The Great Controversy – Lesson 3.Light Shines in the Darkness | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 3.Light Shines in the Darkness |
Light in Darkness: Vigilance and Truth in a Changing World |
This lesson illuminates the eternal struggle between truth and deception, faith and doubt. We will delve into the importance of vigilance in faith and the need to defend God’s truth against the challenges of the modern world. Let’s dive deeper into the scriptures together and discover the significance of light in our darkness.
Memory Text: John 12:35 – “Then Jesus said to them, ‘A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going.”
Content:
3.1 Compromise: Satan’s Subtle Strategy
Recognizing Truth: Jesus and Satan’s Strategies in Light of Scripture
The Bible verses John 14:6 and 8:44 depict a profound contrast between the character of Jesus and that of Satan. While Jesus embodies truth and is recognized as the author of truth, Satan is the father of lies and distorts the truth to deceive people. This contrast underscores the necessity of recognizing God’s truth and safeguarding against Satan’s deceptions. Jesus himself emphasized the importance of the Holy Scriptures by responding to Satan’s attacks with God’s word, as seen in the example of Luke 4:1-13. It’s crucial to understand the truth of the Bible and not be swayed by distortions or false interpretations, as evidenced throughout history by the suppression of the Bible by certain institutions.
3.2 Savage Wolves
Paul’s Urgent Admonition: Vigilance Against Internal and External Threats to the Church
Paul’s warning to the church leaders of Ephesus in Acts 20:27-32 is a urgent call to vigilance. He speaks of “ravenous wolves” threatening the church and warns that false teachers will arise even from within. These prophecies highlight the constant danger of deviations and seductions within the church. In 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12, Paul emphasizes that the “mystery of lawlessness” is already at work, indicating a gradual departure from divine truth. It serves as a reminder for the church to remain vigilant and adhere to the pure doctrine of God’s word, resisting the currents of the time and the temptations of compromising with the truth.
3.3 Safeguarded by the Word
The Unwavering Foundation: Scripture as a Shield Against Deceptions
God’s word serves not only as a light for our paths but also as a shield against the deceptions of evil. It is the foundation of our faith and guides us through life’s complexities. Jesus and Paul emphasize the immense significance of the Holy Scriptures in protecting against errors and deviations from true faith. In a time when many question the authority of the Bible, it’s crucial to uphold its infallibility and see it as divine revelation. Only then can we grasp the fullness of salvation and guard against the tricks and pitfalls of the devil.
3.4 Human Reasoning Apart From Scripture
Divine Orientation in a Confusing World
The human mind is a valuable gift, but without divine guidance through the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of the Holy Scriptures, it can easily go astray. Satan’s deception is to make us believe that our intellect alone is sufficient to discern God’s will. Like a lost hiker in the woods, we need reliable orientation – the Bible – to safely find our way. Only in the light of divine truth can we distinguish between good and evil and discern genuine truth from deception. Therefore, recognizing God’s word as our ultimate source of truth and morality is essential.
3.5 Battle for the Mind
In the Light of the Gospel Against the Darkness of Doubt
The spiritual battle described by Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 illustrates Satan’s strategy to obscure people’s clear view of the Gospel. He uses distractions, temptations, and worldly concerns to cloud people’s perception and deter them from studying God’s word. The light of the Gospel, embodied by Jesus Christ, is the key to enlightenment and overcoming this spiritual darkness. By focusing on Christ and allowing his love and truth to guide us, we can see through Satan’s deceptions and walk in the light of the Gospel. It’s our responsibility to preserve and pass on this light in the darkness.
3.6 Summary
Light in the Eternal Struggle
The lesson “Light Shines in Darkness” emphasizes the eternal struggle between good and evil, with light symbolizing truth, love, and God’s work. Despite Satan’s attempts to blind people with deception and distractions, the true light is revealed through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Christ is at the center of this light, offering hope and salvation amidst the world’s darkness. Believers are called to turn to this light, proclaim it, and boldly stand for the truth to overcome darkness.
