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LESSON 11
Peter on the Great Controversy
March 5-11
Study this week's lesson to prepare for Sabbath, March 12.
Memory Text: "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special
people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His
marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9, NKJV).
Peter's writings abound with the great-controversy theme. Maybe that's because he knew for
himself, better than most, how easy it is to fall for Satan's deceptions. Thus, he was keenly aware
of how real the struggle is. After all, it was Peter who wrote: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your
adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Pet. 5:8,
NKJV).
Peter sees the struggle unfolding in various ways. He sees a struggle going on in the church, which
includes those who once fellowshiped with the believers but who are now cynical and dismissive of
God and of any thought of Christ's return. He speaks strongly, and powerfully, against the scoffers,
because if faith in the promise of Christ's return were to be lost, what hope remains?
Again, maybe Peter affirms faith so positively because of his own failures. He knows what it is
like to scoff and deny and try to fit in with the crowd so that others would not condemn him for
being a follower of Jesus. Hence his emphasis on how crucial it is for believers to live a life
reflective and worthy of their high calling and election in the Lord.
SUNDAY
Darkness to Light
March 6
Read 1 Peter 2:9-10. How is the great controversy seen in these two verses?
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people,
that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous
light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy
but now have obtained mercy.
9. Chosen generation. Gr. genos eklekton, “elect kind,” “chosen people.” The “corner stone” is also said to be “chosen”
(eklekton, 1 Peter 2:4, 6; cf. Rev. 17:14). The Jewish nation was once “chosen” to represent God on earth (see Vol. IV, pp. 26, 27; see
on Isa. 43:10), but because of unbelief and hardness of heart they lost their favored position (see Vol. IV, pp. 30, 31). Peter here
declares that God has now assigned the privileges and responsibilities of the Jewish nation to the Christian community, not as a
national group, but as a people called out of every nation to constitute one spiritual entity, one great family, throughout the world
(see on Gal. 3:28). The former special status of literal Israel has been revoked (see Vol. IV, pp. 35, 36). Royal priesthood. A
quotation from the LXX of Ex. 19:6 (see comment there), where the same Greek expression (basileion hierateuma) is used. Compare
on Rev. 1:6, where textual evidence attests the reading “a kingdom, priests.” As priests, Christians are to offer to God the “spiritual
sacrifices” mentioned in 1 Peter 2:5; they also offer themselves as living sacrifices (see on Rom. 12:1), a body of believers completely
dedicated to God. They need no human priest serving as mediator between them and God, for there is but one Mediator between God
and man, Jesus Christ (see on Heb. 7:17, 7:24–28; cf. ch. 4:16). Holy nation. As God set the Jewish nation apart to bear witness to
the principles of His government (see on Deut. 7:6), so He later called the Christian church to be a “holy nation” to represent Him on
earth (see Vol. IV, pp. 35, 36). Peculiar. Gr. peripoiēsis, “possession,” “[one’s] own property,” literally, “an acquisition” (see on
Eph. 1:14). Compare the related verb, peripoieō, “to acquire [for oneself],” “to preserve [for oneself].” The English word
“peculiar,” which properly means “belonging to an individual,” “privately owned,” “one’s own,” is from the Latin peculiaris,
“one’s own,” “belonging particularly to oneself,” “special.” The use of “peculiar” to mean “queer” or “eccentric” is colloquial,
and the idea that Peter so characterizes God’s people here is not justified by the Greek word peripoiēsis (see on Deut. 14:2). The
expression translated “peculiar people” reads, literally, “a people into possession,” meaning “a people whom God has come into
possession of,” or “a people God has acquired for Himself,” “a people that belongs to God.” See on Ex. 19:5; Deut. 7:6; Mal. 3:17.
Christ has acquired the church and considers it to be in a special sense His own purchased possession (see on Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:14).
Shew forth. Literally, “proclaim abroad.” Praises. Gr. aretai, “excellences,” “perfections,” with emphasis on these qualities
actively manifested in deeds. Reference here is to God’s glorious character, abounding love, and gracious provision for the salvation
of sinners (see Ex. 34:6, 7). God acquired the church as His own special possession in order that its members might reflect His
precious traits of character in their own lives and proclaim His goodness and mercy to all men. By the winsomeness of a Christlike
personality and the compassion of Christlike deeds Christians are to reveal God to the world as Jesus did (see on 2 Cor. 2:14–16).
Darkness. The Scriptures speak of the “darkness of this world” (Eph. 6:12) and the “works of darkness” (Rom. 13:12), which are
“unfruitful” (Eph. 5:11). God’s people are not “in darkness” (1 Thess. 5:4), because they have been called from it (see on John 1:5).
Marvellous. Or, “wonderful,” “astonishing.” Light. A term descriptive of truth (Matt. 4:16; Luke 11:35) and of those who abide in
it (Matt. 5:14; Acts 13:47; Eph. 5:8). Jesus Christ (see on John 1:4, 5, 9; 8:12) and the Father (1 John 1:5) are the source of all light.
The light of truth dispels the darkness of ignorance, and is thus a Biblical symbol of the presence and guidance of God (see on John
1:4, 7).1
A POSSIBLE ANSWER: The great controversy theme is seen here in that God has a people/nation
who has responded to His call to choose His marvelous light instead of the enemy of Christ and
darkness.
These verses come from Exodus 19:6, "'a kingdom of priests and a holy
nation'" (NKJV); and Deuteronomy 7:6, (repeated in Deut. 14:2) "a holy people," "chosen . . . to be
a people for Himself," and "a special treasure" (NKJV). These assurances were, of course, given
during the Exodus, when God's people were being released from slavery and on the way to the
Promised Land. Peter sees a parallel between the people of God during the Exodus and the church
in his day.
Thus, Peter's words are not a description of the end product but, rather, of a work in progress.
