Lesson 10.The Last Days
Prophecies About the End Times – An Overview 

Lesson 10 introduces us to the profound and prophetic teachings of Jesus concerning the end times and His second coming. This lesson focuses on the pivotal events that will shape world history and the signs that announce the imminent end. Jesus speaks in urgent terms about times of great tribulation, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming of the Son of Man in glory. He admonishes vigilance and urges His followers to be prepared, as the exact timing of His return remains hidden. The teachings of this lesson encourage us to remain steadfast in faith amid challenges and uncertainties, in hope of the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises.

10.1 Two Little Coins in the Offering
The True Meaning of Giving – An Example of the Widow

Read Mark 12:41–44. How much did the widow give, and what did Jesus have to say about it?

The story of the widow who puts two small coins into the offering box is a powerful example of true dedication and sacrifice. Despite her material poverty, she gives all she has, demonstrating a deep, sincere love for God and trust in His care. Jesus praises her, not because of the amount of her contribution, but because of the depth of her devotion. In contrast, the wealthy give much, but only from their abundance.

This narrative teaches us that the value of a gift is not determined by its material worth but by the heart behind it. God sees the sacrifice of the heart and the willingness to give oneself for Him, regardless of the size of the material contribution. In a world that often admires wealth and outward generosity, this lesson reminds us that true generosity lies in the willingness to sacrifice and trust in God.

The account also shows that even amidst corruption and misuse in religious institutions, faithfulness and giving to God are not in vain. The widow might have been aware of the corruption, but her actions were not dependent on people but motivated by her love for God. Jesus emphasizes that such sacrifices are not overlooked and that God blesses those who give from a pure heart.

This story challenges us to reflect on our own giving: Do we give from our abundance, or are we willing to give ourselves, even if it costs us something? The widow reminds us that God does not count the amount but the sacrifice and dedication we offer.

What should this account teach us about the importance of being faithful in what we give for the work of the Lord?

The account of the widow and her two small coins teaches us a profound lesson about the importance of faithfulness and dedication in giving to the Lord’s work:

1. The Heart Matters More Than the Amount: The widow gave a small amount that might seem insignificant compared to the gifts of the wealthy. Yet Jesus praised her because she gave all she had from her poverty. This shows us that God looks at the attitude of our hearts, not the material value of our gifts. It’s not about how much we give, but how faithful and sacrificial we are in what we give.

2. Trust in God: The widow gave even though she had little, showing great trust in God’s provision. This trust is crucial when giving to the Lord’s work. Even in difficult times, we should not hesitate to contribute, knowing that God knows our needs and will provide for us.

3. Independence from External Circumstances: The religious leadership at Jesus’ time was often corrupt, yet the widow did not hold back. This teaches us that our faithfulness in giving should not depend on the actions of others. Even if we have doubts about the integrity of those handling the funds, our responsibility to give faithfully remains. Ultimately, we give not for people but for God and His work.

4. Blessing Through Faithfulness: Jesus emphasized that the widow gave more than all the others, even though her amount was small. This shows that God blesses those who are steadfast in their faithfulness and dedication. Our gifts, no matter how small, hold great value in God’s eyes when they come from a faithful and sacrificial heart.

This account reminds us that our giving to the Lord’s work is an expression of our love and trust in God. It is not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual act reflecting our faithfulness, trust, and dedication. By being faithful in what we give, we testify to our faith and contribute to building God’s kingdom, regardless of the circumstances around us.

The story of the widow and her two small coins has a deep meaning for our daily lives and faith. It reminds us that true dedication and sacrifice are not bound to material wealth but to the willingness to give our best to God, regardless of our external circumstances. Here are some connections to our daily life and faith:

1. Prioritizing Dedication: In our daily lives, we are often tempted to focus our time, resources, and energy on material things or worldly goals. However, the story of the widow challenges us to rethink our priorities. It encourages us to give to God not just from our abundance but to put Him first, even if it costs us something. This might mean intentionally dedicating our time, talents, or financial resources to God and our fellow humans, even when it challenges us personally.

2. Trust in God’s Provision: The widow gave all she had because she trusted in God’s provision. This attitude can encourage us to be bold in trusting God to provide for us in times of uncertainty or need. This trust allows us to be generous, even when it’s difficult, knowing that God is aware of our needs and will care for us.

3. Faithfulness Despite Imperfect Circumstances: The story shows that despite the corruption and inadequacies of the religious leaders of her time, the widow remained faithful. This teaches us that our dedication and faithfulness to God should not depend on external circumstances or the behavior of others. In daily life, this means remaining consistent in our relationship with God and serving Him faithfully, even when circumstances are tough or we are disappointed by people in positions of authority.

