[NTC - 1 Peter]
Out of a heart inspired with the glorious hope set before the consecrated
saints of the Gospel dispensation flows the impassioned and eloquent
greeting of the Apostle Peter to others of like precious faith. And every
line of his epistle, even the words of greetings, are full of instruction.
R1598:2
Peter, an apostle -- To appreciate the exhortations of the apostles, we
need to become acquainted with their characters; to mark their zeal and
faithfulness. R3149:1
To the strangers -- Jews, Israelites, non-residents of Palestine, not
"lost" Israelites; but the large class of Israelites of all tribes, who
after the Babylonian captivity made their homes amongst the Gentiles.
R2126:4
Elect -- Chosen. E243
Justified, consecrated, spirit-begotten new creatures. HG513:4
Consecrated believers. R2376:5
A "Little Flock." (Luke 12:32) R2872:2
The Church class; drawn, called and begotten of the holy Spirit during
this Gospel age. SM474:1; R1598:5; HG377:4
Applied to the spiritual seed; the Christ, Head and Body. R2854:1
Provided for by grace as a part of the divine program, and every one of
them will be sacrificers. R4398:3,5
Not an arbitrary election, but conditioned upon three things; full
consecration of the believer, implicit obedience to the divine teaching,
and full reliance upon the precious blood of Christ. R1598:2
God elected first that Jesus should taste death for us; second, that the
knowledge of this redemption should be declared; third that those who
believed the proclamation should be called to the divine nature. R134:6,
270:5
This selection started at the time of our Lord Jesus' first advent down to
the time of his second coming. Q788:2
Foreknowledge -- This special class was foreknown from before the
foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4) R4398:5, 4492:4, 4213:3, 3281:1, 2376:5
God's predestination was that he would have a class of beings of the
divine nature, and that each one of that class must have a fixed
character, like that of his Son. R3282:2, 2940:6
"For whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be conformed to the
image of his Son." (Rom. 8:29) E147; F179
No scripture implies divine foreknowledge of the individuals. F179
The selection of this class was always the divine purpose, not a change in
God's program. R4398:2
Sanctification -- Setting apart. E243; R3587:2, 270:5, 134:5
Consecration of the heart or mind. R831:4, 5877:5
Faith in the blood of Christ is the first step. Then through
sanctification of the spirit, of the will, the setting apart of our hearts
from earthly ambitions to heavenly ones. NS734:2
Of the Spirit -- Of the mind, of the will. R3635:5, 475:6
By the influence of the truth. E243; A299
The Spirit, through the Word, brings about our complete sanctification.
R5877:6; E243
Unto obedience -- To God; to the full submission of our will to the will
of the Father in heaven. R3587:2, 3635:5
Sprinkling -- Not upon our houses but upon our hearts. R5641:3, 3960:3
Of the blood -- It does not mean literal blood; shedding of blood
represents loss of life--death. The blood is the life. R1230:3
It is his blood that cleanseth us from all sin. R1230:2
The blood of "Jesus the Mediator of the New Covenant." (Heb. 12:24)
R1336:2*
Justification through faith in the great sacrifice. R3587:2
In compensation for our blemishes, the merit or covering of his
righteousness made available to us by his death and appropriated by our
faith. R3635:5
We must get the benefit of the blood before we would be of the elect.
PT381:2*
And thereby be justified from past sins and be recognized as God's
covenanted people. R2328:6
Of Jesus Christ -- "Thou hast redeemed us to God by thy blood." (Rev.
5:9) E446
The blood of Christ, the giving up of his life, paid our ransom price.
R1336:1*
Grace unto you -- Every line of Peter's epistle, even the words of
greeting, are full of instruction. R1598:2
Father -- A life-giver. R2407:3, 5108:4, 297:1
Jesus is never spoken of as the Father of the Church, nor would it be an
appropriate figure that Jesus should be represented as espoused to his own
children. HG671:3
Of our Lord Jesus -- The Jews wanted to stone Jesus, because he said he
was a son of God, thinking he was making himself a God, or of the God
family. R301:3, 474:1
Jesus is not the Father (life-giver) to the Church; but the channel
through which this life comes to us. R353:3, 5623:5
Begotten -- Greek, ana-gennao, begotten again. R837:1
At the moment the Savior's merit was imputed we were begotten of the
Father by his holy Spirit "to an inheritance incorruptible." R5855:1
Begotten of God. R5742:2, 1227:2, 905:2; Q40:4; SM780:1
To receive the first impulse of life. R905:2
He is the Father of Jesus, and our Father; we are children of the same
Father. CR472:1; R905:2
Of his Word and the spirit of it. E105, 143, 456; R1510:5
As brethren of Christ. E143, 144, 456; R3687:4
"Not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but
of God." (John 1:13) R2129:1
Through the Word of truth. A196
It is not the Son who has begotten us, though it is through the Son that
we receive this divine favor. R5507:5, 5623:5
He who foreknew Jesus foreknew us also by Jesus. R4453:4
You are a new creature and you have a new life. CR454:2
The disciples at first were simply justified men, but after Pentecost they
were new creatures begotten of God. R343:3
Isaac was heir of Abraham and child of promise (by Sarah), so we like
Isaac are children of God, children of the promise or Sarah covenant.
R777:4
Us -- The elect. R4368:1
Who constitute the members of Christ's Body. R377:5, 4368:1
Unto a lively hope -- The ground of this hope is confirmed by the death
of our Lord as the ransom price for our sins, and by his resurrection from
the dead for our justification. R1278:2
Not only for those now justified, but it includes a hope of perfecting
many now ignorant, sinful, unjustified. R1512:1, 377:5
Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. R297:5
Hope of life; a living hope. R1508:3, 297:5; HG143:5
The hopes of the apostles had withered at the time of the crucifixion but
were revived at Jesus' resurrection. A80
Resurrection -- The assurance of our final triumph through him. R1598:2,
297:1
For our justification. R1278:2
To an inheritance -- As heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.
R3938:4
By faithfully walking in the narrow way. R5877:4
Incorruptible -- Greek, aphthartos, that which cannot corrupt, or decay.
R204:1, 2339:3; E398
Immortal, the divine nature; the Bride will be like her Lord--have life on
the divine plane of being. R297:5, 1077:5, 191:3*
We became embryo new
creatures, and were to grow day by day until, in due time, we would be
born as spirit beings, on the divine plane, if faithful unto death.