Yes, we have been chosen and elected by Him, and we are to publicly praise God for bringing us
out of the darkness that Satan has engulfed the world in. But that doesn't make us perfect or mean
that we have somehow arrived (see Phil. 3:12). On the contrary, awareness of our own sinfulness
and shortcomings is a crucial aspect of what it means to follow Jesus and to sense our need for His
righteousness in our own lives.
"It is thus that every sinner may come to Christ. 'Not by works of righteousness which we have
done, but according to His mercy He saved us.' Titus 3:5. When Satan tells you that you are a
sinner, and cannot hope to receive blessing from God, tell him that Christ came into the world to
save sinners. We have nothing to recommend us to God; but the plea that we may urge now and
ever is our utterly helpless condition that makes His redeeming power a necessity. Renouncing all
self-dependence, we may look to the cross of Calvary and say,-'In my hand no price I bring;/ Simply
to Thy cross I cling.'"-Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 317.
One sure way we know that we have been called "out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Pet.
2:9, NKJV) is our awareness of just how dependent we are upon Christ, "who has become for us
wisdom from God-that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption" (1 Cor. 1:30, NIV).
What goes through your head when you feel overwhelmed and discouraged by your deeds and even
your own character? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Initially, maybe like giving up. I can’t make it. I’ve
disappointed God again. A failure....Unworthy.... Miserable.
How do you deal with those
thoughts when they come? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: I deal with those thoughts by looking to Jesus to
behold Him is His mercy and grace. Confessing my failure and pleading for forgiveness. Recalling His
promises and purposing to stand in His righteousness. How can you turn these times to your own
spiritual advantage? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Using them a beacons of warning. See them as
opportunities to rediscover God’s heart and character. Build on them by using them to get closer to
Christ. Graft them into my testimony as a witness for Jesus to help others.
MONDAY
Peer Pressure
March 7
Read 1 Peter 4:1-7. Why are our lifestyle choices important, and how do they affect our readiness
for Christ's return?
1
Nichol, F. D. (Ed.). (1980). The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary (Vol. 7, pp. 561–562). Review and Herald
Publishing Association.
1 Peter 4:1 – 7 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the
same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 that he no longer should
live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. 3 For we have
spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness,
lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. 4 In regard to these,
they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil
of you.
Think it strange. Because the unconverted are usually blind to the supreme advantages and blessings of the Christian way of life, they
are astonished that their erstwhile associates, now Christian, avoid the former pattern of life. On the premise that man finds his only
satisfaction and happiness in this world, the life of the non-Christian is one unceasing quest for pleasure through the gratification of
physical desire. To deny the natural desires, whether in eating, drinking, or sensual indulgence, is incomprehensible folly to such
people. However, the Christian is “to keep himself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27), for “the friendship of the world is enmity
with God” (ch. 4:4). Consequently, believers should “marvel not” “if the world” hates them (1 John 3:13).
5 They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this
reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according
to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
6. For this cause. The first clause of this verse may be rendered, “For to this [end] even the dead were gospelized.” Every man
will be judged on the basis of his personal response to the measure of truth that has come to him. Might be judged. See on John
5:29; 2 Cor. 5:10; Heb. 9:27. They could not be held accountable for the gospel if they had never heard it (see on Eze. 3:18–20; John
3:19; 15:22; Acts 17:30; James 4:17; cf. Luke 23:34; 1 Tim. 1:13). According to. Those who have died will be judged on the basis
of how they lived in this life. They will be judged on the same basis as the “quick,” that is, the living, who are mentioned in v. 5.
Serving for God’s Glory
7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your
prayers.
Sober. Gr. sōphroneō, “to be of sound mind,” “to exercise self-control” (see on Rom. 12:3; Titus 2:4, 5; cf. on 1 Thess. 5:6).
Even though the return of Christ draws ever nearer, men are not to use this knowledge of what is soon to take place as an excuse for
neglecting their responsibilities. To the very last, Christians are to remain at their posts, faithfully performing their duties. Our Lord
commands, “Occupy till I come” (Luke 19:13).
Watch. Gr. nēphō, “to be sober,” that is, to refrain from intoxicants (see on 1 Thess. 5:6). Peter advises his readers to be
vigilant, in view of coming events (see on Matt. 24:42, 44).
A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Our lifestyle choices are important because they express which kingdom we
are off and are a means of expressing our natures and can feed either the spiritual or carnal mind.
Every action directly impacts negatively or positively the condition of the heart. Further, choices
reflect values and who is ‘lord’ in the life. They bring glory to God or to Satan. Lastly, because choices
are expressed in actions, they affect our readiness for Christ return in that our lifestyle choices reflect
obedience or disobedience to God’s will. Readiness for Christ return is dependent of the condition of
our hearts and our removal all that offends God or is not representative of His character and
kingdom.
Peter comments that believers have already spent enough of their lives doing what others around
them pressured them to do (1 Pet. 4:3). But now things have changed, and believers may be
thought "strange" for not joining the crowd, possibly resulting in malicious gossip being spread
about them (1 Pet. 4:4, NKJV). Thus, Satan will even use former friends to try to discourage us in
our walk with God.
Peter encourages believers not to be intimidated by these assaults. The "Gentiles" will need to
give an account of themselves to God, who alone is judge, so there is no need to worry about what
they think (1 Pet. 4:5).
His point is crucial. How many people do you know who have buckled under the pressure of other
people's expectations, rather than standing up for what they believe? This is especially tough on
young people, who struggle with what is known as "peer pressure."
Instead of us being concerned about being accepted by others, and conforming to their
opinions and their demands and their expectations of us, Peter admonishes believers to be
kind and loving to those we come in contact with (1 Pet. 4:8-9, NKJV). This is not just an added
extra, some additional duty we must fit into our Christian to-do list. Rather, it is the most
important thing we do and the most important way of interacting with people around us. Maybe
that is why Peter suggests that we need to get serious in our prayers (1 Pet. 4:7), because God
knows that sometimes we can be more serious about pleasing the "Gentiles" than relating lovingly
and kindly to those close to us. We need to pray not only for them, but also that we would allow
God to make us more sensitive to their concerns. As "a royal generation and a holy priesthood,"
we are called to influence them for the good, as opposed to allowing them to influence us for
the bad. The tragic history of Israel was just that: the pagans, instead of being influenced for good
by Israel, influenced Israel for evil.
