1.6 Summary
Cosmic Conflicts and the Path to Redemption

Lesson 1 focuses on the central theological perspective of the great battle between good and evil as portrayed in the Bible. The lesson begins with the depiction of the origin of evil and how it has led to the separation between God and humanity. Despite this separation, the lesson also emphasizes God’s unconditional love and care for humanity.

A central focus is on the role of Jesus Christ as our High Priest and Advocate. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has made the path to redemption and the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity possible. The examination of scriptures such as Hebrews 4:15-16 and 7:25 shows how these truths can give us hope and confidence amidst temptations, sufferings, and uncertainties.

Another highlight of the lesson is Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer in John 17:24-26. This prayer reveals Jesus’ deep longing for us to be in eternal communion with Him in heaven. This desire underscores the urgency and significance of redemption and highlights Jesus’ boundless love and care for each one of us.

Lastly, the lesson illuminates the significance and value of each individual in God’s eyes. Despite our mistakes, weaknesses, and sins, Jesus sees us as valuable, loved, and invaluable. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate proof of His love, grace, and desire to redeem us and live in a deep, loving relationship with Him.

Overall, Lesson 1 offers a deep insight into the central theological concepts of the great battle between good and evil, the role of Jesus as our High Priest and Advocate, and God’s boundless love and care for each one of us. It invites us to trust in these truths, turn to Jesus, and find our hope and confidence in Him, no matter what challenges life brings.

The connection between Lesson 1 “The War Behind All Wars” and our everyday life as well as our faith is profound and shaping. Here are some key connections:

1. Hope in Times of Challenge: Understanding the great battle between good and evil offers us hope amidst the daily challenges we face. When we see the causes of suffering, temptations, and injustices as part of this larger cosmic conflict, we can find comfort in knowing that God will ultimately prevail.

2. Personal Relationship with Jesus: Knowing Jesus as our High Priest and Advocate encourages us to build a deeper and more personal relationship with Him in our daily lives. We can entrust ourselves to Him, share our fears, worries, and needs with Him, and rely on His intercession and guidance.

3. Value and Significance of Each Individual: The realization that we are valuable and loved in God’s eyes gives us self-esteem and confidence in our daily lives. This can help us act with self-respect and dignity and treat others with respect and love as well.

4. Decision Making and Life Guidance: Awareness of the great battle between good and evil can influence our decision-making and life guidance. By aligning ourselves with the good and letting ourselves be guided by God and His Word, we can make better decisions and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

5. Faith as a Source of Strength: In the highs and lows of life, we can rely on our faith to find strength, hope, and comfort. The insights from Lesson 1 remind us that we are not alone and that God supports and accompanies us in our difficulties, temptations, and sufferings.

In summary, Lesson 1 offers us a solid theological foundation and spiritual perspective that can shape our daily lives and our faith. It reminds us of God’s boundless love, care, and forgiveness, challenges us to live in a deep relationship with Jesus, and gives us hope, strength, and comfort amidst the challenges and joys of life.

1.If God knew that Lucifer would rebel, why did He give him free will in the first place? Or why didn’t God destroy Lucifer immediately when he rebelled? How would the unfallen universe have reacted if God had immediately obliterated Lucifer? Why is the universe’s interest in the plan of redemption (1 Peter 1:12; Revelation 5:13; 16:7) so crucial to understanding the Great Controversy?

These questions touch upon deep and complex theological considerations concerning the understanding of God’s character, His sovereignty, and His plan for the universe. There are various theological views and interpretations on these questions, but I will attempt to elucidate some of the main thoughts.

1. Free Will and God’s Character: If God hadn’t given Lucifer or anyone else free will, it wouldn’t have been true freedom. True love and worship cannot be forced; they must be voluntary. God created angels and humans with the ability to choose because He desired an authentic, loving relationship with His creatures.

2. Why Not Immediate Destruction?: Immediate destruction of Lucifer or other rebellious beings could have raised questions about God’s character and sovereignty in the eyes of the unfallen universe. By granting Lucifer and his followers time and space, God showed patience, long-suffering, and justice. It also allowed the universe to better understand the consequences of sin and the depth of God’s love and justice.

3. Reaction of the Unfallen Universe: Immediate destruction of Lucifer could have raised questions, mistrust, or uncertainties about God’s character in the unfallen universe. Through God’s patience and justice in dealing with rebellion, the nature of sin, rebellion, and God’s character was clarified in a deeper context to the universe.

4. Universe’s Interest in the Plan of Redemption: The mentioned Bible verses (1 Peter 1:12; Revelation 5:13; 16:7) indicate that the unfallen universe has a deep interest in the plan of redemption. This is crucial for understanding the Great Controversy because it shows that the plan of redemption is not only relevant to Earth but concerns the entire universe. Redemption demonstrates God’s boundless love, justice, and wisdom and ultimately answers the questions and concerns raised by Lucifer’s rebellion.

