Lesson 3: Light Shines in the Darkness
Light in Darkness: Vigilance and Truth in a Changing World

In Lesson 3, we delve deeper into the interplay of truth and deception as depicted in the Bible. Referring to the words of Jesus and the writings of Apostle Paul, we are made aware of the subtle seductions and false doctrines that can jeopardize our spiritual journey. The importance of the Holy Scriptures as our unwavering foundation and shield against spiritual deception is emphasized. The lesson urges us to actively preserve and spread the light of the Gospel to provide guidance in an increasingly confusing and threatened world of darkness. It encourages us to heighten our spiritual vigilance and cling to the guiding power of the Bible to strengthen and protect our faith.

3.1 Compromise: Satan’s Subtle Strategy
Recognizing Truth: Jesus and Satan’s Strategies in Light of Scripture

Compare John 14:6 with 8:44. What contrast between the character of Jesus and Satan is evident in these two verses?

In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me.” In John 8:44, Jesus describes Satan’s character, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

The contrast between the character of Jesus and the character of Satan is clearly visible in these two verses:

1. Truth vs. Lie: Jesus is the embodiment of truth, while Satan is the father of lies. Jesus speaks the truth because He is the truth that comes from God. In contrast, Satan is willing to spread lies and deception to lead people astray.

2. Path to Life vs. Temptation to Death: Jesus is the path to eternal life and to the Father. He offers redemption, hope, and a fulfilled life. Satan, on the other hand, is a murderer and tempter aiming to divert people from God and His path of truth and life.

3. Divine Authority vs. Self-will: Jesus speaks and acts in accordance with the will of the Father. He is the incarnation of divine love, wisdom, and power. Satan, however, acts from his own will and self-interest, disregarding the truth and the well-being of people.

In summary, John 14:6 and 8:44 highlight the profound contrast between the divine character of Jesus and the corrupt character of Satan. Jesus stands for truth, life, and love, while Satan represents lies, death, and deception. It is important to be aware of these differences and choose the path of Jesus and the truth.

Read Proverbs 23:23 and John 17:17; 8:32. What similarities do you see in these Bible verses regarding the truth of God’s Word? What is their central message?

Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.” John 17:17 states, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

John 8:32 declares, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The similarities in these Bible verses regarding the truth of God’s Word are:

1. Truth as an indispensable value: In Proverbs 23:23, truth is portrayed as something of immeasurable value. It should be valued, sought after, and preserved.

2. The Word of God as the source of truth: In John 17:17, God’s Word is directly associated with truth. It is the Holy Scripture that provides us with true knowledge and revelation of God’s truth.

3. Freedom through truth: John 8:32 emphasizes that recognizing the truth leads to freedom. The truth of God’s Word has the power to free us from errors, deceptions, and the bonds of sin.

The central message of these Bible verses is the significance and power of the truth of God’s Word. They teach us to seek, value, and preserve the truth. God’s Word is the infallible source of truth that guides, educates, and liberates us. It is crucial that we rely on the Holy Scripture to recognize and live in the truth.

Jesus Himself, during His temptation in the desert test Luke 4:1–13, repeatedly referred to the Word of God to resist Satan. The Bible is a powerful tool that reveals truth to us and gives us the strength to resist the attacks of the enemy and walk in God’s wisdom and truth. It is of utmost importance that people have access to the Holy Scripture and can study it to recognize the truth and protect themselves from deceptions.

Discuss how Satan tries to distort or misinterpret God’s Word today.

Satan employs various strategies to distort or misinterpret God’s Word, especially in today’s modern world where information is easily accessible, and there exist many different opinions and interpretations. Here are some common methods Satan uses to distort the truth of God’s Word:

1. False teachings and heresies: Satan promotes false teachings and heresies that deviate from biblical truth. He deceives people into accepting false beliefs and interpretations that do not align with Scripture. This can happen through false prophets, cults, or misleading religious movements.

