listening

Bible Study Guides – Listening to God’s Word

by

July 31 – August 6

Key Text

“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).

 Study Help: The Great Controversy, 197–210.

Introduction

“God speaks to us in His word.” Steps to Christ, 87.

1   THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY

  •  How much authority does the Word of God have over human teaching? Psalm 119:105; Isaiah 8:20.

Note: “The Holy Scriptures are the perfect standard of truth.” Education, 17.

“ ‘All human teaching should be subordinate to the oracles of God.’ ” The Great Controversy, 204.

“The Lord has one path of safety for His people, and that is the path of obedience to His word. That word is given to us as our guide.” The Bible Echo, August 19, 1895.

  • How can we use our reasoning powers properly in understanding God’s Word? Isaiah 1:16–18; 1 Corinthians 1:18, 25; 2:14–16.

Note: “When we come to the Bible, reason must acknowledge an authority superior to itself, and heart and intellect must bow to the great I AM.” Steps to Christ, 110.

“We are to beware of deifying reason, which is subject to the weakness and infirmity of humanity.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 703.

“With your Bibles open before you, consult sanctified reason and a good conscience. Your heart must be moved, your soul touched, your reason and intellect awakened by the Spirit of God; and then holy principles revealed in the word of God will give light to the soul.” The Review and Herald, February 7, 1893.

 2   LISTENING TO GOD THROUGH HIS WORD

  •  What will be the result if we personally listen to God through His word? Deuteronomy 4:6; Psalm 119:94, 97–100.

Note: “The precious book of God contains rules of life for men of every class and every vocation.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 416.

“We shall advance in true spiritual knowledge only as we realize our own littleness and our entire dependence upon God; but all who come to the Bible with a teachable and prayerful spirit, to study its utterances as the word of God, will receive divine enlightenment.” Ibid., vol. 5, 704.

“In searching the Scriptures for yourself, you will become established in the faith. It is of the greatest importance that you continually search the Scriptures, storing the mind with the truths of God.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

“Conservative traditions received from educated men, and from the writings of great men of the past, are not safe guides for us in these last days. … Daily, hourly, we must be actuated by the principles of Bible truth—righteousness, mercy, and the love of God. He who would have moral and intellectual power must draw from the divine source. At every point of decision inquire, ‘Is this the way of the Lord?’ ” The Review and Herald, February 7, 1893.

  • What assurance do we have that God will talk to us, individually, through the Bible? John 6:63; Jeremiah 15:16; Psalm 34:8.

Note: “The word of the living God is not merely written but spoken. The Bible is God’s voice speaking to us, just as surely as though we could hear it with our ears. If we realized this, with what awe would we open God’s word, and with what earnestness would we search its precepts! The reading and contemplation of the Scriptures would be regarded as an audience with the Infinite One.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 393.

“When Satan presses his suggestions upon our minds, we may, if we cherish a ‘Thus saith the Lord,’ be drawn into the secret pavilion of the Most High.” Ibid.

“So many are full of busy plans, always active; and there is no time or place for the precious Jesus to be a close, dear companion. They do not refer every thought and action to Him, inquiring: ‘Is this the way of the Lord?’ If they did they would walk with God, as did Enoch.” Ibid.

 3   ESSENTIAL COMMUNICATION

  •  Why were the Scriptures written? John 20:31.
  • If we reject God’s voice in His written Word, can we expect Him to communicate His will to us through other means? Luke 16:31; Proverbs 28:9. Why?

Note: “The law and the prophets are God’s appointed agencies for the salvation of men. … If they do not listen to the voice of God in His word, the testimony of a witness raised from the dead would not be heeded.

“Those who heed Moses and the prophets will require no greater light than God has given; but if men reject the light, and fail to appreciate the opportunities granted them, they would not hear if one from the dead should come to them with a message. They would not be convinced even by this evidence; for those who reject the law and the prophets so harden their hearts that they will reject all light.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 265.

  • Why can’t we rely on anyone else to listen to God for us? Ezekiel 14:12–14; 33:14–16.

Note: “We must study the truth for ourselves; no man should be relied upon to think for us, no matter who he may be or in what position he may be placed. We are not to look upon any man as a perfect guide for us. We are to counsel together and be subject one to another; but at the same time we are to exercise the ability God has given us to learn what is truth. Each one of us must look to God for divine enlightenment, that we may individually develop a character that will stand the test of the great day. …

“Many are drifting into darkness and infidelity, picking flaws with the Bible, bringing up superstitious inventions, unscriptural theories, and speculations of vain philosophy; but it is the duty of everyone to seek a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. The importance and benefit of Bible study cannot be overestimated. In searching the Scriptures our minds are led to dwell upon the infinite sacrifice of Christ, on His mediation in our behalf. As we see His love, as we meditate upon His humiliation and sufferings, the same spirit of self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others will be kindled in our hearts.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

 4   FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE WITH GOD

  •  Why were the people of Berea commended? Acts 17:10–12.

