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.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-10-spiritualism-exposed-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

9.6 Summary
A Look at Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict

Lesson 9 explores the foundation of God’s government, particularly through examining the three angels’ messages in Revelation 14. These messages call people to decide between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast. The first angel reminds us that God’s hour of judgment has come and calls for true worship of God. The second angel warns of Babylon, a symbol of fallen religious systems that lead to false worship. The essence of the decision lies in faithfulness to God by keeping His commandments and faith in Jesus Christ. This decision impacts not only spiritual life but also everyday life and values. Through obedience, trust, and strengthening of faith, God prepares believers for future challenges by guiding them through trials, instructing them in His Word, providing fellowship with other believers, and strengthening them with personal experiences of His faithfulness.

The connection between Lesson 9 and our daily life and faith is fundamental. The lesson emphasizes the choice between worshiping the Creator and worshiping false gods or systems. This decision is not only theological but also affects our daily actions and beliefs.

In everyday life, our faithfulness to the Creator is shown through our behavior and decisions. By keeping His commandments and obeying His Word, we express our faith and devotion. The Sabbath, as a sign of worshiping the Creator, can permeate our daily life by consciously setting aside time for rest, worship, and fellowship with God and other believers.

Our faith in Jesus Christ also influences our daily decisions and relationships. It enables us to show love and forgiveness to others, even when it’s difficult, and to rely on God’s promises when faced with challenges. Faith in Jesus gives us the strength to remain steadfast in difficult times and to share the hope we have found in Him with others.

Overall, the connection between Lesson 9, our daily life, and our faith is inseparable. Our decisions, beliefs, and actions in everyday life should be guided by our faith in the Creator and our Lord Jesus Christ. By understanding and living this connection, we can lead a life that honors God and aligns with His will.

Reflecting on the Sabbath issue reminds us that truth often stands in contrast to the majority, and understanding Holy Scripture is our most important source of knowledge.

1.The world is changing so quickly and dramatically. Why must we always be vigilant so that end-time events do not catch us unprepared?

We must always be vigilant so that end-time events do not catch us unprepared because the world is changing so quickly and dramatically. In a time when technological advancements and societal changes are progressing rapidly, we can easily be distracted from the fundamental values and principles rooted in Holy Scripture. Without vigilance, we risk losing sight of the signs of the times and succumbing to the temptations of a fast-paced, human-centered world. Only through vigilance can we strengthen our faith, prepare for upcoming challenges, and remain faithful to God’s guidelines in a changing world.

2.How can the understanding of God’s judgment and law be reconciled with the fact that we are saved by grace alone?

The understanding of God’s judgment and law can be easily reconciled with the fact that we are saved by grace alone. God’s grace does not mean that the law is abolished or that judgment has no place. Rather, grace, law, and judgment complement each other in God’s plan of salvation.

God’s law serves as a standard of righteousness and shows us the way of obedience to God and love for our fellow human beings. It reveals God’s character and His holy principles. However, since we are all sinners and have broken the law, we cannot stand before God through our own works.

This is where grace comes into play. Through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we have the opportunity to receive forgiveness of our sins and be saved by faith in Him. This grace is an undeserved gift from God, granting us salvation that we cannot earn on our own.

God’s judgment is part of His righteous plan to hold people accountable and judge evil. It will reveal who has accepted God’s grace through faith in Christ and who has deliberately turned away from Him. Judgment will not only condemn the guilty but also reward the faithful and bring them into fellowship with God.

In summary, the Bible shows that grace, law, and judgment are inseparable and work together to fulfill God’s plan of salvation for humanity.

3.How can you bear witness to those who do not understand the significance of the true Sabbath and seriously observe Sunday, the first day of the week?

To bear witness to those who do not understand the significance of the true Sabbath and observe Sunday, you can approach this in several ways:

1. Biblical Foundations: Explain the biblical principles and texts that highlight the Sabbath as the God-ordained day of rest, such as the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:8-11.

2. Historical Background: Share information about the development of Sunday observance in the history of Christianity and emphasize the difference between God’s command and human traditions.