What kind of peer pressures do you face? POSSIBLE ANSWER: Conforming to those we want to
please, friends, in-laws, societal norms and colleagues.
How can you resist? POSSIBLE ANSWER: Praying for strength. Determining to use the power
available to us through the Holy Spirit. By being transformed through the Word of the Lord.
In what ways are the words "overcome evil with good" (Rom. 12:21) so appropriate in such
situations? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: That prescription serves as a catalyst for action and objective to
mold one’s approach to relationships with non-believers. It will help us keep in focus the higher goal
of Gods kingdom and stewards, thus enabling us to not be conformed to the world around us.
TUESDAY
The More Sure Word of Prophecy
March 8
Read 2 Peter 1:16-21. What is he saying about prophecy that's so important?
2 Peter 1:16 – 21 The Trustworthy Prophetic Word 16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables
when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were
eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a
voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well
pleased.” 18 And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy
mountain. 19 And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light
that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts;
A more sure word of prophecy. Rather, “the prophetic word made more sure.” In large measure Peter and his companions derived
their firm convictions concerning the mission of Christ from the way in which His life fulfilled OT prophecies (cf. Acts 2:22–36; 3:18;
4:10, 11, 23–28; etc.). This knowledge, added to their personal acquaintance with the Lord during His earthly ministry (cf. 1 John 1:1–
3), gave them an unshakable basis for their Christian faith. They spent their lives sharing that faith with others, and thus built up the
early church. Christ’s representatives today have the same mission to fulfill.
20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for
prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the
Holy Spirit.
20. Knowing this first. That is, when the Christian comes to study the prophetic word he should constantly keep in mind the basic
principle that the apostle now enunciates. Prophecy of the scripture. Peter here refers to the writings of the OT, possibly
distinguishing between the inspired word and the utterances of the false prophets of whom he treats in ch. 2. Private interpretation.
Or, “one’s own interpretation,” referring to the prophet who originally gave the prophecy. The prophet was the Holy Spirit’s
mouthpiece, and thus under divine guidance. He was not to intrude his own ideas into the messages that were given him for the benefit
of God’s people. The same principle holds true in a study of the prophecies—the reader should strive to understand the Spirit-inspired
meaning of the passage under consideration. 21. For the prophecy. Rather, “for prophecy.” Peter speaks of prophecy in general,
not of some particular passage. For comment on “prophecy” see on Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:10. In old time. Gr. pote, “formerly,”
“ever,” here meaning in OT times.
By the will of man. True prophecy is a revelation from God. The initiative comes from God. He
decides what shall be revealed and what shall remain concealed. Unless the Holy Spirit impresses the mind, man is incapable of
prophesying—of speaking forth for God—no matter how ardently he may wish to do so. Holy men of God spake. Important textual
evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for the reading “men spoke from God,” that is, men who were moved by the Holy Spirit spoke the
messages they had received from God. Men who are moved by the Holy Spirit will be holy men, men of God. Whichever reading is
adopted the meaning is virtually the same. Moved. Gr. pherō, here used in the passive sense, “to be conveyed,” “to be borne,” with
a suggestion, perhaps, of speed or force, as by wind. In Acts 27:15, 17 the word is used for the driving of a ship before the wind, and
in Acts 2:2 for a rushing mighty wind as the Holy Spirit descended on the believers at Pentecost. Here the use of pherō implies that the
prophets were borne along by the Spirit as a ship is borne along by a wind. They were entirely under the Spirit’s motivation.
A POSSIBLE ANSWER: He is saying that Prophecy came as a result of holy men speak as they were
moved by the Holy Spirit. That as its existence was confirmed, it would do us well to respond to it as
light shining in a dark place.
Peter had seen many things in his time, and he lists some in this passage: Jesus transfigured on
the mount (2 Pet. 1:18) and the confirmation of the prophecies concerning Jesus (2 Pet. 1:19).
Each of these had impacted Peter deeply; yet, he spends more time on the last point-the
prophecies. This may have something to do with his own failures as a disciple. How many times had
Peter not listened to what Jesus was saying because he thought he already knew what was being
said? How many times did Jesus foretell His coming treatment at the hands of the chief priests in
Jerusalem; yet, when things happened exactly as Jesus had said, on a number of separate
occasions, Peter was caught unprepared? Probably the most painful of all these "failures" was when
Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him. Peter was so sure that could never happen, but when
it did, it must have been the lowest point in his life.
Maybe this is why Peter sets out to clarify how to be a faithful follower of Jesus. He reminds the
followers of "exceedingly great and precious promises" through which they "may be partakers of the
divine nature" as opposed to those who are imprisoned by "the corruption that is in the world
through lust" (2 Pet. 1:4, NKJV). To ensure that the believers have indeed escaped the corruption,
he lists a number of interconnected qualities that define the Christian lifestyle: faith, virtue,
knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Pet. 1:5-8). Each
builds on the other, and together they form a complete unit-like ingredients in a cake. Paul calls
these same qualities "fruit" rather than fruits (Gal. 5:22-23), because they form a unit that cannot
be separated.
Peter goes further by saying that the believers would not stumble if they made these values part
of their lives and asks them to diligently make their "calling and election sure" (2 Pet. 1:10).
Remember that Peter is addressing his epistle to Christian members established in the faith. He is
by no means suggesting that conforming to a special set of requirements will ensure a ticket into
heaven. He is simply contrasting the prevailing attitudes and behaviors of the time and challenging
Christians to spend their energies on positive things rather than negative ones.
WEDNESDAY
Scoffers
March 9
Read 2 Peter 3:3-7. What is Peter saying here about the past that can help us deal with issues in
the present, as well as in the future?
2 Peter 3:3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own
lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things
continue as they were from the beginning of creation.”
