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Worthy of Imitating

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A great need today is a body of churches that refuse to compromise and allow misconduct and wrong activities to flourish. The purpose of the church is to be a place where its members can grow “unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:13. Its goal is that each individual member be a temple, bringing honor and glory to God.

Today, people need a good role model to follow, and those in the church should have certain characteristics or qualities that would attract others to worship and to be a part of that church. We will look at some of the characteristics that should be reflected in the church worthy of worshipping in and being part of.

In I Thessalonians 1:6–10 it says, “And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak anything. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.”

In this passage the Apostle Paul describes a congregation, a group of people putting into practice the instructions found in the Word of God. The members, ordering their lives according to God’s principles have been seen and witnessed by other people around. By their lives they set a good example demonstrating just what can be done when God is in control, providing direction and inspiration to others.

The Christian church has been very blessed with many role models found in both the Old and the New Testament.

We should ask ourselves the question, Whose path are we following? The path we follow influences others to follow that same path. If we are following Christ, our behavior, our conduct, the way we do business will witness for the Lord and others will follow that type of example. The Scriptures are very specific about the characteristics, or qualities of the role models we should follow. For instance, Moses, Elijah and Joshua in the Old Testament, all of these men represented God in all of their words and actions, becoming worthy role models and their influence touched many people’s lives.

If we do not learn to imitate Christ and to develop His character, His mind, His concepts, personality and have His qualities, another influence will overwhelm us to form characters where Christ will not even be in the picture. This is happening in the world today because the type of lifestyle many are living today only reflects the world. The majority are not willing to leave their comfort zone and move on to greater and higher things for the honor and glory of God. They are not willing to make the extra sacrifice and move away from the world’s approval because it is too uncomfortable to make that move.

Christ left His royal position, His home, His authority, everything to come here to this earth to receive rejection, insult and even physical abuse so that people could see the character of His Father represented. But the Lord left it all because He loved us. He left it all in the hope that He would find faith before He went to His Father, and when He comes back again He will find faith.

What type of reputation are you projecting right now around your community? Is it worthy of being imitated by others? Jesus told the Pharisees to their faces that they were hypocrites. He told them that they were so concerned about the outside that on the inside they were worse than anybody else. See Matthew 23:26.

Jesus said, “I will select people whom I can use who are willing to give me their lives, who are desiring to follow Me, and will allow Me to teach them how to be the people that I can use. I will be their God and this people that follow me will be My people.”

The Jews were chosen to be God’s special instruments to reflect God’s character but they went so far that they crucified the very One who could save them. However, the most astonishing and most powerful fact is that Jesus was not forced to be crucified. He was willing to give Himself voluntarily for all of the human race because He loved us.

Are you willing to leave your comfort zone for the honor and glory of God? The Lord promises that whatever you lose or give up here on this earth for My name’s sake, I will repay you. If you lose your life, I will give to you a new life. God gives us the assurance that if we will surrender all to the Lord now, to become a dwelling place for Jesus and the Holy Spirit, our future life is sure.

Paul says, “Ye were ensamples to all that believe.” I Thessalonians 1:7. We have the privilege of becoming Christlike examples to all around us. We can become role models for others, leading them to follow Jesus. Only when Christ is dwelling in us, when He is alive in our hearts, can we be the right examples and the role models that will influence others in the right way.

Paul says, “And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit.” I Thessalonians 1:6. Whether in times of turmoil or in times of trouble, you will have joy in your heart because you are asking God for your body to be a dwelling place, a temple of the Holy Spirit. When trouble comes, with joy you say, “Lord, come into my life. I know that I am in the middle of trouble, but even now, in the middle of all this turmoil, I am determined to honor and give glory to You, and to be your child and to reflect your character.” Hard times are the most difficult times to reflect God’s character because it requires a sacrifice. It requires obedience and requires faith in God. How much faith do you have for the Lord today?

We read in II Thessalonians 2:14, “Which He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul here is saying to us that we need to follow our Lord Jesus Christ and to reflect His character.

The Corinthian church was a new church that was raised which came out from the middle of idol worship. They were baby Christians who fell in love with Jesus and they were reflecting that obedience, loyalty, and the faith of Jesus to all around them. As babies begin with milk, the apostle Paul says that the baby Christians should also drink the milk of the Word but when the Christian is mature, he should eat solid food. If you feed solid food to a baby Christian he will often choke, so there is great need of having a good understanding of what food is appropriate at all times so as not to discourage the baby Christian.

There are many people out of the church right now because they have choked. This often happens because the church is not being properly fed according to God’s principles. We have the responsibility to preach the present truth, not to compromise.

A church of believers worthy of imitating is a church teaching and practicing the truth and has a balance in church activities. Our God is a very organized and orderly God so His church is also properly organized and orderly waiting for His return.

Paul was very tactful in saying, “I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you.” I Corinthians 4:14. Often, new Christians can become extremists, or even go back to idol worship. The danger is always there so there is a need to stay faithful together and continue to grow together spiritually. Never fall into the delusion that you know it all and do not need to hear anything else. That is dangerous ground. When a person has confidence in himself/herself, he/she starts drifting and often does not even know it. We need to constantly stay connected, by way of communion with our Lord Jesus Christ, and to stay in unity for the honor and glory of God.

Paul commanded the Philippians to follow the examples of others. Philippians 3:17 says, “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an example.” In other words, follow the examples of those who are worthy and don’t follow the examples of those who are not worthy. Be wise. Paul said to follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God will, through the church that is worthy to imitate, direct you, teach you and show you the way to the Kingdom of Heaven. The true church of God is going to have trials. Trials are the method that God uses to make the church (His people) ready for the kingdom of heaven. If you are going through hard times and difficult moments you need to say, “Praise the Lord; He is working on me. He is making me worthy to inherit the kingdom of heaven.”

Daily consecration is necessary that He will work in and through us to reach out for His honor and glory. God can only work through consecrated people. When there is sin in the camp, God cannot work with the church. That is why the Lord told Joshua when Achan was in the camp, “I’m going to withdraw Myself from you because there is sin among you.” See Joshua 7:11, 12. On another occasion, the Lord says, “Joshua, tell the people to consecrate themselves today and tomorrow I will do wonders for them.” See Joshua 3:5.

If there is consecration today for the Lord, tomorrow, the Lord will do wonders for His people. We need to ask ourselves, “Lord, is there something in my life that is blocking the light from shining out in this community, or around the neighborhood where I live, or in my home? What do I have in my heart that is causing this place to be no longer a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit of God? Show me and give me your power to remove it, Lord. I want you to be the One to occupy this body, this temple that will give you honor and glory every day of my life.” When you truly consecrate your life to God, people will say, “I see something in this sister and this brother that I am really impressed to follow. I really want to know why I never see this person angry or cursing, or losing his temper. What is it that is making him happy all the time?”

