Curious if the dead can really communicate with us? This week, join Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as he discusses chapter 34 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White.

In this episode, explore the intriguing topic of necromancy and uncover the truth about spiritualism. Watch to learn more.

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

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-chapter-34-speaking-with-the-deceased-pastor-ted-wilson-nancy-wilson/

1.What Christian practices have you found that help keep the heart pure?

Some Christian practices that can help keep the heart pure include:

1. Daily Prayer: Regular prayer is a powerful way to align the heart with God. It helps focus on God’s will, express gratitude, and ask for forgiveness and guidance.

2. Bible Study: Daily reading and studying the Bible allows God’s Word to fill the heart, helping to stay spiritually vigilant and live in truth.

3. Self-Reflection and Repentance: Regular self-examination and confessing sins help maintain a pure heart by becoming aware of personal weaknesses and actively working to overcome them.

4. Fellowship and Worship: Participating in worship services and fellowship with other believers promotes spiritual edification and encouragement. These practices support a pure heart by strengthening relationships with God and others.

5. Service and Charity: Actively serving and practicing charity help keep the heart pure by focusing on the well-being of others and living out God’s love practically.

6. Fasting: Fasting can help cleanse the heart and mind from worldly distractions and deepen the connection with God.

7. Cultivating Gratitude: A posture of gratitude helps keep the heart positive and focused on the goodness of God’s guidance, counteracting negativity and impurity.

Through these practices, Christians can maintain a pure heart and live in closer relationship with God.

2.Who are the “unclean” people in your community? How can you help lead them to the Gospel?

The “unclean” people in a community are often those who are socially marginalized or judged. These may include people who, because of their background, social status, lifestyle, past, or current circumstances, are seen as “different” or “unfit.” Examples might be:

1. Homeless or Poor People: Often overlooked or avoided, these individuals may feel isolated and hopeless.

2. People with Addictions: They are frequently stigmatized and seen as morally weak.

3. Migrants or Refugees: They may face discrimination because of their origin, language, or religion.

4. People with a Criminal Past: They might struggle to reintegrate into society, often viewed as a threat or problem.

5. People with Mental Illness: They are sometimes misunderstood or avoided due to prejudice and ignorance.

6. People from Marginalized or Non-Traditional Lifestyles: These groups might be considered “unclean” or unfit due to their life choices or identity.

How to help lead them to the Gospel:

1. Compassionate Acceptance: The first step is to approach these individuals with compassion and without prejudice. This means reaching out, listening to them, and showing that they are welcome in the community.

2. Practical Assistance: Offer practical support, whether through food, shelter, counseling, or medical care. This often opens the door to deeper conversations about faith.

3. Building Relationships: It’s important to establish genuine relationships with these individuals. By sharing your life and faith, they can experience the Gospel through lived examples.

4. Prayer and Spiritual Guidance: Offer to pray for them and provide spiritual guidance, possibly through Bible studies, prayer groups, or personal conversations.

5. Involve the Church: Encourage your church to actively care for these groups by offering inclusive programs and services that meet their needs.

6. Sharing Testimonies: Share personal stories and testimonies that show God’s transformative power. This can be especially powerful when it demonstrates how God works in difficult life situations.

7. Patience and Persistence: It often takes time for people to become open to the Gospel. It’s important to be patient and persistent without pressuring anyone.

By approaching these “unclean” individuals with love, respect, and patience, you can show them that God’s grace is available to all and help them find the way to the Gospel.

3.Consider together what you can do to share the Gospel with your neighbors in simple ways.

Sharing the Gospel in simple and accessible ways with neighbors requires creativity, compassion, and a genuine willingness to serve others. Here are some ideas you can implement together:

1.Organize Neighborhood Events:

• Barbecues or Picnics: Invite your neighbors to a casual gathering where you can enjoy food and conversations. This creates an atmosphere where relationships can be built and opportunities to discuss faith arise.

• Movie Nights: Host movie nights where you show inspiring films with a positive message. After the film, offer an open discussion where you can share your beliefs.

2.Offer Practical Help:

• Service Projects: Offer your help by assisting with practical tasks such as shopping, gardening, or small repairs. This demonstrates Christ’s love in action.

• Crisis Support: Be present when your neighbors go through difficult times, such as illness, loss, or financial struggles. Show that you are ready to listen and help.

3.Provide Prayer Support:

• Prayer Group: Invite neighbors to join a prayer group where you pray ft he concerns ft he community.

• Offer Personal Prayers: Offer to pray for your neighbors when they face challenges. This can show them that you care and that they are in God’s hands.

4.Small Gifts with a Message:

• Encouraging Cards: Write encouraging cards with a Bible verse or positive message and distribute them in the neighborhood.

• Homemade Gifts: Bake cookies or cakes and give them along with a small card that points to God’s love.

