9.4 The Mark of the Beast
The End-Time Conflict: Loyalty to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast

Read Revelation 12:12, 17, and 13:7. How do these verses reveal Satan’s wrath? Why is the Devil so angry with God’s end-time people?

Revelation 12:12: “Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short.”

Revelation 12:17: “Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”

Revelation 13:7: “It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.”

Satan’s Wrath Against God’s End-Time People

1. The Devil’s Wrath (Revelation 12:12)

   • Revelation 12:12 describes the devil’s great wrath because he knows his time is limited. This verse highlights the intensity of his hatred and his desperate efforts to cause as much harm as possible before his final judgment.

2. Attack on the Woman and Her Offspring (Revelation 12:17)

   • The dragon, symbolizing Satan, is angry with the woman who represents God’s church, and especially with her offspring. These offspring are described as those who keep God’s commandments and hold fast their testimony about Jesus. His wrath is directed specifically at those who remain faithful to God and follow His commandments.

3. War Against the Saints (Revelation 13:7)

   • Revelation 13:7 describes how Satan, through his allies—the beast from the sea and the beast from the earth—is given power to wage war against the saints. These saints are God’s end-time people who remain faithful to Him.

Why Is the Devil So Angry with God’s End-Time People?

1. Loyalty to God’s Commandments

   • God’s end-time people keep His commandments. This stands in direct opposition to Satan’s goal of undermining God’s law and authority. Their loyalty is a living testament to God’s power and justice, provoking Satan.

2. Testimony of Jesus

   • They hold fast to the testimony of Jesus, meaning they believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and proclaim His gospel. This poses a direct threat to Satan’s kingdom, as the testimony of Jesus has the power to bring people out of darkness into light.

3. End-Time Conflict

   • Satan knows his time is limited. This realization escalates his efforts to thwart God’s plan and deceive and destroy as many people as possible. His increasing wrath and aggression against God’s end-time people are expressions of his desperate final attempts.

4. Cosmic Conflict

   • The entire context of Revelation 12 and 13 describes a cosmic conflict between good and evil. Satan’s wrath is a crucial part of this conflict as he battles against everything God has created and sanctified.

Conclusion

The relationship between Satan’s wrath and God’s end-time people reveals the intense spiritual battle that will take place in the last days. God’s people, who keep His commandments and hold fast the testimony of Jesus, are the focus of Satan’s wrath because they embody God’s principles and character in a world increasingly permeated by evil. Their faithfulness and testimony starkly contradict Satan’s rebellion and destruction, intensifying his hatred and attacks.

Read Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15 and 14:7, 9-11. (See also Revelation 15:4; 16:2; 19:20; 20:4; 22:9) What central theme emerges in all these verses?

Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15 and 14:7, 9-11: Central Theme of Worship

Revelation 13:4: “People worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, ‘Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?’”

Revelation 13:8: “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.”

Revelation 13:12: “It exercised all the authority of the first beast on its behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed.”

Revelation 13:15: “The second beast was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed.”

Revelation 14:7: “He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.’”

Revelation 14:9-11: “A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: ‘If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.’”

Additional Relevant Verses:

Revelation 15:4: “Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.”

Revelation 16:2: “The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the land, and ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image.”

Revelation 19:20: “But the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed the signs on its behalf. With these signs he had deluded those who had received the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”

Revelation 20:4: “I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

Revelation 22:9: “But he said to me, ‘Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!’”

Central Theme: True and False Worship

The central theme highlighted in all these verses is worship. People either worship the Creator or they worship the beast and its image. There is a clear contrast between true worship of God, the Creator, and false worship of the beast, inspired by the dragon (Satan).

Contrast and Conflict:

• True Worship: True worship is directed to God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Revelation 14:7). This worship is practiced by those who keep God’s commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17; 14:12).

• False Worship: False worship is directed to the beast and its image (Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15). This worship is practiced by those whose names are not written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 13:8). The beast and its image symbolize earthly powers and false religious systems that attempt to divert worship from God to themselves.

Historical Context and Prophecy:

• Daniel 7 and Revelation 13: Comparing with Daniel 7, the beast from the earth in Revelation 13 is the same as the little horn that tries to change God’s law (Daniel 7:25). The attempt to shift the day of worship from Saturday to Sunday is seen as an effort to undermine divine authority.