Surrender to the Lord and let Him be your guide and then the whole church will be effective. Why? Then the church will grow because the image of Christ will be reflected in the countenance of each one in the church.

When Moses came down from the mountain after spending time with God, the children of Israel could not look at His face because it was so bright. He had been with God. The more time we spend together with the Lord, the more powerful, stronger and the more cleansed we will be, making the church more effective.

Today, we are in need of churches that will not compromise, but that will raise the standard of truth and bring honor and glory to God.

With Jesus Christ as our Lord and Master, we will be able to work together, understanding each other, loving each other, treating each other with respect and dignity and love. Our goal is to imitate Christ every step of the way; then the church will be firm, built on the rock. It will have one foundation, one purpose and one goal—to spread the Gospel to the world and to be ready when Jesus comes.

Do you want to go home? Let each person work together with his brother. We need to receive the Holy Spirit. The disciples were not ready to receive the Holy Spirit until they came together in unity. Only then were they baptized with the Holy Spirit. Our great need also is unity and the Holy Spirit.

What example are you being today? Make a commitment for the Lord today to make those necessary changes in your life so you will bring honor and glory to the Lord every day of your life and have the honor of being a role model worthy of imitation for others to follow.

Pastor Domingo Nunez is Director of Outreach Ministry for Steps to Life. He may be contacted by email at: domingonunez@stepstolife, or by telephone at: (316) 788-5559.

Editorial – The Higher Standard

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In the world there are standards in every area of life. In the church, there are also standards relevant to our religious life—standards of conduct, standards of speech, and standards relating to even our thoughts (see the Sermon on the Mount—Matthew 5). The Ten Commandments were pointed out by Jesus in His sermon as the standard, not only of our conduct and speech, but even our thoughts. In this editorial, I want to point out the highest standard for the Christian.

“There is no higher standard than the life of Christ.” Medical Ministry, 160. The Ten Commandments are the standard, and when we hear them we are hearing the standard of character that God has for all of His children. But when we look at the life of Christ, we actually see what the standard is when lived out in the life of a person. The life of Christ provides for us not only the precept, but an actual perfect example of what a person is like when living out the principles of the commandments. Since seeing is a more powerful teaching device than hearing, and since the mind will accept what is seen over what is heard, the life of Christ provides a perfect standard and the highest standard for which we are to strive.

This is what the Lord wants to do in our lives: “God has called His people to glory and virtue, and these will be manifest in the lives of all who are truly connected with Him. Having become partakers of the heavenly gift, they are to go on unto perfection, being ‘kept by the power of God through faith.’ 1 Peter 1:5. It is the glory of God to give His virtue to His children. He desires to see men and women reaching the highest standard; and when by faith they lay hold of the power of Christ, when they plead His unfailing promises, and claim them as their own, when with an importunity that will not be denied they seek for the power of the Holy Spirit, they will be made complete in Him.” The Acts of the Apostles, 530.

The devil claims that this cannot be done, but the Lord predicts that it will happen in every one of His children: “It has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him.” 1 John 3:2. NKJV This is the experience to which God is calling you. It will happen in your life as you cooperate with the divine agencies sent to this world for your salvation.

Editorial – The Hundred and Forty Four-Thousand

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For those of you who are mathematicians, 144 is a Fibonacci number. It is both a round number and a square number. But the reason that students of prophecy are fascinated with this number is because God says that in the last generation He is going to seal 144,000 people from His true church (Israel), and this will happen before the final destructive judgments come upon this world (Revelation 7:1–4).

These people are described as virgins (Revelation 14:4), for they have not drunk the wine of the fornication of Babylon (Revelation 14:8; 17:2; 18:3).

Inspired writings describe them as being very small in number compared with the multitudes on the earth in the last days. One hundred and forty-four thousand is indeed a small number compared with today’s population of over seven billion, including many millions of Adventists. That figures out to a ratio of approximately one in 50,000 people. Actually, that is a very high number of faithful people when you consider that the ratio was far less at other periods of time. Before the flood when the population was most probably over one billion, only eight people were found to be loyal and ready to enter the ark—Noah and his family. Out of the 300,000 children of Israel who journeyed through the wilderness, only two were found. The experiences recorded in Matthew 24 and I Corinthians 10 are examples of the last days.

In addition to the 144,000, there will also be an innumerable multitude saved (Revelation 7:9), many of them martyrs and the myriads who have died in Christ, but the 144,000 is a select group from the final generation who will receive special honors in the kingdom of God. (See Revelation 14:1.)

Specific character traits have been developed in the last days in all of those comprising the 144,000: (1) purity, (2) truthfulness, (3) faultlessness or blamelessness or, in other words, perfection of character. (See Revelation 14:1–5.) Referring to this group, Ellen White wrote, “Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.” Early Writings, 71.

“If we would have the image and superscription of God upon us, we must separate ourselves from all iniquity. We must forsake every evil way, and then we must trust our cases in the hands of Christ. While we are working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, God will work in us to will and to do of His own good pleasure.” The Review and Herald, March 19, 1889.

And finally an exhortation: “Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Review and Herald, March 9, 1905.

The Last Years of Earth’s History

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I believe that we are living in the last years of Earth’s history. Ellen White says in Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, 379, “In His Word the Lord declared what He would do for Israel if they would obey His voice. But the leaders of the people yielded to the temptations of Satan, and God could not give them the blessings He designed them to have, because they did not obey His voice but listened to the voice and policy of Lucifer. This experience will be repeated in the last years of the history of the people of God, who have been established by His grace and power. Men whom He has greatly honored will in the closing scenes of this earth’s history pattern after ancient Israel.”

That is a startling statement when considering their final stages and that it would be repeated. We are living in the last years, and we need to press together and help each other get ready for the kingdom of heaven. Ellen White says that the prophecy Jesus gave in Luke 21:34 was especially for those who live in the last days. Jesus says, “But take heed [pay attention] to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.” That word translated carousing, which the King James Version translates surfeiting can be translated dissipation, or sensual indulgence. Be careful that you don’t get weighed down because of sensual indulgence, drunkenness, or the cares of this life.

We all suffer with the cares of this life. All over the world people are struggling—the poor with poverty, the rich with other worries and everyone in between. Jesus says, “Watch out! Don’t let the cares of this life crush you.”

I have known people who purchased land in the country and decided to save money by building their own house while at the same time running a business. They are so busy that when Sabbath morning comes around, they are just too tired to get up and go to church. We are creatures of habit. Sometimes we don’t realize how strong these habits can become. Once you start sleeping in, you will do it again and again until you’re in the habit of working hard all week and then require the weekend to catch up on missed sleep. We all have the power to choose our own lifestyle and prioritize.

On one occasion when everyone had left Jesus, He asked His disciples, “Do you want to go, too?” (See John 6:60, 61.) He gave them the choice; they could either stay or go. This is a choice we all have. Some people struggle with sensual gratification while others struggle with drunkenness, which is the use of alcohol, drugs or mind-altering substances. There are others who are not tempted by any substances but still have many cares just in daily living that occupy all of their time.