3. Personal Testimonies: Share personal experiences and testimonies about how observing the Sabbath has strengthened your faith and deepened your relationship with God.

4. Loving Explanation: Be patient and loving in your explanations, and approach those who observe Sunday with respect and understanding for their beliefs.

5. Living Example: Live out your faith consistently and show through your life how observing the Sabbath influences your values and priorities.

6. Prayer: Ask God for wisdom and guidance to open people’s hearts and make them receptive to the truth about the Sabbath.

By bearing a loving, respectful, and authentic witness, you can help people understand the significance of the true Sabbath and seriously consider how they want to honor God in their worship.

4.What danger lies in the union of church and state powers? How should we as Christians relate to the government?

The union of church and state powers poses the danger of restricting religious freedom and violating freedom of conscience. When religious authorities are closely linked with state institutions, there is a possibility that religious beliefs will be enforced and people will be forced to act against their conscience.

As Christians, we should relate to the government in a manner guided by biblical principles:

1. Prayer: We should pray for our leaders to make wise decisions and promote the common good.

2. Submission: According to the Bible, we should submit to governmental authorities as long as their requirements do not contradict God’s commandments (Romans 13:1-7).

3. Conscientious Citizenship: As citizens, we have a responsibility to engage in our government, advocate for justice and freedom, and work for the welfare of our fellow human beings.

4. Separation of Church and State: We should advocate for the separation of church and state to preserve religious freedom and ensure that no religion is favored or disadvantaged.

5. Bearing Witness: We should bear witness to Christ and His truth in all areas of our lives, including our political beliefs, and work for a society based on the principles of love, justice, and mercy.

By following these principles, we can contribute as Christians to ensuring that governments act justly and respect religious freedom, promoting a society based on the values of God’s kingdom.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-6-summary/

9.5 The Three Angels’ Messages
The Choice between Worship of the Creator and the Beast

The message of the three angels in Revelation 14, particularly the proclamations of the first and second angels, presents an urgent call to decision and true worship. The first angel urges us to fear God and give Him glory, for the hour of His judgment has come. This means we should align our lives and faith in light of the impending divine judgment. Worshiping the Creator, who made heaven and earth, reminds us that our worship must be directed towards the true God, who alone is worthy.

The second angel warns of the fall of Babylon, which symbolizes a fallen and false religious system. This system has rejected the message of the first angel and has intoxicated the world with false worship and spiritual deception. This warning emphasizes the consequences of worshiping the beast and its image, which represents a departure from the true worship of the Creator.

The choice between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast is a decision of great significance and consequence. Every person will ultimately have to decide to whom they pledge their allegiance – Jesus, the Creator and Redeemer, or Satan, who works through the beast and its image. This decision is not only a theological or spiritual choice but also impacts our daily lives and values. It calls us to honor God in our daily lives and faith, keeping His commandments with the conviction that He is our Creator and righteous Judge.

Read Revelation 14:12. What are the two characteristic features of those who refuse to worship the beast? Why are both crucial?

Revelation 14:12 states: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” These two characteristics – keeping the commandments of God and having faith in Jesus – are crucial for several reasons:

1. Keeping the Commandments of God:

   • Obedience and Loyalty: Keeping God’s commandments shows the believers’ loyalty to God. It is an expression of their obedience and dedication, even under extreme conditions and persecution.

   • Reflection of God’s Character: God’s commandments represent His character and principles. By keeping these commandments, believers reflect God’s nature and His righteousness.

   • Sign of True Worship: The Sabbath, as part of the commandments, plays a central role in the true worship of the Creator. Observing the Sabbath becomes a visible sign of loyalty to God and stands in contrast to the worship of the beast.

2. Faith in Jesus:

   • Trust and Dependence: Faith in Jesus involves deep trust in His salvation, guidance, and promises. It is a faith that relies on Jesus in every situation.

   • Following Christ: Faith in Jesus also means following His example and obeying His teachings. It is a life lived in the footsteps of Christ, even when it is difficult and challenging.

   • Endurance in Trials: Faith in Jesus is especially crucial in times of trial and persecution. It gives believers the strength to remain steadfast amid opposition and threats.