• End-Time Conflict: The final conflict revolves around true and false worship. Revelation identifies the faithful as those who keep God’s commandments, including the Sabbath (Revelation 12:17; 14:12). Those who worship the beast and its image and accept the mark of the beast will face God’s judgment (Revelation 14:9-11).

Conclusion

The dispute between Christ and Satan began in heaven and revolves around worship. Satan covets the worship that belongs only to God and seeks to obtain this worship through the actions of the beast from the earth. The Sabbath plays a central role in this conflict as a sign of true worship of the Creator. Revelation calls believers to stand faithfully with God, keep His commandments, and worship Him alone.

Connection with Our Daily Life and Faith: The Sabbath and the Law

The Sabbath and the Law of God are deeply intertwined with our daily life and faith. They form the foundation of our understanding of God’s purposes for us as His creations. Here are some central thoughts that highlight the connection to daily life and faith:

1. Remembrance of Creation:

   • The Sabbath reminds us weekly that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. This strengthens our awareness of divine creation and our place within it.

2. Rest and Renewal:

   • In the hectic pace of daily life, the Sabbath offers a weekly day of rest, allowing us to be physically and spiritually renewed. It is a time to detach from daily work and focus on our relationship with God.

3. Sanctification of the Sabbath:

   • By observing the Sabbath, we follow a central commandment of God. This strengthens our discipline in faith and demonstrates our loyalty to God’s instructions.

4. Symbol of Faithfulness:

   • The Sabbath is a sign of our faithfulness to God. In a world that often has different values and priorities, the Sabbath reminds us to follow God’s commandments and give Him the highest honor.

Central Thoughts on the End-Time Conflict: Faithfulness to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast

Satan’s Wrath Against God’s End-Time People:

• Revelation 12:12: Satan’s great wrath stems from knowing his time is limited. He desperately tries to cause as much harm as possible.

• Revelation 12:17: The dragon is especially angry with the descendants of the woman who keep God’s commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus.

• Revelation 13:7: Satan, through his allies, wages war against the saints, God’s end-time people who stand faithful to God.

The Devil’s Wrath:

• Faithfulness to God’s Commandments: The end-time people keep God’s commandments, counteracting Satan’s goal to undermine God’s law.

• Testimony of Jesus: Faith in Jesus Christ and proclaiming His gospel threaten Satan’s kingdom.

• End-Time Conflict: The limited time drives Satan to escalate his efforts to thwart God’s plan.

• Cosmic Conflict: Satan’s wrath is part of the great conflict between good and evil.

Central Theme of Worship:

• True Worship: True worship is directed towards God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Revelation 14:7).

• False Worship: False worship is directed towards the beast and its image (Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15).

Conclusion: Key Thought of the Day

“The Sabbath is a weekly sign of our faithfulness to God, reminding us that we were created to live in His rest and worship.”

This thought underscores the deep connection between the Sabbath, God’s law, and our daily faith life, encouraging us to remain faithful amidst the end-time conflict.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-4-the-mark-of-the-beast/

9.3 The Sabbath and the Law
The Sabbath: Connection of Creation and God’s Law

Read Revelation 14:6–7; 4:11; Genesis 2:1–3, and Exodus 20:8–11. What relationship exists between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law?

The connection between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law is fundamental to our faith and understanding of God’s intentions for us as his creatures. The creation story in Genesis teaches us that God created the world and everything in it with a specific purpose and boundless love. The Sabbath, the seventh day of the week, reminds us that after six days of creation, God rested and gave us a day of rest and worship.

In the Ten Commandments, especially in the verses of Exodus 20:8-11, God reaffirms the holiness of the Sabbath and its significance as a day of rest and remembrance of his creation. Thus, the Sabbath is not only a day of rest but also a symbol of our relationship with God as Creator and Redeemer.

Revelation, particularly in verses 14:6–7, reminds us that the Sabbath plays a role in God’s end-time plan and urges us to rest in his love and care on this day. Thus, there is a close relationship between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law, calling us to acknowledge God’s creation, honor him as our Creator and Redeemer, and sanctify his Sabbath as a day of rest and worship.

Most Seventh-day Adventists have been confronted with the accusation of legalism, usually in connection with Sabbath observance. Discuss the Sabbath as a symbol of redemption and righteousness through faith. Why might the observance of God’s command to rest lead people to think we are trying to earn our way to heaven?

The accusations of legalism against Seventh-day Adventists, especially in connection with the Sabbath, may be based on misunderstandings about the meaning of the Sabbath and salvation by faith.