R5855:1, 191:3*
Undefiled -- Pure. R297:5
Fadeth not away -- Unfading. (Diaglott) R297:5
The crown of life that fadeth not away. (1 Peter 5:4) R1077:4
Reserved in heaven -- Preserved. (Diaglott) R297:5
Not for immediate possession at death, but reserved, to be revealed at the
second advent. R1598:2
Members of the Body of Christ have beyond this life an inheritance
incorruptible. R4072:1
For you -- For the Lord's holy ones. SM334:1
To be members of the Royal Priesthood, heirs of God, joint-heirs with
Jesus Christ their Lord. R2762:6
The power of God -- His exceeding great and precious promises and
providences upon which we lay hold through faith. R1007:3, 4929:4, 3282:1
We are not keeping ourselves. CR444:5
Unto salvation -- This salvation reaches no one until the end of the
Gospel age, except "believers" who grasp it by faith. R2051:1
Ready to be revealed -- Prepared to be disclosed. R1149:5*
Greek, apokalupsis and apokalupto signify revealment, uncovering,
unveiling (as of a thing previously present but hidden). R2979:2
In the last time -- In the last season. Greek, kairos, fixed time.
R1149:5*
In the end of this age, when the Little Flock shall be completed and
glorified. R1007:3
At the second advent of the Lord. "Henceforth, there is laid up for me a
crown, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me at that day."
(2 Tim. 4:8) R1598:2, 1881:6
Now, in the last dispensation that the world will ever see. HG140:3
Wherein -- In which hope. F664
Greatly rejoice -- The joys of faith. R1598:2
For a season -- For a little while; it being necessary. R1149:5*
In heaviness -- When we are in difficulty, we are to look up in
confidence and trust to the Lord. R5403:2
Our physical, mental and moral weaknesses at times assert themselves so
strongly that we cannot as new creatures exult in tribulation. SM618:1
Manifold temptations -- Testings; provings; trials. R5499:6, 5912:3,
5403:2, 2005:3, 1149:5*
Since trials are needful for our perfecting in holiness, the Father will
not hinder us from having temptations, even though he himself tempteth no
man. (James 1:13) R2005:3
These are evidences of our acceptance with the Lord and that he is dealing
wish us as sons, and that he is polishing us as jewels for the Kingdom.
HG374:5
That the trial -- Proof. (Diaglott) R297:5, 1149:5*
Every trial, every persecution, every difficulty of life, permitted to
come upon those who made the covenant of sacrifice with the Lord, is
intended to prove them. R2258:3
The endurance of present afflictions are causes for thanksgiving, because
their discipline is necessary to prepare us for the glorious inheritance
of the saints. R1598:2, 569:4
The trial of the Church's faith, is a very important matter. R4004:4
The present Gospel age is the Church's judgment day. R569:4
The true child of God will find himself severely tried. R5114:3
Whenever we pass through a fiery trial and still retain our faith and
confidence in God, then our characters are more pleasing to God, who
subjects us to discipline for this very purpose. R5114:6
"The sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the
glory which shall be revealed in us." (Rom. 8:18) R569:4
Our testing is not to see whether we are perfect according to the flesh.
God knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. Psa. 103:14. R5115:1
None will be admitted to membership in the Body of Christ who has not been
tested and proved by the Lord. R5115:1, 1944:3, 4004:4
Testings are marks of God's love for us. R5459:3, 5116:3
They are supervised by our Lord Jesus Christ himself. R5115:1
Our testing is not as respects the flesh. R4004:4
"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial that is to try
you." (1 Peter 4:12) "He is like a refiner's fire." (Mal. 3:2) "Many shall
be purified and made white and tried." (Dan. 12:10) R1823:1
Of your faith -- Not only of your intellectual recognition of divine
truth, but also of your heart reliance upon God. R1822:6, 5114:3
It is your faith that is on trial now. In the calmer days you were quietly
laying the foundation of a knowledge of the truth, now you are in the
furnace to be proved: summon all your courage, fortify your patience;
nerve yourself to endurance, hold fast to your hope. R1823:4, 5115:5;
CR111:5
Our Father gives us numerous trials to test the strength of our faith; it
is not left to chance. R5115:5,1
Our Christian experience is for the purpose of faith development. R5115:5
If we have not the faith to stand the trials, then we are not of the kind
whom God is at the present time looking for. R5116:2
The faith of the Church will be of a higher character than is that of
angels or of the world restored. R5116:5
Being -- Is. R5403:2
More precious -- A developed and perfect faith. R5115:1
Much more carefully done. NS446:5
Gold that perisheth -- The value of which will perish when, with the new
order of things, it will be as easy to have gold as to have clay or iron.
R4004:4; NS446:6
Gold is a rare metal and has a special value; therefore the Apostle
compares it to the faith of the Little Flock. R5114:6; NS446:6
Tried with fire -- Tests of fiery ordeals. R5114:6
You are in the furnace to be proved, severely tried. R1823:4, 1822:6
Tested thoroughly; the Lord develops us through suffering. R5115:1, 5116:3
God is subjecting our faith to a great heat in order to separate the dross
so that our characters may grow more Christ-like. R5116:2, 5114:6
We can rejoice in the midst of severe trials that cause pain and tears.
R5912:3
A faith which has stood the tests of fiery ordeal and has come off
victorious is very precious in our Father's sight. R5114:6
Willing, not only to trust God when things are favorable, but to trust in
his providences when we cannot see the outcome. R5115:2
Might be found unto -- Or result in. R1007:4, 297:5
At the appearing -- Greek, apokalupsis, uncovering, revealment. R2979:4
Revelation. (Diaglott) R297:5, 1149:5*
In the beginning of the Millennial age. R1106:1
The Church of the first-born will be admitted to full membership in the
Church triumphant. R1893:4
Early in the morning of the Millennial day, the overcoming Church will be
delivered. (Psa. 46:5 Margin) R2064:5*
Having not seen -- We have never seen God or Christ with our physical
eyes, yet we love them above all else. R5907:5
All along the journey, like Rebecca, the Church has been on the lookout
for him. R1387:6
Yet -- On whom. R1149:5*
Receiving -- Greek, komizo, to bring; hence to receive with the added
sense of bringing along with. R1149:5*
Even the salvation -- We are not to see Christ until our salvation, when
we shall be like him and see him as he is; and not until then will faith
end, and we no longer need signs, not even the fig tree, because we watch
by faith. R127:6*
Soundness. R1149:5*
Souls -- Beings. R1149:5*
The Church is receiving the salvation of their souls. R2767:1
Of -- Concerning. R1149:5*
Which salvation -- Special salvation. R1007:4
Our high calling. R5536:1, 218:1
A prize held out in only one age; only once can it be earnestly contended
for. R352:4*
Our justification enables us, not only to have earthly restitution rights
reckoned to us, but also furnishes the opportunity of sacrificing those
earthly rights and thereby participating in the sufferings of Christ.