This has taken a tremendous toll within Adventism. In the early days, yearly camp meetings were held for ten days covering two weekends. Then, as life became busier and numbers decreased, it was cut down to start Wednesday or Thursday night and go through the weekend. Steps to Life camp meeting is two days shorter this year than it has been in the past. Why is that? God’s people are so busy with the cares of this life; they don’t have time to come to camp meeting. This is a serious problem and something we need to study and pray about. Are we so busy that we don’t have time to pray? Are we so busy that we don’t have time to go to church? Are we so busy that we don’t have time to go to camp meeting? Are we so busy that we don’t have time to attend prayer meeting? Do we allow time at all to talk to the Lord?

“And as we near the close of time, Satan’s temptation to indulge appetite will be more powerful and more difficult to overcome.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 164. Notice, one of the things Jesus mentioned was dissipation or sensual gratification, which is regarding appetite.

“As we near the close of time, we must rise higher and still higher on the question of health reform and Christian temperance, presenting it in a more positive and decided manner.” A Call to Medical Evangelism and Health Education, 41.

“As our first parents lost Eden through the indulgence of appetite, our only hope of regaining Eden is through the firm denial of appetite and passion.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 59.

Spiritual concepts are often unable to be understood by people because of their poor physical condition due to the way they eat, drink, smoke, and use drugs, alcohol, or other substances. The mental power needed to think clearly about spiritual things is directly affected by a person’s physical condition.

Ellen White wrote, in The Review and Herald, April 1, 1875, the following: “Satan is a cunning foe. And it is not difficult for the evil angels to represent both saints and sinners who have died, and make these representations visible to human eyes. These manifestations will be more frequent, and developments of a more startling character will appear as we near the close of time.”

We need to be on our guard in regard to spiritualism. You may see representations that claim to be the apostles. And eventually, as stated in The Great Controversy, 624, Satan himself is going to impersonate Christ, and when he does that, almost the whole world is going to fall down and worship him. You and I are going to be commanded to fall down and worship him. This will be more startling, more dazzling, more glorious, Ellen White says, than anything that human eyes have yet beheld.

Unless we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we will be mesmerized, or hypnotized, and we will not realize what we are doing. I realize more and more that we must pray daily that we might receive the Holy Spirit, which is the only means by which we can be kept from being deceived.

We have the example of another development that will happen, as we draw near the end of time, in the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. (See Numbers 16.) Paul tells us that, “These things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages are come.” I Corinthians 10:11.

“Satan has led persons to imitate the example of Korah, Dathan and Abiram, in raising insurrection among the people of God. Those who permit themselves to rise in opposition to the plain testimony, become self-deceived, and have really thought that those upon whom God laid the burden of His work were exalted above the people of God, and that their counsels and reproofs were uncalled for.” Testimony Studies on Diets and Foods, 149. Mrs. White speaks here in regard to rebellion against the Spirit of Prophecy. The children of Israel under the direction of Korah, who led Dathan and Abiram to help him, with 250 princes, rebelled against the authority of Moses. Remember, God had already said, “If there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord, make Myself known to him in a vision; I speak to him in a dream. Not so with My servant Moses; He is faithful in all My house. I speak with him face to face.” Numbers 12:6–8.

In the wilderness, the Israelites had somebody in their midst that was more than a prophet. Do we have someone who is more than a prophet? Yes we do. Throughout the history of the Great Controversy since the fall of man, in addition to the sending of Jesus Christ, three times God has sent to His people someone that was more than a prophet.

The first was Moses. God said, “Moses My servant is not so.” Numbers 12:6, literal translation. In other words, he is more than a prophet.

The second was John the Baptist. “Among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist.” Luke 7:28. (See also Matthew 11:9.) He was more than a prophet.

The third time, just as God sent someone that was more than a prophet to His people to prepare them for the First Advent, he also sent someone to them to help prepare for the Second Advent. People asked Ellen White, “Why is it that you don’t claim to be a prophet?” She said, “My work includes much more than the word ‘prophet’ signifies.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 32.

But people will always arise to oppose the plain testimony. How does that happen? How does a church go into apostasy? It is usually without anybody in the church knowing about it. But by the time you get to the point that people are outwardly opposing the straight testimony, the church is not just approaching but actually is already in apostasy.

Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14. That prophecy was fulfilled before the destruction of Jerusalem, and it will be fulfilled again before the Second Coming. It is predicted, in Revelation 14:6 and 7, that the everlasting gospel will go to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. Taking the gospel to every nation, kindred, language, and people requires money. Notice what Ellen White said about this: “The wants of the cause will continually increase as we near the close of time.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 156.

“We are placed on trial in this world, to determine our fitness for the future life. None can enter heaven whose characters are defiled by the foul blot of selfishness. Therefore, God tests us here, by committing to us temporal possessions, that our use of these may show whether we can be entrusted with eternal riches.” Counsels on Stewardship, 22. As we near the close of time, God’s work is going to need more money, and we need to pray that the Lord will help us to acquire the funds we need to do bigger projects and get the work finished. There’s a lot of work that has to be done before Jesus can come.

In a special testimony to the Battle Creek church in 1882, Ellen White wrote: “As we near the close of time the demarcation between the children of light and the children of darkness will be more and more decided. They will be more and more at variance. This difference is expressed in the words of Christ, ‘born again’—created anew in Christ, dead to the world, and alive unto God. These are the walls of separation that divide the heavenly from the earthly and describe the difference between those who belong to the world and those who are chosen out of it, who are elect, precious in the sight of God.” Last Day Events, 215, 216.

When Jesus comes, those waiting for Him are going to be like Him and not like the world. But those who decide to be a friend of the world are enemies of God (James 4:4). Revelation 19:19 says, “I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army.” All of the forces in the world will be united to fight Jesus Christ when He comes in the clouds of heaven. So, all who have become like Jesus, reflecting His character, will find the whole world at variance with them.

This demarcation between the children of light and the children of darkness will be more and more decided, and they will be more and more at variance as time goes on. The devil is trying everything, especially with our young people, to persuade them of some advantage of becoming like the world. If you are getting ready for Jesus to come, you are going to become more and more different than the world. The gap widens—some people becoming more like the world while others becoming more like the Lord. That difference causes splits, separations, strife and variance among God’s professed people. I do not want to speak from the standpoint of unbelief, but I want to be realistic in my faith and my understanding of religion and the times in which we live.

Many preachers talk about the unity and harmony that will be in the church when the latter rain falls. Those who are going to be ready for Jesus to come will be in harmony and unity, but don’t think there will be harmony and unity between everybody.

Yes, within the same church there will be harmony and unity within one group, but also variance and division within another. Research the expression, nominal Adventists. When I was studying theology, we were taught that the nominal Adventists were the first day Adventists after 1844 that did not accept the Sabbath. But, over and over again Ellen White says that at the time of the latter rain, the loud cry, when the work of God is finishing in the world, there are going to be some nominal Adventists, and that they will be our most bitter enemies.