Where is the promise? This is not a reference to one particular promise but to the combined declarations of the prophets and the
apostles as to the certainty of the second coming. The scoffers’ question indicates their skepticism—they did not expect the promises
to be fulfilled.
5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing
out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with
water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire
until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
5. This. The clause reads literally, “this escapes their notice by their own will.” The scoffers knew of the Flood but deliberately chose
to ignore the cataclysm and its message to mankind. By so doing they closed their minds against the idea of the possibility of further
divine intervention when Christ should return.
A POSSIBLE ANSWER: Peter is saying that the Scoffers that will come will conduct themselves in a
manner consistent to who they are... challenging the revelation of God concerning the 2nd coming of
Christ. They forget the reliability of the Word of God for by it, the heavens and earth were made, the
earth perished by a flood and even now the heavens and the earth are being preserved until the day of
judgment.
The battle between light and darkness, between the followers of Jesus and the promoters of evil,
seems about to reach its climax. The devil, as a hungry roaring lion looking for its next meal (1 Pet.
5:8), is aided by a chorus of mockers (scoffers). With their "rational" and "scientific" arguments (2
Pet. 3:3-4), these scoffers try to neutralize the faith of believers. Peter suggests that what
motivates them is their desire to maintain their lustful lifestyle (2 Pet. 3:3; see also Jude 18). They
reason that Jesus is not coming because everything just keeps going as it always has.
There is one very disturbing feature about this mockery. Jesus said, "I will come again" (John
14:1-3) but these scoffers are saying, in effect, "Jesus will not come again" (2 Pet. 3:4). This is an
echo from Eden, where God said, "'of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat,
for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die'" (Gen. 2:17, NKJV). However Satan, through
the serpent, said, "'You will not surely die'" (Gen. 3:4, NKJV). Here is a direct contradiction of the
word of God, now repeated by not just one voice, as in the Garden, but by a chorus of voices,
everywhere. One redeeming feature of this lie is that Peter predicted it. Every time we hear
someone scoffing at the idea of Jesus coming again, they themselves become another fulfillment of
prophecy.
Although history has witnessed the previous destruction of the earth by a catastrophic Flood, the
scoffers don't want to know about that. They do not want to admit that God has anything to do
with their personal life choices. They also want to avoid the fact that the same God, who stored up
water to flood the earth, has similarly stored up fire to sweep over the earth to destroy it on the
great Judgment Day (2 Pet. 3:5-7). Their mistaken hope is that nature will just keep on going as it
always has.
How do we, as the years go by, hold on to the promise of the Second Coming? A POSSIBLE
ANSWER: We hold on to the 2nd coming by believing in and meditating on it. By praying for and
sharing it. By looking for, hastening and anticipating it. By staying connected to Christ, studying
about His coming and for it preparing for it. Why is it crucial that we do? A POSSIBLE ANSWER:
Because the hope of the second coming has the potential to motivate the believer to live a life of
preparedness. It will be a catalyst to separated the believer from all the evil and sin that is within the
world. It will break the hold of worldly attractions and all that is transitory. It has the potential to
make sense out of the end-time events and thus move us to accomplish the mission that Christ has left
us.
THURSDAY
Hastening the Day
March 10
Although the wait for the Second Coming seems never-ending to us, the time is not a concern to
God. "With the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day" (2 Pet. 3:8,
NKJV). Throughout the Scriptures the end is always close, whether the day of the Lord in the Old
Testament or the return of Christ in the New.
Read 2 Peter 3:8-14. What is the long-term hope we are given here? See also Dan. 2:34-35, 44.
2 Peter 3:8 – 14 “But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a
thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,
as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but
that all should come to repentance.
The Day of the Lord 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will
pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works
that are in it will be burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of
persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of
God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent
heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which
righteousness dwells.
13. His promise. No matter what the scoffers may have thought of the Lord’s promise (v. 4), Peter shows (v. 9 and here) that he
implicitly trusts it and orders his own life in accordance with it. New. Gr. kainos, “new” in the sense of being different, new in kind,
rather than neos, which generally means “recent,” new in point of time. Here Peter is anticipating the renovated heavens and earth that
have been cleansed from all defilement (cf. on Rev. 21:1).
Dwelleth. Or, “makes its home,” with a suggestion of permanency. Righteousness is depicted as being the permanent resident of
the new heavens and new earth (see on Isa. 11:9).
Be Steadfast 14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in
peace, without spot and blameless;
Daniel 2:34, 35 “You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet
of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. 35 Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold
were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them
away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain
and filled the whole earth.
A POSSIBLE ANSWER: The long tern hope that we have here is that of the hope of being in a new
earth in which righteousness dwells.
The classic time prophecies clearly tell us that there is a limit to how long evil is allowed to
continue and how long God will wait. In the prophecies, God outlines His strategy to end sin and
suffering and to restore the earth to its original perfection.
How we view the end of all things, as we know it, will affect how we live now (2 Pet. 3:12). If we
rebel at the idea of God disturbing our little world, then we will tend to be cynical and join the
scoffers. If, on the other hand, we see this as a merciful God finally stepping in to clean up the
abominable corruption and human-rights abuses so rampant around us, then we can with
confidence "look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells" (2 Pet. 3:13,
NKJV).
Again Peter voices his concern about our attitudes and personal conduct. He encourages us to "be
diligent" and to be "without spot and blameless" (2 Pet. 3:14, NKJV). If it was not for the next
verse, we may think that Peter is promoting a "works" religion, but he corrects this possible
misunderstanding with the phrase, "the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation," confirming the words
of Paul to the same believers (2 Pet. 3:15).
Being blameless is our aim. That is how Job was described; blameless because he "feared God and
shunned evil" (Job 1:1, NKJV). That is how Christ will present us to the Father (1 Cor. 1:8, Col.
1:22, 1 Thess. 3:13, 5:23). Being without spot? That is what the sacrificial lamb had to be (for
example, Exod. 12:5, Lev. 1:3), what Jesus was (Heb. 9:14, 1 Pet. 1:19), and how He presents the
church to the Father (Eph. 5:27).