4. Blessing Through Small but Faithful Acts: We often feel insignificant or think our contributions don’t make a big difference. The story of the widow reminds us that God sees and values the small things we do in faithfulness. In everyday life, this means that every small act of love, giving, or service is valuable in God’s eyes. It encourages us to be faithful in the little things, trusting that God will bless that faithfulness.

In summary, this story teaches us that our daily lives and faith should be marked by a heart of dedication, trust, and faithfulness. It reminds us that in God’s eyes, it’s not the size of our contribution that matters but the depth of our dedication and trust in Him. This can inspire us to strive for this kind of dedication and faithfulness in all areas of our lives.

True generosity is not measured by the value of what is given but by the depth of the heart that gives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-last-days-10-1-two-little-coins-in-the-offering-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 5

¹ And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

² And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,

³ Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:

⁴ Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.

⁵ And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

⁶ But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,

⁷ And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.

⁸ For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.

⁹ And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.

¹⁰ And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

¹¹ Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

¹² And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.

¹³ And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.

¹⁴ And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.

¹⁵ And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.

¹⁶ And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.

¹⁷ And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.

¹⁸ And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.

¹⁹ Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

²⁰ And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.

²¹ And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.

²² And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet,

²³ And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.

²⁴ And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

²⁵ And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,

²⁶ And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

²⁷ When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.

²⁸ For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.

²⁹ And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

³⁰ And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?

³¹ And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

³² And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

³³ But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.

³⁴ And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

³⁵ While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?

³⁶ As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

³⁷ And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.

³⁸ And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.

³⁹ And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.

⁴⁰ And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

⁴¹ And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.

⁴² And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.

⁴³ And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

The fifth chapter of the Gospel of Mark recounts two remarkable miracles performed by Jesus. First, he frees a man from an incurable state of possession, and then he heals two women—one suffering from a long-term illness and another who is believed to be dead. These narratives showcase Jesus’ power over evil, sickness, and death, highlighting that faith in him brings salvation and healing. This chapter offers deep insights into the nature of faith and the mercy of God.

Commentary:

Mark 5 is a powerful testament to Jesus’ authority and the transformative power of faith. The story of the possessed man illustrates that no situation is too hopeless for Jesus to intervene. The people’s reaction to the miracle—fear and the request for Jesus to leave—raises questions about their willingness to engage with the divine, especially when it disrupts their familiar lives.

The healing of the woman with the issue of blood and the raising of Jairus’ daughter emphasize that faith plays a central role in one’s relationship with Jesus. Both women—one through her trust and the other through her father’s intercession—experience healing and life through faith. These stories encourage us to trust in God’s actions, even when circumstances seem hopeless.

Overall, this chapter underscores the profound significance of faith in Jesus and his ability to overcome any form of suffering. It invites us to reflect on these miracles and examine our own readiness to trust Jesus and welcome him into our lives.

Summary:

The chapter begins with Jesus and his disciples encountering a possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes. The man, tormented by many demons, is freed when Jesus commands the demons to enter a herd of pigs, which then plunge into the sea. The people of the region are frightened and ask Jesus to leave. The healed man wishes to follow Jesus, but he is instructed instead to proclaim God’s grace in his homeland.

Next, Jesus encounters a large crowd, including a synagogue leader named Jairus, whose daughter is near death. On the way to Jairus’ house, Jesus is touched by a woman who has suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years. Through her faith, she is immediately healed. Despite receiving news that Jairus’ daughter has died, Jesus urges Jairus to believe. He then raises the girl from the dead.

 

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 60—The Law of the New Kingdom

This chapter is based on Matthew 20:20-28; Mark 10:32-45; Luke 18:31-34.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Chapter 60 highlights the deep spiritual lessons that Jesus taught his disciples on the way to Jerusalem, just before he experienced his suffering and death. In this section, Jesus prepares his disciples for the upcoming events and reveals to them the law of his new kingdom, which fundamentally differs from worldly kingdoms. Instead of seeking power and dominion, Jesus calls his followers to humbly serve and sacrifice themselves for others, thereby attaining true greatness in the kingdom of God.

Commentary:

This chapter offers a powerful reflection on the contrasts between worldly notions of power and the spiritual ideal of service in the kingdom of God. Jesus corrects the ambitions of his disciples, who are still influenced by earthly ideas of a messianic kingdom, by revealing to them the true nature of his reign. His response to John and James, who request privileged places in his kingdom, demonstrates that true greatness in the kingdom of God is not achieved through positions or titles, but through self-sacrifice and service to others.

The teachings Jesus imparts in this chapter are radical and challenge the prevailing societal understanding of power and authority. In a world where rank and influence are often exercised through oppression and control, Jesus shows that true authority lies in the willingness to serve others, even at the cost of one’s own life. This teaching not only shapes the disciples but also forms the foundation of Christian ethics, as practiced in the early Christian communities.