Note: “No man can safely trust his soul to the minister, or to men who are learned and talented. Jesus charged the priests and rulers, who were regarded as learned in the Scriptures, as being ignorant both of the Scriptures and the power of God. Those to whom God has intrusted talents are responsible for the use of their gifts, and should study the Bible as a book that may be understood. A single text has proved in the past, and will prove in the future, a savor of life unto life to many a soul. As men diligently search, the Bible will open out new treasures of truth that will be as bright jewels to the mind.” The Signs of the Times, August 20, 1894.

“Unless the mind is used, it will cease to expand; unless the taste is cultivated to love the Bible, it will cease to relish the truths of God’s word. The student can see only to the depth of what he has explored, and he cannot appreciate that which lies beyond the compass of his own narrow boundaries. But his very ignorance will make him conceited, talkative, and boastful. What can I say to you, young men and young women, to arouse you to vigor in your efforts to overcome obstacles? Mental effort will become easier and more satisfactory as you put yourselves to the task of understanding the deep things of God. You should each decide that you will not be a second-class student, that you will not allow others to think for you.” The Review and Herald, May 20, 1890.

  • What was Timothy told to do while he waited for Paul to return? 1 Timothy 4:13, 15, 16.
  • What does Jesus say of those who hear His words and obey them? Matthew 7:24, 25.

Note: “Those who hear and obey the words of Christ are building upon the rock, and when the tempest comes, their house will not be over-thrown. They will through faith in Christ Jesus gain eternal life.” This Day with God, 215.

 5   LOOKING DEEPER

  •  How deeply should we study the Bible? Colossians 3:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

Note: “There is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained. Keep your Bible with you. As you have opportunity, read it; fix the texts in your memory. Even while you are walking the streets you may read a passage and meditate upon it, thus fixing it in the mind.” Steps to Christ, 90.

“You are to offer to God nothing less than your best. You should do better and better work as you put in practice what you learn. You should seek to fathom every subject requiring your investigation, comparing not only the ideas and thoughts of men concerning the matter, but also comparing Scripture with Scripture, that you may know that you do know every point of the faith. The taxation of your mind will only strengthen your mental powers for greater effort.” The Review and Herald, May 20, 1890.

“An understanding of Bible truth depends not so much on the power of intellect brought to the search as on the singleness of purpose, the earnest longing after righteousness.” The Great Controversy,

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1     What are the conditions to receiving enlightenment from God as we study the Bible?

2     What question should we ask when making any decision?

3     What effect will searching the Scriptures have upon us?

4     What do we become when we are ignorant of our Bible?

5     Instead of reading many Bible chapters without learning anything, how can we discover the deep, hidden truths of the Bible?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – God’s Voice in Nature

by

July 10, 2016 – July 16, 2016

Key Text

“God thundereth marvellously with His voice; great things doeth He, which we cannot comprehend” (Job 37:5).

Study Help: Education, 113–120; The Ministry of Healing, 50–58.

Introduction

“Look at the wonderful and beautiful things of nature. … The sunshine and the rain, that gladden and refresh the earth, the hills and seas and plains, all speak to us of the Creator’s love.” Steps to Christ, 9.

1 A UNIVERSAL VOICE

  • Where in the world would the voice of God in nature be unheard? Psalm 19:1–3.

Note: “Nature speaks to [our] senses, declaring that there is a living God, the Creator, the Supreme Ruler of all. … The beauty that clothes the earth is a token of God’s love. We may behold it in the everlasting hills, in the lofty trees, in the opening buds and the delicate flowers. All speak to us of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 48.

  • What message does nature provide to people around the world? Romans 1:20.

Note: “Those who have a true knowledge of God will not become so infatuated with the laws of matter or the operations of nature as to overlook, or refuse to acknowledge, the continual working of God in nature. Nature is not God, nor was it ever God. The voice of nature testifies of God, but nature is not God. As His created work, it simply bears a testimony to God’s power.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 293.

2 LESSONS FROM THE BIRDS

  • What does God teach us through the behavior of the eagle? Isaiah 40:31.

