The Great Controversy – Lesson 13.The Triumph of God’s Love | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 13.The Triumph of God’s Love |
Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny |
In this final lesson, we explore how God’s love and justice triumph in the last days of Earth. We consider the hope that believers have in difficult times and the promise of Jesus’ soon return, which brings comfort and confidence. The millennium on Earth and the judgment during this period reveal God’s just actions and His efforts to save humanity. Finally, we examine the two eternities – the final destiny of the righteous and the wicked – and see how God’s love and justice ultimately prevail.
Memory Text: Revelation 21,3.4 – “And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.’ ”
Content:
13.1 Hope in the Time of Trouble
God’s Promises for the End Times
The events described in the Bible before Jesus’ return are marked by an intense time of tribulation and the final seven plagues, as described in Revelation 16. However, God’s people will be protected amid these challenges, similar to the plagues in Egypt. Those whose names are written in the Book of Life will be saved, which points to a deep and faithful relationship with Jesus (Daniel 12:1). In times of tribulation, a close personal relationship with Jesus is the only sufficient preparation to remain pure and faithful (1 John 3:1-3). Comforting promises in the Psalms and Revelation 3:10-12 assure us that Jesus is always with us and that our faith will remain strong, even when the world around us falls apart. In these difficult times, our longing for eternity and the desire to live forever with Jesus grow.
13.2 Hope in Jesus’ Soon Return
Comfort and Confidence in Troubling Times
Jesus’ assurance in John 14:1-3 that He will not leave us and will return to take us home gives us comfort and hope in the face of upcoming challenges and tribulation. This promise encourages us, reminding us of our true home and pointing to the “blessed hope” that has inspired believers of all generations (Titus 2:11-14). While the wicked are plagued by fear and guilt as described in Revelation 6:15-17 and Isaiah 25:8-9, the righteous experience peace and joy through the acceptance of God’s grace. The reaction of the redeemed in Revelation 15:3-4 and 19:7 shows their gratitude and reverence for Christ’s generous salvation. The sequence of events in Revelation 12:17, 17:13-14, and 19:11-16 reveals the final battle on Earth and Christ’s ultimate victory, instilling hope and confidence in our hearts.
13.3 The Millennium on Earth
Satan’s Imprisonment and the Revelation of Divine Justice
Revelation 19 ends with the dramatic return of Jesus and the destruction of the wicked, but the story continues in Revelation 20, which introduces us to the millennium, a period of 1,000 years. During this time, Satan is symbolically bound and cast into an “abyss,” meaning that he cannot deceive anyone due to the desolate and depopulated Earth. This corresponds to the description in 2 Peter 2:4, where Satan and his angels are kept in “chains of darkness.” Jeremiah 4:23-26 and 25:33 depict the Earth as devastated and lifeless, with Satan and his angels having to witness the destruction their rebellion has caused. This millennium vividly demonstrates the consequences of sin and God’s justice, love, and efforts to save humanity.
13.4 Judgment in the Millennium
Divine Justice and the Clarification of All Questions
During the millennium, the righteous will reign with Christ in heaven and have the opportunity to understand God’s justice (Revelation 20:4-6). They will be able to ask questions and comprehend why some people are not in heaven, recognizing God’s fair and loving judgments. This will strengthen the redeemed’s trust in God’s justice and His efforts to save every person. At the end of the millennium, the wicked dead will be resurrected, Satan will deceive the nations one last time, and there will be a final confrontation (Revelation 20:7-9). The timing of the final judgment reflects God’s patience and His comprehensive willingness to give everyone a chance for salvation before the final verdict – the second death – is pronounced.
13.5 Two Eternities
The Final Destiny of the Righteous and the Wicked
The wicked are resurrected according to 2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 14:10-11, and Revelation 20:11-15 so that all can recognize that God’s ways were just and fair. Everyone will bow before God and acknowledge His justice, even Satan and his followers. Ellen White describes how the wicked will be aware of every sin and rejection of divine grace at the final reckoning. This realization leads to their final judgment and eternal death. Revelation 20:9, Psalm 37:20, and Malachi 4:1-2 show that sin and sinners will be consumed by fire, not subjected to eternal torment. God is not an eternal tormentor; the destruction is final. Therefore, our only hope lies in trusting in the righteousness of Jesus to avoid death and receive eternal life.