Overall, these considerations emphasize the complexity of God’s character, His intentions, and the universal context of the Great Controversy. It challenges us to think deeper about God’s love, justice, and the plan of redemption and recognize how these principles shape and form the entire universe.

2.What reason or reasons do you think of for Christ’s death on the cross? Was it only to reveal God’s character? Was Jesus’ death meant to pay the price for sin? If so, to whom was the ransom paid? Share your thoughts and provide biblical reasons for them.

The death of Jesus on the cross is a central theme of the Christian faith and has a variety of reasons and meanings outlined in the Bible. Here are some of the main reasons for Christ’s death on the cross and the corresponding biblical foundations:

1. Revelation of God’s Character:

• • Biblical Reason: John 14:9 – Jesus says, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.”

  • Explanation: Jesus came to show us the true character of God. Through His life, ministry, and sacrifice on the cross, He revealed God’s love, grace, justice, and holiness in the clearest and deepest way.

2. Payment for the Price of Sin:

• • Biblical Reason: Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

  • Explanation: Jesus’ death on the cross was necessary to pay the price for sin. Sin separates humanity from God, and Christ’s death enabled reconciliation and restoration of the relationship between God and humanity.

3. Ransom for Humanity:

• • Biblical Reason: Matthew 20:28 – “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

  • Explanation: The ransom paid by Jesus’ death was intended for humanity. It was the price paid to free us from the bondage of sin and death. Jesus willingly gave His life to grant us freedom and eternal life.

4. Victory over the Powers of Darkness:

• • Biblical Reason: Colossians 2:15 – “And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

  • Explanation: Through His death and resurrection, Jesus achieved a definitive victory over the powers of darkness. He gained authority and control over Satan, sin, and death and offers us the opportunity to live in His victory.

In summary, the death of Jesus on the cross serves multiple purposes: it reveals God’s character, pays the price for sin, serves as a ransom for humanity, and secures a definitive victory over the powers of darkness. Each of these aspects contributes to demonstrating the depth, breadth, and height of God’s love and His plan of salvation for humanity.

3.What do we mean when we use the term “the Great Controversy”? Discuss the various aspects of the Great Controversy and how this week’s lesson is applicable to your life.

The term “the Great Controversy” refers to the spiritual conflict between good and evil that is present throughout biblical history and human experience. This struggle has various aspects that we can discuss:

1. Rebellion and Sin:

• • The conflict began with Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven and the seduction of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Sin and disobedience to God are the main causes of this conflict.

  • Applicability: Every individual faces the daily choice to obey God or follow their own ways. The decisions we make have direct implications on the Great Controversy in our own lives.

2. Plan of Redemption:

• • God introduced a plan of redemption through Jesus Christ to free humanity from the power of sin and death.

  • Applicability: Accepting this plan of redemption through faith in Jesus Christ allows us to stand by God’s side in the Great Controversy and experience His power and help in daily life.

3. Character of God and the Universe as Spectators:

• • The universe watches the outcome of this conflict, gaining important insights into God’s character, justice, and love.

  • Applicability: Our lifestyle and testimony as Christians influence how the universe interprets God’s character and actions. We are ambassadors for God in this Great Controversy.

4. Personal Spiritual Struggle:

• • Every believer experiences a personal spiritual struggle, fighting against temptations, doubts, and spiritual challenges.

  • Applicability: The lesson reminds us that with God’s help, we can be victorious in this personal struggle. We can rely on God’s Word and the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen us.

In summary, the Great Controversy is a universal theme that concerns the entire creation. It deals with fundamental questions of good and evil, obedience and disobedience, redemption and destruction. For our daily lives, this means that we are constantly engaged in a spiritual conflict and must make the right choices. This week’s lesson reminds us that we are not alone in this struggle. With God’s help and through faith in Jesus Christ, we can be victorious and have a positive influence on the universe and the people around us. 

4.Which Bible texts speak of the reality of the Great Controversy? (See e.g., Job 1; 2; Eph 6:12)

The Great Controversy between good and evil is a central theme in the Bible and is addressed in various books and chapters. Here are some Bible texts that speak of the reality of this conflict:

1. Job 1 and 2:

• • These chapters describe how Satan appears before God and tests Job. Satan questions Job’s faithfulness, claiming that Job would forsake God if he were deprived of his blessings. This example clearly shows the Great Controversy between God and Satan and how individuals like Job are drawn into this conflict.