Firstly, it’s important to emphasize that Sabbath observance for Adventists is not viewed as a means of salvation. Rather, they consider the Sabbath as a gift from God designed to deepen the relationship between humanity and its Creator. Observing the Sabbath is an expression of gratitude for God’s creation and redemption, as well as a sign of trust in God’s care and love.

The Sabbath is also a symbol of redemption through faith, as it recalls the rest offered in the Gospel. According to Christian doctrine, salvation comes not through works but through faith in Jesus Christ. The Sabbath calls for resting from our works and relying on God’s grace and forgiveness.

However, why might people still think that Adventists are trying to earn their way to heaven? One reason could be that consistent Sabbath observance and adherence to other commandments could be interpreted as an outward expression of piety aimed at gaining divine favor. This interpretation, however, misunderstands the deeper spiritual principles and emphasizes outward form over the inner attitude of the heart.

Another reason could be that some people may perceive the Sabbath commandment as an additional burden they must bear to be considered pious or righteous. This can lead to the misunderstanding that Adventists are trying to earn heaven by observing the Sabbath, instead of relying solely on God’s grace.

Overall, it’s important to clarify the misunderstanding about the Sabbath as a means of salvation by faith and to emphasize the Sabbath’s significance as a gift from God and a symbol of rest and trust in his grace.

The relationship between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law is deeply rooted in biblical teaching and has significant implications for the faith and daily lives of believers.

Biblical Foundations

1. Creation (Genesis 2:1-3)

   • God completed creation in six days and rested on the seventh day.

   • This rest was not just physical but a celebration of the perfection and completion of creation.

   • The seventh day was blessed and sanctified as an eternal sign of creation.

2. God’s Law (Exodus 20:8-11)

   • The fourth commandment calls for the sanctification of the Sabbath.

   • It connects creation (because God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day) with the weekly rest day for humans.

   • The Sabbath commandment reminds believers of their origin and their Creator.

3. Sabbath in the End Times (Revelation 14:6-7)

   • The end-time message calls for worship of the Creator.

   • The Sabbath is emphasized as a day of rest and worship to honor God’s work of creation.

Connection to Everyday Life and Faith

1. Rhythm of Rest and Work

   • The Sabbath provides a weekly rhythm that helps people find a balance between work and rest.

   • It is a time for physical and mental renewal, promoting health and well-being.

2. Remembrance of God’s Creation and Redemption

   • The Sabbath serves as a weekly remembrance of God’s creation work and His redemption.

   • It reminds believers that they are not only creatures of God but also redeemed through Jesus Christ.

3. Expression of Faith and Loyalty

   • Observing the Sabbath is an expression of faith and loyalty to God’s commandments.

   • It demonstrates trust in God’s care and acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

4. Community and Worship

   • The Sabbath is a time for community with other believers and for worshiping God.

   • It provides an opportunity to focus together on God’s Word and to grow spiritually.

Clarification of Misunderstandings

Accusation of Legalism

• Adventists do not see the Sabbath as a means of salvation but as a gift from God.

• The Sabbath is a symbol of grace and salvation through faith, not works.

• Resting on the Sabbath demonstrates trust in God’s grace rather than self-effort.

Conclusion

The connection between creation, Sabbath, and God’s law is central to understanding faith and practice in daily life. The Sabbath reminds us of God’s creation and redemption, provides a rhythm of rest and worship, and expresses faith and loyalty to God. By sanctifying the Sabbath, our relationship with God is deepened, and the significance of His creation and redemption work is emphasized.

The Sabbath deeply connects us to God’s creation and His law, reminding us that we are created out of His boundless love and that we find daily renewal in His rest and care.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-3-the-sabbath-and-the-law/

9.2 The Immutability of God’s Law
The Eternal Validity of God’s Law in Christian Faith

Read Matthew 5:17–18; Psalm 111:7–8; Ecclesiastes 12:13–14; 1 John 5:3, and Proverbs 28:9. What do these verses teach us about the Christian’s relationship to the law?

The mentioned verses provide clear insight into the Christian’s relationship to God’s law:

1. Matthew 5:17–18: Jesus explains that he has not come to abolish the law or the prophets, but to fulfill them. The law remains valid until all is fulfilled.

2. Psalm 111:7–8: The psalmist attests to the immutability and eternity of God’s law. His commandments are firm and enduring.

3. Ecclesiastes 12:13–14: The fear of God and obedience to his commandments are considered the duty of man, as God will bring every deed into judgment, whether good or evil.