R4554:5
The prophets -- They spoke and wrote mechanically and frequently wrote
things they did not understand. R3650:5, 4961:6, 4197:5, 2053:5, 1418:6,
598:3
The prophets were inspired to write more specially for the benefit of
those who live now, than for their own benefit. R517:2
David's thought in writing the Psalms may have been merely their use in
song; but the Lord's object was to give prophecy to assist his people of a
later period. (1 Pet. 1:10-12) R2345:4
The understanding was not then due. OV407:4
Inquired and searched -- Diligently to know what and what manner of time
(whether literal or symbolic) the spirit signified. R1418:6
Sought out and investigated. R1149:5*
All the prophets were students of their own and of each other's
predictions and especially of their chronological predictions. R481:2
Of the grace -- Favor; blessing; knowledge of God's plans. A26, 84;
R1007:4, 643:5, 435:4, 218:2
The opportunity for sacrifice is a favor, because of the great reward and
honor promised to Jesus, which we may share by sharing in his sacrifice.
R643:6
Unto you -- The Gospel Church. R218:2
Searching what -- Things. R352:3*
For they were closed to understanding previously. R3130:3
What manner of time -- Whether literal or symbolic. B89; C107; E178;
R1418:6, 598:3
Or what seasons. R1149:5*
The Spirit -- The holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus had not
yet suffered and had not yet been glorified. (John 7:39) R3588:5
Which was -- Speaking. R218:1
Did signify -- Was pointing out. R1149:5*
When it testified -- What most of the Jews overlooked at the time of the
first advent. A79
Beforehand -- As in the Tabernacle Shadows. T11
The prophets spoke of the sufferings as all future. R218:2, 691:2
God himself more than once in an audible voice bore witness to his Son in
connection with his work. R691:2
To all who see how the Church has fellowship with the "Head," both in
sufferings and glory, this statement is full of meaning. R218:2
Sufferings of Christ -- Began with the baptism of Christ and still
continues. From this standpoint the first advent of Christ has been a
gradual one, covering a period of nearly nineteen centuries. R3192:6,
5341:3, 4710:5
"No cross, no crown." "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him." (2Tim. 2:12) R2557:5, 3683:3, 1782:6, 157:2
Head and Body. R5341:3, 4964:6, 2557:5, 1016:4, 263:2; SM361:1
The sufferings have not yet been completed, and hence the glory has not
come. SM75:1
Means activity in Christ's service. R1782:6
"Fill up that which is behind of the sufferings of Christ." (Col. 1:24)
R3683:3, 157:2
"For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also
aboundeth by Christ." (2 Cor. 1:5) R2000:3
"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far
more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." (2 Cor. 4:17) "Ye are
partakers of Christ's sufferings, that, when his glory shall be revealed,
ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." (1 Pet. 4:13) R1782:6
"The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with
the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Rom. 8:18) R4780:6
"We suffer with him that we may be also glorified together." (Rom. 8:17)
R2000:3, 1724:1, 263:2
Israel ignored the prophecies of sufferings and saw only the glory. R669:3
And the glory -- Of power or office. A227
We must see something of "the glory that shall follow," in order to
realize the necessity of the vicissitudes of the present trial time.
R5147:6
That should follow -- As soon as the sufferings of the Body are
completed. R3192:6, 4780:6, 2000:3, 644:4, 157:2; SM361:1
The great work of filling the world ocean deep with the knowledge of the
Lord, the restitution of all things. R2000:3, 1418:6
Unto whom -- The prophets. R435:5
They had their measure of light, and because faithful to it, great will be
their advantage in the resurrection. R946:1
They were used as God's mouthpieces simply, and laid up treasures of
wisdom and knowledge which are made manifest during the Gospel age, by the
holy Spirit, as meat in due season, for the Church. R598:3
It was revealed -- God used them to express his mind; though generally
they did not understand the import of the words they used. R370:5
By the angel, no revelations were made to them by the Spirit. R218:2
In the past the Spirit's operation was chiefly mechanical; to us it is
explanatory and sympathetic. E178
Prophecy can only be fully understood when fulfilled, and a truth is not
fully revealed until it is understood. R66:3*
The Lord no longer sends his messages after this manner. R3424:1
The Saviour and his apostles often speak of these writings as the Word of
God; recognizing, and directly asserting, their divine authority and
inspiration. R1622:3
Not unto themselves -- As claimed by the Higher Critics. R1690:5
Nor to the unregenerate world. R3646:3
In many instances those who uttered the prophecies and those who heard
them comprehended them not. R3455:2
They were the pen and tongue which the Lord used in preparing statements
to be understood by his people of the Gospel age. NS663:4
They were used as God's mouthpieces simply. R598:3
They sought the significance of their own utterances. R2484:6
God did not commit all these sacred things to their understanding.
R349:6*, 182:2
The glorious inheritance of the saints of the Gospel age was never made
known in former ages, not even to the prophets nor to angels. R1598:4
"I heard but I understood not." (Dan. 12:8) "They say of me, doth he not
speak parables?" (Ezek. 20:49) B23; R3646:3, 1148:3, 349:6
Only those who recognize that there is a Spiritual Israel, antitypical,
are able to appreciate many of the promises of the Old Testament. R4287:3
Holy men spoke things that were not their own thoughts, but which
encouraged themselves and those all about them. R2521:2, 1491:1
But unto us -- The Gospel Church. B22, 203; R3614:3, 2542:3, 2371:2,
946:1, 598:3
The Body of Christ. R1524:5
Revealed by degrees for the Christian Church, as the age advanced towards
its termination. R946:1, 368:3
A period of time embracing the entire Gospel age. R517:3
All that was written aforetime by Moses and the prophets, was designed
specially for us who are in Christ, for the instruction and comfort of the
children of God. R3646:3
Spiritual Israel is blessed by the meaning of those types and shadows of
the past and by an understanding of the mystery of the divine plan
presented in those types and prophecies. NS361:5
"Upon whom the ends of the world (ages) are come." (1 Cor. 10:11) R3650:5
They did minister -- The truth which God was sowing, through their
instrumentality, was not then due, but was being sown for the righteous
some centuries down the stream of time. R946:1
Reported -- Declared. R1149:5*
Light due in their day. R957:2
By them -- The apostles. F232; R1524:5
The apostles preached not with man's wisdom but with the wisdom from
above. Their human weaknesses were not permitted to mar their work or
usefulness as apostles. F224; R1526:3
Have preached -- Delivered. R1149:5*
The gospel -- Good news. R218:2
Message. R1149:5*
After Jesus' ascension it was revealed through his apostles. R442:5
It was the very same gospel of life and immortality brought to light by
the Lord himself. R1524:5; E232
Holy Ghost -- Holy Spirit. R1524:5, 1419:3, 1149:5*
It caused the prophets of old to speak and write the divine Word without
comprehending the meaning of their own utterances in full, and sometimes
not even in part. R2070:3
Every time the Apostle Paul referred to his apostleship he announced
himself one of those specially commissioned "by the holy Spirit sent down
from heaven" to preach and to establish the Gospel. R1419:3
To be your guide in understanding the preaching. R218:2
Down from heaven -- Not with man's wisdom but the wisdom from above.
