Closer To Heaven
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Comments of the Week July 7-13 “Protect that man at all costs! Hint: Be nice to people with coats or jackets of many colours. ” –Mitchum Burnett, on a delegate with an entertainingly colorful jacket Comments on articles about the General Conference (GC) Session, as well as several photos of the Adventist Today (AT) staff […] Source: https://atoday.org/comments-of-the-week-july7-13/
Daily Lesson for Monday 14th of July 2025
Though Moses must have known, even from the beginning, that what the Lord had tasked him with was not going to be easy (hence his attempts to get out of it), he probably had no idea of what was coming.
Image © Pacific Press at Goodsalt.com
Even before going to Pharaoh, Moses and Aaron gathered the elders and people of Israel, told them God’s words, and showed them God’s signs, which resulted in Israel’s believing that the Lord would deliver them from their slavery. Thus, they worshiped the Lord (Exodus 4:29-31). Expectations surely were high: the Lord was going to deliver the Hebrew people from their bondage—finally!
Moses then went to the king of Egypt with God’s demands, and things became even worse for the Israelites. Their suffering increased, and their daily labor became more burdensome and demanding. They were accused of being lazy; they were treated more harshly; and their service became more difficult than it had already been.
Their leaders were not happy, and the confrontation between them and Moses and Aaron was ugly, and (as we will later see) it simply portended the kind of conflicts Moses would have with his own people for years to come.
It’s not that hard to see why they would have been upset with Moses (“ ‘Let the Lord look on you and judge,’ ” they said). They thought Moses was coming to free them from the Egyptians, not to make their lives under the Egyptians even harder.
Thus, besides dealing with the Egyptians, Moses and Aaron had to deal with their own people, as well.
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At the heart of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s mission lies a deep commitment to healing — not just of the body but of the whole person. That commitment was powerfully on display at the 2025 General Conference (GC) Session in St. Louis, Missou… Source: https://adventist.news/news/adventist-health-care-systems-unite-at-gc-session-2025
On July 10, 2025, G. Alexander Bryant wound up his pitching arm as, at 6:45 p.m. CST, he threw out the first pitch at the St. Louis Cardinals baseball game. It was a rare and deeply meaningful moment for the president of the North American Divisi… Source: https://adventist.news/news/north-american-division-president-g.-alexander-bryant-attends-st.-louis-cardinals-game
“Guai a voi, scribi e farisei ipocriti […] Guide cieche, che filtrate il moscerino e inghiottite il cammello!”. 📖 Matteo 23:23-24
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💌 Apri la porta del tuo cuore
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Have you ever wondered what it would look like if Seventh-day Adventists from every corner of the earth came together? Right now in St. Louis, delegates from over 200 countries are walking in unity, each carrying their nation's flag, showcasing the remarkable diversity within our World Adventist Church family and our shared mission to spread hope in a world that desperately needs it. Do you see your country represented? Drop your flag in the comments below. Stay Connected:
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The mission moves forward when leaders and members pray for one another. Today, our leaders are lifting every member in prayer—because we’re stronger together. Drop a 🙏 if you’re thankful for a praying church family. #GCS25 Source: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/g4utr6TvPSg
Members of Potomac Conference’s Sligo church in Takoma Park, Maryland, often distribute food to refugees who have been relocated within their local community near Washington, D.C. Realizing he would be attending the General Conference Session, Ane… Source: https://adventist.news/news/adventist-churches-support-local-refugee-families-at-gc-session
IntroductionLesson three explores the difficult beginning of Moses’ mission to free Israel from slavery. Despite clear instructions from God, Moses is immediately met with rejection—by Pharaoh and even his own people. What began with hope quickly turns into frustration. Moses doubts, complains to God, and feels overwhelmed. But it is precisely in this tension that God begins to reveal His power and faithfulness. The lesson reminds us: even when walking with God is challenging, we can trust that He will lead us to a good end.
Lesson 3: Rough Start
3.1 Who is the LORD?
When human pride challenges divine authority………………………………………………………………….
IntroductionPharaoh’s question — “Who is the LORD, that I should obey Him?” (Exodus 5:2) — has echoed through the centuries of human history. It’s not the honest inquiry of a seeking heart, but a statement of pride, rejection, and rebellion. This question symbolizes the attitude of a world that refuses to acknowledge God. And it’s just as relevant today in the 21st century as it was in Moses’ time.