Both characteristics – keeping the commandments of God and faith in Jesus – are therefore crucial because they define what it means to belong to God’s end-time people. These believers will be distinguished not only by their beliefs but also by their actions and trust in Christ. In a time of great conflict between good and evil, they will stand out through their obedience to God’s commandments and their unwavering faith in Jesus. This faithfulness and trust will guide them through the final challenges until Jesus returns.

How is God Preparing Your Faith Today for What Is to Come?

God is preparing our faith for future challenges by strengthening and shaping us through various means today. Here are some ways God does this:

1. Trials and Difficulties:

   • Strengthening Faith through Challenges: God allows trials in our lives to solidify our faith. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

   • Building Trust: Through difficulties, we learn to trust God more and rely on His guidance. These experiences prepare us to remain steadfast in greater trials.

2. Study and Application of Scripture:

   • Understanding and Wisdom: Studying the Bible provides us with wisdom and understanding of God’s ways. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

   • Practicing Obedience: By applying God’s commandments in our daily lives, we grow in obedience and dedication. This prepares us to remain faithful even in tough times.

3. Prayer and Communion with God:

   • Daily Connection: Through prayer, we maintain a close relationship with God that sustains us in all circumstances. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to pray about everything and experience God’s peace.

   • Filling with the Holy Spirit: Prayer opens us to the guidance and strengthening by the Holy Spirit, helping us grow in faith.

4. Community with Other Believers:

   • Encouragement and Support: Fellowship with other believers offers us encouragement and support. Hebrews 10:24-25 highlights the importance of gathering together and encouraging one another.

   • Example and Teaching: Through the example and teaching of other believers, we are inspired and strengthened in our faith.

5. Experiences and Testimonies:

   • Experiences of God’s Faithfulness: Personal experiences of God’s intervention and provision strengthen our trust in His faithfulness. These experiences are valuable reminders when facing future challenges.

   • Sharing Testimonies: Sharing and hearing testimonies from other believers encourages us and shows how God works in various situations.

Thus, God uses a variety of ways to strengthen our faith and prepare us for future trials. By embracing His guidance and growing in His grace, we will be able to face upcoming challenges with a firm and tested faith.

The connection between our daily life and our faith is closely linked to preparation for the future, especially considering end-time events and the associated spiritual challenges.

1. Decisions in Daily Life and Faith: The decision between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast, as described in Revelation, has direct implications for our daily life and faith. Our daily decisions on how we live and whom we worship are an expression of our faith and loyalty to God.

2. Obedience and Loyalty: By keeping God’s commandments and holding firmly to our faith in Jesus Christ, we demonstrate our loyalty to God in everyday life. Our obedience to God’s commandments and our trust in Christ influence our daily actions, decisions, and relationships.

3. Preparation for Future Challenges: Living in obedience and faith prepares us for future challenges. Every day we live in faithful following of Christ strengthens our faith and determination to remain steadfast even in difficult times.

4. Community and Support: Fellowship with other believers in daily life offers encouragement, support, and spiritual strengthening. By sharing experiences and praying together, we are strengthened and encouraged to live our faith.

5. Prayer and Spiritual Disciplines: Daily prayer, Bible study, and spiritual disciplines strengthen our faith and help us prepare for upcoming challenges. These spiritual exercises help us deepen our relationship with God and recognize His guidance in our lives.

Overall, the connection between our daily life and our faith is crucial for our preparation for the future. By being faithful in everyday life and actively living our faith, we will be strengthened and prepared to face the end-time challenges with a firm and tested faith.

Those who honor God in their daily lives and keep His commandments are preparing their faith for any future challenge.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-5-the-three-angels-messages/

9.4 The Mark of the Beast
The End-Time Conflict: Loyalty to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast

Read Revelation 12:12, 17, and 13:7. How do these verses reveal Satan’s wrath? Why is the Devil so angry with God’s end-time people?

Revelation 12:12: “Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short.”

Revelation 12:17: “Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”

Revelation 13:7: “It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.”