R1526:3
Which things -- The clean and beautiful principles of divine truth given
to the saints of this age. C123
Respecting the times and seasons, the sufferings of Messiah and the glory
that would follow. Q605:2
This new gift (immortality) was never known of before this Gospel age.
R252:3
The angels -- The holy angels, having witnessed the failure of angelic
efforts for man's recovery in the days before the flood. R1678:5
They are earnest students of the plan for human salvation. R1478:6
The angelic hosts are watching and learning lessons in respect to all this
shepherding of the flock through the narrow way. R4280:2
As we toil upward on the narrow way, angels look on amazed at the grandeur
of the plan which is able not only to rescue a fallen race from death but
to display "the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us
through Christ Jesus." (Eph. 2:7) R143:4, 281:5
An "innumerable company of angels" still watch our progress and gladly
become "ministering spirits" who will soon be rulers. R281:6
The angels are not infinite in knowledge. R41:4*
Gladly are they ready for any service. R1681:3
They are also learning the immensity of God's love, wisdom and power; the
exceeding beauty of holiness in contrast with sin and the lesson of
complete submission to the will of our Father. R254:1
Throughout the six thousand years during which God has permitted evil, the
angels have been looking on. The introduction of evil was a great test to
them at first. OV394:2; NS438:3
Desire to look into -- Are deeply interested in because in the divine
plan they see God's wisdom, justice, love and power shown as never before.
E412
Who diligently searched and sought to discover the deep significance of
the prophecies of these things. R1598:5
Into the plan which God has since been working out, and ever ready to do
his bidding in our service. R1678:5; NS813:1
No work is more noble or ennobling than the reverent study of the revealed
purposes of God. A13
To be devoid of desires to understand the prophecies indicates lack of
interest in God's plans. B17
The angels were not permitted to. Meanwhile God gave laws, and caused
types and shadows of his plan to be enacted. R470:3
Wherefore -- Refers us to the glorious hope of our high calling, and of
the necessarily severe measures required to fit us for our exalted
inheritance. R3149:1
Gird up the loins -- Cast aside the weights of unnecessary worldly
cares, redouble your diligence, increase your zeal, renew your
determination. R3149:3
Our chief object in the present life is to fight a good fight against self
and against sin. R2725:6
We have determined upon a course of activity;
rest and ease are put aside, we are engaging in an important work which
requires all the strength we possess. R4667:6; Q448:5
In olden times, girdles were constantly worn for two purposes; 1) to keep
the garments so that they would not be disordered in appearance, 2) for
effect upon the loins during active labor. R4667:5; Q448:2
Do not become entangled in worldly matters. R5824:4, 2725:6
Of your mind -- Our minds need to be strengthened; we need to be
fortified against all disposition to lassitude. R4667:5; Q448:4
Be sober -- Being vigilant. (Diaglott) R353:5*, 1149:5*
Do not allow yourself, under the spur of excitement, to exhaust all your
spiritual vitality in a very short time, then to suffer a relapse into
coldness or discouragement. Prepare for a long and determined effort.
R3149:3
We are to endeavor to realize the import of the exceeding great and
precious promises and to gather from them their invigorating inspiration.
R3149:3
Avail ourselves of such helps of pastors and teachers and their literary
productions, which prove harmonious with the Scriptures. R3149:3
The Apostle is not referring to the use of intoxicating liquors; there is
a spiritual intoxication, the spirit of error; all the world are
intoxicated with this spirit. R5632:6, 5633:2
We should be of serious mind, thoughtful, not given to frivolity or
levity, but earnestly watching our thoughts, our words, our doings, that
we may in all things bring honor to our King whose name we bear. R5633:1,
1938:1
Keep yourself in the love of God and in the service of God, the truth and
the brethren. R5824:4
The Church is now being tested for life or death eternal. This thought
should make us sober. SM179:1
And hope to the end -- Do you hope perfectly. (Diaglott) R353:5*, 1149:5*
Let us not be discouraged or overcome in any way. R3149:5
For the grace -- The salvation of our own resurrection. R4175:6; HG228:2
Favor. R3149:5
Our salvation completed. F161; R5920:4; CR131:5
The Christian will not expect his salvation except in connection with the
second coming of our Lord Jesus and the establishment of his Kingdom.
R3180:5
The salvation of the elect class will be the very first item connected
with the Lord's second advent. NS425:4
To be brought unto you -- At the time specified, not previously. F664;
R2725:6
At the revelation -- Greek, apokalupsis, uncovering, unveiling. R2979:3
We are not to hope for blessing this side of the manifestation of God's
Kingdom. R2725:6; F664
At Christ's second coming; at the establishment of his Kingdom. CR22:4;
NS499:6
Of Jesus Christ -- When he comes to reign in power and great glory, is
the Church's exaltation with him, to sit with him in his throne. R3149:5,
2073:5*
At his second advent. R2051:2, 3149:5, 2932:6
As obedient children -- Who have not cast away their confidence. R3149:5
The Apostle is not addressing the world, but those who have become
children of God. R5481:3
They have been made to sit down to meat, and the Master himself has come
forth and served them. R3149:5
If we are obedient children, we shall get the proper tests, the proper
chiseling and polishing, everything that will make us "meet for the
inheritance of the saints in light." (Col. 1:12) R5482:1
Not fashioning yourselves -- Not the fashioning of our will, but the
transforming of our minds into the mind of the Lord. "Be ye transformed by
the renewing of your mind." (Rom. 12:2) R5482:2-4
Seeing things from God's standpoint, we change our ideas as to what we
shall eat, and what we shall drink. R5482:3
That we may be properly exercised by all the trials which God has purposed
for us. R5482:2
According to the divine instructions. R3150:1
Do not conform yourselves. (Diaglott) R353:5*
Former lusts -- Desires and ambitions, which we had. R3149:6
But as he -- "Walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his Kingdom
and glory." (1 Thes. 2:12) "Ye should show forth the praises of him
who hath called you out of darkness." (1 Pet. 2:9) F91
Is holy -- Perfect; that which is whole, that which is complete, lacking
nothing. CR451:2; R5856:3
So be ye holy -- Let your will be perfect; nothing less is acceptable to
him. CR455:4; R5482:5
God is speaking to the new creature, the Gospel Church. CR453:2; R1351:4*
Absolute holiness is the standard which our minds can gladly and fully
endorse and live up to, but to which we can never attain actually in our
fallen nature. F136; R5127:4
Holiness is the standard of perfection. R5482:5
This will be the standard before all of the world in the thousand years.