2. Ephesians 6:12:

• • “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

  • This verse speaks of the invisible spiritual dimension of the Great Controversy. It emphasizes that our main adversary is not human but spiritual – it is the dark forces and powers working against God.

3. 1 Peter 5:8-9:

• • “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

  • This verse emphasizes the need for vigilance and resistance against Satan, who constantly tries to deceive and seduce believers.

4. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5:

• • “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

  • Paul speaks here of a spiritual battle and emphasizes that our weapons are not human but divine. It is about exposing false thoughts and arguments and defeating them with the truth and power of God.

These Bible texts illustrate the reality of the Great Controversy in which we are all involved, whether we recognize it or not. They remind us that the spiritual battle is real and intense but also that God has equipped us with the necessary resources and weapons to stand firm and be victorious.

5.To what extent is the understanding of Seventh-day Adventists unique among other Christian denominations? What aspects of the Great Controversy differentiate Adventists from other Christians?

Seventh-day Adventists hold some unique beliefs that set them apart from many other Christian denominations. Some of these beliefs are directly related to the concept of the Great Controversy. Here are some prominent aspects:

1. Sabbath as the Day of Rest: Adventists observe the Sabbath (Saturday) as the biblical day of rest, emphasizing its significance as a reminder of creation and as a sign of loyalty to God in the Great Controversy. This belief sets them apart from most other Christian denominations that consider Sunday as their primary day of worship.

2. Health Teachings: Adventists place great emphasis on a healthy lifestyle that respects the body as the temple of God. This often includes a vegetarian diet, abstinence from alcohol and tobacco, and an emphasis on physical fitness. These beliefs are closely linked to their understanding of the Great Controversy, as they believe that physical and mental health are crucial in this conflict.

3. Heavenly Sanctuary Service: Adventists have a unique teaching about the heavenly sanctuary service, which holds a central place in their theological understanding of the Great Controversy. They believe that since 1844, Christ has been serving as the High Priest in the final phase of His heavenly ministry, marking a special period of investigation and preparation for His second coming.

4. Prophetic Interpretation: Adventists have their own prophetic interpretation, often associated with the visions of Ellen G. White, a co-founder of the movement. Their prophetic viewpoint offers specific insights into the Great Controversy that differ from many traditional Christian interpretations.

5. End-Time Belief: Adventists place strong emphasis on the expectation of the end times and believe that they play a special role in the Great Controversy, particularly in terms of spreading the gospel and preparing people for the second coming of Christ.

These unique beliefs and practices of Seventh-day Adventists offer a specific perspective on the Great Controversy, setting them apart from many other Christian denominations. They emphasize the relevance and urgency of this conflict and call for faithfulness in all aspects of life—spiritually, physically, and prophetically—and standing up for the truth and justice of God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-war-behind-all-wars-1-6-summary/

1.5 Our High Priest
The High Priest of Our Trust: Jesus’ Intercession and Care Read

Hebrews 4:15-16 and 7:25. How do these verses give us confidence in a world full of temptation, suffering, illness, and death?

The mentioned verses from the Book of Hebrews indeed offer us profound confidence and hope, especially in a world characterized by temptation, suffering, illness, and death.

1. Temptations and Human Weaknesses

   In Hebrews 4:15, it is emphasized that Jesus was tempted in every way just like us but without sin. This means He fully understands the human experience, including our weaknesses, temptations, and the struggle against sin. In a world where temptations are omnipresent and no one is perfect, this understanding provides us comfort and encouragement. We are not alone in our struggles; Jesus understands and stands by our side.

2. Access to the Throne of Grace

   Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to come boldly to the throne of grace to find mercy and grace in our times of need. This verse reminds us that we can have a direct and open relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Even in our most challenging moments, we can find refuge, comfort, and help in God. The cross has opened the way to divine grace and mercy, and we can seek refuge and strength in His presence at any time.

3. Redemption and Freedom through Christ

   Hebrews 7:25 speaks of Jesus as our advocate with God, who always lives to intercede for us. This means we are not solely responsible for our sins and mistakes. Jesus stands by our side to defend, guide, and strengthen us. His constant intercession gives us the assurance that despite our imperfections, we are loved, accepted, and redeemed.

In a world full of challenges, uncertainties, and suffering, these verses from the Book of Hebrews provide a solid foundation for our hope and confidence. They remind us that through Jesus Christ, we have a direct relationship with God, that we are understood, loved, and redeemed, and that we can find support and strength in our struggles and weaknesses. The cross stands as a symbol of God’s unconditional love, mercy, and the possibility of redemption, offering hope and comfort in every life situation.

Read John 17:24-26. What is Christ’s earnest desire in the great struggle between good and evil?

In John 17:24-26, known as Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer, Jesus expresses His earnest desire for His disciples and all future believers.