In our quest to overcome sin, to grow in faith, and to shun evil and live holy and "blameless" lives,
why must we always rely on the righteousness of Jesus that is credited to us by faith? A POSSIBLE
ANSWER: We must always rely on the righteousness of Jesus because it is the only righteousness
that is accepted by God. Our righteousness is as filthy rags. Further, at best our so-called
righteousness springs form faulty vessels because we are born in sin and shaped in iniquity. What
happens when we take our eyes off that promise? A POSSIBLE ANSWER: We can become lethargic
and can delay or fail to prepare for His return. We can either give up in hopelessness or work
ourselves to the point that we do not enter in to His rest. Ultimately it is fruitless and fails to represent
what God has done for us in lavishing on us His abundant grace. "Not by works of righteousness
which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us." Titus 3:5.
FRIDAY
Further Thought:
March 11
Peter warned that scoffers would say: "'everything goes on as it has since the beginning of
creation'" (2 Pet. 3:4, NIV). This was nothing new; the same sentiments were expressed before the
Flood. "As time passed on, with no apparent change in nature, men whose hearts had at times
trembled with fear, began to be reassured. They reasoned, as many reason now, that nature is
above the God of nature, and that her laws are so firmly established that God Himself could not
change them. Reasoning that if the message of Noah were correct, nature would be turned out of
her course, they made that message, in the minds of the world, a delusion-a grand deception. They
manifested their contempt for the warning of God by doing just as they had done before the
warning was given. . . . They asserted that if there were any truth in what Noah had said, the men
of renown-the wise, the prudent, the great men-would understand the matter."-Ellen G.
White, Patriarchs and Prophets,p. 97. Today, "the great men" tell us something similar: the laws of
nature are fixed and set, and all things continue on as before. In a sense, that's what the theory of
evolution teaches: life occurred through natural processes that can be explained, at least in
principle, through the operation of natural laws that one day science will fully explain to us, and
all without any need of deity. The "great men" were wrong then, and they are wrong now, as well.
No wonder Paul wrote: "For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God" (1 Cor. 3:19). It was
in the time of the Flood, it was in Peter's time, and it is in ours, as well.
Discussion Questions
:
1. Despite all the reasons Peter had to believe in Jesus, he still emphasized the "sure word of
prophecy." Why is prophecy so important to us? How did prophecy help prove that Jesus was
the Messiah at His first coming? What hope does it give us for the Second Coming? After all,
without prophecy, how could we even know about the promise and hope of the Second
Coming?
2. We tend to think of peer pressure only in the context of teenagers and young adults. But that's
not correct, is it? We all want to be liked and accepted by our peers. After all, we have a much
better opportunity to be a good witness if they like us, as opposed to them not liking us, right?
In our desire to be pleasing to others, how can we guard against compromising our beliefs?
Why are such compromises easier to make than we might be inclined to think?
============================ ======================
Lesson References Index
Sunday - Darkness to Light
Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, pp. 315 – 319.
Chapter 32 - The Centurion
Christ had said to the nobleman whose son He healed, "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe." John
4:48. He was grieved that His own nation should require these outward signs of His Messiahship. Again and again He had
marveled at their unbelief. But He marveled at the faith of the centurion who came to Him. The centurion did not
question the Saviour's power. He did not even ask Him to come in person to perform the miracle. "Speak the word
only," he said, "and my servant shall be healed."
The centurion's servant had been stricken with palsy, and lay at the point of death. Among the Romans the servants
were slaves, bought and sold in the market places, and treated with abuse and cruelty; but the centurion was tenderly
attached to his servant, and greatly desired his recovery. He believed that Jesus could heal him. He had not seen the
Saviour, but the reports he heard had inspired him with faith. Notwithstanding the formalism of the Jews, this Roman
was convinced that their religion was superior to his own. Already he had broken through the barriers of national
prejudice and hatred that separated the conquerors from the conquered people. He had manifested respect for the
service of God, and had shown kindness to the Jews as His worshipers. In the teaching of Christ, as it had been
reported to him, he found that which met the need of the soul. All that was spiritual within him responded to the
Saviour's words. But he felt unworthy to come into the presence of Jesus, and he appealed to the Jewish elders to
make request for the healing of his servant. They were acquainted with the Great Teacher, and would, he thought,
know how to approach Him so as to win His favor.
As Jesus entered Capernaum, He was met by a delegation of the elders, who told Him of the centurion's desire. They
urged "that he was worthy for whom He should do this: for he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue."
Jesus immediately set out for the officer's home; but, pressed by the multitude, He advanced slowly. The news of His
coming preceded Him, and the centurion, in his self-distrust, sent Him the message, "Lord, trouble not Thyself: for I
am not worthy that Thou shouldest enter under my roof." But the Saviour kept on His way, and the centurion, venturing
at last to approach Him, completed the message, saying, "Neither thought I myself worthy to come unto Thee;" "but
speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I
say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it."
As I represent the power of Rome, and my soldiers recognize my authority as supreme, so dost Thou represent the
power of the Infinite God, and all created things obey Thy word. Thou canst command the disease to depart, and it
shall obey Thee. Thou canst summon Thy heavenly messengers, and they shall impart healing virtue. Speak but the
word, and my servant shall be healed.
"When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned Him about, and said unto the people that followed
Him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." And to the centurion He said, "As thou hast
believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour."
The Jewish elders who recommended the centurion to Christ had shown how far they were from possessing the spirit
of the gospel. They did not recognize that our great need is our only claim on God's mercy. In their self-righteousness
they commended the centurion because of the favor he had shown to "our nation." But the centurion said of himself, "I
am not worthy." His heart had been touched by the grace of Christ. He saw his own unworthiness; yet he feared not to
ask help. He trusted not to his own goodness; his argument was his great need. His faith took hold upon Christ in His
true character. He did not believe in Him merely as a worker of miracles, but as the friend and Saviour of mankind.
