What is the mark of the beast, and how can you avoid it? In this episode, Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, discusses part 1 of Chapter 38 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White.

Watch as he delves into the urgent warnings of Revelation 14, encouraging us to study the Bible for ourselves. Learn how to rely on God’s Word as your safeguard against deception in these critical times.

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

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-chapter-38-the-final-warning-pt-1-pastor-ted-wilson/

1.Look at how central the theology of substitution was for Ellen White (and for the Bible, see e.g., Isaiah 53). Why is any theology that downplays the central role of substitution and Christ’s death on our behalf in any way (where He paid the penalty for our sins with His own life) a false theology?

The theology of substitution is central to the understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice, as emphasized both in the Bible (e.g., Isaiah 53) and in Ellen White’s work. It underscores that Jesus died in our place to take upon Himself the penalty for our sins, thereby enabling our redemption. Any theology that downplays or relativizes this central role of substitution is problematic for several reasons:

1. Biblical Foundation: In Isaiah 53 and other New Testament writings (e.g., 1 Peter 2:24, 2 Corinthians 5:21), it is clear that Jesus bore our sins and died for us. This is a fundamental concept of Christian redemption. Downplaying this idea would distort the Bible’s clear message about the purpose and significance of Jesus’ death.

2. God’s Justice and Grace: The cross symbolizes the perfect balance between God’s justice and grace. Through Jesus’ death, God’s righteous requirement that sin must be punished is fulfilled, while simultaneously grace is offered in the form of forgiveness. Without the principle of substitution, the depth of God’s grace and justice is diluted.

3. Responsibility of Sin: If the substitutionary role of Jesus is rejected or weakened, the severity of sin and its consequences is underestimated. Sin requires punishment, and Jesus took that punishment upon Himself. Without this substitutionary role, it would appear that sin does not cause serious separation from God, which contradicts biblical teaching.

4. Core of the Gospel: The central message of the Gospel is that Jesus died for us so that we might receive eternal life. Downplaying Christ’s role as our substitute weakens the heart of the Christian faith. If Jesus’ sacrifice is not viewed as substitutionary atonement, the message of forgiveness and redemption loses its fundamental significance.

5. Ellen White’s Teachings: Ellen White closely linked substitution with Christian theology. She repeatedly emphasized that Jesus is the substitute for sinners and that His death is the only sufficient means of reconciliation with God. Any teaching that undermines this substitution stands in contradiction to her writings and the biblical foundation she relied upon.

Conclusion: The theology of substitution is fundamental to understanding God’s plan for the redemption of humanity. Any teaching that downplays this aspect distorts the nature of God’s grace, justice, and the work of Christ. Jesus’ death as our substitute is not only a central element of the Gospel but also the key to our salvation.

2.Who or what is “Barabbas” in today’s world, after what is being asked instead of Jesus?

“Barabbas” symbolizes everything that is wrongly chosen or preferred instead of Jesus in today’s world. The biblical story, where the crowd chooses to release Barabbas, a convicted criminal, instead of Jesus, represents the human tendency to prefer the worldly, the convenient, or the wrong over the true salvation and truth. Figuratively, “Barabbas” today could take various forms:

1. Materialism and Wealth: In a world dominated by consumerism and material wealth, the value of riches and success is often placed above the spiritual values of faith in Christ. The “Barabbas” of materialism leads us to believe that our happiness and fulfillment lie in possessing things, while true fulfillment is found in following Jesus and living a spiritual life.

2. Relativistic Moralism and Self-Realization: Modern society often emphasizes individual freedom, self-realization, and a relative morality where personal judgment of right and wrong is more important than biblical standards. Thus, “Barabbas” could appear in the form of life philosophies that teach us that we are the highest authority in our lives instead of acknowledging the teachings of Jesus and the truth of God.

3. Popularity and Social Acceptance: Many people choose to follow the path of the majority to gain social acceptance, recognition, and popularity. In this case, “Barabbas” represents the decision to conform to the pressure of the crowd or popular opinion, even if it means compromising one’s faith or values.

4. Power and Control: In a world that strives for control and influence, power is often placed above the humility and service that Jesus exemplified. The “Barabbas” of power is seen in people who seek ambition and control instead of emulating Christ’s dedication, sacrifice, and humility.