The Great Controversy – Lesson 2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? |
The Heart of Christianity: Love, Resistance, and Community in the Early Church |
In the second lesson, we delve deeply into the heart of the Christian faith, characterized by love, care, and selflessness. This lesson highlights significant moments in the lives of Jesus and the early Christians who, despite rejection, persecution, and tragedies, left a legacy of love. We will explore the transformative power of love in the lives of believers and its impact on the world around them.
Memory Text: Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Content:
2.1 A Brokenhearted Savior
The Broken Heart of Jesus: Love, Warning, and the Tragedy of Jerusalem
The Savior Jesus Christ felt deep pain and sorrow at the rejection and rebellion of his own people, as described in Luke 19:41–44 and Matthew 23:37–38. His broken heart reveals God’s boundless love and mercy, which persist despite human disobedience. The destruction of Jerusalem was a tragic consequence of human decisions, not God’s direct will. Jesus even warned his people about the impending disaster and provided instructions for escape to save as many as possible. Satan uses such tragedies to sow confusion and blame, while God is always striving to offer salvation and rescue.
2.2 Christians Providentially Preserved
God’s Sovereign Guidance: Protection and Preservation of His Church
God’s providence and protection for His church are clearly visible in the events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem. When the Roman troops unexpectedly withdrew from Jerusalem and the Jewish troops pursued them, the Christians seized the opportunity to flee to Pella. This “promised sign” testifies to God’s guidance and care for His followers. Psalm 46:2 and Isaiah 41:10 emphasize God’s unwavering presence and protection amidst uncertainty and threat. Although Christians often experience persecution and suffering, as described in Hebrews 11:35–38 and Revelation 2:10, God preserves His church and continues His work despite resistance.
2.3 Faithful Amid Persecution
Unwavering Faith and Rapid Growth: Early Christianity Amidst Persecution
Despite intense persecution and threats in the early centuries of Christianity, the church grew rapidly. The Acts of the Apostles shows that the disciples boldly proclaimed the Gospel filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. This faithfulness and unwavering belief led to profound changes and numerous conversions. Even under the harshest conditions and despite resistance from paganism and Roman authorities, the Gospel spread relentlessly. Pliny the Younger’s letter to Emperor Trajan confirms that Christianity was widespread just a few decades after the crucifixion and was perceived as a threat, despite the persecutions and danger to believers.
2.4 Caring for the Community
Active Compassion and Holistic Healing: Authentic Christianity of the Early Church
The early Christian community was characterized not only by its proclamation of the Gospel but also by its active compassion. They lived out Jesus’ example by attending to the needs of people and striving for both physical and spiritual healing. The Acts of the Apostles shows that the community was caring and supportive, sharing with one another and caring for those in need. This authentic Christianity emphasized not only the spiritual but also the practical side of faith, restoring the image of God in humanity and contributing to healing in all areas of life. This holistic approach demonstrates the transformative power of the Gospel and its profound impact on the world.
2.5 A Legacy of Love
Love as the Hallmark of True Christianity: A Legacy of Compassion and Selflessness
The verses from John and the first letter of John emphasize the central importance of love in the Christian faith. They reveal that true Christians are distinguished by their love for one another, posing a direct challenge to Satan’s temptations in the Great Controversy. These verses teach us that genuine Christianity is lived not just in words but primarily in acts of love. Historical accounts of the Christian community in the early centuries confirm this impressively, especially during times of pandemics. Despite the dangers, Christians showed selfless care and served the sick and suffering, deeply impacting those around them and leading many to faith in Jesus. This legacy of love and selflessness remains an inspiring example of Christian action to this day.
2.6 Summary
The Heart of the Christian Faith: Love, Care, and Resistance Against Selfishness
Lesson 2 highlights the core of the Christian faith: unconditional love and care. Despite rejection and tragedy in Jerusalem, Jesus showed deep love and mercy towards people. This love and God’s providence preserved the early Christians in times of persecution and led to rapid growth of the church. Authentic Christianity was characterized by active compassion, both spiritually and physically. Finally, the verses from John emphasize the essential role of love in faith and demonstrate how the Christian community left a profound legacy through their selfless love and care.