Satan’s Wrath Against God’s End-Time People

1. The Devil’s Wrath (Revelation 12:12)

   • Revelation 12:12 describes the devil’s great wrath because he knows his time is limited. This verse highlights the intensity of his hatred and his desperate efforts to cause as much harm as possible before his final judgment.

2. Attack on the Woman and Her Offspring (Revelation 12:17)

   • The dragon, symbolizing Satan, is angry with the woman who represents God’s church, and especially with her offspring. These offspring are described as those who keep God’s commandments and hold fast their testimony about Jesus. His wrath is directed specifically at those who remain faithful to God and follow His commandments.

3. War Against the Saints (Revelation 13:7)

   • Revelation 13:7 describes how Satan, through his allies—the beast from the sea and the beast from the earth—is given power to wage war against the saints. These saints are God’s end-time people who remain faithful to Him.

Why Is the Devil So Angry with God’s End-Time People?

1. Loyalty to God’s Commandments

   • God’s end-time people keep His commandments. This stands in direct opposition to Satan’s goal of undermining God’s law and authority. Their loyalty is a living testament to God’s power and justice, provoking Satan.

2. Testimony of Jesus

   • They hold fast to the testimony of Jesus, meaning they believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and proclaim His gospel. This poses a direct threat to Satan’s kingdom, as the testimony of Jesus has the power to bring people out of darkness into light.

3. End-Time Conflict

   • Satan knows his time is limited. This realization escalates his efforts to thwart God’s plan and deceive and destroy as many people as possible. His increasing wrath and aggression against God’s end-time people are expressions of his desperate final attempts.

4. Cosmic Conflict

   • The entire context of Revelation 12 and 13 describes a cosmic conflict between good and evil. Satan’s wrath is a crucial part of this conflict as he battles against everything God has created and sanctified.

Conclusion

The relationship between Satan’s wrath and God’s end-time people reveals the intense spiritual battle that will take place in the last days. God’s people, who keep His commandments and hold fast the testimony of Jesus, are the focus of Satan’s wrath because they embody God’s principles and character in a world increasingly permeated by evil. Their faithfulness and testimony starkly contradict Satan’s rebellion and destruction, intensifying his hatred and attacks.

Read Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15 and 14:7, 9-11. (See also Revelation 15:4; 16:2; 19:20; 20:4; 22:9) What central theme emerges in all these verses?

Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15 and 14:7, 9-11: Central Theme of Worship

Revelation 13:4: “People worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, ‘Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?’”

Revelation 13:8: “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.”

Revelation 13:12: “It exercised all the authority of the first beast on its behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed.”

Revelation 13:15: “The second beast was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed.”

Revelation 14:7: “He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.’”

Revelation 14:9-11: “A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: ‘If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.’”

Additional Relevant Verses:

Revelation 15:4: “Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.”

Revelation 16:2: “The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the land, and ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image.”

Revelation 19:20: “But the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed the signs on its behalf. With these signs he had deluded those who had received the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”

Revelation 20:4: “I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

Revelation 22:9: “But he said to me, ‘Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!’”

Central Theme: True and False Worship

The central theme highlighted in all these verses is worship. People either worship the Creator or they worship the beast and its image. There is a clear contrast between true worship of God, the Creator, and false worship of the beast, inspired by the dragon (Satan).

Contrast and Conflict:

• True Worship: True worship is directed to God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Revelation 14:7). This worship is practiced by those who keep God’s commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17; 14:12).

• False Worship: False worship is directed to the beast and its image (Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15). This worship is practiced by those whose names are not written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 13:8). The beast and its image symbolize earthly powers and false religious systems that attempt to divert worship from God to themselves.

Historical Context and Prophecy:

• Daniel 7 and Revelation 13: Comparing with Daniel 7, the beast from the earth in Revelation 13 is the same as the little horn that tries to change God’s law (Daniel 7:25). The attempt to shift the day of worship from Saturday to Sunday is seen as an effort to undermine divine authority.