13.6 Summary
The Triumph of God’s Love: Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny
This lesson addresses the triumph of divine love in the end times. In difficult times, God’s protection gives believers hope and highlights the necessity of a deep relationship with Jesus during the tribulation (13.1). The promise of Jesus’ soon return brings comfort and confidence, inspired by the “blessed hope” (13.2). During the millennium, Satan will be bound, and the Earth will be devastated, revealing divine justice (13.3). The righteous will reign in heaven and better understand God’s justice while the wicked are judged at the end of the millennium (13.4). Finally, the ultimate destruction of sin and the salvation of the righteous showcase God’s justice and mercy (13.5).
The Great Controversy – Lesson 12.Earth’s Closing Events | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 12.Earth’s Closing Events |
Faithfulness, Outpouring of the Spirit, and the Ultimate Call |
Lesson 12 delves into the dramatic and pivotal events of the end times, centered around worship and faithfulness to God. In these last days, the world faces a clear choice: worship the Creator or the beast. The Holy Spirit will be poured out in unprecedented measure to strengthen believers and powerfully spread the Gospel. This period will be characterized by an intense spiritual battle, where the light of truth contends against the darkness of deception. Believers are called to stand firm in their faith and carry the joyful message of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth.
Memory Text: Proverbs 23:23 – “Buy the truth, and do not sell it, also wisdom and instruction and understanding.”
Content:
12.1 Loyalty to God and His Word
The Power of Biblical Truth in the Great Controversy
Proverbs 23:2 and John 8:32; 17:17 emphasize the importance of truth and wisdom found in God’s Word. Both verses show that true freedom and sanctification come through the truth revealed in the Scriptures. Throughout the centuries, the Great Controversy has been a conflict between truth and error, with Satan as the father of lies opposing Jesus, the author of truth. The Bible, as the source of truth, exposes Satan’s deceptions and reveals God’s plans. It is our protection against error and deception and shows us the way to discern between truth and falsehood. Prophecies in the Holy Scriptures serve as a light that illuminates our path and helps us stand firm in faith, especially in the face of impending great deceptions.
12.2 Sealed for Heaven
The Sign of Faithfulness in the Final Conflict
In the coming crisis of worship, the faithful people of God will not yield to worldly pressure (Revelation 14:12). These believers will be sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) and stand firm in their conviction. In ancient times, a seal was a distinctive mark of authenticity, so we expect God’s seal to be embedded in His law (Isaiah 8:16). The Sabbath commandment (Exodus 20:8–11) contains the three elements of a seal: name, title, and territory of God. God’s seal will be received on the forehead, symbolizing a conscious decision, while the mark of the beast will be received either on the forehead or on the hand, indicating adaptation or persuasion (Revelation 7:1–3; 14:1; 13:16–17). In the Great Controversy, those who keep God’s commandments and believe in Jesus stand firm against Satan’s deceptions.
12.3 Whom Do We Worship?
The Decision in the Great Conflict
In the last days, the great battle over worship will escalate dramatically: Either we worship the Creator or the beast and its image (Revelation 14:7-10). The first angel calls for honoring the Creator, while the third angel reveals the dire consequences of worshipping the beast. Those who worship God are described as those who keep His commandments and have faith in Jesus (Revelation 14:12). Satan, who hates the Creator, will try to force the world to accept a false Sabbath, thereby asserting his authority over God’s (Daniel 7:25). In the impending crisis, humanity will be threatened with economic sanctions and even death if they do not follow the beast (Revelation 13:13-17). Despite the uncertainties, we can be sure that the end-time persecutions will be real and intense.
12.4 The Early and Latter Rain
The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost fulfilled the prophecy from Joel 2:21-24 and Acts 2:1-4. On that day, 3000 people were converted, and the Christian church began to grow powerfully (Acts 2:41-47). The apostles preached the Gospel with such power that the number of believers quickly increased, and many communities were established (Acts 4:4; 6:7; 9:31). Through the Holy Spirit, the early church reached the entire known world, symbolized as the “early rain.” The “latter rain,” an even greater outpouring of the Spirit, will prepare the final harvest and complete God’s work on earth (Zechariah 4:6; 10:1; Hosea 6:3; James 5:7-8).
12.5 The Loud Cry
The Final Proclamation of the Gospel
Revelation 18:1-4, Habakkuk 2:14, and Matthew 24:14 show that God’s work on earth will end with a powerful and comprehensive proclamation of the Gospel. The angel in Revelation 18 has “great authority” and illuminates the whole earth with God’s glory, symbolically representing human messengers who proclaim the Gospel powerfully. These messengers are endowed with the authority of Jesus to act in His name (Matthew 28:18-19). The Holy Spirit will be poured out in unprecedented measure, and the Gospel will quickly spread throughout the world. Thousands will repent, and the earth will be filled with the knowledge of God’s glory (Habakkuk 2:14). Thus, the Gospel will be spread to the ends of the earth, and the world will hear the message of hope (Matthew 24:14).