4. 1 John 5:3: Love for God is demonstrated through obedience to his commandments. His commandments are not burdensome to keep when one loves God.

5. Proverbs 28:9: God does not listen to the prayers of those who disregard his law. These verses teach that God’s law, especially the moral law, is immutable, eternal, and binding. It is a source of wisdom and guidance for the lives of believers. Seventh-day Adventists and Protestant reformers emphasize the importance of obeying God’s law, especially the Ten Commandments, as an expression of love for God and for maintaining moral order in society.

Compare Exodus 34:5–7 with Romans 7:11–12; Psalm 19:8–12; 89:15, and 119:142, 172. What do these verses tell us about the relationship between God’s law and God’s character?

The mentioned verses provide insights into the relationship between God’s law and his character:

1. Exodus 34:5–7: Here, God himself reveals his attributes by describing himself as merciful, gracious, patient, full of goodness, and truth. At the same time, he declares that he will not hold the guilty innocent and that he will visit the sins of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations. These attributes of God are reflected in his law.

2. Romans 7:11–12: God’s law is described as holy, righteous, and good. It illustrates that the law itself is not the cause of sin but rather sin uses the law to be revealed.

3. Psalm 19:8–12: The psalmist praises the perfection of God’s law and its ability to revive the soul, enlighten the eyes, and impart wisdom. He also emphasizes the need to guard against hidden faults and to remain pure from willful sins.

4. Psalm 89:15: Here, God is described as just and faithful, with righteousness and justice as the foundation of his throne. These characteristics are reflected in his law, which forms the basis of his rule and his relationship with his people.

5. Psalm 119:142, 172: God’s law is praised as eternal, true, and righteous. It is an expression of his character and faithfulness. Those who love his law and live by it experience joy and blessing in their lives.

These verses clearly show that God’s law is not just a list of commandments but an expression of his character and attributes. It is the foundation of his rule and relationship with his people. Therefore, the observance and obedience to his law are crucial for believers as it is a direct revelation of his divine nature.

What are often the arguments used to claim that we are no longer obligated to keep the Ten Commandments? What do you think lies behind this?

There are various arguments used to claim that we are no longer obligated to keep the Ten Commandments:

1. Abrogation of the law by the New Testament: Some argue that the New Testament, especially the teachings of Jesus, has abolished certain laws of the Old Testament, including the Ten Commandments. They emphasize that love for God and neighbor is the fulfillment of the law and that Christians are under grace, not under the law.

2. Fulfillment in Christ: Another argument is that Jesus Christ fulfilled the Ten Commandments, and thus they are no longer applicable to believers. They see in Christ the fulfillment of the law and argue that believers are freed from the obligation of the law through their faith in him.

3. Cultural changes: Some claim that the Ten Commandments were written in a specific cultural and historical context and are therefore no longer applicable to our modern society. They argue that moral standards have changed over time, and thus we are no longer bound by the commandments of the Old Testament.

4. Emphasis on grace: Some argue that the emphasis on grace and faith in Christ means that believers are no longer under the law but under grace, and thus they are exempt from keeping the Ten Commandments.

However, behind these arguments often lies a theological interpretation aimed at relativizing or minimizing the significance and role of the Ten Commandments in Christian life. Some see them as a restriction on freedom and grace in Christ, while others argue that morality should not be bound by commandments but should come from an inner sense of love and compassion. Ultimately, the perspective on the Ten Commandments depends heavily on the theological orientation and interpretation of the Bible.

The relationship between God’s law and everyday life as well as faith is profound and crucial for the spiritual life of a believer:

1. Guidance and direction: God’s law serves as guidance and direction for the daily life of a believer. It provides clear guidelines and principles for moral behavior, interpersonal relationships, and dealing with God.

2. Sanctification and growth: By obeying God’s law, the believer seeks sanctification and spiritual growth. Following God’s commandments helps to develop character traits such as love, patience, faithfulness, and mercy.

3. Relationship with God: Observing the law is an expression of love for God. By obeying his commandments, one demonstrates devotion and faithfulness to him. The law fosters a deep and trusting relationship with God by encouraging believers to obey his will.

4. Community and ethics: God’s law forms the basis for ethical behavior and a just society. Observing the commandments promotes a harmonious community where love, respect, and justice prevail.

5. Grace and forgiveness: Although God’s law makes demands on believers, it also emphasizes the need for grace and forgiveness. When we break the law, we can be restored through God’s grace and forgiveness, leading to a deeper understanding of his mercy.