1. Jesus’ Earnest Desire

   Jesus’ earnest desire in the great struggle between good and evil is clear and profound: He wants His disciples and all who believe in Him to be with Him in heaven. Jesus wants us to see His glory and partake in His love. His heart burns with love for us, and His greatest wish is for us to have the same deep relationship with the Father as He does.

2. Significance for Us

   The fact that Jesus expresses this desire in His final prayer before His suffering and death shows the urgency and importance of this matter. It is an expression of His unconditional love for us and His intention to redeem us and unite us with Himself in heaven.

3. Personal Relationship with Jesus

   Knowing about this earnest desire of Jesus should encourage us to build a deeper and more personal relationship with Him. We can come to Him as we are, with all our needs, fears, and worries, and ask Him for comfort, peace, forgiveness, and strength. He is willing and able to help us and accompany us on our journey.

John 17:24-26 reveals Jesus’ deep earnest desire for us to be with Him in heaven. Amidst the great struggle between good and evil, this is His heartfelt concern and the reason for His sacrifice and intercession for us. This text reminds us of Jesus’ unconditional love and care for us and encourages us to entrust Him with everything that moves us. He is our source of comfort, peace, forgiveness, and strength.

Why do you think Christ sacrificed Himself for us? What makes us so valuable to Him?

In my opinion, Christ sacrificed Himself for us because He loves us unconditionally and wants us to live in eternal communion with Him and the Father. His sacrifice on the cross is an expression of His boundless love, forgiveness, and redemption for us. Here are some reasons why we are valuable to Christ:

1. Created in God’s Image

   According to the creation story, we were created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). This fact alone makes us valuable in God’s eyes and therefore also in Christ’s eyes.

2. Meaning for Eternity

   Jesus does not want anyone to be lost but wants everyone to repent and have eternal life (John 3:16). He sees potential for a relationship with Him and eternal communion in heaven in each one of us.

3. Infinite Love and Grace

   Christ’s love is unconditional and infinite. He loves us despite our mistakes, weaknesses, and sins. His grace and mercy are so great that He was willing to make the sacrifice on the cross to free us from the power of sin and death.

4. Community and Relationship

   Christ desires a vibrant relationship with us. He wants us to know, love, and trust Him. Our communion with Him is so important to Him that He gave His life for us so we can live in this relationship with Him.

5. Unique Plan and Purpose

   Each one of us has a unique plan and purpose in God’s grand plan for the world. Christ sees the potential in each one of us and wants to help us recognize and fulfill this plan.

Christ sacrificed Himself for us because we are valuable, loved, and of immeasurable worth in His eyes. We are His beloved creations, created in His image, and He wants us to live in a deep, loving relationship with Him that transcends death. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate proof of His love, grace, and desire to redeem us and unite us with Himself.

The connection between these profound theological concepts and our daily lives is immense. Here are some ways our faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for us can influence our everyday life:

1. Daily Hope and Confidence

   In a world full of challenges, uncertainties, and suffering, our faith provides a solid foundation for hope and confidence. When we feel overwhelmed by temptations, illness, or suffering in difficult times, we can cling to God’s promises given to us through Scripture. We know that Jesus understands us, loves us, and continually intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25).

2. Meaning and Purpose in Life

   Our faith gives meaning and purpose to our lives. We recognize that we do not exist by chance but that God has a plan for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). This perspective helps us see our daily decisions, relationships, and activities in a larger context and align ourselves to follow God’s will.

3. Community and Support

   Our faith community offers us a supportive and loving community where we can encourage, comfort, and support each other (Galatians 6:2). When we feel lonely, isolated, or overwhelmed, we can turn to our faith community and experience fellowship and love there.

4. Responsibility and Ethics

   Our faith in Jesus and His teachings guide us in our ethical and moral behavior. The principles of love for neighbor, forgiveness, mercy, and justice taught to us by Jesus inspire us to lead a life that serves others and reflects God’s kingdom on earth (Matthew 5-7).

5. Personal Relationship with God

   Our faith encourages us to build and maintain a personal relationship with God. This means that we can talk to God, seek His guidance, and let Him lead us in our daily lives. This relationship gives us comfort, peace, and strength in all life situations.

In summary, our faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for us influences every aspect of our lives. He offers us hope, meaning, community, ethical guidance, and a deep personal relationship with God. In a world full of uncertainties and challenges, our faith is an unwavering source of confidence and comfort.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-war-behind-all-wars-1-5-our-high-priest/

1.4 Love Finds a Way
Hope Through the Cross: God’s Unconditional Love Manifested

The story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is not just a tale of sin and fall, but also a story of God’s infinite love and hope for humanity. Despite Adam and Eve’s disobedience and the resulting consequences, God shows His mercy and love by giving a promise of redemption.