12.6 Summary
Faithfulness, Outpouring of the Spirit, and Worldwide Proclamation
The final events on earth will be characterized by a great conflict over worship, in which believers will resist the pressures of the world and remain faithful to God’s Word and His commandments. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit, symbolized by the early and latter rain, will strengthen believers and spread the Gospel worldwide. A loud cry will warn the world and lead many to repentance, while the powers of hell attempt to suppress God’s truth. The faithful believers will be equipped with the power and authority of Jesus to remain steadfast in the end times. Ultimately, the Gospel will be proclaimed to all nations, and the earth will be filled with the glory of God.
The Great Controversy – Lesson 11.The Impending Conflict | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 11.The Impending Conflict |
Deciphering the End-Time Conflict: Worship, Identity, and Steadfastness |
In Lesson 11, we delve deeper into the prophetic texts of Revelation to understand the impending conflict between good and evil. This lesson sheds light on the significant role of worship and identity amidst end-time events. Through the analysis of Revelation chapters 13 and 14, we are prompted to decipher the symbols and prophecies to recognize the challenges and opportunities ahead. It becomes clear that understanding this conflict is crucial to remaining faithful and steadfast amid the challenges of the end times.
Memory Text: John 17:17 – “ ‘Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth’ ”
Content:
11.1 Revelation’s Final Conflict
Revelation: Worship in the Cosmic Conflict
Revelation interweaves symbols with the eternal truth of a loving God and a cosmic conflict between good and evil unfolding through worship. Worship and creation are inseparably linked, with the Sabbath serving as a reminder of our identity. Worship of the Creator, manifested in keeping His commandments, stands in opposition to that of the beast. The faithful worshippers are strengthened by the “faith of Jesus,” which guides them through the conflict even when they cannot see or understand.
11.2 The Coming Crisis
The Climax in the Cosmic Struggle between Worship and Coercion
The prophecy of the mark of the beast in Revelation marks the climax of the battle between good and evil, where Satan desperately tries to deceive and compel souls. Historically, religious persecution among Christians is not new and will intensify in the end times. Refusal of the mark will have economic and ultimately life-threatening consequences. Believers are urged to have patience and hold fast to God’s commandments and faith in Jesus, as they will overcome through Christ’s power over the trials. The central conflict between worship and coercion becomes evident here.
11.3 Identifying the Beast, Part 1
Origin and Authority of Power in Revelation
Revelation 13:1–2 identifies the beast as a power deriving its authority from the dragon, symbolically representing Satan. This power originated from the Roman Empire and was exercised through political and religious institutions. The transfer of the throne from Rome to Constantinople paved the way for the rise of the papacy, seeking to elevate itself above humans and God. The key word for identifying this power is “blasphemy,” referring to claims belonging to God, such as the power to forgive sins and the privileges of God on earth attributed to the papacy.
11.4 Identifying the Beast, Part 2
Prophetic Fulfillment and Future Developments
Instead of worshiping the beast, God’s followers find joy in serving God, motivated by their loving hearts and the recognition of God’s faithfulness. Revelation 13:5 describes a period of 42 months, equivalent to 1260 years, marking the papacy’s dominance, which ended with the papal captivity. However, the prophecy predicts that this power will regain global influence. Today, the pope is recognized as a moral leader, suggesting the fulfillment of these prophetic words once again.
11.5 The Beast from the Earth
The Second Beast: The USA and Its Prophetic Significance
The second beast in Revelation 13:11–18 differs from the first by emerging from the earth rather than the sea, indicating a less populated area. It appears around 1798, aligning with the United States, which declared independence in 1776 and became a world power by the late 19th century. This beast has two lamb-like horns symbolizing political and religious freedom, but it speaks like a dragon, foreshadowing future oppression. It will exercise all the power of the first beast and compel worship, portraying the United States as a nation forsaking its freedom principles for a union of church and state.
11.6 Summary
Preparation for the End-Time Conflict: Identification and Steadfastness
Lesson 11 addresses the impending conflict described in Revelation. The central conflict revolves around worship, with faithful followers of God opposing worship of the beast. Historical and prophetic analyses identify the first beast as the papacy and the second beast as the United States, which will introduce religious persecution. The prophecies emphasize the importance of keeping God’s commandments and having faith in Jesus as a source of strength for believers. Amid deception and coercion, faith in God is highlighted as crucial.