2. Dilution of Moral Values: In a world drifting further from Christian values, Satan tries to relativize or discard the moral and ethical commandments of the Bible. He promotes moral relativism that blurs the distinction between right and wrong.

3. Cultural Adaptation and Modernization: Satan exploits cultural change and societal trends to adapt or alter God’s Word to current norms and values. He promotes a “modern” interpretation of the Bible that deviates from traditional and historical interpretation.

4. Doubt and Skepticism: Satan tries to sow doubt and skepticism about the reliability and truth of the Bible. He questions the authority and inspiration of Scripture to divert people from the absolute truth of God’s Word.

5. Using Out-of-Context Scriptures: Satan can take individual Bible verses out of context or misquote them to convey a misleading message. He exploits ignorance or unfamiliarity with Scripture to spread false teachings.

6. Secular Philosophies and Ideologies: Satan uses secular philosophies, ideologies, and scientific theories that contradict biblical teachings to influence the understanding and interpretation of Scripture. He tries to reconcile the Bible with human beliefs and schools of thought rather than considering it as the infallible Word of God.

It is important to be vigilant, study the Scripture, and remain in prayer to protect ourselves from Satan’s deceptions and distortions. Through a solid knowledge of the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can recognize the truth, expose false teachings, and walk in the right doctrine.

The connection between these biblical concepts and our daily life and faith is profound and relevant. Here are some key aspects that illustrate this connection:

1. Choosing Truth: In a world flooded with information and various opinions and interpretations, we must actively seek the truth and choose it. This requires a conscious commitment to study, reflect on, and apply the Holy Scripture in our lives.

2. Resisting Compromise: Satan often uses subtle methods to tempt us to compromise our beliefs and principles. We must remain vigilant and steadfast to resist the temptations and deceptions that want to divert us from the truth.

3. Building a Solid Foundation: Our relationship with God and our understanding of His Word should be based on a solid and unshakable foundation. This helps us remain steadfast and be guided by the truth in difficult times and challenges.

4. Freedom through Truth: The truth of God’s Word has the power to free us from the bonds of sin, errors, and deceptions. By recognizing and living in the truth, we can lead a life characterized by God’s love, wisdom, and freedom.

5. Community in Faith: It is important to be in a community of believers who encourage, strengthen, and support each other. Joint prayer, Bible study, and fellowship promote our spiritual growth and help us stay in the truth.

In conclusion, it is crucial to be vigilant, steadfast, and committed in our daily life and faith. We must actively seek the truth, resist compromises, and have a solid foundation in God’s Word. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and community in faith, we can recognize, live in, and lead a fulfilled and God-pleasing life.

Thought of the Day: Truth remains unshakable, even when lies and deceptions attempt to overshadow it.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-light-shines-in-the-darkness-3-1-compromise-satans-subtle-strategy/

2.6 Summary
The Heart of the Christian Faith: Love, Care, and Resistance Against Selfishness

The second lesson focused on the central theme of Christianity: the choice between love and selfishness. The various units of this lesson demonstrated:

A Savior with a Broken Heart: The deep love of Jesus Christ for humanity was portrayed, with His life and suffering representing the ultimate expression of divine love that is willing to selflessly give for others.

Preserved by Providence: It was emphasized that God leads and protects His believers through various life situations and challenges. Even in difficult times, the divine love and care for His children remain evident.

Faithful Amid Persecution: This unit showcased the steadfastness and loyalty of Christians in times of persecution. Despite resistance and dangers, they remained true to their faith convictions, underscoring their deep connection to Christ and His path of love and selflessness.

Caring for the Community: The importance of caring for the well-being of the community was emphasized. Christians were encouraged to serve actively and advocate for the welfare of their fellow human beings, especially in times of crisis, to practically express the love of Christ.

A Legacy of Love: In conclusion, it was emphasized that true Christianity is characterized by selfless and sacrificial love. This kind of love challenges every Christian to set aside their own selves and lead a life of devotion and love that reflects God’s kingdom on Earth.