Note: “The eagle of the Alps is sometimes beaten down by the tempest into the narrow defiles of the mountains. Storm clouds shut in this mighty bird of the forest, their dark masses separating her from the sunny heights where she has made her home. Her efforts to escape seem fruitless. She dashes to and fro, beating the air with her strong wings, and waking the mountain echoes with her cries. At length, with a note of triumph, she darts upward, and, piercing the clouds, is once more in the clear sunlight, with the darkness and tempest far beneath. So we may be surrounded with difficulties, discouragement, and darkness. Falsehood, calamity, injustice, shut us in. There are clouds that we cannot dispel. We battle with circumstances in vain. There is one, and but one, way of escape. The mists and fogs cling to the earth; beyond the clouds God’s light is shining. Into the sunlight of His presence we may rise on the wings of faith.” Education, 118, 119.

  • What is another lesson that we can learn by watching the birds? Matthew 6:25, 26.

Note: “The natural world has, in itself, no power but that which God supplies.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 293.

“The birds are teachers of the sweet lesson of trust. Our heavenly Father provides for them; but they must gather the food, they must build their nests and rear their young. Every moment they are exposed to enemies that seek to destroy them. Yet how cheerily they go about their work! how full of joy are their little songs!” Education, 117, 118.

“Let us not mourn and grieve because in this life we are not free from disappointments and afflictions. If in the providence of God we are called upon to endure trials, let us accept the cross and drink the bitter cup, remembering that it is a Father’s hand that holds it to our lips. Let us trust Him in the darkness as well as in the day.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 316.

3 FAITH THAT WORKS

  • What other lessons of trust does God want to teach us from nature? Matthew 6:27–30. Should we devote more interest, time, and effort to serving God or to meeting our daily temporal needs? Verses 31–33.

Note: “He Who has given you life knows your need of food to sustain it. He Who created the body is not unmindful of your need of raiment. Will not He Who has bestowed the greater gift bestow also what is needed to make it complete?” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 95.

“God’s law is the law of love. He has surrounded you with beauty to teach you that you are not placed on earth merely to delve for self, to dig and build, to toil and spin, but to make life bright and joyous and beautiful with the love of Christ—like the flowers, to gladden other lives by the ministry of love.” Ibid., 97.

  • What lessons can we learn from some of God’s other creatures? Proverbs 6:6–11; 30:25–28 (compare 2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Note: “The ants teach lessons of patient industry, of perseverance in surmounting obstacles, of providence for the future.” Education, 117.

“The habitations which the ants build for themselves show skill and perseverance. Only one little grain at a time can they handle, but by diligence and perseverance they accomplish wonders. Solomon presents to the world the industry of the ant as a reproach to those who waste their hours in sinful idleness, in practices which corrupt soul and body. The ant prepares for future seasons. This is a lesson which many gifted with reasoning powers disregard. They fail entirely to prepare for the future immortal life which God has in His providence secured for the fallen race.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, 1157, 1158.

“Jesus does not release us from the necessity of effort, but He teaches that we are to make Him first and last and best in everything. We are to engage in no business, follow no pursuit, seek no pleasure, that would hinder the outworking of His righteousness in our character and life. Whatever we do is to be done heartily, as unto the Lord.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 99.

4 BE LIKE A TREE

  • Why is our study of nature so important? What can we learn about God? Psalm 111:4, 6–8; Isaiah 40:26.

Note: “How much time is spent by intelligent human beings in horse racing, cricket matches, and ball playing! But will indulgence in these sports give men a desire to know truth and righteousness? Will it keep God in their thoughts? Will it lead them to inquire, How is it with my soul? …

“God calls upon His creatures to turn their attention from the confusion and perplexity around them and admire His handiwork. As we study His works, angels from heaven will be by our side to enlighten our minds and guard them from Satan’s deceptions. As you look at the wonderful things that God’s hand has made, let your proud, foolish heart feel its dependence and inferiority.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 456, 457.

  • To what is the Christian compared? Psalms 1:1–3; 92:12, 13.

Note: “The palm tree well represents the life of a Christian. It stands upright amid the burning desert sand, and dies not; for it draws its sustenance from the springs of life beneath the surface.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, 1151.

  • What are some other practical lessons we can learn from nature?

Note: “Many are the lessons that may thus be learned [from nature]. Self-reliance, from the tree that, growing alone on plain or mountainside, strikes down its roots deep into the earth, and in its rugged strength defies the tempest. The power of early influence, from the gnarled, shapeless trunk, bent as a sapling, to which no earthly power can afterward restore its lost symmetry. The secret of a holy life, from the water lily, that, on the bosom of some slimy pool, surrounded by weeds and rubbish, strikes down its channeled stem to the pure sands beneath, and, drawing thence its life, lifts up its fragrant blossoms to the light in spotless purity.” Education, 119.