Ultimately, obeying God’s law is not just an external duty but an expression of faith and love for God. It touches all aspects of daily life and shapes the identity of a believer as a disciple of Christ.

God’s law is a mirror of his character and a source of wisdom for our lives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-2-the-immutability-of-gods-law/

Lesson 9.The Foundation of God’s Government
The Fundamentals of Faith: Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict

In the ninth lesson of our study series, we delve into the fundamental principles that form the foundation of God’s rule and sovereignty. This lesson is titled “The Foundation of God’s Government” and takes a deep look at the principles of worship and loyalty to the Creator.

In Revelation, particularly in Chapter 14, we find an urgent message urging us to make a clear decision – the choice between true worship of the Creator and the worship of false gods or systems. This decision has not only theological but also practical implications for our daily lives and our faith.

In our introduction, we will illuminate the central themes of this lesson: the significance of worshiping the Creator, the warning against false gods, and the connection between our everyday lives and our faith. By understanding these principles, we can delve deeper into the truth and align our lives accordingly to honor God and follow His will.

9.1 The Sanctuary and the Law
The Sanctuary and the Immutable Law of God

Read Revelation 11:19; Exodus 25:16; 31:18, and Revelation 12:17. According to these verses, what was inside the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place of the sanctuary?

According to the mentioned verses, the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place of the sanctuary was a central place of great significance. According to the scriptures, it contained the Ten Commandments of God, written on stone tablets. These symbolized the immutable and sacred law of God. The golden cover of the Ark of the Covenant, called the mercy seat, was the place where blood was sprinkled to cleanse sins and to manifest God’s presence.

Revelation describes how the apostle John saw the heavenly sanctuary and the Ark of the Covenant became visible. This depiction illustrates the continuity and the sacred nature of the divine law represented in the heavenly sanctuary.

The comments emphasize the significance of God’s law, especially regarding the Sabbath, and argue that despite the cross and redemption through Christ, it continues to endure. This underscores the theological perspective that God’s law was not abolished but rather plays a crucial role in God’s plan of redemption.

Overall, this reflection highlights the importance of the Ark of the Covenant and the divine law within the framework of the sanctuary and emphasizes the theological doctrine of the continuity and sanctity of God’s law.

Think about the Sabbath, which comes to us every week at 1600 km/h – without exception. What does this tell us about the significance of the doctrine of creation? What other doctrine has such a strong and recurring reminder function?

The Sabbath, returning with remarkable regularity every week, offers a fascinating perspective on the significance of the doctrine of creation. Through its unchanging recurrence, unaffected by human actions, the Sabbath continuously reminds us of God’s act of creation. It symbolizes God’s sovereignty over time and space, as well as His role as the Creator and ruler of the universe.

This regular reminder function of the Sabbath emphasizes the importance of the doctrine of creation as a fundamental theological truth. The creation story in the book of Genesis serves as the foundation of faith and reminds us that God is the origin and source of all life.

No other doctrine has such a strong and recurring reminder function as the doctrine of creation, symbolized by the Sabbath. While other beliefs and doctrines convey important principles and truths, the doctrine of creation offers a unique perspective on the relationship between God and His creation, as well as the fundamental principles of order and time.

Through the Sabbath, we are reminded week by week that we are part of a universe created by God and protected by His care. This regular reminder invites us to reflect on our role as stewards of creation and to deepen our relationship with God and His creation.

The connection between the Sabbath as a regular reminder of the doctrine of creation and the sanctuary with the immutable law of God lies in their common emphasis on God’s sovereignty, holiness, and constancy. Both the Sabbath and the Ten Commandments, preserved in the Ark of the Covenant in the sanctuary, symbolize God’s unchanging character and His authority over creation.

The Sabbath reminds us week by week of God’s act of creation and His rule over time and space. Similarly, the Ten Commandments of God in the sanctuary illustrate the holiness and immutability of God’s law. These teachings remind us that God reigns as Creator and Lawgiver over all aspects of our lives.

The regular recurrence of the Sabbath and the emphasis on the immutable law of God in the sanctuary have a strong and recurring reminder function in our daily lives and faith. They invite us to deepen our relationship with God by being aware of His sovereignty, holiness, and constancy. By observing the Sabbath and respecting the Ten Commandments as expressions of divine wisdom and love, we can strengthen our connection to God and recognize His greatness and glory in our lives.