It is thus that every sinner may come to Christ. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but
according to His mercy He saved us." Titus 3:5. When Satan tells you that you are a sinner, and cannot hope to
receive blessing from God, tell him that Christ came into the world to save sinners. We have nothing to
recommend us to God; but the plea that we may urge now and ever is our utterly helpless condition that makes
His redeeming power a necessity. Renouncing all self-dependence, we may look to the cross of Calvary and say,-"In my hand no price I bring; Simply to Thy cross I cling."
The Jews had been instructed from childhood concerning the work of the Messiah. The inspired utterances of
patriarchs and prophets and the symbolic teaching of the sacrificial service had been theirs. But they had disregarded
the light; and now they saw in Jesus nothing to be desired. But the centurion, born in heathenism, educated in the
idolatry of imperial Rome, trained as a soldier, seemingly cut off from spiritual life by his education and surroundings,
and still further shut out by the bigotry of the Jews, and by the contempt of his own countrymen for the people of
Israel,--this man perceived the truth to which the children of Abraham were blinded. He did not wait to see whether
the Jews themselves would receive the One who claimed to be their Messiah. As the "light, which lighteth every man
that cometh into the world" (John 1:9) had shone upon him, he had, though afar off, discerned the glory of the Son of
God.
To Jesus this was an earnest of the work which the gospel was to accomplish among the Gentiles. With joy He looked
forward to the gathering of souls from all nations to His kingdom. With deep sadness He pictured to the Jews the result
of their rejection of His grace: "I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with
Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer
darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." Alas, how many are still preparing for the same fatal
disappointment! While souls in heathen darkness accept His grace, how many there are in Christian lands upon whom
the light shines only to be disregarded.
More than twenty miles from Capernaum, on a tableland overlooking the wide, beautiful plain of Esdraelon, lay the
village of Nain, and thither Jesus next bent His steps. Many of His disciples and others were with Him, and all along the
way the people came, longing for His words of love and pity, bringing their sick for His healing, and ever with the hope
that He who wielded such wondrous power would make Himself known as the King of Israel. A multitude thronged His
steps, and it was a glad, expectant company that followed Him up the rocky path toward the gate of the mountain
village.
As they draw near, a funeral train is seen coming from the gates. With slow, sad steps it is proceeding to the place of
burial. On an open bier carried in front is the body of the dead, and about it are the mourners, filling the air with their
wailing cries. All the people of the town seem to have gathered to show their respect for the dead and their sympathy
with the bereaved.
It was a sight to awaken sympathy. The deceased was the only son of his mother, and she a widow. The lonely
mourner was following to the grave her sole earthly support and comfort. "When the Lord saw her, He had compassion
on her." As she moved on blindly, weeping, noting not His presence, He came close beside her, and gently said, "Weep
not." Jesus was about to change her grief to joy, yet He could not forbear this expression of tender sympathy.
"He came and touched the bier;" to Him even contact with death could impart no defilement. The bearers stood still,
and the lamentations of the mourners ceased. The two companies gathered about the bier, hoping against hope. One
was present who had banished disease and vanquished demons; was death also subject to His power?
In clear, authoritative voice the words are spoken, "Young man, I say unto thee, Arise." That voice pierces the ears of
the dead. The young man opens his eyes. Jesus takes him by the hand, and lifts him up. His gaze falls upon her who has
been weeping beside him, and mother and son unite in a long, clinging, joyous embrace. The multitude look on in
silence, as if spellbound. "There came a fear on all." Hushed and reverent they stood for a little time, as if in the very
presence of God. Then they "glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath
visited His people." The funeral train returned to Nain as a triumphal procession. "And this rumor of Him went forth
throughout all Judea, and throughout all the region round about."
He who stood beside the sorrowing mother at the gate of Nain, watches with every mourning one beside the bier. He
is touched with sympathy for our grief. His heart, that loved and pitied, is a heart of unchangeable tenderness. His
word, that called the dead to life, is no less efficacious now than when spoken to the young man of Nain. He says, "All
power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth." Matt. 28:18. That power is not diminished by the lapse of years, nor
exhausted by the ceaseless activity of His overflowing grace. To all who believe on Him He is still a living Saviour.
1 Corinthians 1:30 “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and
sanctification and redemption”—
Friday: Further Thought
2 Peter 3:4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue
as they were from the beginning of creation.”
Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 95 – 102.
"By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his
house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith." Hebrews 11:7.
While Noah was giving his warning message to the world, his works testified of his sincerity. It was thus that his faith
was perfected and made evident. He gave the world an example of believing just what God says. All that he possessed,
he invested in the ark. As he began to construct that immense boat on dry ground, multitudes came from every
direction to see the strange sight and to hear the earnest, fervent words of the singular preacher. Every blow struck
upon the ark was a witness to the people.
Many at first appeared to receive the warning; yet they did not turn to God with true repentance. They were
unwilling to renounce their sins. During the time that elapsed before the coming of the Flood, their faith was tested,
and they failed to endure the trial. Overcome by the prevailing unbelief, they finally joined their former associates in
rejecting the solemn message. Some were deeply convicted, and would have heeded the words of warning; but there
were so many to jest and ridicule, that they partook of the same spirit, resisted the invitations of mercy, and were
soon among the boldest and most defiant scoffers; for none are so reckless and go to such lengths in sin as do those
who have once had light, but have resisted the convicting Spirit of God.
The men of that generation were not all, in the fullest acceptation of the term, idolaters. Many professed to be
worshipers of God. They claimed that their idols were representations of the Deity, and that through them the people
could obtain a clearer conception of the divine Being. This class were foremost in rejecting the preaching of Noah. As
they endeavored to represent God by material objects, their minds were blinded to His majesty and power; they
ceased to realize the holiness of His character, or the sacred, unchanging nature of His requirements. As sin became
general, it appeared less and less sinful, and they finally declared that the divine law was no longer in force; that it
was contrary to the character of God to punish transgression; and they denied that His judgments were to be visited
upon the earth. Had the men of that generation obeyed the divine law, they would have recognized the voice of God in
the warning of His servant; but their minds had become so blinded by rejection of light that they really believed Noah's
message to be a delusion.