5. Pleasures and Short-Term Satisfaction: In today’s fast-paced world, many people opt for the short-term pleasures offered by the world—from superficial joys to excessive lifestyles—over the deeper, more fulfilling life that Jesus offers. This “Barabbas” tempts us to focus on the present and fun instead of eternity and God’s plan.

Conclusion: “Barabbas” represents everything we choose instead of Jesus—the things that offer temporary fulfillment, recognition, or power but ultimately obscure the true salvation, truth, and peace that Jesus brings. Today, as in the past, we face the choice: to choose Jesus, who offers eternal life, or “Barabbas,” who provides only deceptive satisfaction.

3.What does the account of Joseph of Arimathea teach us about not judging by appearances?

The account of Joseph of Arimathea teaches us an important lesson about why we should not judge based on external appearances or expectations. Joseph was a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council that condemned Jesus. Due to his position, one might have assumed that he belonged to Jesus’ opponents or rejected Him. However, surprisingly, Joseph shows courage and dedication by providing Jesus with a respectful burial while the disciples have disappeared out of fear.

Here are some lessons we can learn from his story:

1. People Are More Than Their External Affiliations: Joseph of Arimathea belonged to the Jewish leadership involved in condemning Jesus. Yet, he was a secret follower of Jesus. This shows that we should not reduce people to their external positions, roles, or group affiliations. Often, there is a deeper conviction or faith within a person that we cannot see.

2. Courage and Faith Can Come from Unexpected People: While the disciples, who were closest to Jesus, did not act out of fear, Joseph of Arimathea courageously stepped forward to advocate for Jesus. This demonstrates that courage and faith in difficult situations can come from unexpected individuals. External strength or proximity to Jesus does not always mean someone will act in a crucial moment.

3. God Sees the Heart, Not the Exterior: Joseph acted not out of necessity but out of deep respect and faith. God sees the heart of people, and often those who remain faithful in the background are more valuable in His eyes than those who appear strong or prominent externally. This lesson challenges us to value people based not on appearances but on what is in their hearts.

4. True Heroes Often Act in the Background: Joseph of Arimathea was not a loud disciple who publicly followed Jesus. Yet, in a decisive moment, he played a key role. This story teaches us that true dedication and courage often happen behind the scenes and that people who work quietly can be important actors in God’s plan.

5. Do Not Judge by Outer Appearances: Joseph of Arimathea’s story shows us how quickly we tend to judge people based on their external appearance or role. However, God’s plan is often deeper and more complex than we can perceive at first glance. Even people who seem “unsuitable” externally can be deeply faithful and willing to make significant sacrifices.

Conclusion: The account of Joseph of Arimathea teaches us not to judge based on appearances. People can surprise us—their true convictions and courage are often known only to God. We should be humble and cautious when judging others, as a person’s heart can be entirely different from what external circumstances might suggest.

4.Examine Daniel 9:24–27. Why should you be able to give someone a Bible study on this passage if they ask? Can you do that?

Daniel 9:24–27 is a central biblical passage often referred to as the “Prophecy of the 70 Weeks.” This text holds deep significance in biblical prophecy, particularly concerning the coming of the Messiah and God’s plan of salvation. It is important to be able to provide a Bible study on this passage for several reasons:

1. Messianic Prophecy: Daniel 9:24–27 contains one of the clearest and most precise prophecies about the coming of the Messiah. It describes the timeline from the restoration of Jerusalem to the arrival of the “Anointed One” (Messiah). This prophecy demonstrates God’s plan for redemption and how it is fulfilled through Jesus Christ. Understanding this prophecy strengthens faith in the Bible as the reliable Word of God.

2. Understanding the Story of Redemption: The prophecy encompasses significant events, including the crucifixion of Jesus, the end of the sacrificial system, and the coming of the “End.” This passage helps in understanding the chronology and connection between Old Testament prophecies and New Testament fulfillments. It deepens the understanding of God’s divine plan for humanity’s redemption.

3. Defense of the Faith: Many people are curious or skeptical about biblical prophecy. Being able to provide a clear and understandable explanation of how this prophecy has been fulfilled in history gives you the opportunity to convey the faith in the Bible and Jesus Christ to others. It is a powerful tool for apologetics.