CR452:6
In the present life the new creature is a representative of God and his
righteousness and should seek to walk in accord therewith. F92
Put away all anger, malice, envy, hatred and strife and put on instead the
fruits and graces of the Lord's holy Spirit--meekness, gentleness,
patience, long-suffering, brotherly kindness, love. SM336:1
Conversation -- In all your conduct. (Diaglott) R13:2, 353:5*
Behavior. R5405:4
Conversation has a broad meaning. It relates to all our conduct with
respect to others. Our thoughts words and deeds. 5482:6, 3149:6
Be ye holy -- We who are called to be partakers of his own nature and
glory. R3149:6
Any instrument that God would use and recognize must be holy. SM578:1
He is the pattern, we are to copy that pattern as much as possible in our
daily lives, especially in our wills, our minds. R4662:6
We were by nature unholy; hence his arrangement for our justification, our
being made right, whole. R5856:3
A continual effort to bring our conduct, thoughts and intents of the heart
into subjection to the divine will; but we can never attain to it actually
and physically so long as we are subject to the frailties of our fallen
natures. R5127:4
Strive after actual soundness and perfection. R3280:2
The world in general will be made right during the Millennium. R5856:3;
SM578:2
For -- Because. (Diaglott) R353:5*
I -- The Lord. R3149:6, 5127:4
Am holy -- The very standard and pattern of righteousness. R1800:2
Call on the Father -- Not on the Son. R2425:6*
The Judge of all. F400
Judgment; of the Father, and by the Son. R2426:5
In fear -- Not in levity, frivolity, sensuality, money-grabbing,
carelessness or slothfulness, but in earnest watchfulness of every word
and act to please the Lord. R2289:6
Perfect love casts out slavish but not reverential fear. R2986:6
Ye -- The Church. R4633:2, 4536:2
The world is not redeemed as yet. Jesus' merit has not yet been
appropriated for all men. R4633:2
Were not redeemed -- Relates not so much to our ultimate deliverance
from death, as to our present loosing from an evil course, vain
conversation, foolish talking, and iniquity in general; this liberty was
purchased for us by the blood of Christ. E432
Purchased. R965:2
Bought. R4991:4, 4536:2, 1878:3, 1086:3
Not with the example, but with the blood of Christ. R1810:4*, 1321:6
With corruptible things -- We are redeemed with the incorruptible life
of Christ; the life which was not under penalty, not forfeited, not
condemned but approved. HG482:3
As silver and gold -- "Ye have sold yourselves for naught, and ye shall
be redeemed without money." (Isa. 52:3) E438
The traditions handed down from our forefathers really make void,
meaningless, ungracious, the message of God's wisdom and love. OV260:2;
E438
Vain -- Fruitless. E258
Conversation -- Life. E258
The precious blood -- The death; sacrificed life. E385; R4147:2, 1293:2,
1230:3, 211:5*, 122:2
Illustrated by the blood of the bullock sprinkled on the Mercy Seat. T59
The New Covenant of divine mercy and favor toward whosoever will is sealed
by the blood of Christ, his death. NS289:2
It does not mean literal blood. R1230:3
Our justification, without Christ's death as our ransom price, would have
been legally impossible. R1247:1, 1031:2
The merit of his sacrifice of earthly rights. R4528:2, 1350:2*
The merit of Christ will not be applied to seal the New Covenant until the
last member of the Great Company shall have suffered the complete
destruction of the flesh. R4601:6
It is the merit of our Lord's sacrifice that cleanses or purifies us from
sin. E445
It signifies that the valuable sacrifice of Jesus' life was made on our
behalf. NS623:1
All that the word ransom means, giving of life in exchange for life. Q563:6
Of Christ -- Jesus' merit is all-sufficient for the whole world, but he
has not yet appropriated it for all men. R4633:2, 2855:5, 1316:2, 1230:2,
1299:1
The only true foundation of the Christian's hope; redemption through the
precious blood. R5822:1
Neither the blotting out of sins nor even their covering, is possible,
except as the sinner shall first of all accept of Jesus through faith.
R2855:6
His blood became the basis for the forgiveness of our sins, made peace for
us, opened up the way to reconciliation, and transferred us from the
domain of sentenced culprits, back to sonship in the family of God. R120:3
In the 43 times that the blood of Christ is mentioned in the Bible, not
once is it hinted that it represented the slaying of his carnal nature,
nor that he had about him anything evil that required to be destroyed.
R1230:2
This sacrifice was not made in the change of nature from spiritual to
human, but was made after he had become a man; "a body hast thou prepared
for me." (Heb. 10:5) R573:3
"Ye (the Church) are bought with a price." (1 Cor. 6:20, 7:23) Not at
Calvary but at his ascension when "He appeared in the presence of God for
us." (Heb. 9:24) R4633:2, 1350:2*, 1247:1, 1086:3, 876:2, 684:2, 642:2,
464:4, 392:3, 387:2, 381:2
"Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." (1 Tim.
2:6) R4372:1, 5152:1, 1086:3, 876:2
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of
sins." (Col. 1:14) R866:4, 1810:4*, 1298:6*
"Who through the eternal spirit offered himself without spot to God."