5.Invite to Church or Small Group Events:

• Open Doors: Invite your neighbors to special events at your church, such as holiday services, Christmas parties, or other special occasions.

• Home Bible Study: Offer to host an informal small group or Bible study in your home where neighbors can be invited.

6.Share the Gospel through Hospitality:

• Open Evenings: Regularly invite neighbors to your home to spend time together, eat, and discuss faith in a relaxed setting.

• Community Projects: Initiate projects where the entire neighborhood works together, such as a community garden. These projects foster cohesion and provide opportunities to talk about faith.

7.Distribute Christian Resources:

• Books and Brochures: Distribute Christian books, brochures, or Bibles that explain the Gospel in an understandable way.

• Use Social Media: Start a Facebook group or WhatsApp group for your neighborhood where you share inspiring and encouraging messages.

By using these simple and everyday methods, you can share the Gospel in a way that resonates with your neighbors and helps them experience God’s love naturally and accessibly.

4.Read Mark 8:1–10, the Feeding of the 4,000. What does it mean for the interpretation of this passage that the people were probably not Jewish? Why should that not make a difference?

In Mark 8:1–10, the Gospel recounts the feeding of the 4,000, a miracle Jesus performed by feeding a large crowd with only a few loaves and fish. A significant aspect of this miracle is that the people Jesus fed were most likely not Jewish. This context provides important insights for understanding this passage:

1.Universality of the Gospel:

• The fact that Jesus fed a non-Jewish crowd underscores the universality of His message and mission. Jesus came not only for the Jews but for all people. This illustrates that God’s grace and provision are intended for all humanity, regardless of ethnic origin or religious background.

2.No Boundaries to God’s Love:

• Through this miracle, Jesus shows that His love and care know no boundaries. He meets the needs of people regardless of who they are or where they come from. This reflects that every person, regardless of faith or origin, is valuable in God’s eyes.

3.Inclusivity in the Kingdom of God:

• This event symbolizes the inclusivity of the Kingdom of God. Jesus demonstrates that the Kingdom of God is open to all and that no one is excluded because of their origin. This should teach the disciples (and us) not to set boundaries or barriers when spreading the Gospel and inviting people into fellowship with Christ.

4.No Difference in Provision:

• Although the people Jesus fed were not Jewish, He made no difference in how He served them. This shows that God’s provision and blessings are not limited to any specific group. God provides for all people, and His grace is accessible to everyone.

Why should that not make a difference?

It should not make a difference that these people were not Jewish because God’s love and salvation are offered to all people, regardless of their ethnic or religious background. Jesus shows through His actions that the Gospel is meant for the entire world and that all people have the opportunity to partake in God’s grace and promises. The message of the Gospel is universal, and as Christians, we are called to share this message without prejudice or exclusion criteria.

By feeding the 4,000 people, regardless of their cultural or religious affiliation, Jesus teaches us that no distinctions are made in God’s Kingdom and that every person has access to His love and grace. This understanding should motivate us to share the Gospel with all people and to reflect God’s unconditional love in our lives and communities.

5.How can we diligently protect ourselves from the innate desire we all have as fallen beings to exalt ourselves?

Protecting ourselves from the innate desire to exalt ourselves is a crucial aspect of Christian discipleship. As fallen beings, the temptation to self-glorify is ever-present, but there are several ways we can diligently guard against it:

1.Cultivate Humility through Prayer:

• Pray regularly and ask God to reveal areas of pride in your heart and for the strength to overcome them. Acknowledging our dependence on God in everything helps keep pride in check.

2.Practice Self-Examination:

• Regularly reflect on your actions, motivations, and thoughts. Ask yourself whether your decisions are guided by the desire to honor God or if you seek praise and recognition from others. This practice of self-examination helps you identify and correct prideful tendencies.

3.Serve Others Selflessly:

• Engage in service where the needs of others are placed before your own. Serving selflessly without expecting recognition helps shift the focus away from yourself and towards others, fostering a spirit of humility and selflessness.

4.Take Responsibility:

• Surround yourself with a community of believers who help keep you accountable. Allow trusted friends or mentors to speak into your life and point out areas where pride may be creeping in. Openness to correction is an important aspect of maintaining humility.

5.Focus on Christ’s Example:

• Reflect on the life and example of Jesus Christ, who, though He was God, humbled Himself and became a servant (Philippians 2:5-8). Meditate on His humility and strive to emulate His attitude in your own life. Remember that true greatness in God’s Kingdom lies in serving others.

6.Avoid Comparisons:

• Avoid comparing yourself with others, as this can lead to either pride (if you feel superior) or insecurity (if you feel inferior). Instead, focus on your own calling and strive to fulfill it faithfully without measuring your worth against others.

7.Give God the Glory:

• Consciously give God the glory for all your successes and achievements. Acknowledge that every good thing in your life is a gift from Him. Publicly and privately direct praise and thanks to God for His blessings.