5 HOW TO UNDERSTAND NATURE’S MESSAGES

  • Whose guidance is essential in order for us to understand nature? John 16:13; 14:26.

Note: “Teach them [the children] to notice the evidences everywhere manifest in nature of God’s thought for us, the wonderful adaptation of all things to our need and happiness.

“He alone who recognizes in nature his Father’s handiwork, who in the richness and beauty of the earth reads the Father’s handwriting—he alone learns from the things of nature their deepest lessons, and receives their highest ministry. Only he can fully appreciate the significance of hill and vale, river and sea, who looks upon them as an expression of the thought of God, a revelation of the Creator.” Education, 119, 120.

  • What event teaches us the messages of nature most clearly? John 1:4.

Note: “Only in the light that shines from Calvary can nature’s teaching be read aright. Through the story of Bethlehem and the cross let it be shown how good is to conquer evil, and how every blessing that comes to us is a gift of redemption.

“In brier and thorn, in thistle and tare, is represented the evil that blights and mars. In singing bird and opening blossom, in rain and sunshine, in summer breeze and gentle dew, in ten thousand objects in nature, from the oak of the forest to the violet that blossoms at its root, is seen the love that restores. And nature still speaks to us of God’s goodness.” Education, 101.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What is God trying to tell you through nature today?

2 How can the birds teach us lessons of trust in God?

3 What can we learn from the ant, one of the smallest of creatures?

4 What are some object lessons that trees give us?

5 How does God explain nature’s messages to us today?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Practical Listening

by

July 3, 2016 – July 9, 2016

Key Text

“O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart” (Proverbs 8:5).

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 3, 521–544.

Introduction

“The voice of duty is the voice of God—an inborn, heaven-sent guide. Whether it be pleasing or unpleasing, we are to do the duty that lies directly in our pathway.” The Review and Herald, December 29, 1910.

1 GOD’S VOICE IN DAY-TO-DAY LIFE

  • What is a common way that God reveals His will to us? Luke 17:10. Can we safely ignore this method of God’s communication?

Note: “No one can believe with the heart unto righteousness, and obtain justification by faith, while continuing the practice of those things which the word of God forbids, or while neglecting any known duty.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 396.

“While living in neglect of a known duty, he [Moses] would not be secure; for he could not be shielded by the angels of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 256.

“Duty admits no rival, enters into no compromise with any opposing powers. The most precious friends and relatives must not step in between your duty and your God. The voice of duty is the voice of God in our souls.” The Review and Herald, June 7, 1887.

  • Why was the Master displeased with the servant to whom He had given one talent? Matthew 25:26, 27; Luke 16:10.

Note: “By unfaithfulness in even the smallest duties, man robs his Maker of the service which is His due.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 356.

2 REFUSING TO HEAR

  • Why didn’t the rich young ruler want to do what Jesus had asked him to do? Matthew 19:21, 22. What two tools does God use to teach us our duty?

Note: “The man or woman that leaves the place that God has given him or her, in order to please inclination, and acts on his own devised plan meets with disappointment, because he has chosen his way instead of God’s way.” Sons and Daughters of God, 175.

“There are persons who would understand their duty clearly, if their duty was in harmony with their natural inclinations. Reason and circumstances may point out their duty clearly; but when the path of duty is not in line with their inclinations, these evidences are frequently set aside. Then these persons will presume to go to God to learn their duty. But God will not be trifled with. He will permit such persons to follow the desires of their own hearts.” The Watchman, September 1, 1908.

“Those who disregard the requirements of God in this life would not respect His authority were they in heaven.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 312.

  • Why does God sometimes choose to refrain from teaching us His will? Isaiah 59:1, 2; Psalm 81:11, 12; John 7:17.

Note: “There is no help for man, woman, or child, who will not hear and obey the voice of duty; for the voice of duty is the voice of God. The eyes, the ears, and the heart, will become unimpressible if men and women refuse to give heed to the divine counsel, and choose the way that is best pleasing to themselves.” Sons and Daughters of God, 175.

  • What is usually the reason for not listening to God? Deuteronomy 1:43; I Samuel 15:23.

3 NO MIDDLEMAN NEEDED

  • Do we need to wait for anyone else to teach us God’s will? James 1:5, 6.