The Great Controversy – Lesson 10.Spiritualism Exposed | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 10.Spiritualism Exposed |
Biblical Truth Against End-Time Deceptions |
Lesson 10 delves into biblical teachings about death and the dangers of spiritism, especially in the end times. The Bible clearly states that death is a state of sleep, with no conscious existence until the resurrection. This lesson demonstrates how spiritism, based on the false doctrine of soul immortality, leads people astray. In the end times, Satan will intensify the use of supernatural signs and wonders to deceive believers. It is crucial for Christians to remain firmly rooted in God’s Word and faith in Jesus to resist these deceptions.
Memory Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:16.17 – “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.”
Content:
10.1 The Deadly Consequences of Spiritualism
The Dangerous Contradiction to Biblical Truth
The notion of the soul’s natural immortality and communication with the deceased, as practiced in spiritism, contradicts biblical teachings. The Bible emphasizes death as a state of unconsciousness (Ecclesiastes 9:5) and warns against all forms of occultism (Deuteronomy 18:11). Belief in soul immortality, derived from pagan traditions, can make people susceptible to satanic deceptions. These teachings divert from true worship of God and open doors to dangerous spiritual practices. Conversely, Jesus offers liberation and protection from such deceptions through His grace and power.
10.2 Death in the Old Testament
A Biblical Perspective on Life After Death
The Old Testament teaches that death is a state of sleep, where the dead rest until the resurrection. Psalms and Kings describe death as sleep or “joining one’s ancestors” (Psalm 6:6; 115:17; 1 Kings 2:10). This contradicts the notion of disembodied spirits wandering after death. Job and Daniel emphasize the resurrection as the next conscious experience of the dead (Job 14:12; Daniel 12:2). This biblical perspective guards against spiritist deceptions by showing that the dead know nothing and await their awakening. Believers should find comfort in the awareness of biblical truth and guard against occult deceptions.
10.3 Death in the New Testament
Hope for Resurrection and Eternal Life in Christ
The New Testament continues the Old Testament symbolism of death as sleep, as seen in John 11:11-14 and 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17. Both testaments teach that there is no conscious existence after death until the resurrection. In the New Testament, the resurrection at Christ’s return is emphasized, as described in 1 Corinthians 15:51-54. These texts underscore that eternal life is found only in Christ, and the resurrection is His ultimate victory over death. Paul argues that without Christ’s resurrection, our faith would be in vain, highlighting the central role of the resurrection in Christian hope. Believers in the New Testament eagerly awaited Christ’s return and the resurrection of the dead, strengthening their faithfulness and endurance in trials.
10.4 Spiritualism in the Last Days: Part 1
The Seductive Power of Supernatural Deceptions
In the end times, people will be seduced by great signs and wonders performed by demonic spirits (Matthew 24:5, 11, 24; 2 Thessalonians 2:7-9; Revelation 13:13-14; 16:13-14). These deceptions aim to manipulate people’s emotions rather than appeal to their rational thinking. Spiritism, based on the false doctrine of soul immortality, will play a central role in this deception, almost capturing the world. It is dangerous to trust our feelings, as Satan can exploit them to bypass our thought processes and deceive us. Our security lies solely in Jesus and His Word, which can protect us from these deceptions.
10.5 Spiritualism in the Last Days: Part 2
Preserving Hope and Faith Amid End-Time Deceptions
Our hope of redemption is rooted in Christ, and His sacrifice secures for us the “blessed hope” of His second coming (Titus 2:13). Satan seeks to destroy this hope by distracting people with supernatural signs and wonders from biblical truth. Matthew 24:23–27, 2 Corinthians 11:13–14, and 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12 warn of Satan’s deceptive power, even posing as Christ. These deceptions aim to hinder people from keeping the commandments of God and maintaining faith in Jesus (Revelation 14:12). We must remain vigilant and guard against teachings that divert us from these essential characteristics, regardless of accompanying supernatural phenomena.
10.6 Summary
The Biblical Truth About Spiritism and the Need to Stand Firm
Lesson 10, “Exposing Spiritism,” explores the biblical truth about the state of the dead and the dangers of spiritism. The Bible describes death as sleep, with no conscious existence until the resurrection at Christ’s return. Spiritist practices are based on the false doctrine of soul immortality and open doors to demonic deceptions. In the end times, Satan will use supernatural signs and wonders to divert people from truth and salvation in Christ. Believers must rely on God’s Word and faith in Jesus to resist these deceptions.
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