God’s immutable law and the regular recurrence of the Sabbath remind us that we are part of a divinely created and protected universe, invited to deepen our relationship with God and His creation.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-1-the-sanctuary-and-the-law/

Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 9.The Foundation of God’s Government  |
The Fundamentals of Faith: Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict  |

In Lesson 9, we delve into the fundamental principles of God’s governance. We explore the significance of God’s law as an unchanging expression of His character and guidance for His people. The Sabbath is illuminated as a special sign of creation and redemption, symbolizing loyalty to God and true worship. Additionally, we consider the end-time conflict revolving around the question of worship and obedience to God’s commandments. This lesson leads us to a deeper understanding of the foundations of our faith and the importance of faithfulness in the last days.

Memory Text: Revelation 12:17 – “And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.”

Content:
9.1 The Sanctuary and the Law
The Sanctuary and the Immutable Law of God

The sanctuary and the law are deeply interconnected, as scriptures such as Revelation 11:19, Exodus 25:16, 31:18, and Revelation 12:17 demonstrate. In the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place lay the Ten Commandments of God inscribed on stone tablets. These laws symbolize God’s unchanging will and His holiness. On the Day of Atonement, the high priest entered to obtain atonement for the sins of the people through blood sacrifice, merging mercy and justice. Adventist believers recognized that the divine law continues in the heavenly sanctuary and was not annulled by the cross. This realization underscores the importance of the law and the Sabbath in Christian faith.

9.2 The Immutability of God’s Law
The Eternal Validity of God’s Law in Christian Faith

The verses cited in Matthew 5:17-18, Psalm 111:7-8, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, 1 John 5:3, and Proverbs 28:9 emphasize the eternal validity and significance of God’s law. They teach that the moral law, as contained in the Ten Commandments, is immutable and binding for all time. This law reflects God’s character and the enduring relationship between God and humanity. John Wesley emphasizes that Jesus abolished the ceremonial law but affirmed the moral law. Adventists see in the acknowledgment of the heavenly sanctuary a confirmation of the validity of God’s law and the Sabbath. These principles are central to the understanding and practice of the Christian faith.

9.3 The Sabbath and the Law
The Sabbath: Connection of Creation and God’s Law

The verses from Revelation 14:6-7, 4:11, Genesis 2:1-3, and Exodus 20:8-11 inseparably connect creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law. The Sabbath commemorates God’s work of creation and demonstrates our special position in His creation. It reminds us that we are not accidental but created by God’s plan and love. Observing the Sabbath is an expression of worship and gratitude to God, the Creator and Redeemer. It is a weekly pause to celebrate God’s care and receive His blessing. Thus, the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to God and a symbol of the rest and grace we find in Him.

9.4 The Mark of the Beast
The End-Time Conflict: Loyalty to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast

Revelation 12:12, 12:17, and 13:7 reveal Satan’s wrath against God’s end-time people who keep God’s commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus. Satan is particularly furious because this people remain faithful to God’s law amidst the great end-time conflict. Revelation 13 discloses that Satan, through his allies, the beast from the sea and the beast from the earth, wages war against the saints. The central conflict revolves around worship: either worship of the Creator or the beast. In this context, the Sabbath plays a crucial role as a sign of true worship. Those who accept the false Sabbath receive the mark of the beast, while the faithful uphold God’s commandments, including the Sabbath.

9.5 The Three Angels’ Messages
The Choice between Worship of the Creator and the Beast

In Revelation 14:7, the first angel calls for worship of the Creator and reverence for God in view of the impending judgment. The second angel warns against fallen Babylon, a symbolic apostate system promoting false worship. People must choose between worshiping the Creator or the beast. Revelation 14:12 describes the faithful as those who keep God’s commandments and hold to the faith of Jesus. These two characteristics are crucial as they express true worship and deep, unwavering devotion to Christ. Amidst the greatest trials, this faith will carry believers through the final crisis until Jesus returns.

9.6 Summary
A Look at Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict

Lesson 9 emphasizes the central importance of God’s law as the foundation of His government. The Ten Commandments, stored in the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place of the sanctuary, are an expression of God’s unchanging will and character. The Sabbath plays a special role as a sign of creation and redemption, and its observance is an expression of loyalty to God. The end-time conflict revolves around true worship and obedience to God’s commandments. The Three Angels’ Messages call humanity to choose worship of the Creator over the mark of the beast, highlighting the importance of faith and loyalty in the last days.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/