(Heb. 9:14) E450; R1298:6
"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust,
that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but
quickened by (in) the spirit." (1 Peter 3:18) R652:6
"And he is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also
for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2:2) R866:4, 876:2, 1810:4*
That will restore mankind. R866:4
As of a lamb -- As typed by the shedding of the blood of the Passover
lamb throughout the Jewish age. R1336:3*, 1312:6
"The Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29)
A103; R788:3, 685:4, 573:3
Without blemish -- This must be true of every sacrifice upon the Lord's
altar, as the Law clearly taught and the types showed. R4398:3
Every member of our race was spotted and blemished by inherited sin and
imperfection, hence the necessity for the divine provision of
justification by faith. R4398:3
Foreordained -- Foreknown, forearranged. R2479:2
Before the foundation -- Love has been active preparing for the
redemption ever since sin entered. T126
Not "from the foundation," as in the case of the sheep class of the
Millennial age. (Matt. 25:34) R2607:1; A305
The endless, heavenly, spiritual Kingdom was prepared long before the
earth was founded, its inception being in Christ. R2607:1, 5057:3, 4398:5,
2690:1, 2122:4
God that raised him -- It was his soul that died, he was wholly dead,
and could have no power whatever to resuscitate himself. R2795:2
No agency of man, nor even the angel Gabriel, was permitted in the work of
our Lord's resurrection: no agencies great or small were employed. God
raised Jesus, and will raise the Church. R1005:4
Up from the dead -- From "hades" on the third day. CR277:5
Have purified -- A thorough cleansing of the heart, the mind, the will,
the actuating intentions, or motives. R4766:2
When we presented ourselves in spirit and in truth, through faith, our
sins were forgiven; we were accepted as new creatures and were started in
a new career. R4766:3
Lived more purely. R276:6
Your souls -- Your beings; nor merely the physical being. R205:3,
4766:2, 276:6
Obeying the truth -- We receive a knowledge of the truth, of God's will;
then it is for us to put it into practice, to weave it into our thoughts
and words and doings, by feeding constantly on the Word. SM704:1; R1802:6*
We do not inherit this God-like quality of love. It is only in obedience
to the truth that we acquired this love, being purified thereby from the
downward tendencies of our fallen nature. R1670:2
It is not necessary to know all truth; but necessary for us to know the
great truth--that God condemned sin, and that the whole world of mankind
came under this condemnation, and that God has provided a particular way
of escape by being justified by faith in Christ and taking up the cross
and following in his footsteps. R4766:2
Through the Spirit -- The spirit of the truth. R2518:1
Unto -- To the extent of. R2807:5
Unfeigned -- Genuine; without pretense; not merely professed. R4766:3,
2518:4, 1670:3
Love -- Greek, phileo, duty love. R2807:5
"He laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the
brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2453:4, 4766:5
Our love for the brethren might, at first, be merely obedience in
following this command; but as we follow on, our love increases, our
sympathy expands. We must not neglect this. R4766:6, 5757:3
The third quarter mark in our race course. NS417:3
See that ye -- Go on to. R2807:5
Love -- Greek, agape, have disinterested love for. R2807:5, 4766:5,
1670:3
Love presides and rules in their hearts, always exercising itself in
ministries of kindness and benevolence. R1670:1
Weaker ones are to be cared for and loved, "we ought to bear the
infirmities of the weak." (Rom. 15:1) Not by simply ignoring his fault,
but while kindly urging him to strive against it, still humbly and
patiently submitting to the discomfort it brings. R4767:1
One another -- Love prompted Christian communism. We perceive that some
were poor; and, controlled by the spirit of love, the well-to-do felt that
they would like all the poorer brethren to have just as good as
themselves. R5849:6
If this spirit prevails among the members of the Lord's Body, they will
have a mutual love and care for one another which seeks to encourage and
strengthen all that is good and to discourage all that is unbecoming; and
throws a mantle over a deformity and endeavors to conceal a fault, and
judges the motives of others generously, charitably. R4767:4, 1845:2
Where the brother's flesh is much fallen, we have largely a compassionate
love, rather than a loving admiration. R4984:6
The weaker ones of the household of faith are to be cared for and helped
that they may grow strong in the Lord. R4767:1
"Let us love one another: for love is of God: and every one that loveth is
born of God, and knoweth God." (1 John 4:7) "For ye yourselves are taught
of God to love one another." (1 Thes. 4:9) R32:1*
The final test of character is love, in deed and in truth. R4524:4
We are to love one another--first our Heavenly Father, then our heavenly
Lord Jesus; and finally we should love, and as we have opportunity serve,
the brethren. R5850:6
Purifying of the heart by the truth is both an instantaneous and a gradual
work. R1670:4
Fervently -- Intensely; not cold and indifferent, willing to lay down
our lives for the brethren. R2518:4, 4766:5
We should recognize that they, like ourselves, are new creatures in
Christ; and this should give us great sympathy and a desire to do
everything we can to encourage them, to help them. R4766:3
Verses 22 and 23 are a divine explanation of how the holy Spirit will
manifest itself, and are the qualities to be looked for in the servants of
the Church. R2446:5
Being born again -- Begotten again. R1697:6, 837:1, 192:3; E105
In 1 Peter 1:3 ana-gennao is correctly rendered "begotten again," but in
verse 23 the same word is rendered incorrectly "born again." R837:1
To be genuine, it must be a begetting by the truth, not by error. R1698:1,6
Isaac was the heir of Abraham and child of promise (by Sarah), so we like
Isaac are children of God, children of the promise or Sarah Covenant.
R777:4
Not of corruptible -- The new creature is begotten of incorruptible seed
in the sense that this seed will not become unholy. The Spirit of God
always stays pure, holy, incorruptible. Q509:4
Of incorruptible -- Greek, aphthartos, that which cannot decay; not
liable to corrupt. E398; R2339:3, 204:1
The word incorruptible, when applied to being, existence, is of similar
significance to immortal. R1642:4
The Word of God -- The inspiration and importance of the Word of God are
shown in 1 Pet. 1:10, 11, 23, 25. R2012:5
The text book from which the world will be instructed during the
Millennial age. R1526:2
Which liveth and abideth forever -- Faith must be a reasonable thing,
well founded in that which is fixed, immovable, sure and steadfast, even
in the Word of God which liveth and abideth forever. R2162:1
Flesh -- Flesh and blood uniformly represent human nature. R611:3
Word -- My Master gave his word, that believing, I might have life
through his name (John 20:21); and, that thank God, this is the word by
which the gospel is preached unto you. R803:1
All evil speakings -- Evil speaking is strictly forbidden, as wholly
contrary to God's spirit of love, even if the thing be true. R4803:1
Professed Christians are often the most pronounced scandal mongers. R4803:1
Those who hear slanderers are partakers of their evil deeds. R4803:2
Evil words and deeds represent some wrong condition of head or heart; the
Lord's follower should daily, hourly, keep watch over his thoughts, words,
deeds and underlying motives. R4524:1
The advanced Christian sees that in the Lord's sight hatred is murder,
slander is assassination, and the destruction of a neighbor's good name is
robbery and rapine. Any of these things done in the Church, among the
professed people of God, is doubly evil; the assassination and robbery of
a brother. R2444:6
As newborn babes -- Applied to newly consecrated saints, as babes in
Christ. R562:6, 4968:4, 3621:6, 229:3, 23:5*
We find that repeatedly in the Scriptures the young Christian and the less
developed are likened to babes, to children. R2660:2
The babe cannot be expected to grow up to manhood instantly. R118:5*
A babe in Christ is a member of the Body, as really as the well developed
Christian. R118:2*
Those just beginning the new life. R3621:6
If a babe had done something worthy of stripes, he would be treated
according to his infancy. R5102:5
"Such as have need of milk and not of strong meat." (Heb. 5:12) E238;
R23:5*
Some writings of the Epistles were suitable for babes in Christ, and
others were strong meat, the deeper things of the divine plan. (Heb. 5:13)
R5941:3
Some now living, perhaps a good many, who are consecrated to God and whose
consecration has been accepted, who are not in the light of Present Truth,
are "babes" in Christ, and others the "Great Multitude." R5134:4
Here the figure is of the resurrection life already begun as a babe in
Christ. NS336:3
The divine provision is so wonderful that even babes starved for the milk
of the Word, may quickly appropriate strong and nourishing food and become
clear in the knowledge of God. HG682:6
The sincere milk -- The simple truths, the foundation doctrines; the
first principles of the doctrines of Christ. R3621:6, 5327:1, 4968:4, 563:1
It is all right for beginners. R23:5*
The means by which a newborn babe grows. Eating of strong meat would cause
it to strangle. E240
An occasional cup of milk is good even for grown folks. But grown men need
stronger food. R23:5*
The Lord gives the milk of the word at first, that the new nature may grow
thereby, and become able to digest stronger food and thus develop in
character likeness to our Lord. R4817:6
The holy Spirit, the new creature germ, must grow through nourishment.