But what if someone asked you today, “Do you know the LORD?”
Would you hesitate? Or could you boldly respond, “Yes, I know Him” — and explain who God is to you?
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Bible Study: Who is the LORD? (Exodus 5:1–2)
Background and ContextThe book of Exodus tells the story of Israel’s liberation from slavery in Egypt — a central theme of the Old Testament and a powerful image of redemption and freedom. Chapter 5 marks the first public confrontation between Moses, God’s chosen leader, and Pharaoh, the most powerful earthly authority of that time.
God had called Moses through the burning bush (Exodus 3), revealing His name as:
“I AM WHO I AM” — YHWH, the eternal, self-existent God.
This God sends Moses to tell Pharaoh:
“Let My people go.”
Exodus 5:1–2
“Afterward Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast to me in the wilderness.’ But Pharaoh said, ‘Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.’”
Moses does not come in his own name but as God’s messenger — with divine authority. This phrase was common in prophetic declarations and carried significant weight. God makes it clear:
“My people” — they do not belong to Pharaoh but to the LORD.
Application: When God speaks, it is with authority. Even today, His Word comes to us — through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and preaching. How do we respond?
Pharaoh’s question is not born out of sincere ignorance but of contempt. He does not recognize God’s authority because he doesn’t know Him — and has no desire to.
This rejection has a double meaning:
Personally: Pharaoh doesn’t believe in a higher authority over himself.
Politically: Letting Israel go would mean surrendering power and control.
In Hebrew, “to know” (yada) implies more than just information — it means relationship, recognition, intimacy. Pharaoh essentially says: “I have no relationship with this God, so I don’t have to obey Him.”
Spiritual Truth: Rebellion often begins with indifference toward God’s character. Modern people don’t always say “I reject God” — they say, “I don’t need Him.”
Theological Meaning: Who is YHWH?Pharaoh’s question opens a deeper exploration:
Who is this “LORD” (YHWH) Moses speaks of?
YHWH is the sacred, personal name of God (Exodus 3:14).
He is eternal — not created, but the source of all existence.
He is holy — separate from sin, completely pure.
He is merciful — the God of promise who seeks to set His people free.
He is almighty — His words bring reality into being; His power surpasses all empires.
God’s name is not mere information — it is revelation.
In biblical theology, God’s name reflects His nature, identity, power, and faithfulness.
Egypt as a Symbol of Worldly RebellionIn Scripture, Egypt often symbolizes a world system that opposes God:
Isaiah 30:1–3: Israel seeks help from Egypt instead of from God.
Revelation 11:8: Spiritually compares the world that crucified Christ to Egypt and Sodom.
Ezekiel 29:3: Pharaoh is portrayed as a dragon in the Nile — a symbol of Satan.
Spiritual Principle: The spirit of Egypt still lives today — in systems and hearts that say:
“I do not know the LORD — and I don’t want to.”
Connections to the New TestamentJohn 17:3
“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
Jesus Himself answers Pharaoh’s ancient question.
To know God, we must come to know Jesus Christ.
Eternal life is not just about heaven — it’s about relationship with God.
Spiritual Principles from Exodus 5God’s commands are not negotiable — He requires obedience, not debate.
People often reject God because they do not know Him — therefore He reveals Himself.
True freedom begins with knowing God — Israel wasn’t just to leave Egypt but to come to God.
God calls for worship, not just moral behavior — “Let My people go, that they may serve Me.”
Application for Life TodayDo I truly submit to God’s authority — or, like Pharaoh, do I resist when it costs me control?
Am I willing to obey God even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable?
How do I respond when God speaks — with humility or excuses?
Do others see through my life who the LORD is?
Summary: What Does This Passage Teach Us About God?God is the LORD — personal, powerful, demanding, and faithful.
He calls His people out of bondage and from systems that deny Him.
He confronts every power that challenges His rule.
He reveals Himself — even to those who don’t yet know Him — because of grace.
Key Verse to MemorizeExodus 5:2
“Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice…? I do not know the LORD.”
Lesson: Every person will eventually face this question — and their answer determines their eternity.
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Answers to the Questions Question 1: How did Pharaoh respond to God’s command, “Let My people go” (see Exodus 5:1–2), and what is the significance of his reaction? Biblical Answer:In Exodus 5:1–2, Moses — together with Aaron — approaches Pharaoh with a clear message:
“Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness.”