Overall, the lesson clarifies that the fundamental question of Christianity is to choose love over selfishness. True Christianity is characterized by love, service, and devotion that manifest the kingdom of God in the world.

The connection between Lesson 2 “The Central Question: Love or Selfishness?” and our everyday life as well as faith is profound and shaping. Here are some aspects that highlight this connection:

1. Personal Relationships: In our daily interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers, we often face the choice of acting out of love or selfish motives. Love promotes understanding, compassion, and harmony, while selfishness often leads to conflicts, misunderstandings, and distancing.

2. Decision Making: The choice between love and selfishness also influences our decisions in career, finances, leisure, and other areas of life. A God-centered life characterized by love often leads to decisions that consider the well-being of others and promote community.

3. Community and Society: Love and selfishness directly impact the functioning of communities and society as a whole. Communities built on love, care, and solidarity are often more harmonious, supportive, and resilient to challenges.

4. Spiritual Development: In faith, choosing love over selfishness is central to our spiritual maturity and closeness to God. The Bible teaches us that God is love (1 John 4:8) and that to become more like Him, we must grow in love. This often requires us to let go of our ego, deny ourselves, and devote ourselves to God and others in humility and love.

5. Meaning and Purpose in Life: Choosing love over selfishness gives our life a deeper meaning and purpose. It allows us to be part of something greater, serves a higher goal, and leaves a lasting legacy of love that extends beyond our earthly life.

Overall, Lesson 2 challenges us to reflect on our daily decisions, actions, and relationships in light of the central question of love or selfishness. By choosing love and integrating it into our daily life and faith, we can not only enrich our own lives but also exert a positive influence on our community and the world around us.

The suffering of Christians serves not only as evidence of their innocence but also as a seed that promotes the growth of faith.

1.What value does persecution have? Why do you think God allows His people to suffer sometimes? And even if in some cases, like in the early church, good could come out of it, what about times when it seems like nothing good has come from it? Why is the personal experience of God’s love so crucial in such situations to maintain faith?

The questions about persecution and why God allows suffering are profound and often controversial topics in the Christian faith. Here are some thoughts on this:

1. Value of Persecution:

• Strengthening of Faith: Persecution can strengthen and deepen faith by forcing believers to engage deeply with their convictions and consciously choose their faith.

• Testimony for Faith: Persecution can be a powerful testimony for faith. When Christians remain steadfast under pressure, it can inspire and lead others to faith.

• Focus on the Eternal: Persecution reminds believers that their true home is not in this world but in heaven. It promotes the attitude that material losses and sufferings are temporary compared to the eternal hope in God.

2. Why does God allow suffering?:

• Free Will: God has given humans free will. This means people have the freedom to make good or bad decisions, sometimes leading to suffering.

• Maturation and Character Building: Suffering can also serve as a means for maturation and character building. Through difficulties, we can learn to be patient, loving, humble, and steadfast.

• Mysteries of God: There are many things we cannot fully understand about God’s plan and intentions. Sometimes God allows suffering to fulfill greater purposes that remain hidden to us.

3. No Visible Good: There are times when it seems like nothing good has developed from suffering and persecution. In such times, the personal experience of God’s love is crucial to maintain faith.

• Deep Relationship with God: In times of darkness, the personal experience of God’s love can provide comfort, hope, and strength. It reminds us that God has not abandoned us, even if we cannot see or feel it.

• Eternal Perspective: God’s love helps us maintain an eternal perspective. Even if we suffer in this world, there is an eternal reward and promise of life with God.

In summary, while persecution and suffering are difficult to endure, they also offer opportunities to deepen our faith, testify, and draw closer to God. In difficult times, the personal experience of God’s love is crucial to maintain faith and hope.

2.If a friend were to ask you the following question, what would you answer: “Where is God in my suffering? If He loves me, why am I going through such a difficult time?”