“As we near the close of time, the human mind is more readily affected by Satan’s devices. He leads deceived mortals to account for the works and miracles of Christ upon general principles.” Messages to Young People, 57.

You and I are not going to make it unless we study Inspired writings and accept what is said there and follow it. One of the things we need to emphasize is that the people who are lost are going to really think that they are saved until they come right up to the end. That is scary, but it is a fact. Within the Adventist church as well as the Christian world at large, the people who are lost will think that they are saved until they come right up to the end.

“We make a few feeble efforts to do right, and then go back to our old life of sin. If we ever enter the kingdom of God, we must enter with perfect characters, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing. Satan works with increased activity as we near the close of time. He lays his snares, unperceived by us, that he may take possession of our minds. In every way he tries to eclipse the glory of God from the soul.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 4, 1900.

Satan lays his plans, unperceived by us, and is working as we draw near the close of time with increased activity. We cannot see what he is doing, but let me tell you, if you are a preacher or if you are involved in evangelism, you should be able to see today the results of his work.

I have never seen anything like what we are going through today, either in the church or in the world. People think that no matter what they believe, we are all going to the same place in the end. But we are not all going to the same place.

Ellen White wrote: “Through the pleasures and ambitions of the world, the enemy is working to draw the youth into his ranks, and he has much success. As we approach nearer to the close of time, he will invent every possible attraction to draw their minds into worldly channels.” The Review and Herald, February 1, 1912.

We have seen this happen. We are losing almost all of our young people. What is responsible? “Human nature is still the same. And Satan is as active, earnest, and persevering now as at any period in the past. Nay, rather, the word of God declares that his power and enmity increase as we near the close of time.” The Signs of the Times, January 24, 1884.

The devil will work upon human imagination. He has been more successful than we could ever imagine in stealing the young people from among God’s people.

“The repeated murmurings of the Israelites, and the visitations of God’s wrath because of their transgressions, are recorded in sacred history for the benefit of God’s people who should afterward live upon the earth; but more especially to prove a warning to those who should live near the close of time.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 270.

All those things that happened to the children of Israel were recorded especially for those that would live near the close of time. Especially mentioned are their repeated murmurings. There were 600,000 men over 20 years of age that left Egypt, and out of those 600,000, only two went into the Promised Land. What happened to the rest? They murmured their way into the wilderness. Today we would describe it as grumbling or complaining. They complained about the food and the leadership. Moses was continually blamed for all their troubles.

They became so unhappy with Moses that at one point they wanted to stone him. They planned to select another leader who would take them where they wanted to go—back to Egypt. They were unhappy about the leadership that God chose for them.

Today, God is raising up men and women to lead the people to the Promised Land, but history is being repeated. “With a malicious spirit they attack the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. Though very unbelieving in regard to the sure word of prophecy, they manifest the utmost credulity in accepting anything detrimental to the Christian integrity of those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more as we near the close of time.” Ibid., vol. 4, 292.

We are living in a time when you have to decide whether you will be in trouble with either men or with God. You will not be able to get along with both. “The devil has come down to you having great wrath because he knows that he has a short time.” Revelation 12:12.

The devil commenced his destructive work in heaven with the angels by making accusations against the Father and the Son, the government of God and the law of God. He knows his time is short so he turns up the heat. “As we near the close of time, Satan comes down with great power, knowing that his time is short. Especially will his power be exercised upon the remnant. He will war against them, and seek to divide and scatter them, that they may grow weak and be overthrown.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 210. This can be seen in our churches.

A united group of people working harmoniously can do far more in God’s work than all of those people working separately and alone, so the devil causes people to argue and disagree to cause division “that they may grow weak and be overthrown.” One of the most successful ways the devil does that is through gossip, which is the cause of two-thirds of church trials. Satan’s first claim in heaven was that he was not treated right! He didn’t get the job he thought he should have! Can anyone relate to that?

There are so many people who say they believe the Three Angels’ Messages but who will not worship with this one or that one over the most incidental things. But the bottom line is often, “They didn’t treat me right, so I can’t go to church with those people.” We had better sort it out soon, because there is only one church in heaven, and if we can’t worship together here, some of us won’t be there.

There is another group of people who believe that we will continue to sin right up until the Lord comes, and then, miraculously, every sinful desire will be taken away from them, all rifts will be healed, and those who could not worship together before will become best friends.

What a delusion! Jesus is not going to come and take a bunch of separate groups of people who can’t get along here to heaven. We might as well face up to it, because that is not going to happen. Now, before probation closes, is the time to work out our differences. Do not give up on each other but pray for one another, press together and don’t allow the devil to have his way in dividing and scattering us so we will “grow weak and be overthrown.”

When Jesus comes, those who are saved will be united and a part of God’s one church. They will receive a new immortal body when He comes, but the attitude they have on the first day in heaven will not be any different than their last day on earth.

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

Pastor John J. Grosboll is Director of Steps to Life and pastors the Prairie Meadows Free Seventh-day Adventist Church in Wichita, Kansas. He may be contacted by email at: historic@stepstolife.org, or by telephone at: 316-788-5559.

Bible Study Guides – Going on to Perfection

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July 1, 2012 – July 7, 2012

Key Text

“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.” Hebrews 6:1.

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 529–538.

Introduction

“We are not yet perfect; but it is our privilege to cut away from the entanglements of self and sin, and advance to perfection.” The Acts of the Apostles, 565.

1 BABIES IN CHRIST

  • How does an individual become a Christian? John 3:5; I Peter 1:23.

Note: “The change of heart by which we become children of God is in the Bible spoken of as birth.” Steps to Christ, 67.

“When truth becomes an abiding principle in the life, the soul is ‘born again.’ … This new birth is the result of receiving Christ as the Word of God. When by the Holy Spirit divine truths are impressed upon the heart, new conceptions are awakened, and the energies hitherto dormant are aroused to co-operate with God.” The Acts of the Apostles, 520.

  • What type of experience did the believers at Ephesus enjoy at the very beginning of their Christian life? Revelation 2:2, 3; Acts 4:32–34.

Note: “After the descent of the Holy Spirit the disciples went forth to proclaim a risen Saviour, their one desire the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in the sweetness of the communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth’s sake. In their daily association with one another they revealed the love that Christ had commanded them to reveal. By unselfish words and deeds they strove to kindle this love in other hearts.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 241.

2 GROWING UP

  • What do we expect from babies as they age? I Peter 2:2.

Note: “In giving us the privilege of studying His word, the Lord has set before us a rich banquet. Many are the benefits derived from feasting on His word, which is represented by Him as His flesh and blood, His spirit and life. By partaking of this word our spiritual strength is increased; we grow in grace and in a knowledge of the truth. Habits of self-control are formed and strengthened. The infirmities of childhood—fretfulness, willfulness, selfishness, hasty words, passionate acts—disappear, and in their place are developed the graces of Christian manhood and womanhood.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 207.