But Pharaoh does not respond with fear or reverence. Instead, he replies with a mix of contempt, pride, and outright rejection:
“Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.”
This answer is more than just a refusal — it is a direct challenge to God Himself. Pharaoh makes two statements:
“Who is the LORD?”
This is not a sincere question. It’s rhetorical, born of arrogance. Pharaoh knew many gods — Egypt was a polytheistic culture — but YHWH, the God of Israel, was unknown to him. Instead of seeking understanding, he dismissed Him outright.
“I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.”
This shows a deliberate rejection of God’s authority. “I do not know Him” here means more than ignorance — it means “I do not recognize Him as someone I must submit to.”
Theological Significance:This reaction reveals several deep spiritual truths:
Rebellion against God’s rule: Pharaoh refuses to acknowledge any power above himself. As the king of Egypt, he was even considered divine. God’s demand directly threatens that perceived supremacy.
A symbol of human rebellion: Pharaoh represents the human heart without God — proud, independent, defiant. This theme stretches throughout the Bible: humanity wants to be its own god (cf. Genesis 3).
A type of the godless world system: Egypt often represents the world in Scripture — a system that resists or ignores God. Revelation 11:8 symbolically links the crucifixion of Christ with “Egypt and Sodom.”
“This is atheism, and the land symbolized by Egypt denies the living God in a similar way and displays the same unbelieving and defiant spirit” (VSL 246).
Spiritual Application:Pharaoh’s reaction still speaks today. Many ask:
“Who is God that I should listen to Him?”
“Why should I shape my life by ancient religious rules?”
Answer: Because God is the Creator and Ruler over all. His will leads to life — but human pride leads to destruction and judgment. Pharaoh eventually experienced God’s power through the ten plagues — yet his heart remained hard.
Lesson for today:
Those who ignore God’s voice will encounter Him sooner or later — either through grace or through judgment.
But those who respond with humility will find freedom, guidance, and life.
Question 2: What would you say if someone asked, “Do you know the LORD?” If you answered “Yes,” how would you describe Him — and why?
Personal Answer:If someone asked me, “Do you know the LORD?”, I would say wholeheartedly:
“Yes — I know Him. Not just with my head, but with my heart. Not just from books, but through real encounters. Not just as a concept, but as living reality.”
I know Him as:
Father — who loves me despite my failures.
Redeemer — who bought my life through Jesus, not with silver or gold, but with His own blood.
Friend — who stood by me when no one else did.
King — who rules even when the world seems in chaos.
Teacher — who guides, convicts, comforts, and corrects me through His Word.
Holy Spirit — who fills me, leads me, strengthens me, and transforms me — day by day.
Biblical Reference:“Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” (John 17:3)
To know God is not merely religion — it’s relationship, identity, and life.
In Hebrew, “to know” (yada) implies intimacy, recognition, and experience — not just intellectual knowledge.
I do not know God because I am good —
I know Him because He revealed Himself:
Through His Word — living and active (Hebrews 4:12).
Through Jesus Christ — the exact image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).
Through personal encounters with His grace and faithfulness.
Why do I describe Him this way?Because I have experienced Him:
In moments of deep guilt — when He forgave me instead of condemning me.
In times of fear — when He gave me peace beyond understanding.
In weakness — when His strength was made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
In decisions — when His Spirit guided me when I had no answers.
In community — through people who reflect His love, goodness, and truth.
What does it mean to know God?Not just talking about Him — but talking with Him.
Not just reading about Him — but encountering Him.
Not just believing in Him — but loving, honoring, and trusting Him with all your heart.
When I say “I know the LORD,” I mean:
I belong to Him. And He belongs to me.
………………………………………………………………….
Spiritual PrinciplesGod reveals Himself to those who seek Him — and resists the proud.
The spirit of Pharaoh still lives today — in systems, governments, and hearts that deny God’s authority.
The question “Who is the LORD?” exposes the real condition of the heart.
God does not only desire obedience — He wants to be known and loved.
…………………………………………………………………
Application for Daily LifeWe meet people who ask:
“Is there really a God?”
“Why believe in something I can’t see?”
In those moments, we are like Moses standing before Pharaoh — not before a literal king, but before proud, skeptical hearts.
Your testimony, your lifestyle, and how you respond to joy and suffering can show people who the LORD is.
Ask yourself:
Does my life reflect a God who is alive, holy, and gracious?
………………………………………………………………….
ConclusionPharaoh’s defiant question — “Who is the LORD?” —
became the path to his downfall.