• End-Time Conflict: The final conflict revolves around true and false worship. Revelation identifies the faithful as those who keep God’s commandments, including the Sabbath (Revelation 12:17; 14:12). Those who worship the beast and its image and accept the mark of the beast will face God’s judgment (Revelation 14:9-11).

Conclusion

The dispute between Christ and Satan began in heaven and revolves around worship. Satan covets the worship that belongs only to God and seeks to obtain this worship through the actions of the beast from the earth. The Sabbath plays a central role in this conflict as a sign of true worship of the Creator. Revelation calls believers to stand faithfully with God, keep His commandments, and worship Him alone.

Connection with Our Daily Life and Faith: The Sabbath and the Law

The Sabbath and the Law of God are deeply intertwined with our daily life and faith. They form the foundation of our understanding of God’s purposes for us as His creations. Here are some central thoughts that highlight the connection to daily life and faith:

1. Remembrance of Creation:

   • The Sabbath reminds us weekly that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. This strengthens our awareness of divine creation and our place within it.

2. Rest and Renewal:

   • In the hectic pace of daily life, the Sabbath offers a weekly day of rest, allowing us to be physically and spiritually renewed. It is a time to detach from daily work and focus on our relationship with God.

3. Sanctification of the Sabbath:

   • By observing the Sabbath, we follow a central commandment of God. This strengthens our discipline in faith and demonstrates our loyalty to God’s instructions.

4. Symbol of Faithfulness:

   • The Sabbath is a sign of our faithfulness to God. In a world that often has different values and priorities, the Sabbath reminds us to follow God’s commandments and give Him the highest honor.

Central Thoughts on the End-Time Conflict: Faithfulness to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast

Satan’s Wrath Against God’s End-Time People:

• Revelation 12:12: Satan’s great wrath stems from knowing his time is limited. He desperately tries to cause as much harm as possible.

• Revelation 12:17: The dragon is especially angry with the descendants of the woman who keep God’s commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus.

• Revelation 13:7: Satan, through his allies, wages war against the saints, God’s end-time people who stand faithful to God.

The Devil’s Wrath:

• Faithfulness to God’s Commandments: The end-time people keep God’s commandments, counteracting Satan’s goal to undermine God’s law.

• Testimony of Jesus: Faith in Jesus Christ and proclaiming His gospel threaten Satan’s kingdom.

• End-Time Conflict: The limited time drives Satan to escalate his efforts to thwart God’s plan.

• Cosmic Conflict: Satan’s wrath is part of the great conflict between good and evil.

Central Theme of Worship:

• True Worship: True worship is directed towards God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Revelation 14:7).

• False Worship: False worship is directed towards the beast and its image (Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15).

Conclusion: Key Thought of the Day

“The Sabbath is a weekly sign of our faithfulness to God, reminding us that we were created to live in His rest and worship.”

This thought underscores the deep connection between the Sabbath, God’s law, and our daily faith life, encouraging us to remain faithful amidst the end-time conflict.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-4-the-mark-of-the-beast/

9.3 The Sabbath and the Law
The Sabbath: Connection of Creation and God’s Law

Read Revelation 14:6–7; 4:11; Genesis 2:1–3, and Exodus 20:8–11. What relationship exists between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law?

The connection between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law is fundamental to our faith and understanding of God’s intentions for us as his creatures. The creation story in Genesis teaches us that God created the world and everything in it with a specific purpose and boundless love. The Sabbath, the seventh day of the week, reminds us that after six days of creation, God rested and gave us a day of rest and worship.

In the Ten Commandments, especially in the verses of Exodus 20:8-11, God reaffirms the holiness of the Sabbath and its significance as a day of rest and remembrance of his creation. Thus, the Sabbath is not only a day of rest but also a symbol of our relationship with God as Creator and Redeemer.

Revelation, particularly in verses 14:6–7, reminds us that the Sabbath plays a role in God’s end-time plan and urges us to rest in his love and care on this day. Thus, there is a close relationship between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law, calling us to acknowledge God’s creation, honor him as our Creator and Redeemer, and sanctify his Sabbath as a day of rest and worship.