Note: “We are not to place the responsibility of our duty upon others, and wait for them to tell us what to do. We cannot depend for counsel upon humanity. The Lord will teach us our duty just as willingly as He will teach somebody else. If we come to Him in faith, He will speak His mysteries to us personally. Our hearts will often burn within us as One draws nigh to commune with us as He did with Enoch. Those who decide to do nothing in any line that will displease God, will know, after presenting their case before Him, just what course to pursue. And they will receive not only wisdom, but strength. Power for obedience, for service, will be imparted to them, as Christ has promised.” The Desire of Ages, 668.

  • What are we promised when we ask God for guidance? Proverbs 3:5–7.

Note: “When perplexities arise, and difficulties confront you, look not for help to humanity. Trust all with God. The practice of telling our difficulties to others only makes us weak, and brings no strength to them. It lays upon them the burden of our spiritual infirmities, which they cannot relieve. We seek the strength of erring, finite man, when we might have the strength of the unerring, infinite God. …

“We need to have far less confidence in what man can do and far more confidence in what God can do for every believing soul. He longs to have you reach after Him by faith. He longs to have you expect great things from Him. He longs to give you understanding in temporal as well as in spiritual matters. He can sharpen the intellect. He can give tact and skill.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 146.

“Has not God said He would give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him? and is not this spirit a real, true actual guide? Some men seem afraid to take God at His word as though it would be presumption in them. They pray for the Lord to teach us and yet are afraid to credit the pledged word of God and believe we have been taught of Him. So long as we come to our heavenly Father humbly and with a spirit to be taught, willing and anxious to learn, why should we doubt God’s fulfillment of His own promise?” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, 1155, 1156.

4 GOD’S ATTITUDE TOWARD US

  • What did Christ say to reveal God’s willingness to teach us His ways, personally? Matthew 7:7–11.

Note: “God wants His children to ask for those things that will enable Him to reveal His grace through them to the world. He wants them to seek His counsel, to acknowledge His power. Christ lays loving claims on all for whom He has given His life; they are to obey His will if they would share the joys that He has prepared for all who reflect His character here. It is well for us to feel our weakness, for then we shall seek the strength and wisdom that the Father delights to give to His children for their daily strife against the powers of evil.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 284.

  • How patient is God as He seeks to communicate with us? Romans 14:5, second part; 2 Peter 3:9.
  • How patient should we be with others in their understanding of God’s ways? Matthew 7:12; Ephesians 4:2; Luke 6:37.

Note: “As God’s free agents, all should ask wisdom of Him. When the learner depends wholly upon another’s thoughts, and goes no further than to accept his plans, he sees only through that man’s eyes and is, so far, only an echo of another. God deals with men as responsible beings. He will work by His Spirit through the mind He has put in man, if man will only give Him a chance to work and will recognize His dealings. He designs that each shall use his mind and conscience for himself. He does not intend that one man shall become the shadow of another, uttering only another’s sentiments. …

“Men are individually accountable to God, and each must act as God moves upon him, not as he is moved by the mind of another.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 724, 725.

“No one is to control another’s mind, to judge for another, or to prescribe his duty. God gives to every soul freedom to think, and to follow his own convictions. … No one has a right to merge his own individuality in that of another.” The Desire of Ages, 550.

5 HOW GOD USES IMPRESSIONS

  • In addition to guiding us through the voice of duty, what is another way that God speaks to us? Isaiah 30:21. How did God guide Mary through the impressions of the Holy Spirit?

Note: “Mary knew not the full significance of her deed of love. She could not answer her accusers. She could not explain why she had chosen that occasion for anointing Jesus. The Holy Spirit had planned for her, and she had obeyed His promptings. Inspiration stoops to give no reason. An unseen presence, it speaks to mind and soul, and moves the heart to action. It is its own justification.” The Desire of Ages, 560.

“Another way in which God’s voice is heard is through the appeals of His Holy Spirit, making impressions upon the heart, which will be wrought out in the character.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 512.

“Conscience is the voice of God, heard amid the conflict of human passions; when it is resisted, the Spirit of God is grieved.” Ibid., 120.

“God speaks to us through His providential workings and through the influence of His Spirit upon the heart.” Steps to Christ, 87.

  • Against what standard should we evaluate our impressions? Isaiah 8:20.

Note: “The Bible … marks out the duty of man in every circumstance of life.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 312.

“If you are in doubt upon any subject you must first consult the Scriptures.” Ibid., vol. 5, 512.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 If we neglect a known duty, what is our spiritual condition?

2 How are we to determine our duty?

3 What must we do in order to learn our duty?

4 What is the relationship between duty and individuality?

5 How does God use impressions? How can we abuse them?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.