The promise in Genesis 3:15 is a shining example of God’s foresightful love and care for us. It is a promise that offers hope and comfort in times of darkness and despair. Even though Adam and Eve may not have fully grasped the significance of this promise immediately, we can now, with the knowledge of the New Testament, recognize that this “seed of the woman” is Jesus Christ.

Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins, has achieved the ultimate victory over Satan, sin, and death. His sacrifice and resurrection are our assurance and hope for redemption, forgiveness, and eternal life. Through Jesus, the door that Adam and Eve opened through their sin is closed, and the relationship between God and humanity is restored.

This wonderful promise is a living testament to the power and extent of God’s love for us. It reminds us that even amidst sin, suffering, and despair, God’s love finds a way to bring hope, healing, and salvation. It also challenges us to be witnesses of this love in our own lives by carrying God’s love into the world and telling others about the hope and peace that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Read Hebrews 2:9; Galatians 3:13, and 2 Corinthians 5:21. What do these verses tell us about the immensity of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross?

These verses reveal the immensity of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross:

1. Hebrews 2:9 emphasizes that Jesus, though He was God Himself, humbled Himself and took on death, so that by God’s grace, He might taste death for everyone. This demonstrates the magnitude of His sacrifice and His deep love for us, being willing to suffer for us to lead us to glory.

2. Galatians 3:13 illustrates that Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. This highlights Jesus’ willingness to give everything for us, so that we may be freed from the burden of sin.

3. 2 Corinthians 5:21 shows that Jesus, although He was sinless, was made sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. This emphasizes the exchange that took place at the cross: Jesus took on our sin so that we might receive His righteousness.

In summary, these verses show that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is of unspeakable significance and magnitude. Jesus, the Son of God, came into the world, humbled Himself, suffered, and died on the cross to redeem us from sin and open the way to salvation and eternal communion with God. His love and willingness to sacrifice are immeasurable, offering us hope, comfort, and security in our relationship with God. If we ever wonder whether God truly loves us, we can look to the cross and know with certainty: Yes, He does, and His sacrifice is the ultimate proof of His love for us.

How did Christ respond to Satan’s accusations on the cross? What did His death accomplish in the context of the great struggle between good and evil?

Christ on the cross responded to Satan’s accusations in several significant ways:

1. Perfect Obedience: Christ lived a life of perfect obedience to the Father’s will. Even when He was on the cross, He remained faithful and obedient unto death. This refutes Satan’s accusations that humans cannot be obedient to God.

2. Love and Forgiveness: While hanging on the cross, Jesus prayed for those who crucified Him, demonstrating His boundless love and willingness to forgive. This contrasts with Satan’s accusations and the nature of evil, which aim for hatred and separation.

3. Sacrifice for Sin: Through His death on the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the penalty for sin, freeing humanity from the power of sin and death. Thus, Christ’s sacrifice on the cross invalidated Satan’s accusation based on our guilt.

In terms of the great struggle between good and evil, Christ’s death on the cross accomplished the following:

1. Victory over the Forces of Darkness: Through His death and resurrection, Christ defeated the powers of darkness and won victory over Satan, sin, and death (Colossians 2:15).

2. Redemption and Reconciliation: Christ’s death on the cross paved the way for the redemption of humanity. He removed the barrier of sin between God and people, offering reconciliation and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

3. Establishment of the New Covenant: With His death, Jesus established a new covenant between God and people, based on grace, forgiveness, and eternal life (Hebrews 9:15).

4. Opening Access to God: Christ’s death enabled us to have direct access to God. Through Him, we can now approach the throne of grace and seek help and mercy (Hebrews 4:16).

In summary, Christ’s death on the cross marked a decisive turning point in the great struggle between good and evil. He achieved victory over the powers of darkness, nullified Satan’s accusation, and opened the way to redemption, reconciliation, and eternal communion with God.

The connection between Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and our daily lives and faith is profound and shaping. Here are some key aspects that illustrate this connection:

1. Personal Redemption and Hope

   Christ’s sacrifice on the cross offers us personal redemption from sin, guilt, and separation from God. In our daily lives, when faced with temptations, worries, fears, or guilt, we can find comfort and hope in faith in the cross. It reminds us that we can be loved, forgiven, and renewed, regardless of our mistakes and weaknesses.

2. Community and Love for Neighbor

   Jesus’ unconditional love and willingness to sacrifice challenge us to show this love in our relationships with others. In daily life, this means practicing compassion, forgiveness, and mercy towards our fellow human beings, even when it is difficult. Christ’s sacrifice encourages us to build bridges, resolve conflicts, and bring hope and healing to others.