The question about God’s presence in suffering is one of the most profound and challenging questions in faith. Here is a possible answer you could give to a friend:

______________________________________

I understand how difficult it must be to go through a challenging time and wonder where God is in all of it. It’s important to know that God’s love doesn’t necessarily mean we will be spared from difficulties. In the Bible, we see that many faithful people of God have also gone through tough times.

Firstly, I want to emphasize that God is not the cause of suffering. The world we live in is characterized by sin, imperfection, and the consequences of our decisions. But God is there to accompany us and comfort us in our suffering.

Secondly, the Bible shows us that God is with us in the midst of suffering. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Even if we sometimes feel that God is far away, Scripture assures us that He never leaves us.

Thirdly, God can work through suffering and difficulties to shape and mature us. There are times when we learn patience, endurance, compassion, and other valuable traits through suffering.

Lastly, I want to emphasize that our experience of suffering and difficulties can also give us a deeper insight into God’s love and care. It is often in our toughest moments that we develop a deeper, more authentic relationship with God and experience His love and care in new ways.

It’s okay to have questions and feel distant from God during difficult times. But please remember, you are not alone. God is always there, ready to listen, comfort, and help you through this challenging time.

______________________________________

It is important to respond with empathy and understanding, as suffering and faith are very personal in such moments. It is about offering support and hope without trivializing the other person’s feelings and experiences.

3.How can our local community become a caring community that makes a difference in the world? Discuss how we can practically apply this week’s reading.

Becoming a caring community that makes a difference in the world requires both individual and collective efforts. Here are some practical steps a local community can take to implement the principles of love and care discussed in this week’s reading:

1. Building Community:

• Host regular community events where members can get to know each other better.

• Create opportunities for shared activities and services to foster cohesion and unity within the community.

2. Caring for the Needy:

• Establish a community service that addresses the needs of the poor, sick, and disadvantaged in the community.

• Organize regular visits to the sick, single, or elderly members of the community to provide companionship and practical assistance.

3. Education and Awareness:

• Offer educational programs and workshops that inform community members about the importance of love, selflessness, and care.

• Organize discussion forums and Bible studies that address topics of suffering, faith, and God’s presence in difficult times.

4. Practical Love in Everyday Life:

• Encourage community members to show acts of kindness and love in their daily lives.

• Provide support for families in need, single parents, or people going through personal crises.

5. Public Testimony:

• Engage in local community projects and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in the community.

• Use social media and other platforms to share stories and testimonies of love and care, spreading the message of hope and faith in the wider community.

6. Continuous Self-reflection and Adaptation:

• Regularly review and evaluate community activities to ensure they are effective and meet the needs of community members.

• Be open to feedback and suggestions from the community to continually evolve and grow.

By implementing these steps and actively promoting love, care, and practical assistance, the community can have a positive and significant impact in the world and be a living testimony to the love and light of Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-6-summary/

2.5 A Legacy of Love
Love as the Hallmark of True Christianity: A Legacy of Compassion and Selflessness

Read John 13:35 and 1 John 4:21. What do these verses reveal about the challenge to God’s rule by Satan in the Great Controversy? What do they tell us about the nature of true Christianity?

The mentioned Bible verses and historical accounts illustrate the essence of true Christianity and how the Christian community responds to challenges and temptations.

John 13:35 says, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

1 John 4:21 says, “And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” These verses emphasize the central importance of love in Christian identity. Love is not just a feeling but manifests itself in concrete acts of care, service, and selflessness, especially towards the needy and the suffering.

The historical accounts cited by Tertullian and Rodney Stark about early Christians during epidemics show how this love was put into action. Instead of fearing the disease and associated risks, Christians showed courage, willingness to sacrifice, and deep compassion for their fellow human beings. They saw the image of God in every sick and needy person and acted accordingly.

This response of Christians to the challenges of their time shows us what true Christianity is about:

1. Selfless Love: True Christianity is characterized by selfless love that goes beyond one’s own needs and securities and actively works for the welfare of others.