R5759:2
Of the word -- God's Word is a great storehouse of food for Christians
in all stages of development. A24
May grow thereby -- So that in due time you will "Be no more children
tossed about with every wind of doctrine." (Eph. 4:14) R3622:1
Become strong; suggesting a process of development. R4817:6, 5102:5
As the babe goes on, he should feed upon the strong meat of God's Word.
R4968:4
The spiritual babe that does not grow will never reach manhood's estate.
He will never be a king and priest. R5327:1, 5088:4
Ye have tasted -- Only those who come with sincere hearts to taste and
see for themselves can ever know. Theirs is the "hidden manna." (Rev.
2:17) R1957:6
Unto a living stone -- Christ, the top-stone in the pyramid, God's
building. R813:1*, 3622:4, 2656:6, 1982:1, 1568:4, 135:1; A83
Disallowed -- Rejected. (Diaglott) R813:1*
But chosen of God -- Elect, seeking to be members of a class which was
predetermined, foreordained of God. R3587:3
Christ is chosen of God. R25:1*
"I will engrave the graving thereof, saith the Lord of hosts." (Zech. 3:9)
R1490:6
Precious -- Honorable. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Ye also -- The sanctuary class, the sanctified. C180; T26
All of God's faithful saints are living stones in the Temple of God,
through which, eventually, all the world shall have access to God. PD45/55
As lively -- Living. E375; A83; R5713:5, 4645:2, 3622:5, 2832:5, 2520:6,
1855:1
Stones -- Greek, lithos, smaller stones than petros or petra. F221, 220
Rough by nature, out of harmony with the chief corner-stone, the top-stone
laid in heaven. E232
Greek, petros, a stone, a piece of a rock: petra, the rock in mass, the
foundation rock. R1760:3, 1525:1
The entire Church, all the consecrated believers. SM461:3; R5713:5,
4645:2, 2737:5, 2656:6
All the members of Christ's Body, built upon the foundation. R1760:3,
1981:6; NS194:4
The New Jerusalem, the Church had twelve foundation stones, built upon the
one foundation rock, Christ. SM463:3
Each of the Lord's faithful disciples. R3375:2
Not composed of literal stones. Not visible to the natural eye. R2832:5
The saints are living stones, being chiseled and polished, preparatory to
the uniting of all these in one grand, glorious Temple of God beyond the
veil. R5713:5, 5504:2, 2832:5
Worldly persons, worldly methods and worldly aid and wisdom are to be
rejected. Only Israelites indeed will be accepted. R2512:5
The living stones constitute the Temple of God, and should be as fully
reverenced as temples made of literal stones. R5187:1
Peter was one of the living stones built by faith upon the rock of truth.
He himself was not the rock. R4645:2; HG736:3
The Lord is the great rock upon which the Church is built, while Peter is
one of the living stones in the glorious Temple built upon that rock.
R1525:1
Peter and the other apostles are presented to us as foundation stones
built upon this great truth, that Christ is the Redeemer, the Savior, the
Messiah. R3789:2, 4116:6
The great work of preparing these living stones for their places in this
building of God is still in progress, although it is almost completed.
R3622:5, 1568:5, 399:4
All these persecutions (of the world, false brethren, Satan) will be
recognized and rejoiced in as the agencies of his providence in chiseling,
shaping and polishing us for the glorious Temple. R5651:1
Are built up -- Under the headship of Christ; through the operation of
the holy Spirit. R2656:6, 4645:2; SM461:3
Shaped, chiseled, polished, by Jesus as the Father's representative. F195;
R3622:5, 1568:5, 292:2
A spiritual -- Greek, pneumatikos, a family or household of a spirit
order or kind. E313
House -- The Temple of God, the Church, the house of God whose
foundation and capstone is Christ. R4645:2, 5504:1, 5250:1, 2656:6,
1760:3, 1484:1
Typified by Solomon's Temple. F73; R5713:5, 2987:2, 2508:2, 2367:5, 292:2
The glory of the Lord is to fill his Temple when its last living stone is
polished and approved and set in place. C180
A house of sons. The real house for which Jesus had zeal. R5250:2
It will be spiritual, unseen by men, each member like unto the glorified
Jesus, far above angels--and God by his holy Spirit will dwell there in
fullest measure. R5504:2
To think of Peter as the only foundation for the Church would be to deny
Christ's teaching and Peter's own statement. SM461:3; HG737:2
The trials and difficulties of life are shaping and fitting the members
for glory, honor and immortality; membership in the Temple. R5713:6
Offer up spiritual -- "Spiritual" is not in old manuscripts. Not spiritual, but
human rights, privileges and life are sacrificed. B208; T22; R3587:3,
3265:5, 1982:1, 441:6
As typical sacrifices were offered, so we may offer up spiritual
sacrifices, holy, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. R600:2
Sacrifices -- Willing service and obedience, praise, and whatever is
done to the glory of God. T120
Represented by the sacrifices offered on the Golden altar in the Holy. T22
The careful and conditional study of God's plan; the imbibing of its
spirit; leading to an enthusiastic zeal for its accomplishment, and to
activity to the extent of ability in its service, at whatever cost or
sacrifice it may require. R3199:3
The true principle of sacrifice seeks not the poorest and leanest part of
our sacrifice to offer before the Lord, but the fat; the freshest hours,
the choicest talents. R548:6
Justice never requires sacrifice. R5005:3
Jesus and his followers take a higher plane than justice, waiving their
own rights, they become sacrificers of their own comforts, preferences,
desires, to the doing of the divine will, to the serving of the brethren
and mankind in general. R5005:3, 3199:2
Previously justified, i.e. reckoned clean and fit through faith in the
ransom are acceptable to God. R819:2, 441:6
Acceptable to God -- Well pleasing. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Nothing imperfect or sinful is acceptable to God in sacrifice. R441:6
Be our sacrifice ever so lame and imperfect, it is reckoned holy and
without blemish, if we presented it to the Father in and through the merit
of our Redeemer. R1133:1
Those who offer incense on the Golden altar acceptable to God come very
close to their Father. TS120
By -- Through. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Wherefore -- Because. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Chief corner stone -- A foundation stone. (Diaglott) R813:1*
The Lord Jesus Christ; capstone of the whole. SM461:2, 463:2; R2656:6,
1981:6, 681:6
The Church of God, are now being shaped, fitted and prepared
for positions in the Temple of God of which the dear Redeemer himself is
the chief cornerstone, the foundation. R3587:3, 1982:1
Very soon the union between Jesus and the Body will be complete, as
expressed by the prophet: "He shall bring forth the headstone thereof with
shoutings, crying; Grace, grace, unto it." (Zech. 4:7) R135:4, 271:4
Elect -- Chosen. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Precious -- Honorable. (Diaglott) R813:1*
That believeth on him -- Who confides in it. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Confounded -- Ashamed. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Unto you -- The household of faith. R3280:1
Which believe -- In Christ as your Redeemer. R1649:3
With the heart man believeth unto salvation; it is a heart matter, not
merely a mental matter. CR150:2
Those who take up their cross and follow Christ are the believers. CR150:2
All the teachings of the Lord's great plan are revealed to this class.