3. Meaning and Purpose

   In a world often marked by uncertainty, suffering, and confusion, the cross provides a firm foundation for our faith and a clear perspective on the purpose of our lives. It reminds us that despite the challenges we face, there is a greater goal and eternal hope.

4. Transformation and Growth

   Faith in the cross has the power to transform and shape us. It challenges us to break free from selfish tendencies and strive for a life characterized by love, humility, and devotion. Each day offers the opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth in following Christ.

5. Responsibility and Witness

   As Christians, we are called to carry the light and love of Christ into the world. The cross reminds us of our responsibility to be salt and light in our surroundings, proclaiming God’s love, standing up for justice, and striving for peace.

In conclusion, Christ’s sacrifice on the cross shows that faith is not just a private matter but has a direct impact on our daily lives, relationships, and role in the world. It challenges us to go deeper, love more, and always embody the hope and truth of the Gospel in our lives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-war-behind-all-wars-1-4-love-finds-a-way/

1.3 Planet Earth Becomes Involved
The Decision at the Tree: Origin of Sin and Suffering

This section emphasizes the significance of human freedom and free will that God has granted both in heaven and on earth. It also showcases the subtle yet powerful nature of temptation and how Satan exploited Adam and Eve’s ignorance and curiosity to divert them from God and His wisdom.

The creation story teaches us that God endowed humanity with the ability to make choices and discern between good and evil. He did not create us as programmed beings but as beings with free will, who have the potential to choose for or against Him.

The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil symbolizes human freedom and the responsibility that comes with this freedom. Satan used curiosity and temptation to deceive Adam and Eve, leading them to eat the forbidden fruit. This act of disobedience resulted in the introduction of sin, suffering, and death into the world.

It serves as a poignant reminder for all of us about the importance of vigilance, recognizing the temptations of evil, and resisting them. At the same time, it underscores God’s infinite love and grace, as He always welcomes us with open arms despite our mistakes and imperfections, offering us the opportunity for repentance and forgiveness. It’s a reminder that our choices have consequences and that we always have the option to choose the path of truth, love, and obedience to God.

Read Genesis 3:1–3 and Romans 3:23; 5:12. What do these texts have in common? Describe the ultimate consequences of sin that plague all of humanity.

The given Bible verses from Genesis 3:1–3 and Romans 3:23; 5:12 share several common themes and messages:

1. Human Temptation and Disobedience: In Genesis 3:1–3, the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is told, where they are tempted by the serpent (Satan) and ultimately disobey God’s command by eating from the forbidden fruit. Romans 3:23 emphasizes that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

2. The Universal Impact of Sin: Romans 5:12 highlights that sin came into the world through one man (Adam), and through sin, death entered the world, both physically and spiritually. This indicates that the effects of sin are not just individual but also collective and universal.

The ultimate consequences of sin that plague all of humanity are:

1. Separation from God: Sin separates us from God, who is the source of life and love. This separation leads to spiritual death and estrangement from divine fellowship.

2. Physical Death: As mentioned in Romans 5:12, physical death entered the world through sin. This refers to the natural death that all humans experience.

3. Suffering and Pain: Sin also results in the world being plagued by suffering, pain, diseases, and various forms of discomfort. The suffering in the world often directly results from sin and separation from God.

4. Moral and Spiritual Suffering: Sin also leads to moral suffering, guilt, anxiety, worries, and other spiritual and emotional issues.

It’s important to emphasize that not every personal suffering is directly attributable to individual sin. As mentioned earlier, we live in a world plagued by sin, and suffering is often the result of the collective impacts of sin and human disobedience towards God. Nevertheless, God provides a way to redemption, forgiveness, and restoration of our relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, despite the destructive consequences of sin.

Read Genesis 3:15; Leviticus 5:5–6, and John 1:29. What promise did God give Adam and Eve in the garden after they sinned, which should give them hope in their despair? What ministry did He begin in Eden that would point them towards the solution to the sin problem over the centuries?

The mentioned Bible verses contain crucial promises and hints from God regarding the solution to the sin problem and the redemption of humanity:

1. Genesis 3:15: After Adam and Eve sinned, God speaks to the serpent (Satan): “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” This promise is often referred to as the “Protoevangelium,” meaning “the first gospel.” It’s the first prophetic announcement of redemption through Jesus Christ. Here, it’s prophesied that a descendant of the woman (Jesus Christ) will crush the serpent’s head (Satan), though He Himself will be injured in the process. This hints at Satan’s ultimate defeat and redemption through Christ.

2. Leviticus 5:5–6: These verses from the book of Leviticus describe the sin offering in the Old Testament law. They emphasize the importance of repentance and sin offerings as means of purification and reconciliation with God. Although the Old Testament sin offering couldn’t permanently remove sin, it pointed towards the future perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ that would eliminate sin forever.