Jesus’ words remind us that the pursuit of power and influence in the worldly sense has nothing to do with the nature of his kingdom. Instead, it is humility, service, and sacrifice that matter in the kingdom of God. This is embodied in the life and death of Jesus himself, who paid the ultimate price to redeem humanity.

Summary:

Chapter 60 describes how, on the way to Jerusalem, Jesus prepares his disciples for his impending suffering and the true character of his kingdom. Despite their hopes for earthly power and honor, Jesus teaches them that true greatness in the kingdom of God is achieved through humility, service, and self-sacrifice. John and James, who seek places of honor in his kingdom, are reminded that such positions are not attained through personal ambition but through suffering and bearing the cross. In a world characterized by power and control, Jesus shows that the principles of his kingdom are based on love and selflessness. These teachings not only shape the disciples but also the early Christian community, which is characterized by a spirit of unity and mutual love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/1-09-2024-mark-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

In this episode, join Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, for part two of his discussion on Chapter 36 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White. Explore the urgent warnings this chapter makes about the growing deceptions and the peril of neglecting God’s Word.

Read The Great Controversy by Ellen White at https://greatcontroversyproject.org/.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-chapter-36-pt-2-liberty-of-conscience-threatened-pastor-ted-wilson/

9.7 Questions

1.Reflect on the significance of Jesus cleansing the temple. How could this principle be applied to our church today? How should such a cleansing take place?

The cleansing of the temple by Jesus is a powerful symbol of restoring holiness and purity in worship and the faith community. This event shows that Jesus had a zeal for His Father’s house and would not tolerate the desecration of the sacred space or the true purpose of worship by worldly or corrupt practices.

Application to the Church Today:

1. Restoration of Focus on the Essentials: In today’s church, “cleansing the temple” means refocusing on what faith is truly about—worshiping God, proclaiming His Word, and fostering Christian fellowship. Any practices that dilute this focus or turn the church into a venue for economic or political interests should be reconsidered and removed.

2. Examination of Hearts and Motivations: Such cleansing starts with the hearts of the believers. It’s essential to examine our own motives and actions to ensure they align with Christ’s teachings. The church, as a community, should regularly reflect on its mission and practices to ensure they honor God and serve people.

How Should Such a Cleansing Take Place?

1. Prayer and Repentance: The first step to genuine cleansing is prayer for God’s guidance and acknowledging our own faults and sins. Repentance involves turning away from wrong ways and striving to follow God’s will.

2. Return to Biblical Teachings: The church should base its teachings and practices on the Bible. All activities and programs should be grounded in biblical principles and aim to draw people closer to God.

3. Encouragement of Personal Holiness: A cleansed church consists of cleansed individuals. Members should be encouraged to live lives of personal holiness that reflect God’s love, grace, and purity.

4. Transparency and Accountability: In practical matters like finances, leadership, and decision-making, the church should be transparent and accountable to prevent abuse and corruption.

The cleansing of the temple reminds us that the church is a sacred space dedicated solely to God. Such cleansing requires courage, determination, and a firm belief that God deserves the honor and worship that is rightfully His.

2.In the Gospels, Jesus frequently refers to the Holy Scriptures and their fulfillment. What does this tell us about their central importance in the faith? Why must we firmly reject any attempt to undermine the authority of the Holy Scriptures, particularly the idea that the Scriptures are merely human notions of God, of what God is like, and how He acts?

Jesus’ repeated references to the Holy Scriptures in the Gospels underscore their central importance in the faith. Jesus not only quoted Scripture to support His teachings but also fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that the Scriptures possess divine authority and continuity. This reveals several important aspects of the role of the Holy Scriptures in the faith:

1. The Holy Scriptures as God’s Revelation: The Bible is not merely a historical or moral document but the revelation of God Himself. It contains God’s Word, revealing His will, character, and plans for humanity. Jesus regarded the Scriptures as authoritative and taught that they must be fulfilled because they are the immutable Word of God.

2. The Holy Scriptures as the Foundation of Faith: For Jesus and the early church, Scripture was the basis for teaching, correction, and spiritual life. It serves as a guide for faith and conduct, offering direction in all areas of life.

3. The Immutability of Scripture: Since the Holy Scriptures are God’s Word, they are eternal and unchangeable. Jesus emphasized that not a single letter of Scripture will pass away until all is fulfilled (Matthew 5:18). This highlights the Bible’s permanence and ongoing relevance for all generations.

Why Must We Firmly Reject Any Attempt to Undermine the Authority of the Holy Scriptures?

1. Protection of Truth: Questioning the authority of the Scriptures or viewing them merely as human interpretations of God opens the door to subjective interpretations that can dilute or distort the true message of God. This leads to confusion and error, undermining the unity and integrity of the faith.