  • Spiritually speaking, how important is proper food intake in the growth of a child? II Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:14, 15.

Note: “The work of sanctification begins in the home. Those who are Christians in the home will be Christians in the church and in the world.” My Life Today, 261.

“If as newborn babes you desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, you will have no appetite to partake of a dish of evil speaking, but all such food will be at once rejected, because those who have tasted that the Lord is gracious cannot partake of the dish of nonsense, and folly, and backbiting. They will say decidedly, ‘Take this dish away. I do not want to eat such food. It is not the bread from heaven. It is eating and drinking the very spirit of the devil; for it is his business to be an accuser of the brethren.’ ” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 458.

“As they [God’s hungering, thirsting people] feed upon His [God’s] word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Comforter. By the transforming agency of His grace, the image of God is reproduced in the disciple; he becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude. This is what it means to live ‘by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God’ [Matthew 4:4]. This is eating the Bread that comes down from heaven.” The Desire of Ages, 391.

3 LEVELS OF ACCOUNTABILITY

  • How does God treat those who have a limited amount of knowledge in the present truth? Acts 17:30; James 4:17.

Note: “Said the angel: ‘If light come, and that light is set aside or rejected, then comes condemnation and the frown of God; but before the light comes, there is no sin, for there is no light for them to reject.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 1, 116.

  • What is expected of those who are privileged to hear and understand the truth? Proverbs 4:18; Hebrews 6:1.

Note: “It is a sad thing when a people claiming to be reformers cease to reform.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, 185.

“God requires of His people according to the grace and truth given them. All His righteous demands must be fully met. Accountable beings must walk in the light that shines upon them. If they fail to do this, their light becomes darkness, and their darkness is great in the same degree as their light was abundant.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 123.

“The word of the Lord, spoken through His servants, is received by many with questionings and fears. And many will defer their obedience to the warning and reproofs given, waiting till every shadow of uncertainty is removed from their minds. The unbelief that demands perfect knowledge will never yield to the evidence that God is pleased to give. He requires of His people faith that rests upon the weight of evidence, not upon perfect knowledge. Those followers of Christ who accept the light that God sends them must obey the voice of God speaking to them when there are many other voices crying out against it. It requires discernment to distinguish the voice of God.

“Those who will not act when the Lord calls upon them, but who wait for more certain evidence and more favorable opportunities, will walk in darkness, for the light will be withdrawn. The evidence given one day, if rejected, may never be repeated.” Ibid., vol. 3, 258.

4 REJECTING KNOWLEDGE

  • Does punishment and destruction come to a people because of a lack of knowledge—or is it through a rejection of the knowledge that God gives us? Hosea 4:6.

Note: “It is not for lack of knowledge that God’s people are now perishing. They will not be condemned because they do not know the way, the truth, and the life. The truth that has reached their understanding, the light which has shone on the soul, but which has been neglected or refused, will condemn them. Those who never had the light to reject will not be in condemnation. What more could have been done for God’s vineyard than has been done? Light, precious light, shines upon God’s people; but it will not save them unless they consent to be saved by it, fully live up to it, and transmit it to others in darkness.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 123.

  • How dangerous is neglecting to follow the light we are privileged to receive? Galatians 3:1.

Note: “Religious knowledge has accumulated, and this has increased corresponding obligations. Great light has been shining upon the church, and by it they are condemned because they refuse to walk in it. If they were blind they would be without sin. But they have seen light and have heard much truth, yet are not wise and holy. Many have for years made no advancement in knowledge and true holiness. They are spiritual dwarfs. Instead of going forward to perfection, they are going back to the darkness and bondage of Egypt. Their minds are not exercised unto godliness and true holiness.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 123, 124.

“God requires of us according to the grace that He has bestowed upon us, and He will not accept less than He claims. All His righteous demands must be fully met. In order for us to discharge our responsibilities, we must stand on that elevated ground which the order and advancement of holy, sacred truth has prepared for us.” Ibid., vol. 3, 65.

“Every person who cherishes a known error, in faith or practice, is under the power of sorcery, and is practicing sorcery upon others. Satan employs him to mislead other souls.” The Signs of the Times, May 18, 1882.

5 NO STOPPING GROUND

  • How are we to maintain continual development as we walk with Jesus? Hebrews 13:12; Philippians 3:15; I Thessalonians 4:4.

Note: “The Word of Christ is the bread of life that is furnished for every soul that liveth. To refuse to eat this bread is death. He that neglects to partake of the Word of God shall not see life. Receiving the Word is believing the Word, and this is eating Christ’s flesh, drinking His blood. To dwell and abide in Christ is to dwell and abide in His Word; it is to bring heart and character into conformity to His commands.” The Southern Work, 52.

  • To what extent are we to continue our growth? Hebrews 6:1; Matthew 5:48.

Note: “Let us be growing Christians. We are not to stand still. We are to be in advance today of what we were yesterday; every day learning to be more trustful, more fully relying upon Jesus. Thus we are to grow up. You do not at one bound reach perfection; sanctification is the work of a lifetime.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 193.

“Every living Christian will advance daily in the divine life. As he advances toward perfection, he experiences a conversion to God every day; and this conversion is not completed until he attains to perfection of Christian character, a full preparation for the finishing touch of immortality.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 505.

“The Lord chooses His own agents, and each day under different circumstances He gives them a trial in His plan of operation. In each true-hearted endeavor to work out His plan, He chooses His agents not because they are perfect but because, through a connection with Him, they may gain perfection.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 330.

  • How can we see ourselves as we really are? Isaiah 6:1, 5; II Corinthians 13:5.

Note: “Every follower of Christ should daily examine himself, that he may become perfectly acquainted with his own conduct.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 511.

“The more experience we gain, the nearer we draw toward the pure light of heaven, the more shall we discern in ourselves that needs reforming.” Ibid., vol. 3, 542.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1 When we are truly dedicated to our Saviour, how will our priorities change?

2 For proper spiritual growth, of what type of food do we need to partake?

3 As reformers by name, are we—am I—continuing the process of true reformation?

4 What is the true cause of destruction?

5 At what point can we rest satisfied in our Christian journey?

Extra Reading

“We may all do a good work in blessing others if we will seek counsel of God and follow on in obedience and faith. The path of the just is progressive, from strength to strength, from grace to grace, and from glory to glory. The divine illumination will increase more and more, corresponding with our onward movements, qualifying us to meet the responsibilities and emergencies before us.