3. John 1:29: When John the Baptist sees Jesus, he exclaims, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Here, Jesus is presented as God’s sacrificial lamb bearing the sin of the world. This confirms and fulfills the old sacrificial laws and promises, indicating that Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sin.

In summary, after their sin in the garden, God gives Adam and Eve the promise that a descendant of the woman will come to defeat Satan and eradicate sin and its effects on humanity. This ministry of promise and preparation for the solution to the sin problem began in Eden and continued throughout biblical history, with the Old Testament sacrifices and promises pointing towards Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrificial lamb.

The connection of these biblical teachings with our daily lives and faith is profound and relevant:

1. Free Will and Choice: Just as in the Garden of Eden, we also have the freedom and responsibility to make choices today. Every day, we face various temptations and challenges. It’s crucial to be vigilant and make the right choices that draw us closer to God rather than pushing us away.

2. Importance of Vigilance: The subtle and powerful nature of temptation that led to Adam and Eve’s fall in the Garden of Eden is still prevalent today. We must be vigilant and recognize the temptations of evil and resist them. This means living consciously, constantly considering how our decisions and actions influence our faith and relationship with God.

3. God’s Infinite Love and Grace: Despite our faults and imperfections, God always welcomes us with open arms, offering us the opportunity for repentance and forgiveness. This is an encouraging message reminding us that it’s never too late to return to God and experience His boundless love and grace.

4. Redemption through Jesus Christ: The promises and hints from God in the mentioned Bible verses show us the path to redemption through Jesus Christ. In our daily lives, this reminds us that despite the challenges we face, there is hope. Jesus Christ has the power to free us from sin and grant us a new life in communion with God.

5. Importance of Community and Shared Faith: Just as the Old Testament sacrifices and promises pointed towards Jesus Christ, we should also come together as a community of believers to strengthen our faith, learn from each other, and grow together. Our shared hope and faith in Jesus Christ connect us and provide us with strength and comfort during times of trial and suffering.

In conclusion, these biblical teachings teach us that our faith is not just a private matter but has a direct impact on our daily lives, decisions, and relationships with others. They remind us that God loves us, trusts us, and shows us the way to redemption and eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-war-behind-all-wars-1-3-planet-earth-becomes-involved/

1.2 Lucifer Deceives; Christ Prevails
The Cosmic Conflict: Choosing Between Light and Darkness

Read Revelation 12:4. What does this passage reveal about Satan’s ability to deceive? How many of the angels fell for his lies about God?

The conflict between Lucifer and Christ is one of the central disputes in Christian theology, illustrating the eternal struggle between good and evil. This conflict offers us valuable lessons and insights for our own lives and faith.

Lucifer, once a radiant angel living in perfect harmony with God, was corrupted by his pride and jealousy. His decision to rebel against God and accuse Him reveals the destructive power of pride and rebellion. Lucifer used his ability to deceive to seduce other angels, leading them away from the truth and love of God.

The biblical texts, especially Revelation 12:4, show us that Lucifer had considerable power and influence, convincing a third of the angels to believe his lies and accusations. This emphasizes the importance of vigilance and spiritual discernment to avoid succumbing to the deceptions of evil.

The war in heaven was undoubtedly a battle of ideas, convictions, and loyalties. It was a fight for the hearts and souls of the angels, forcing them to choose between Christ and Lucifer. Although the exact details of this heavenly conflict remain hidden from us, it is clear that it had serious physical consequences, as Lucifer and his followers were banished from heaven.

This heavenly conflict has direct implications for our lives and faith today. Like the angels in heaven, we too are faced with the decision of whom to follow. In a world often characterized by confusion, temptation, and deception, we are challenged to confess our faith and loyalty to Christ and remain faithful to Him.

It is an urgent invitation to each of us to consciously choose Christ and stay away from the temptations and lies of evil. By listening to and obeying the loving commandments and truth of Christ, we can find hope, peace, and eternal life. It is up to us which side of this eternal conflict we choose to stand on – the side of light and truth or the side of darkness and deception.

Read Genesis 2:15–17; Exodus 32:26; Joshua 24:15; 1 Kings 18:20–21; and Revelation 22:17. What fundamental principle of the Great Controversy do these verses teach us?

The provided Bible verses offer deep insights into the fundamental principle of the Great Controversy between Good and Evil that runs throughout the Holy Scriptures. Here’s a reflection on each verse and its significance for understanding this principle:

1. Genesis 2:15–17 – This section describes the creation story where God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and commanded them to eat from all trees but not from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This teaches us the principle of free will and moral agency that God has granted to humanity.