4. Personal Faith Growth: Teaching yourself to study and explain this passage enhances your own understanding and conviction. Studying Daniel 9:24–27 challenges you to engage with biblical chronology, the story of salvation, and prophetic statements. This will strengthen your confidence in God’s plan.

Can You Do That?

To answer this question, you should consider whether you can clearly understand and explain the historical and prophetic elements of this passage. Have you recognized the connection between Daniel and the New Testament? If not, it could be a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into the Bible to better understand and explain this important topic.

Conclusion: Daniel 9:24–27 reveals the divine and eternal nature of Jesus, who is crucified in Mark. It shows us that the one who suffers on the cross is the same through whom the world was created. Christ’s death remains a profound mystery that reveals both God’s love and His justice. Even though we cannot fully comprehend it intellectually, faith invites us to accept it as the central event of our redemption and to understand it in our hearts.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-tried-and-crucified-12-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 21, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 9

¹ Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

² And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.

³ And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.

⁴ And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart.

⁵ And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them.

⁶ And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where.

⁷ Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;

⁸ And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.

⁹ And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.

¹⁰ And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.

¹¹ And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.

¹² And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.

¹³ But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people.

¹⁴ For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company.

¹⁵ And they did so, and made them all sit down.

¹⁶ Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.

¹⁷ And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets.

¹⁸ And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?

¹⁹ They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again.

²⁰ He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.

²¹ And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;

²² Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.

²³ And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

²⁴ For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

²⁵ For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?

²⁶ For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels.

²⁷ But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.

²⁸ And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.

²⁹ And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.

³⁰ And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias:

³¹ Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.

³² But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him.

³³ And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.

³⁴ While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud.

³⁵ And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

³⁶ And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

³⁷ And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him.

³⁸ And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child.

³⁹ And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.

⁴⁰ And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not.

⁴¹ And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither.

⁴² And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

⁴³ And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples,

⁴⁴ Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men.

⁴⁵ But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.

⁴⁶ Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.

⁴⁷ And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,

⁴⁸ And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

⁴⁹ And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.

⁵⁰ And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.

⁵¹ And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,

⁵² And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.

⁵³ And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem.

⁵⁴ And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?

⁵⁵ But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.

⁵⁶ For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

⁵⁷ And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

⁵⁸ And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

⁵⁹ And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

⁶⁰ Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

⁶¹ And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.

⁶² And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Luke Chapter 9 describes a phase of intense activity in the ministry of Jesus. From the sending of the twelve apostles to miracles such as the feeding of the five thousand and the Transfiguration on the mountain, the chapter highlights both the divine power of Jesus and the demands placed on his followers. Key themes include discipleship, faith, and understanding the Kingdom of God. Through these events, Jesus calls his disciples to deny themselves and grasp the true meaning of his mission.

Commentary

Luke 9 presents several significant events from the life of Jesus that underscore his divine authority while challenging the faith of his disciples. The sending of the Twelve is a pivotal moment in which Jesus empowers his disciples to preach the gospel and heal the sick. This marks the beginning of their active participation in his mission.

Another central theme is the feeding of the five thousand, which not only demonstrates Jesus’ power over physical needs but also serves as a metaphor for his spiritual provision. The disciples are challenged not to rely on their own strength but on the miracle that Jesus can perform. Peter’s confession, “You are the Christ of God,” reveals a crucial understanding of Jesus’ identity, but immediately after, Jesus announces his suffering, death, and resurrection for the first time—something the disciples struggle to comprehend.

The Transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain, where Moses and Elijah appear, reveals his glory and affirms his role as the promised Messiah. However, this is followed by a call to discipleship, where Jesus makes it clear that being his follower requires sacrifice, commitment, and the willingness to lose one’s life for his sake.

Summary

Luke Chapter 9 contains key events that highlight the power and mission of Jesus while challenging the disciples in their faith. The sending of the Twelve, the feeding of the five thousand, and the Transfiguration showcase Jesus’ divine authority, while the first announcement of his suffering points the disciples toward the true cost of following him. The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith, devotion, and obedience, showing that true life can only be attained through following Christ.