“When trials press you, when despondency and dark unbelief control your thoughts, when selfishness molds your actions, you do not see your need of God and of a deep and thorough knowledge of His will. You know not the will of God, neither can you know it while you live for self. You rely upon your good intentions and resolutions, and the principal sum of life is composed of resolutions made and resolutions broken. What you all need is to die to self, cease clinging to self, and surrender to God. Gladly would I comfort you if I could. Gladly would I praise your good qualities, good purposes, and good acts; but God was not pleased to show me these. He presented before me the hindrances to your gaining the noble, elevated character of holiness needful for you to have that you may not lose the heavenly rest and immortal glory He would have you attain. Look away from yourselves to Jesus. He is all and in all. The merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour will avail to cleanse from the least and greatest sin. In trusting faith commit the keeping of your souls to God as unto a faithful Creator. Be not continually in fear and apprehension that God will leave you. He never will unless you depart from Him. Christ will come in and dwell with you if you will open the door of your hearts to Him. There may be perfect harmony between you and the Father and His Son if you will die to self and live unto God.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 542, 543.

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Editorial – The Fragrant Christian

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Do you have enough perfume? The fragrance of Christ’s character in His people will win many souls to Christ. “The grace of Christ is to control the temper and the voice. Its working will be seen in politeness and tender regard shown by brother for brother, in kind, encouraging words. An angel presence is in the home. The life breathes a sweet perfume, which ascends to God as holy incense. Love is manifested in kindness, gentleness, forbearance, and long-suffering.

“The countenance is changed. Christ abiding in the heart shines out in the faces of those who love Him and keep His commandments. Truth is written there. The sweet peace of heaven is revealed. There is expressed a habitual gentleness, a more than human love.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 102.

“When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven.” The Ministry of Healing, 253.

“God would have our families symbols of the family in heaven. Let parents and children bear this in mind every day, relating themselves to one another as members of the family of God. Then their lives will be of such a character as to give to the world an object-lesson of what families who love God and keep His commandments may be. Christ will be glorified; His peace and grace and love will pervade the family circle like a precious perfume. A beautiful offering, in the child life of Christian missionaries, will be made to God. This will make the heart of Jesus glad, and will be regarded by Him as the most precious offering He can receive.” The Review and Herald, November 17, 1896.

“The grace of Christ changes the whole man, making the coarse refined, the rough gentle, the selfish generous. It controls the temper and the voice. Its outworking is seen in politeness and tender regard shown by brother for brother, in kind, encouraging words and unselfish actions. An angel-presence is in the home. The life breathes forth a sweet perfume, which as holy incense ascends to God. Love is manifested in kindness, gentleness, forbearance, and longsuffering. The expression of the countenance is changed. The peace of heaven is revealed. There is seen a habitual gentleness, a more than human love. Humanity becomes a partaker of divinity. Christ is honored by perfection of character. As these changes are perfected, angels break forth in rapturous song, and God and Christ rejoice over souls fashioned after the divine similitude.” Ibid., August 20, 1959.

Editor’s Letter – Concerning Perfection

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The following letter by Ellen White to a man and his wife who were in an unhappy marriage speaks of the necessity of reaching perfection of character and contains several hints about how to get started in this direction.

“You cannot afford to lose heaven, lose eternal life, lose the eternal weight of glory. … Why do you not act like a sane man, and be as earnest, as zealous, and as persevering in your efforts for the better life, the immortal crown, the eternal, imperishable treasure, as you are for this poor, miserable life and these poor perishable, earthly treasures?” Testimonies, vol. 1, 698.

“When tempted to murmur, censure, and indulge in fretfulness, wounding those around you, and in so doing wounding your own soul, oh! let the deep, earnest, anxious inquiry come from your soul, Shall I stand without fault before the throne of God? … Every defect in the moral character must first be remedied, every stain removed by the cleansing blood of Christ, and all the unlovely, unlovable traits of character overcome.” Ibid., 705.

“How long a time are you designing to take to prepare to be introduced into the society of heavenly angels in glory? … In the state which you and your family are in at present, all heaven would be marred should you be introduced therein. The work for you must be done here. This earth is the fitting-up place. You have not one moment to lose. All is harmony, peace, and love in heaven. No discord, no strife, no censuring, no unloving words, no clouded brows, no jars there; and no one will be introduced there who possesses any of these elements so destructive to peace and happiness. …

“Forever cease your murmurings in regard to this poor life, but let your soul’s burden be, how to secure the better life than this, a title to the mansions prepared for those who are true and faithful to the end. If you make a mistake here, everything is lost. …

“These trials of life are God’s workmen to remove the impurities, infirmities, and roughness from our characters, and fit us for the society of pure, heavenly angels in glory. But as we pass through these trials, as the fires of affliction kindle upon us, we must not keep the eye on the fire which is seen, but let the eye of faith fasten upon the things unseen, the eternal inheritance, the immortal life, the eternal weight of glory; and while we do this the fire will not consume us, but only remove the dross, and we shall come forth seven times purified, bearing the impress of the Divine.” Ibid., 705-707.

Question and Answer – Made Complete. How is this possible?

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Question: I see myself with so many faults, but I read in the Bible that I must be without spot and blameless (II Peter 3:14). How is this possible?

Answer:

It is not by anything man can do by his own merit to complete the good work in you that was initiated by the Holy Spirit. He will complete what He started (Philippians 1:6).

“By partaking of the Spirit of God, conforming to the law of God, man becomes a partaker of the divine nature. Christ brings His disciples into a living union with Himself and with the Father. Through the working of the Holy Spirit upon the human mind, man is made complete in Christ Jesus. Unity with Christ establishes a bond of unity with one another. This unity is the most convincing proof to the world of the majesty and virtue of Christ, and of His power to take away sin.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1148.

“The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. We do not see Christ and speak to Him, but His Holy Spirit is just as near us in one place as in another. It works in and through every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of the Spirit reveal the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.” Ibid., vol. 6, 1112.

“The words spoken to the disciples are spoken also to us. The Comforter is ours as well as theirs. The Spirit furnishes the strength that sustains striving, wrestling souls in every emergency, amidst the hatred of the world, and the realization of their own failures and mistakes. In sorrow and affliction, when the outlook seems dark and the future perplexing, and we feel helpless and alone—these are the times when, in answer to the prayer of faith, the Holy Spirit brings comfort to the heart.” The Acts of the Apostles, 51.

Since this is the means by which we are to receive power,

  • Why do we not hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit?
  • Why do we not talk of it,
  • pray for it,
  • and preach concerning it?

“The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who serve Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children.” Ibid., 50.

“Of the Spirit Jesus said, ‘He shall glorify Me’ (John 16:14). The Saviour came to glorify the Father by the demonstration of His love; so the Spirit was to glorify Christ by revealing His grace to the world. The very image of God is to be reproduced in humanity. The honor of God, the honor of Christ, is involved in the perfection of the character of His people.” The Desire of Ages, 671.

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6.