2. Exodus 32:26 – This is about the Levites’ response after the Golden Calf incident. Moses calls out, “Who is on the Lord’s side? Come to me!” This emphasizes the need to clearly choose God and remain faithful to Him even when others turn away.

3. Joshua 24:15 – Joshua presents the Israelites with a choice: “Choose this day whom you will serve.” This verse underscores the importance of personal decision and confessing to God by actively choosing and serving Him.

4. 1 Kings 18:20–21 – Here, Elijah urges the people of Israel to choose between Baal and God. It’s a call to decision and action in faith rather than wavering between two opinions.

5. Revelation 22:17 – This verse invites all to freely take the “water of life.” It emphasizes God’s universal invitation to all people to choose Him and benefit from His love and blessings.

In summary, these verses teach us that the Great Controversy is a battle of decision, free will, and loyalty. God has given us the freedom to make moral choices and decide whom we want to serve. It’s a constant call for us to actively choose God, remain faithful to Him, and serve Him, despite the temptations and challenges we face. Our choices define our relationship with God and ultimately determine our eternal destiny.

What lessons can we draw from the heavenly battle for our own personal struggle with evil? If Satan was able to deceive these righteous, holy heavenly beings, what does that say about his malicious attempts to deceive us?

The heavenly battle between Lucifer (Satan) and the loyal angels offers valuable insights and lessons for our own personal struggle against evil. Here are some conclusions and teachings we can draw from this biblical event:

1. The Power of Deception: If even righteous and holy heavenly beings like angels could be influenced by Satan’s lies and deceptions, it shows the seductive and manipulative power of evil. It reminds us that no one is immune to Satan’s attempts to lead us away from the truth and God’s path.

2. Need for Vigilance: The fact that the angels had to choose between Lucifer and Christ emphasizes the importance of vigilance and spiritual discernment. We must constantly be on guard and aware of the tactics and temptations of evil to avoid being deceived.

3. Free Will and Decision: Each angel had the freedom and free will to choose for or against God. Similarly, we have the freedom and responsibility to make our own choices. It’s up to us to consciously choose God and remain faithful to our faith.

4. God’s Unchanging Love and Loyalty: Despite Lucifer’s rebellion and the fall of a third of the angels, God remained faithful, loving, and just. This shows us God’s unchanging love, patience, and mercy. We can rely on God’s love and loyalty, even when we turn away from Him or make mistakes.

5. Strength through Community and Unity: The loyal angels chose to follow Christ and stand against Lucifer. This emphasizes the importance of community, unity, and support in faith. When we strengthen, encourage, and support each other, we can be more resilient against Satan’s attempts.

In conclusion, the heavenly battle teaches us that the path of faith and loyalty is not always easy and that we must constantly fight against the temptations and deceptions of evil. It reminds us to be vigilant, make conscious choices, and rely on God’s love, loyalty, and support as we progress on our spiritual journey.

The connection between the heavenly battle and our daily life as well as our faith is profound and relevant to each one of us. Here are some key aspects of how this cosmic conflict influences our daily decisions, challenges, and our journey of faith:

1. Daily Decisions and Vigilance: Like the angels in heaven, we also face daily decisions. We must constantly ask ourselves whom or what we want to follow – the principles of light and truth or the temptations of darkness and deception. It requires vigilance and spiritual discernment to recognize and resist the tactics of evil.

2. Personal Integrity and Loyalty: The conflict in heaven teaches us the importance of integrity, loyalty, and commitment. Like the loyal angels, we too must choose whom we want to remain loyal to, even when faced with challenges, temptations, or external pressure.

3. Community and Support: The heavenly battle emphasizes the power of community and unity in faith. It’s important to connect with other believers, strengthen and encourage each other, and together fight against the temptations and attacks of evil.

4. God’s Unchanging Love and Mercy: The heavenly conflict shows us God’s boundless love, patience, and mercy. It reminds us that no matter how many times we fall or make mistakes, God always welcomes us with open arms, forgives us, and gives us the strength to continue and grow.

5. Hope, Peace, and Eternal Life: Despite the challenges and trials we face, faith in Christ offers us hope, peace, and the prospect of eternal life. By listening to and obeying Christ’s loving commandments and truth, we can find inner peace and attain eternal life.

In summary, the cosmic conflict between Lucifer and Christ shows us that faith is not just an abstract idea but a living, current, and transformative experience that influences every aspect of our lives. It reminds us that we are in a constant spiritual battle and that our daily life, decisions, and behavior are expressions of our faith and loyalty to Christ. It is a constant invitation and challenge to give our best, remain faithful, and progress on the path of light, truth, and love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-war-behind-all-wars-1-2-lucifer-deceives-christ-prevails/