The Great Controversy – Lesson 1.The War Behind All Wars | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 1.The War Behind All Wars |
The Cosmic Conflict: Origin, Impact, and Hope for Redemption |
In the first lesson, “The War Behind All Wars,” we delve deep into the cosmic conflict between good and evil, which forms the foundation for many of the spiritual and moral questions we face. This original conflict, which began in heaven and impacted earth, shapes our perspective on sin, suffering, and redemption. We will explore the origins of this war and God’s plan to end suffering and sin through the promise of a Redeemer. This lesson offers profound insights into the fundamental principles of faith and the eternal hope made possible through Jesus Christ.
Memory Text: Revelation 12.7.8 – “And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.”
Content:
1.1 War in Heaven
The Cosmic Conflict: Origin of Evil and Freedom in Heaven
The section “War in Heaven” from Revelation 12:7-9 depicts a cosmic conflict between good and evil. Satan and his angels rebelled against Christ and were expelled from heaven. These events raise questions about the existence of freedom in heaven and the origin of evil. God created Lucifer as a radiant angel with free will. Despite his perfection, Lucifer allowed pride and jealousy to take root in his heart, leading to his rebellion. God could not allow Lucifer’s rebellion to corrupt heaven, and He tried to persuade him to repent through love and mercy.
1.2 Lucifer Deceives; Christ Prevails
The Cosmic Conflict: Choosing Between Light and Darkness
The conflict between Lucifer and Christ demonstrates the power of pride and deception. Lucifer accused God of injustice and deceived many angels with his lies. The war in heaven was both a physical and ideological conflict, ending with Lucifer’s expulsion. Every angel faced the choice of whom to follow: Christ or Satan. This choice reflects the fundamental principle of the Great Controversy, teaching us to use the moral decision-making ability God has given us. As humans, we are called to respond to God’s love and serve Him through our choices.
1.3 Planet Earth Becomes Involved
The Decision at the Tree: Origin of Sin and Suffering
With the creation of the earth, God gave humans the freedom of choice, similar to what He did with Lucifer. He created a perfect world without sin but with the freedom to choose. Through the tree of knowledge, God gave humans the opportunity to prove their loyalty to Him. Satan seized this opportunity to deceive Eve, promising her that she would be like God. Adam and Eve chose against God’s instructions, leading to the introduction of sin, suffering, and death into the world. The scriptures from Genesis 3:1-3 and Romans 3:23; 5:12 emphasize the universal reality of sin and its devastating effects on all humanity. Sin separates us from God and is the cause of suffering and problems in our world.
1.4 Love Finds a Way
Hope Through the Cross: God’s Unconditional Love Manifested
Despite Adam and Eve’s sin, God gave them hope through the promise in Genesis 3:15. This prophecy speaks of a coming Redeemer, the “Seed of the Woman,” who would defeat Satan. Jesus Christ is this promised Redeemer, who won victory over sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross. The Bible verses from Hebrews 2:9; Galatians 3:13; and 2 Corinthians 5:21 emphasize the magnitude and significance of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Through the cross, God shows us His immeasurable love and desire to redeem us despite our flaws and sins. Jesus, the Creator of the cosmos, came into the world, suffered, and died for us because He loves us infinitely. The cross is the overwhelming proof of God’s unconditional love, giving us all reason to hope.
1.5 Our High Priest
The High Priest of Our Trust: Jesus’ Intercession and Care
Jesus, our great High Priest, who died and rose again for us, understands our human weaknesses and temptations, as He was tempted in every way, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16). Through His sacrificial death and intercession at God’s throne, we are freed from our guilt and the chains of sin. John 17:24-26 shows us Jesus’ deep desire for us to be with Him in heaven. His greatest desire is to save us and support us in our needs and weaknesses. In every situation, Jesus offers comfort, peace, forgiveness, and strength.