But the same question can become a doorway for people today —
a path to discovering God and receiving eternal life.
Because Jesus said:
“This is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” (John 17:3)
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Thought of the Day“The greatest mistake a person can make is not doubting God — but deliberately ignoring Him.”
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Illustration – Who is the LORD?A story about control, doubt, and divine encounter in the 21st century
He was a man people either knew — or feared.
Vincent Delmar, 52, was the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar energy conglomerate based in Frankfurt. He ruled over a corporation that spanned continents, controlled resources, and influenced political decisions. In the business world, he was called “The King of the Glass Tower” — referring to his futuristic steel-and-glass headquarters that loomed like a fortress over the city.
Vincent believed in efficiency, power, and control.
He did not believe in God.
Religion? An outdated superstition.
God? A psychological construct.
Believers? Weak people.
“I am the master of my own destiny,” he once said in an interview.
And he truly believed it.
One Monday, he was informed of strikes forming at one of the company’s subsidiaries — of all places, the Africa branch in the Nuba region of Sudan. The company had operated a copper mine there for years. Workers had stopped operations. The reason: alleged inhumane working conditions, environmental damage — and a new leader.
A man named Musa — a former engineer, now an activist and Christian.
An internal report landed on Vincent’s desk. At the top was a quote Musa had spoken to the site managers:
“Thus says the LORD, the God of justice: Let my people go, that it may go well with them, that they may live and not die.”
Vincent leaned back, annoyed.
“Who is this ‘Lord’?” he muttered.
Then he said it out loud — almost like Pharaoh once did:
“Who is the LORD, that I should obey Him? I don’t know this God — and I won’t let these people go.”
What started as a small conflict escalated into a storm.
News reports. Scandals. Whistleblowers.
Emails were leaked showing internal cover-ups.
Then: a catastrophe.
A section of the mine collapsed. People died. Among them — Musa.
Vincent was not prosecuted — his lawyers took care of that.
But something inside him began to fracture.
The night he received news of Musa’s death, Vincent sat alone in his penthouse. No sleep. No comfort. Just a deep, unsettling restlessness.
Three weeks later, his doorbell rang.
A young man, about 30, stood outside. He was slim, simply dressed, holding a small Bible in one hand.
“My name is Yohannes. I was a friend of Musa.
He told me to give this to you, in case he… didn’t come back.”
Vincent was about to dismiss him, but something made him pause.
Yohannes handed him a handwritten letter.
Inside, it read:
“Vincent, if you’re reading this, I may be dead.
I know you’ll probably think you’ve won.
But I’ve prayed — for you.
Not that you would lose, but that you would come to know the LORD.
Not just any god.
I mean the LORD — the One I knew.
I followed His call, just like Moses once did.
You responded like Pharaoh.
But I pray your heart doesn’t remain like Pharaoh’s.
Ask yourself: Do you know the LORD?”
Yohannes didn’t wait for a reply. He nodded gently and walked away.
Vincent couldn’t shake the words.
He started reading. At first hesitantly — then with growing hunger.
First the book of Exodus. Then the Gospel of John. Then the Psalms.
He read about a God who does not remain silent.
A God who delivers.
A God who reveals Himself — even to proud men.
One verse burned in his memory — Exodus 5:2:
“I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.”
And he realized:
That was me. That is me.
One night, with tears streaming down — for the first time in years —
Vincent knelt on the cold floor of his living room and prayed:
“Lord… if You exist… if You truly are the One they call ‘I AM’…
then reveal Yourself to me. I want to know You. I want to obey You.
I no longer want to be the lord of my own life.”
Two years later, Vincent was no longer a CEO.
He had left the corporation and invested most of his wealth into environmental restoration and social justice — not out of guilt, but from love.
He traveled to Africa.
He visited the families of the victims — and Musa’s grave.
And there, he said out loud:
“Now I know the LORD.”
A journalist met Vincent at a human rights event.
He asked: “How can a man like you — once so powerful — become a believer?”
Vincent smiled.
“You know, I used to be just like Pharaoh:
‘Who is the LORD, that I should obey Him?’But now, I know better.
I know Him.
He is the God who called me, even when I ran away.
He is the God who warned me, even when I was deaf.
He is the God who transformed me, even when I was broken.And now — He is the Lord of my life.”
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-rough-start-3-1-who-is-the-lord-exodus-living-faith/
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