2. Courage and Willingness to Sacrifice: True Christianity shows courage and a willingness to take risks to help others and spread the Gospel of love and hope.

3. Practical Neighborly Love: True Christianity is expressed not only in words but primarily in acts of care, support, and solidarity towards the needy and the suffering.

In summary, these Bible verses and historical accounts reveal that true Christianity is characterized by love expressed in concrete acts of care, service, and selflessness. In times of challenges and temptations, the true face of Christianity becomes visible when believers act courageously and sacrificially to help others and bring God’s love into the world.

What is the obvious message for us here? How can we learn to die to self so that we too can embody this selfless spirit? It’s not easy, is it?

The obvious message for us is that true Christianity is characterized by selfless love, which is expressed in concrete acts of care, service, and selflessness. This love is particularly evident in times of challenges and temptations when believers act courageously and sacrificially to help others and bring God’s love into the world.

The “dying to self” is a central concept in the Christian faith and refers to the need to set aside one’s ego, selfishness, and personal desires and needs to truly love God and neighbor. Jesus taught his disciples to take up their cross and follow Him, meaning that we should be ready to deny ourselves and serve others for their well-being (Matthew 16:24). Indeed, dying to self and embodying this selfless spirit is not easy. It requires constant self-reflection, a sincere effort to free oneself from selfish tendencies and motives, and a continuous reliance on God’s grace and power.

Here are some steps and approaches that can help us to die to self and embody this selfless spirit:

1. Daily Self-Reflection and Prayer: Take time to reflect on your behavior, motives, and attitudes. Ask God for help in cleansing your heart and giving you the strength to love selflessly.

2. Study of Scripture: Immerse yourself in the teachings of the Bible and be inspired by the examples and teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Scripture can teach and encourage us on how to live in love and selflessness.

3. Community with Other Believers: Surround yourself with people who are examples of selfless love. Community and mutual encouragement are crucial for growing in faith and learning to love selflessly.

4. Practical Service: Actively look for opportunities to serve others and meet their needs. Practical service and helping others can help us to die to self and grow in love.

5. Cultivate Humility: Recognize that we all are fallible and constantly in need of God’s grace. Cultivate a humble attitude that is willing to learn from others and change.

It is true that dying to self and living in selfless love is a lifelong journey and challenge. But with God’s help, grace, and the support of a community of believers, we can grow and become more like Christ. It is a process of sanctification where we constantly learn, grow, and change to become more like Jesus.

The connection between our daily life and Christian faith lies in the practical application of Christian principles and values in our daily lives. If we want to be true Christians, we must live these principles of love, selflessness, and care not only in special moments or under certain conditions but in every aspect of our lives. Here are some practical steps on how we can realize these principles in our daily lives:

1. Love in Family and Community: Start by unconditionally loving your family, friends, and community members. Show compassion, understanding, and support in everyday situations.

2. Selfless Service: Regularly seek opportunities to serve others, whether through simple acts like sharing time or resources, listening, or supporting needs.

3. Righteous Action: Live according to the ethical and moral values of Christianity in your profession, school, and community. Be a role model for integrity, honesty, and justice.

4. Prayer and Spiritual Practice: Integrate prayer, meditation, and Bible study into your daily schedule. This will help you stay connected with God and seek His guidance and strengthening in your life.

5. Community and Collaboration: Collaborate with other believers to achieve common goals and projects aimed at helping others and building God’s kingdom on earth.

6. Constant Self-Reflection: Regularly take time to review your life, evaluate your relationships, and see where you can grow and improve to become more like Christ.

Living in harmony with these principles is certainly challenging and requires constant effort, dedication, and God’s grace. But over time and with constant practice, these principles become a natural part of our character and identity as Christians. It is a journey of transformation and sanctification where we constantly strive to become more like Christ and reflect His love and mercy in the world.

True Christianity manifests itself through selfless love and practical service to others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-5-a-legacy-of-love/