Editor’s Letter – Perfection of Character

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“Christ designs that heaven’s order, heaven’s plan of government, heaven’s divine harmony, shall be represented in His church on earth. Thus in His people He is glorified. Through them the Sun of Righteousness will shine in undimmed luster to the world. Christ has given to His church ample facilities, that He may receive a large revenue of glory from His redeemed, purchased possession. He has bestowed upon His people capabilities and blessings that they may represent His own sufficiency. The church, endowed with the righteousness of Christ, is His depositary, in which the riches of His mercy, His grace, and His love, are to appear in full and final display. Christ looks upon His people in their purity and perfection, as the reward of His humiliation, and the supplement of His glory—Christ, the great Center, from Whom radiates all glory.” The Desire of Ages, 680.

If we could only realize how Satan taunts Christ and the angels of glory with our character imperfections (Early Writings, 268) we would in earnest ask the Lord for grace and power to perfect a Christian character. This is the work that must be accomplished for all of God’s children who are elected to live through the time of trouble to the end of the world: “Says the prophet: ‘Who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth? for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness’ (Malachi 3:2, 3).” Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless; their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14.” The Great Controversy, 425. Read these Bible texts that speak about this subject: Genesis 17:1; Job 1:1; Psalm 37:37; Proverbs 2:21; Matthew 5:48; John 17:23; I Corinthians 1:8; II Corinthians 13:11; Ephesians 1:4; Ephesians 4:13; Colossians 1:28; Colossians 4:12; II Timothy 3:17; Hebrews 12:23; Hebrews 13:21; James 1:4; James 3:2; I Peter 5:10; I John 2:5; Revelation 3:2.

True Success

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“Success in any line demands a definite aim. He who would achieve true success in life must keep steadily in view the aim worthy of his endeavor.”

Education, 262

Based on this quotation, we see that true success must have a definite aim. Whether it is in the realm of studying to be a physician, mechanic, engineer, pastor, or a chef, if you are going to succeed, you must have a definite aim.

“Those who feel the constraining love of God ask not how little may be given, in order to obtain the heavenly reward; they ask not for the lowest standard, but aim at a perfect conformity to the will of their Redeemer. With ardent desire they will yield all, and manifest zeal proportionate to the value of the object they are in pursuit of. What is the object? Immortality, eternal life.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2, 260.

The highest aim of the Christian is, “Perfect conformity to the will of God.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 745. Remember, success in any line requires a definite aim. Those who are in perfect harmony, or perfect conformity to the will of God, and aim for perfection of character are promised victory, even though many Christians believe that is impossible.

Consider these Scriptures:

“Let your heart therefore be perfect with the Lord our God, to walk in His statutes, and to keep His commandments, as at this day.” I Kings 8:61. Be perfect!

Jesus Himself said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48. Be perfect!

It is required that we are to reach moral perfection, even in this world. Ellen White states, “The Lord requires perfection from His redeemed family. He calls for perfection in character-building.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1085. If we are to ever enter the Kingdom of God, it must be with perfect characters, not having spot or wrinkle. It is a requirement to be ready to go with Jesus when He returns. However, while in this spiritual battle on earth that strives against sin and the world, it is only by God’s grace that this state is possible.

“God requires moral perfection in all. Those who have been given light and opportunities should, as God’s stewards, aim for perfection.” This Day with God, 32.

Is this your aim? Never insult our Saviour by lowering the standard of righteousness to which we are called to accommodate any of our inherited or cultivated tendencies to do wrong. We are invited to behold Jesus and reflect His beautiful image of moral perfection in this world.

The Obstacles

We live in a sinful world, and as we set our goal and aim for moral perfection, we are sure to meet with obstacles or barriers that must be overcome. These obstacles are sin and self. A woman, caught in the act of adultery, was brought to Jesus. “When Jesus had lifted up Himself, and saw none but the woman, He said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” John 8:10, 11. The words of Jesus to her were not a suggestion but a command. He said, “Go, and sin no more.”

Look at John 5:14. Coming upon a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years, Jesus told him to rise, take up his bed and walk. “Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.” John 5:14. Several times Jesus said to “sin no more.” Why would He say that if it were impossible?

With such high expectation, it is encouraging to know that we have a compassionate friend who understands the weakness of human flesh. “My little children, these things write I unto you, that you sin not. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” I John 2:1. John, under Inspiration, says, “I write to you that you may not sin, but if you do fall, get back up. My Son, Jesus Christ the righteous, is ever pleading for His Spirit to help you to overcome that you may not sin.”

John continues, “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin.” I John 3:9. This is referring to the deliberate continual practice of sin. The born again Christian experiences the constraining love of Christ that changes his desires and purposes that he cannot sin without going against his conscience, because he is born of God.

In contrast, he says, “He that committeth sin is of the devil.” This verse requires each to search his or her own heart and be honest with himself or herself. If it is found that one is walking repeatedly in sin, it is the enemy of souls who inspires those actions. “He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil [destroy sin].” Verse 8.

In the book of John there are other Scriptures concerning the obstacles that each one faces. “Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” John 8:34. This is a question for each to ask himself or herself, “Whom do you serve?” A person’s lifestyle portrays whom they serve, either sin, self, the world and the devil, or Christ and His righteousness.

It comes naturally to be a slave of sin

Why is it so hard to break the chain of sin? “Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character is an easy matter. A noble all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident.” Messages to Young People, 99.

By nature, because of our first parents’ sin, we inherit their lean toward sin—our natures are fallen. The perfection of moral character required by God is not inherited, nor does it come by chance. How then do we reach that goal? “A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We shall have to criticize ourselves closely, and allow not one unfavorable trait to remain uncorrected.” Ibid. It is clear that in the strength of Jesus Christ we are to battle against our own natural tendencies to win the victory over our inner self.

While this battle rages within, other battles rage from without. Peter warns us, “Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” I Peter 5:8.

We definitely have an adversary, someone who is continually against us, opposing every good decision. He is a wily foe and he walks about seeking whom he may devour. He never sleeps, so we must be sober and vigilant and in the right state of mind, ever watchful.

Paul tells us a little bit more about our “wiley foe.” He says, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12. This is a fierce conflict that we are in. Everything that comes naturally to us, as well as all the forces of darkness, oppress us from every direction, and man is no match for the evil one without Divine assistance.

“Satan and his angels are unwilling to lose their prey. They contend and battle with the holy angels, and the conflict is severe. And if those who have erred continue to plead, and in deep humility confess their wrongs, angels who excel in strength will prevail and wrench them from the power of the evil angels.” Messages to Young People, 60.

What a word picture this gives! If the curtains could be pulled up and we could see into the spiritual realm, what a fierce shock would come upon us as we witness the spirits engaging in fierce battle over each and every soul. It is severe and worse than any war in which this earth has been involved. The Bible gives a little view of these battles.

“And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto Thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit. … And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if Thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.” Mark 9:17, 22.

This also should be our prayer when we find ourselves struggling with some habit. “Lord, have compassion on me and help me.”

“When Jesus saw that the people came running together, He rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him. And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, he is dead. But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.” Verses 25–27. It took a struggle for the demon trying to destroy him to let him go.