2. Loss of Divine Authority: If the Scriptures are seen as just human works, they lose their divine authority. This would undermine the foundation of faith, as the Scriptures would no longer be recognized as the final and binding revelation of God. Faith would then rest on human opinions and views rather than the infallible Word of God.

3. Defense of Faith: The Holy Scriptures are the central tool for defending the Christian faith against false teachings and errors. Undermining their authority weakens Christians’ ability to uphold and proclaim the truth of the Gospel.

Conclusion: The Holy Scriptures are more than just a book; they are the living revelation of God and the foundation of the Christian faith. Any attempt to diminish their authority is a threat to the understanding and practice of the faith. Therefore, we must uphold and firmly defend the divine inspiration and authority of the Scriptures.

3.What is the appropriate boundary between church and state? How is what Jesus taught in Mark 12:13-17 a guideline for this discussion?

In Mark 12:13-17, Jesus is confronted by the Pharisees and Herodians with a question about paying taxes to the Roman Emperor. They ask Him if it is lawful to pay taxes, hoping His answer will get Him into trouble with either the people or the Roman authorities. Jesus wisely replies, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This answer provides valuable guidance for the discussion about the appropriate boundary between church and state.

1. Distinction Between Secular and Spiritual Responsibilities: Jesus’ response shows that there is a clear distinction between duties to secular authorities and duties to God. The state has the right to levy taxes and enact laws that govern public life. At the same time, our highest loyalty and obedience belong to God, especially in spiritual and moral matters.

2. Acknowledgment of the State’s Legitimate Authority: Jesus affirms that secular authorities have a legitimate role that should be respected. Christians have the responsibility to be good citizens by following laws, paying taxes, and contributing to society, as long as these requirements do not conflict with God’s commands.

3. Priority of Divine Command: While Christians should fulfill their secular duties, Jesus also makes it clear that God’s commands and claims on our lives always take precedence. If the state demands something that goes against God’s commands, we must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). This shows that the church must maintain its spiritual authority and commitment to God, independent of the state.

Appropriate Boundaries Between Church and State:

1. Autonomy in Spiritual Matters: The church should operate independently in spiritual, moral, and religious matters. The state should not interfere with the church’s teachings, practices, or mission.

2. Cooperation on Social and Ethical Issues: There are areas where the church and state can collaborate to promote the common good, such as social services, education, or ethical issues. This cooperation should always respect the church’s independence in its spiritual beliefs.

3. Limits to State Power: The state should not attempt to control or suppress the conscience or religious beliefs of its citizens. Protecting religious freedom is essential for a healthy relationship between church and state.

Conclusion: Jesus’ teaching in Mark 12:13-17 offers a balanced perspective, emphasizing the necessary separation and interplay between church and state. Christians are called to fulfill their secular responsibilities while maintaining their primary loyalty to God and the commands of Scripture. The church must preserve its independence in spiritual matters, while the state exercises its role in maintaining order and justice.

4.Examine texts that discuss the resurrection. Why is this teaching so central to our faith, especially regarding the state of the dead?

The doctrine of the resurrection is one of the most central and foundational beliefs in Christianity. It is discussed in many biblical texts, particularly in the New Testament. For instance, 1 Corinthians 15:12-22 emphasizes the significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith.

Why is this Teaching Central?

1. Confirmation of Victory Over Death: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the definitive proof that death has been defeated. Death is not the end, but through Christ, death has been overcome, and eternal life is possible. Without the resurrection, death would remain an undefeated enemy, and faith in Christ would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).

2. Hope of Eternal Life: The resurrection provides believers with hope for their own life after death. Through Jesus’ resurrection, we have the assurance that we too will be resurrected when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:14). This hope of new, imperishable life is a central source of strength and comfort in the Christian faith.

3. Connection to Forgiveness of Sins: The resurrection is closely linked to the forgiveness of sins. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the power of sin was broken, and believers can live a new life in Christ. Without the resurrection, forgiveness would be incomplete, as death would still be the ultimate consequence of sin (Romans 4:25).

4. Sign of the New Creation: The resurrection marks the beginning of the new creation that God initiates through Christ. It points to the future restoration of all things when God’s kingdom is fully established. This gives believers a vision of the future where all things are made new (Revelation 21:1-4).

Regarding the State of the Dead: The doctrine of the resurrection provides a clear answer to the fate of the dead. In Christian belief, death is not seen as a final end but as a state of waiting for the resurrection. Those who have died in Christ will rise to enjoy eternal life in God’s presence. Without the hope of resurrection, death would be a final loss, but with this hope, death becomes a transition to eternal life.

Summary: The resurrection is central to Christian faith because it promises eternal life, signifies the defeat of death and sin, and ushers in the new creation. It reassures believers about the ultimate fate of the dead, transforming the concept of death from finality to a hopeful anticipation of eternal life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-jerusalem-controversies-9-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/