1.6 Summary
Cosmic Conflicts and the Path to Redemption
The first lesson, “The War Behind All Wars,” highlights the cosmic conflict between good and evil, which takes place both in heaven and on earth. Lucifer, once a radiant angel, rebelled against God, leading to a war in heaven and his expulsion. On earth, Adam and Eve’s decision to act against God’s instruction introduced sin, suffering, and death. Despite rebellion and sin, God offers hope through the promise of a Redeemer, symbolized by the “Seed of the Woman,” ultimately identified as Jesus Christ. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and His role as our High Priest enable us to receive forgiveness, redemption, and the hope of eternal life in God’s kingdom.
Psalms – Lesson 13.Wait on the Lord | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 13.Wait on the Lord |
The Power of Patient Waiting: Trusting in God’s Timing and Guidance
In today’s lesson we delve into the significance of waiting for God’s guidance and timing. In a world characterized by instant gratification, this lesson reminds us that patience is a virtue and that God’s plan often takes time to unfold. We will explore biblical examples illustrating how waiting upon the Lord is intertwined with faith, perseverance, and trust, ultimately leading to remarkable blessings. Let us together explore how, amidst the challenges of waiting, we can grow in wisdom and reliance upon God’s leading.
Memory Text: Psalm 27:14 – “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!”
Content:
13.1 The Call of Waiting
Waiting on God: An Invitation to Perseverance and Hope
The call to wait, present in biblical scriptures, is an invitation to perseverance and trust in God’s faithfulness. Despite the challenges and stress associated with waiting, these verses remind us that God is with his people and will ultimately bring about good. Waiting on God entails not only having patience but also a deep longing for his presence and trusting that his promises will be fulfilled. It is a reminder that our waiting is not in vain but points towards the fulfillment of our hopes in a new creation, which we as Christians hope for and await.
13.2 Peace of a Weaned Child
Resting in God: The Humility of a Quietened Child
Psalm 131 teaches us a humility that relies on God rather than human strength or ambition. Like a quieted child with its mother, we find rest and trust in the embrace of God. This childlike surrender to God requires letting go of pride and self-centered desires. Ultimately, we are invited to share our experiences of God’s faithfulness to help others in their faith and strengthen the community of believers.
13.3 Bringing in the Sheaves
The Power of Remembrance: Hope from Past Deeds of God
Psalm 126 shows how remembering God’s past deeds strengthens the people and gives hope for the future. Despite their current troubles, they draw from the memory of God’s previous deliverance and see it as a promise for their present suffering. The metaphor of streams in the dry southland symbolizes God’s sudden intervention and mighty hand. The image of sowing in tears and reaping in joy speaks of divine guidance through difficult times towards a happy future, similar to the harvest after hard work.
13.4 Waiting in God’s Sabbath Rest
The Two Sides of the Sabbath: Creation and Dedication
Psalm 92 emphasizes two important aspects of the Sabbath: first, praising God for his creation and his victory over enemies, which points to the rest and order of creation and redemption. Second, the dedication of the people to God, symbolized by the anointing with fresh oil, which demonstrates their renewed dedication and ongoing sanctification. The Sabbath is portrayed here as a sign of the covenant between God and his people, preparing them to trust in God’s promises and recognize his wonderful intentions.
13.5 Joy Comes in the Morning
Divine Redemption in the Morning Light: The Symbolism of Morning in the Bible
Morning is symbolically depicted as the time of divine redemption because it represents the beginning of a new day and the hope of a new life. In the Psalms, morning is described as a time of redemption and jubilation, while the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the morning is celebrated as the pinnacle of divine redemption. Jesus is called the morning star, bringing the light and hope of a new era, free from darkness and death.
13.6 Summary
Waiting on God’s Time: Patience and Trust Amidst Challenges
Lesson 13, titled “Wait Upon the Lord,” emphasizes the importance of waiting for God’s timing and will in our lives. It is based on biblical texts highlighting the necessity of patience and trust in God. The lesson encourages us to hold onto God’s promises despite difficulties and challenges, trusting that he will fulfill his plans in due time. Through patience and faith, we can experience the blessings and peace of God in our lives.
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