 

 

Introduction

Chapter 63 highlights the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, based on the accounts from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. It represents the moment when Jesus is publicly recognized as the Messiah and the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 becomes clear. The events are filled with jubilation, hope, and deep misunderstandings about the true nature of Jesus’ mission. The contrast between the people’s joy and Jesus’ personal sorrow over Jerusalem’s fate adds emotional depth to the narrative.

Commentary

The triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem is a significant event that seamlessly aligns with the prophetic writings of the Old Testament. Zechariah 9:9 foretold the arrival of a humble king on a donkey, and this moment is now fully realized in its splendor. Jesus, who had long refused royal honors, now allows himself to be celebrated as the Messiah. This not only reveals his self-identification as King but also his conscious preparation for the forthcoming sacrifice.

The crowd accompanying Jesus is filled with great enthusiasm. They see him as an earthly deliverer who will overthrow Roman rule and restore the Kingdom of Israel. This misunderstanding illustrates how much the people failed to grasp the true nature of Jesus’ mission. They expected a political ruler, but Jesus’ kingdom was spiritual. While the crowd shouts “Hosanna,” Jesus feels deep sorrow, knowing the suffering that awaits both him and Jerusalem. This tension between the people’s joy and Jesus’ grief over the city’s hardened heart makes this passage so poignant.

Particularly significant is the moment when Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. Despite the jubilation surrounding him, he knows that the city will not accept the true salvation. The prediction of Jerusalem’s destruction and the symbolic meaning of this event are central to understanding Jesus’ mission: He came to save, but many rejected him.

Summary

Chapter 63 describes the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, accompanied by the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy about the coming Messiah. While the crowd rejoices in anticipation of an earthly king, Jesus is deeply moved as he foresees the suffering awaiting Jerusalem. His entry marks the beginning of the final phase of his life, in which he will offer himself as the Savior of the world. The events illustrate the contrast between the expectation of an earthly ruler and the true spiritual mission of Jesus as the Redeemer of humanity.

 

Introduction

Chapter 64 is based on the accounts in Mark 11:11-14, 20-21 and Matthew 21:17-19. It describes the symbolic cursing of the barren fig tree by Jesus and places this act in the context of the spiritual condition of the people of Israel. The cursing serves as a sign of the consequences of hypocrisy and spiritual fruitlessness, and it is a warning to the Jewish people and all generations who reject God’s grace. Jesus speaks with sorrow about the future judgment of Jerusalem, which results from their rejection of the Messiah.

Commentary

The parable of the fig tree is central to this chapter. Jesus uses the barren fig tree as a symbol for the people of Israel, who outwardly appear devout but inwardly bear no true fruits of faith. The Jews in Jesus’ time presented an external appearance of deep religious life, with their magnificent temple and elaborate worship services. But like the fig tree, which bears only leaves, they lack inner fruit: righteousness, love, and mercy.

Jesus approaches the tree, seeking fruit, just as He came to His people seeking genuine fruit of faith. Instead, He finds only hypocrisy and self-righteousness. The cursing of the tree is a powerful symbol of the impending judgment on Jerusalem. The destruction of the fig tree illustrates the consequences of rejecting God’s grace.

This event not only illustrates the punishment for Israel but also serves as a warning for all time. Anyone who claims to serve God but produces no fruits of faith stands under the same judgment. God’s grace cannot be endlessly abused, and the rejection of His message leads to spiritual withering.

Jesus weeps over Jerusalem because He knows the city will reject the remedy—Himself as the Messiah. His sorrow reveals the infinite love of God, who longs for His people’s repentance, but the responsibility for the coming destruction rests solely on those who refuse to accept His grace.

Summary

Chapter 64 illustrates the cursing of the fig tree as a symbolic representation of Israel’s spiritual condition. The tree, full of leaves but bearing no fruit, represents the people who outwardly appear devout but fail to produce true righteousness. Jesus uses this image to show the consequences of rejecting His grace: spiritual withering and the coming judgment on Jerusalem. Jesus’ sorrow over the city reflects God’s deep love, which hopes for repentance even in the face of rejection. This warning applies to all who reject God’s grace.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/21-09-2024-luke-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/