Most Seventh-day Adventists have been confronted with the accusation of legalism, usually in connection with Sabbath observance. Discuss the Sabbath as a symbol of redemption and righteousness through faith. Why might the observance of God’s command to rest lead people to think we are trying to earn our way to heaven?

The accusations of legalism against Seventh-day Adventists, especially in connection with the Sabbath, may be based on misunderstandings about the meaning of the Sabbath and salvation by faith.

Firstly, it’s important to emphasize that Sabbath observance for Adventists is not viewed as a means of salvation. Rather, they consider the Sabbath as a gift from God designed to deepen the relationship between humanity and its Creator. Observing the Sabbath is an expression of gratitude for God’s creation and redemption, as well as a sign of trust in God’s care and love.

The Sabbath is also a symbol of redemption through faith, as it recalls the rest offered in the Gospel. According to Christian doctrine, salvation comes not through works but through faith in Jesus Christ. The Sabbath calls for resting from our works and relying on God’s grace and forgiveness.

However, why might people still think that Adventists are trying to earn their way to heaven? One reason could be that consistent Sabbath observance and adherence to other commandments could be interpreted as an outward expression of piety aimed at gaining divine favor. This interpretation, however, misunderstands the deeper spiritual principles and emphasizes outward form over the inner attitude of the heart.

Another reason could be that some people may perceive the Sabbath commandment as an additional burden they must bear to be considered pious or righteous. This can lead to the misunderstanding that Adventists are trying to earn heaven by observing the Sabbath, instead of relying solely on God’s grace.

Overall, it’s important to clarify the misunderstanding about the Sabbath as a means of salvation by faith and to emphasize the Sabbath’s significance as a gift from God and a symbol of rest and trust in his grace.

The relationship between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law is deeply rooted in biblical teaching and has significant implications for the faith and daily lives of believers.

Biblical Foundations

1. Creation (Genesis 2:1-3)

   • God completed creation in six days and rested on the seventh day.

   • This rest was not just physical but a celebration of the perfection and completion of creation.

   • The seventh day was blessed and sanctified as an eternal sign of creation.

2. God’s Law (Exodus 20:8-11)

   • The fourth commandment calls for the sanctification of the Sabbath.

   • It connects creation (because God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day) with the weekly rest day for humans.

   • The Sabbath commandment reminds believers of their origin and their Creator.

3. Sabbath in the End Times (Revelation 14:6-7)

   • The end-time message calls for worship of the Creator.

   • The Sabbath is emphasized as a day of rest and worship to honor God’s work of creation.

Connection to Everyday Life and Faith

1. Rhythm of Rest and Work

   • The Sabbath provides a weekly rhythm that helps people find a balance between work and rest.

   • It is a time for physical and mental renewal, promoting health and well-being.

2. Remembrance of God’s Creation and Redemption

   • The Sabbath serves as a weekly remembrance of God’s creation work and His redemption.

   • It reminds believers that they are not only creatures of God but also redeemed through Jesus Christ.

3. Expression of Faith and Loyalty

   • Observing the Sabbath is an expression of faith and loyalty to God’s commandments.

   • It demonstrates trust in God’s care and acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

4. Community and Worship

   • The Sabbath is a time for community with other believers and for worshiping God.

   • It provides an opportunity to focus together on God’s Word and to grow spiritually.

Clarification of Misunderstandings

Accusation of Legalism

• Adventists do not see the Sabbath as a means of salvation but as a gift from God.

• The Sabbath is a symbol of grace and salvation through faith, not works.

• Resting on the Sabbath demonstrates trust in God’s grace rather than self-effort.

Conclusion

The connection between creation, Sabbath, and God’s law is central to understanding faith and practice in daily life. The Sabbath reminds us of God’s creation and redemption, provides a rhythm of rest and worship, and expresses faith and loyalty to God. By sanctifying the Sabbath, our relationship with God is deepened, and the significance of His creation and redemption work is emphasized.

The Sabbath deeply connects us to God’s creation and His law, reminding us that we are created out of His boundless love and that we find daily renewal in His rest and care.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-foundation-of-gods-government-9-3-the-sabbath-and-the-law/