It was not multitudes or majorities that were on the side of right. The world was arrayed against God's justice and
His laws, and Noah was regarded as a fanatic. Satan, when tempting Eve to disobey God, said to her, "Ye shall not
surely die." Genesis 3:4. Great men, worldly, honored, and wise men, repeated the same. "The threatenings of God,"
they said, "are for the purpose of intimidating, and will never be verified. You need not be alarmed. Such an event as
the destruction of the world by the God who made it, and the punishment of the beings He has created, will never take
place. Be at peace; fear not. Noah is a wild fanatic." The world made merry at the folly of the deluded old man.
Instead of humbling the heart before God, they continued their disobedience and wickedness, the same as though God
had not spoken to them through His servant.
But Noah stood like a rock amid the tempest. Surrounded by popular contempt and ridicule, he distinguished himself
by his holy integrity and unwavering faithfulness. A power attended his words, for it was the voice of God to man
through His servant. Connection with God made him strong in the strength of infinite power, while for one hundred and
twenty years his solemn voice fell upon the ears of that generation in regard to events, which, so far as human wisdom
could judge, were impossible.
The world before the Flood reasoned that for centuries the laws of nature had been fixed. The recurring seasons had
come in their order. Heretofore rain had never fallen; the earth had been watered by a mist or dew. The rivers had
never yet passed their boundaries, but had borne their waters safely to the sea. Fixed decrees had kept the waters
from overflowing their banks. But these reasoners did not recognize the hand of Him who had stayed the waters,
saying, "Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further." Job 38:11.
As time passed on, with no apparent change in nature, men whose hearts had at times trembled with fear,
began to be reassured. They reasoned, as many reason now, that nature is above the God of nature, and that
her laws are so firmly established that God Himself could not change them. Reasoning that if the message of
Noah were correct, nature would be turned out of her course, they made that message, in the minds of the
world, a delusion--a grand deception. They manifested their contempt for the warning of God by doing just as
they had done before the warning was given. They continued their festivities and their gluttonous feasts; they
ate and drank, planted and builded, laying their plans in reference to advantages they hoped to gain in the
future; and they went to greater lengths in wickedness, and in defiant disregard of God's requirements, to
testify that they had no fear of the Infinite One. They asserted that if there were any truth in what Noah had
said, the men of renown--the wise, the prudent, the great men--would understand the matter.
Had the antediluvians believed the warning, and repented of their evil deeds, the Lord would have turned aside His
wrath, as He afterward did from Nineveh. But by their obstinate resistance to the reproofs of conscience and the
warnings of God's prophet, that generation filled up the measure of their iniquity, and became ripe for destruction.
The period of their probation was about to expire. Noah had faithfully followed the instructions which he had
received from God. The ark was finished in every part as the Lord had directed, and was stored with food for man and
beast. And now the servant of God made his last solemn appeal to the people. With an agony of desire that words
cannot express, he entreated them to seek a refuge while it might be found. Again they rejected his words, and raised
their voices in jest and scoffing. Suddenly a silence fell upon the mocking throng. Beasts of every description, the
fiercest as well as the most gentle, were seen coming from mountain and forest and quietly making their way toward
the ark. A noise as of a rushing wind was heard, and lo, birds were flocking from all directions, their numbers
darkening the heavens, and in perfect order they passed to the ark. Animals obeyed the command of God, while men
were disobedient. Guided by holy angels, they "went in two and two unto Noah into the ark," and the clean beasts by
sevens. The world looked on in wonder, some in fear. Philosophers were called upon to account for the singular
occurrence, but in vain. It was a mystery which they could not fathom. But men had become so hardened by their
persistent rejection of light that even this scene produced but a momentary impression. As the doomed race beheld
the sun shining in its glory, and the earth clad in almost Eden beauty, they banished their rising fears by boisterous
merriment, and by their deeds of violence they seemed to invite upon themselves the visitation of the already
awakened wrath of God.
God commanded Noah, "Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before Me in this
generation." Noah's warnings had been rejected by the world, but his influence and example resulted in blessings to his
family. As a reward for his faithfulness and integrity, God saved all the members of his family with him. What
encouragement to parental fidelity!
Mercy had ceased its pleadings for the guilty race. The beasts of the field and the birds of the air had entered the
place of refuge. Noah and his household were within the ark, "and the Lord shut him in." A flash of dazzling light was
seen, and a cloud of glory more vivid than the lightning descended from heaven and hovered before the entrance of
the ark. The massive door, which it was impossible for those within to close, was slowly swung to its place by unseen
hands. Noah was shut in, and the rejecters of God's mercy were shut out. The seal of Heaven was on that door; God
had shut it, and God alone could open it. So when Christ shall cease His intercession for guilty men, before His coming
in the clouds of heaven, the door of mercy will be shut. Then divine grace will no longer restrain the wicked, and Satan
will have full control of those who have rejected mercy. They will endeavor to destroy God's people; but as Noah was
shut into the ark, so the righteous will be shielded by divine power.
For seven days after Noah and his family entered the ark, there appeared no sign of the coming storm. During this
period their faith was tested. It was a time of triumph to the world without. The apparent delay confirmed them in the
belief that Noah's message was a delusion, and that the Flood would never come. Notwithstanding the solemn scenes
which they had witnessed--the beasts and birds entering the ark, and the angel of God closing the door--they still
continued their sport and revelry, even making a jest of these signal manifestations of God's power. They gathered in
crowds about the ark, deriding its inmates with a daring violence which they had never ventured upon before.