That is just a little glimpse into the conflict that goes on for each and every soul. The man’s son was possessed of a demon that the disciples of Jesus could not cast out. We are no match for the devil and his evil angels. Only Jesus can deliver us from sin and from the chains of the enemy.

We have been given our marching orders in our personal battle with Satan. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resists the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7. Resist the devil, stand fast in the name of the Lord and do not give in and he will flee. In fact, this is the only way to be victorious; submit to God, surrender to Him and all power is given to resist the devil, not just one time, but every time, to live a continual life of victory.

In the sad history of Israel is seen a people who, after all the favors bestowed on them, missed the very person, Christ, Who was the fulfillment of their whole history. When it comes to submitting to God, Paul says, “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.” Romans 10:3, 4.

“Man is naturally inclined to follow Satan’s suggestions, and he cannot of himself successfully resist so terrible a foe, unless Christ, the mighty conqueror, dwells in him, guiding his desires, and giving him strength.” Messages to Young People, 51. To successfully resist this foe, Christ must dwell within. This is a must. The concerns and affections of the heart, whatever triggers the emotions and the thoughts dwell on, are an indication of who controls the person. When Christ dwells within, He guides our desires and teaches us to make righteous choices. When recognizing a thought or desire not to be of God, the only safe choice is to recognize the author, let it go and resist the devil in the strength of Jesus Christ.

Weapons of War

We are in a spiritual battle and need weapons to conquer the obstacles. Knowing the weakness of the enemy is a great advantage. James 2:19 says, “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” Devils know that God exists. These fallen angels have been in His presence and know, without a doubt, that His word is sure and whatever He says is going to come to pass. They actually tremble before God.

“And when He was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of God? art Thou come hither to torment us before the time?” Matthew 8:28, 29.

They were afraid. They knew Jesus as the commander of heaven, and when He came upon the scene, they thought they were about to be tormented before the time. Satan’s whole host of angels tremble before the presence of the mighty King. “Satan cannot endure to have his powerful rival appealed to, for he fears and trembles before His [Christ’s] strength and majesty. At the sound of fervent prayer, Satan’s whole host trembles. … And when angels, all-powerful, clothed with the armory of heaven, come to the help of the fainting, pursued soul, Satan and his host fall back, well knowing that their battle is lost.” Messages to Young People, 53.

That being the case, how important is it to refuse or neglect fervent prayer? Without prayer we remain the prey of demons. “Beware how you neglect secret prayer and a study of God’s word. These are your weapons against him who is striving to hinder your progress heavenward.” Ibid., 96.

Secret prayer and study—the big guns of spiritual war! Do not forget to read the Word, get understanding and apply what you learn to your life; these are the only weapons against demonic forces. If you are struggling or being continually defeated, check your inventory to see if you are spending time in secret prayer and a study of God’s word.

It is so easy, even with good intentions, to slip backwards. “The first neglect of prayer and Bible study makes easier the second neglect. The first resistance to the Spirit’s pleading prepares the way for the second resistance. Thus the heart is hardened, and the conscience seared.” Ibid.

A perfect example of this is given to us in the history of Pharaoh in Egypt at the time of the Exodus. He resisted nine times to respond to the Spirit’s pleading, but the tenth time was the last. At each rejection his heart was hardened a little more until he crossed the line and his probation was closed. Day by day this same thing happens in many lives as they continue to resist the pleadings of the Holy Spirit, refusing to study the Bible and pray. They become hardened at each refusal not realizing their time is running out, and without their knowledge, the Spirit will cease to draw them, and too late they will find out they have committed the unpardonable sin for which there is no forgiveness.

Good News

Progress to perfection can become easier. We are told that each resistance to temptation strengthens our resistance to the next temptation. “Every denial of self makes self-denial easier. Every victory gained prepares the way for a fresh victory.” Ibid. Each victory strengthens faith, causing no concern about what may come your way because you have proved your weapons. You can be confident of victory at whatever temptation the enemy may throw, or even that which may come from within, because Christ dwells within.

What to do if we do fall

The wise man gives instruction if we fall: “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again.” He does not remain down. He does not stay there on the ground, but he gets right back up. That is what we are encouraged to do, not wallow in the mud. If we fall into sin, get right back up. Don’t be discouraged, because it goes on to say, “but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” Proverbs 24:16.

Remember what 1 John 2:1, 2 says: “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”

If we fall into sin, we know that we have a great high priest; we have an Intercessor, a Mediator, a Saviour, a Redeemer, a Deliverer, a Forgiver, and we can go to Him in prayer. He stands at the right hand of the Father, in the most holy sacred place of heaven, pleading on our behalf. We do not have to remain in that sin. We can get right back up and keep going. Jesus is the atoning sacrifice, and His blood was shed for that sin.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9. That is the hope that we have as children of God. Lay hold of that hope!

“The Lord will recognize every effort you make to reach His ideal for you. When you make a failure, when you are betrayed into sin, do not feel that you cannot pray, that you are not worthy to come before the Lord. … With outstretched arms He waits to welcome the prodigal. Go to Him, and tell Him about your mistakes and failures. Ask Him to strengthen you for fresh endeavor. He will never disappoint you, never abuse your confidence.” Messages to Young People, 97. Do not allow your feelings to keep you from coming to Christ for He loves you.

“(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” II Corinthians 10:4, 5.

We must accustom ourselves to bring every thought into the obedience of Christ. We must guard what we think and meditate upon. Cast down imaginations, or pretenses, high things, things that exalt itself against the truth, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. “We should accustom ourselves to often lift the thoughts to God in prayer.” Daughters of God, 81. This is what it means to pray without ceasing. Meditate upon the things of God, always try to lift your thoughts up to God as much as possible; fight hard to keep your mind stayed on heavenly things.

We are told: “If the mind wanders, we must bring it back; by persevering effort, habit will finally make it easy.” Ibid. Lift the thoughts to God in prayer, and if the mind wanders, earnestly bring it back to focus on Jesus Christ, because we are aiming for perfection. The secret of success is found in John 15:4: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.”

“The secret of success is the union of divine power with human effort. Those who achieve the greatest results are those who rely most implicitly upon the Almighty Arm.” Colporteur Ministry, 106.

“The Christian life is a warfare. … In this conflict of righteousness against unrighteousness we can be successful only by divine aid. Our finite will must be brought into submission to the will of the infinite; the human will must be blended with the divine. This will bring the Holy Spirit to our aid.” Messages to Young People, 55. The secret of success is Christ’s divinity united with our humanity.

It is important that our thoughts and feelings are constantly under the control of God. Messages to Young People states, “Even your thoughts must be brought into subjection to the will of God, and your feelings under the control of reason and religion. … If the thoughts are wrong, the feelings will be wrong; and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character.” Ibid., 92.

The goal of the Christian is perfection of character. It is so important to guard all thoughts, feelings and actions for “God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.

Jesus says to us today, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Demario Carter is currently a Bible worker for Steps to Life.