ellen White's writings in the field of nutrition: "In spite of the fact that the works of Mrs. White were written long before the advent of modern scientific nutrition, no better overall guide is available today."5 The Bible predicted that in the last days the prophetic gift would appear. Evidence declares that Ellen White met every Bible specification for a true prophet. We would encourage you to obtain and read some of her writings and follow the biblical injunction to "despise not prophesyings. Prove all things hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21. 1The Great Controversy (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1950), p. 204, 205. 2 Testimonies for the Church (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1949), Vol. 2, p. 605. 3 Star (St. Helena, California), July 23, 1915. 4 Messages to Young People (Washington, DC: Review and Herald, 1930), p. 90 (reprinted from article in The Signs of the Times, April 21, 1890). 5 Clive M. McCay, "A Nutritional Authority Discusses Mrs. E.G. White," Review and Herald, February 26, 1959, p. 10. 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.
    0 Comments 0 Shares 9 Views
More Results