But upon the eighth day dark clouds overspread the heavens. There followed the muttering of thunder and the flash
of lightning. Soon large drops of rain began to fall. The world had never witnessed anything like this, and the hearts of
men were struck with fear. All were secretly inquiring, "Can it be that Noah was in the right, and that the world is
doomed to destruction?" Darker and darker grew the heavens, and faster came the falling rain. The beasts were
roaming about in the wildest terror, and their discordant cries seemed to moan out their own destiny and the fate of
man. Then "the fountains of the great deep" were "broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened." Water
appeared to come from the clouds in mighty cataracts. Rivers broke away from their boundaries, and overflowed the
valleys. Jets of water burst from the earth with indescribable force, throwing massive rocks hundreds of feet into the
air, and these, in falling, buried themselves deep in the ground.
The people first beheld the destruction of the works of their own hands. Their splendid buildings, and the beautiful
gardens and groves where they had placed their idols, were destroyed by lightning from heaven, and the ruins were
scattered far and wide. The altars on which human sacrifices had been offered were torn down, and the worshipers
were made to tremble at the power of the living God, and to know that it was their corruption and idolatry which had
called down their destruction.
As the violence of the storm increased, trees, buildings, rocks, and earth were hurled in every direction. The terror
of man and beast was beyond description. Above the roar of the tempest was heard the wailing of a people that had
despised the authority of God. Satan himself, who was compelled to remain in the midst of the warring elements,
feared for his own existence. He had delighted to control so powerful a race, and desired them to live to practice their
abominations and continue their rebellion against the Ruler of heaven. He now uttered imprecations against God,
charging Him with injustice and cruelty. Many of the people, like Satan, blasphemed God, and had they been able,
they would have torn Him from the throne of power. Others were frantic with fear, stretching their hands toward the
ark and pleading for admittance. But their entreaties were in vain. Conscience was at last aroused to know that there
is a God who ruleth in the heavens. They called upon Him earnestly, but His ear was not open to their cry. In that
terrible hour they saw that the transgression of God's law had caused their ruin. Yet while, through fear of punishment,
they acknowledged their sin, they felt no true contrition, no abhorrence of evil. They would have returned to their
defiance of Heaven, had the judgment been removed. So when God's judgments shall fall upon the earth before its
deluge by fire, the impenitent will know just where and what their sin is--the despising of His holy law. Yet they will
have no more true repentance than did the old-world sinners.
Some in their desperation endeavored to break into the ark, but the firm-made structure withstood their efforts.
Some clung to the ark until they were borne away by the surging waters, or their hold was broken by collision with
rocks and trees. The massive ark trembled in every fiber as it was beaten by the merciless winds and flung from billow
to billow. The cries of the beasts within expressed their fear and pain. But amid the warring elements it continued to
ride safely. Angels that excel in strength were commissioned to preserve it.
The beasts, exposed to the tempest, rushed toward man, as though expecting help from him. Some of the people
bound their children and themselves upon powerful animals, knowing that these were tenacious of life, and would
climb to the highest points to escape the rising waters. Some fastened themselves to lofty trees on the summit of hills
or mountains; but the trees were uprooted, and with their burden of living beings were hurled into the seething
billows. One spot after another that promised safety was abandoned. As the waters rose higher and higher, the people
fled for refuge to the loftiest mountains. Often man and beast would struggle together for a foothold, until both were
swept away.
From the highest peaks men looked abroad upon a shoreless ocean. The solemn warnings of God's servant no longer
seemed a subject for ridicule and scorning. How those doomed sinners longed for the opportunities which they had
slighted! How they pleaded for one hour's probation, one more privilege of mercy, one call from the lips of Noah! But
the sweet voice of mercy was no more to be heard by them. Love, no less than justice, demanded that God's
judgments should put a check on sin. The avenging waters swept over the last retreat, and the despisers of God
perished in the black depths.
"By the word of God . . . the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: but the heavens and the
earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and
perdition of ungodly men." 2 Peter 3:5-7. Another storm is coming. The earth will again be swept by the desolating
wrath of God, and sin and sinners will be destroyed.
The sins that called for vengeance upon the antediluvian world exist today. The fear of God is banished from the
hearts of men, and His law is treated with indifference and contempt. The intense worldliness of that generation is
equaled by that of the generation now living. Said Christ, "As in the days that were before the Flood they were eating
and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the
Flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." Matthew 24:38, 39. God did not
condemn the antediluvians for eating and drinking; He had given them the fruits of the earth in great abundance to
supply their physical wants. Their sin consisted in taking these gifts without gratitude to the Giver, and debasing
themselves by indulging appetite without restraint. It was lawful for them to marry. Marriage was in God's order; it was
one of the first institutions which He established. He gave special directions concerning this ordinance, clothing it with
sanctity and beauty; but these directions were forgotten, and marriage was perverted and made to minister to passion.
A similar condition of things exists now. That which is lawful in itself is carried to excess. Appetite is indulged
without restraint. Professed followers of Christ are today eating and drinking with the drunken, while their names
stand in honored church records. Intemperance benumbs the moral and spiritual powers and prepares the way for
indulgence of the lower passions. Multitudes feel under no moral obligation to curb their sensual desires, and they
become the slaves of lust. Men are living for the pleasures of sense; for this world and this life alone. Extravagance
pervades all circles of society. Integrity is sacrificed for luxury and display. They that make haste to be rich pervert
justice and oppress the poor, and "slaves and souls of men" are still bought and sold. Fraud and bribery and theft stalk
unrebuked in high places and in low. The issues of the press teem with records of murder--crimes so cold-blooded and
causeless that it seems as though every instinct of humanity were blotted out. And these atrocities have become of so
common occurrence that they hardly elicit a comment or awaken surprise. The spirit of anarchy is permeating all
nations, and the outbreaks that from time to time excite the horror of the world are but indications of the pent-up
fires of passion and lawlessness that, having once escaped control, will fill the earth with woe and desolation. The
picture which Inspiration has given of the antediluvian world represents too truly the condition to which modern
society is fast hastening. Even now, in the present century, and in professedly Christian lands, there are crimes daily
perpetrated as black and terrible as those for which the old-world sinners were destroyed.
1 Corinthians 3:19 “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in
their own craftiness”;