8.Regular Worship:

• Worship shifts our focus from ourselves to God. It reminds us of His greatness and our own smallness in comparison. Regular worship, both personally and corporately, helps keep pride in check by constantly realigning our hearts to the reality of God’s superiority.

9.Practice Gratitude:

• Cultivate a heart of gratitude by regularly thanking God for His grace, provision, and mercy. Gratitude helps reduce self-centeredness and fosters awareness of our dependence on God.

10.Study Scripture:

• Immerse yourself in God’s Word, which consistently teaches the value of humility and the dangers of pride. Passages like Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6, and 1 Peter 5:5 serve as reminders of the destructive nature of pride and the blessing of humility.

By integrating these practices into your daily life, you can diligently protect yourself from the temptation to exalt yourself and instead live in a way that honors God and reflects His humility.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-inside-out-6-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 10, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 11

1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.

2 Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,

3 And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?

4 Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see:

5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

6 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

7 And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?

8 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses.

9 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet.

10 For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.

13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.

14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come.

15 He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

16 But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows,

17 And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented.

18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil.

19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.

20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not:

21 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.

22 But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you.

23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.

24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.

25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.

26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.

27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Matthew chapter 11 addresses the questions and doubts of John the Baptist as well as Jesus’ response to them. It illustrates how Jesus affirms John’s testimony while also revealing the resistance and misunderstandings that his own ministry faces. In this chapter, we also see Jesus’ sharp criticism of the cities where he performed many miracles, yet they did not repent. The chapter concludes with one of Jesus’ most comforting invitations, where he invites the weary and burdened to find rest in him. This chapter reveals both the challenges of faith and the mercy and gentleness of Jesus.

Commentary

Matthew 11 begins with the poignant scene where John the Baptist, imprisoned and possibly discouraged, sends his disciples to ask Jesus if he is truly the promised Messiah. This moment shows the human side of John, a great prophet who, despite his significant role in the history of salvation, experiences moments of doubt. Jesus’ response to John is both powerful and compassionate. He highlights the miracles and signs that affirm his Messiahship and simultaneously praises John before the people as the greatest among prophets. This is a clear indication that Jesus values John’s faithfulness and service, even as John finds himself in a difficult situation.

The chapter also depicts how Jesus responds to the indifference and rejection of people, particularly in the cities where he performed many miracles. The woes pronounced upon Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum serve as a serious warning about the danger of ignoring God’s grace and offers of salvation. These cities, which had the privilege of witnessing Jesus’ teachings and miracles but did not repent, symbolically represent all who hear the Gospel but fail to respond.

The chapter reaches its climax with Jesus’ invitation to the weary and burdened. These words are full of comfort and hope, reflecting Jesus’ deep concern and love for those struggling with the burdens of life. He offers not just relief from these burdens but also an intimate relationship with him, bringing true rest and peace to the soul.

Summary

Matthew chapter 11 is a rich chapter that highlights the challenges of faith, the misunderstandings surrounding Jesus’ ministry, and the immense mercy and love of Jesus. By addressing John the Baptist’s doubts and condemning the unrepentant cities, Jesus reveals both his justice and his compassion. The chapter concludes with a loving invitation to all who are weary and burdened to come to him and find true rest. It reminds us that amid doubts and challenges, faith in Jesus and a willingness to accept his invitation are the keys to a fulfilled and peaceful life.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 52: The Divine Shepherd

This chapter is based on John 10:1-30.

Read online here

 

Commentary

In John 10:1-30, Jesus Christ reveals Himself as the “Good Shepherd,” a metaphor deeply rooted in the culture and hearts of the people of His time. This familiar image of a shepherd lovingly and protectively watching over his flock serves as a powerful parable for the close, personal relationship that Jesus maintains with His believers. He is not just a shepherd, but the Shepherd who is willing to lay down His life for His sheep—an expression of the highest form of love and devotion.

The promise that the Good Shepherd knows His sheep by name highlights the deep personal bond that Jesus has with each individual believer. He knows our worries, our fears, and our struggles. In a world full of uncertainties, the Good Shepherd offers security, guidance, and comfort. Jesus contrasts Himself sharply with the false shepherds of His time, who led the people astray and neglected their responsibility to the flock.

Through the image of the shepherd who goes ahead and leads his sheep to safe pastures, Jesus illustrates that the way to God cannot be reached through human wisdom or religious systems, but only through Him. He is the door to life, and only through Him can we find true fulfillment and peace. This image of the Shepherd who fights for and protects His sheep conveys the deep comfort and security found in following Jesus.

The Good Shepherd not only lays down His life for the sheep but also takes it up again to grant them eternal life. This willingness to sacrifice Himself shows the deep love of Jesus, a love that knows no bounds. It is a love that follows us into our darkest moments, rescues us from lostness, and leads us into fellowship with God.

Jesus’ call to follow His voice is an invitation to a life of abundance—a life characterized by His guidance and care. In Him, we find not only protection and provision but also the assurance that He will never abandon us. This Shepherd, who leads us through life, will ultimately bring us to our eternal home, where we will find complete security and joy in His presence.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 53: The Last Journey From Galilee

This chapter is based on Luke 9:51-56; Luke 10:1-24.

Read online here

 

Commentary

In Chapter 53 the final journey of Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem is depicted, a journey marked by both internal and external challenges. With the foreknowledge of His impending suffering and death, Jesus altered His approach, deliberately turning toward the cross. Whereas He had previously avoided the attention of the masses, He now openly presented Himself, preparing the people for the impending climax of His earthly mission.

On this last journey through Galilee, Jesus taught intensively, using many parables to convey His message and prepare His disciples for the coming events. Despite the growing hostility from the religious leaders, Jesus remained steadfast in His mission, resolutely setting His face toward Jerusalem, fully aware that His sacrifice was necessary to save humanity.

The people’s reactions to Jesus’ final journey were mixed. While some readily accepted His teachings, others met Him with rejection and hostility. The Samaritans, who did not receive His message, and the cities that ignored His works and teachings, became cautionary examples of the danger of rejecting God’s offer of salvation.

This chapter highlights Jesus’ determination and obedience to the will of His Father, as well as His deep love and care for humanity. It shows us that the path of obedience and devotion is not always easy, but it ultimately leads to the fulfillment of God’s divine plan. The words and actions of Jesus on this final journey remind us that the true treasure lies in heaven and that if we set our hearts on God, we can become part of His eternal kingdom.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/10-08-2024-matthew-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/

6.6 Summary
The Heart Over Tradition: Jesus’ Teachings on True Purity and Faith

This lesson focuses on the confrontation between human traditions and divine commandments, the true meaning of purity, the universal reach of God’s grace, and the need for spiritual vigilance.

Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for placing their traditions above God’s commandments, showing that true purity comes from the heart, not through external rituals. The story of the Syrophoenician woman teaches us that faith knows no boundaries and that God’s grace is open to all who come to Him in humility.

Jesus also warns against the “leaven” of the Pharisees and Herod, symbolizing false teachings and influences that can poison our faith. He calls His disciples—and us—to stay spiritually vigilant and to recognize that material limitations are no obstacle to God’s power. Finally, the lesson emphasizes the importance of keeping our hearts and minds open to God’s truth and not allowing doubts or worldly influences to lead us away from His path.

This lesson calls us to examine our spiritual orientation, trust in God’s truth, and actively live out our faith by guarding against false influences and anchoring ourselves in God’s love.

Lesson 6 has a profound connection to our daily lives and faith, urging us to examine our spiritual orientation, our understanding of purity, and our vigilance against false influences. Here are some key points on how this lesson is relevant to our everyday life and faith:

1. Human Traditions vs. Divine Commandments: In everyday life, we often face the challenge of distinguishing between societal norms, traditions, and God’s clear commandments. The lesson reminds us not to be guided by human traditions or expectations when they contradict God’s will. Instead, we are called to place God’s commandments above all else and align our lives accordingly.

2. True Purity Comes from the Heart: The lesson emphasizes that true purity is not achieved through external rituals or actions but comes from a pure heart that seeks God’s will. In everyday life, this means that we should focus more on examining our inner motives and thoughts rather than merely on outward appearances. We should strive to keep our hearts in harmony with God’s truth and love.

3. Faith Knows No Boundaries: The story of the Syrophoenician woman shows that God’s grace and love are open to all who come to Him in humility. In our faith and daily lives, we are called not to exclude anyone based on background, origin, or past but to approach all people with God’s love. This challenges us to live out our faith without prejudice and to be open to the universal reach of God’s grace.

4. Vigilance Against False Teachings: Jesus warned against the “leaven of the Pharisees,” symbolic of false teachings and harmful influences. In our daily lives, we must be aware of the need to stay spiritually vigilant and not be swayed by false teachings or worldly ideologies. It is important to strengthen our foundation of faith in Scripture and our relationship with God to resist such influences.

5. Trust in God’s Provision: The lesson reminds us that material limitations are no obstacle to God’s power. In difficult times or apparent shortages, the lesson encourages us to remain faithful in our trust and belief in God’s ability to provide for us. We should remember how God has been faithful in the past and trust that He will continue to care for us.

Overall, Lesson 6 encourages us to lead a life marked by divine truth, inner purity, and spiritual vigilance. By integrating these principles into our daily lives, we can strengthen our faith and anchor ourselves firmly in God’s love.

True purity comes from the heart—let your life be guided by God’s truth and love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-inside-out-6-6-summary-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/