CR155:5
He is precious -- Correspondingly as we know him and trust him. R2833:4
Those who have received the spirit of a sound mind now long to be with him
and now appreciate him as others do not. R3773:2
The more we come into real touch with him by faith and obedience, the more
precious he becomes to us. CR149:3
How precious Christ is depends upon the clearness of our sight. To those
who get the proper view of this gift of God's love "He is altogether
lovely." (Cant. 5:6) NS609:6, 39:1
We do not need to wait until his second coming and until the actual
resurrection. NS534:1
Which the builders -- Of the nominal Church. R813:1*
Disallowed -- Rejected. (Diaglott) R813:1*
Substituting the name of Peter. R813:1*
Head of the corner -- Jesus Christ is the chief cornerstone, the sure
foundation. R1484:1
Christ Jesus is the great cornerstone of this house of sons; the followers
are being shaped and prepared as "living stones." R2520:6
Stone of stumbling -- The Lord is a stumbling stone in the pathway of
many. R5258:1; NS41:5
Israel, the typical house, stumbled in that they did not recognize his
presence among them, and rejected his sacrifice as the basis of
justification. The same stumbling-stone is now in the close of the Gospel
age causing many to stumble. R681:6, 4942:5
Some of the true Israelites were stumbled, not the Gentile nations; so we
believe that today many good Christian people are stumbling over Christ's
presence. R5258:1
Rock -- Christ Jesus. R1522:1
Those who are rooted and grounded in
Christ and built up in him, in his doctrine, his love, and his character,
shall never be moved. He is the sure foundation upon which we build our
superstructure. R1922:5
In ourselves we find no ground of stability upon which to rear our
building of character and faith. R1922:4
Of offence -- To many; until the time of its exaltation. R3622:5
Which stumble -- Because they do not accept the great foundation of
faith--the ransom--they are unworthy to stand. R3622:5, 1568:5
At the word -- Ignoring the Bible doctrine and terms of salvation,
merely holding to morality as the hope of everlasting life. R1690:4
Being disobedient -- Who will not accept its plain and simple teachings
relative to the great foundation of our faith, Christ Jesus, who gave his
life a ransom for many. R3622:5, 1568:5
God lays great stress upon loyal and loving obedience on the part of all
his children. R3622:5, 1568:5
It was only a little matter of disobedience that cost Adam and his
posterity so dearly, and that will bring similar results to all those who,
having once escaped the condemnation of death through faith in Christ the
Redeemer, thereafter prefer to appear in their own righteousness. R3622:5,
1568:5
God does not propose to deliver his Kingdom unto any of the disobedient.
They need the fiery trial of the coming tribulation to bring them into the
proper attitude; and hence must come up through great tribulation. R1649:3
They were appointed -- God designed that they should stumble because
they are disobedient and refuse to stand before God in the robe of
Christ's righteousness, but prefer to appear in their own. R3622:5, 1568:5
But ye are -- The consecrated Church of Christ; the sanctified. R4812:4,
3621:2, 1820:3, 1567:3; T27; CR471:2
The Apostle Peter is pointing out the fact that the Church of Christ is
separate and distinct from all other people. R5460:3
All "Israelites indeed" of the fleshly house were privileged to become
members of the spiritual house. R4593:6
New creatures in Christ, neither Jew nor Gentile, bond nor free. R2125:5
A chosen generation -- Greek, genos, race. D603; R5460:3, 2129:1
Chosen race. (Diaglott) R1149:6*
A new race. All are begotten of the holy Spirit. They must first make a
full consecration before this new generative power will begin to operate
in them. R5460:6, 3621:3, 2129:2
New creatures in Christ Jesus. R2129:1
A new order of beings, chosen of God as the heirs of his special favor.
R1567:3, 3621:3, 2129:2
These only are being called, chosen, and proved during this Gospel age.
R2051:2
These new creatures are as yet only begotten and developing in the embryo
state, the full development or birth being due at the resurrection.
R1567:3, 3621:3
There will be none but holy ones in it. R5460:6
We are the ones who represent the Kingdom in the world now; even though it
is not certain we will be one of these. Q423:1
A royal priesthood -- The work of a priest is that of intercession and
instruction in righteousness and logically implies subjects and a future
work of salvation. R12:2*, 404:3*
The word "priesthood" stands for teacher, because under the Jewish
arrangements all the priests were teachers, instructors of the people.
CR408:2; R992:6
The Royal Priesthood, of which the Redeemer is the Head, has a variety of
titles and offices: King, Priest, Judge, Lawgiver, Mediator, Father;
respecting special features of its service for the blessing of all the
families of the earth. R4390:1
For the whole world. R3109:1, 3621:3, 2129:4, 1567:3
Aaron and his sons did not typify the still higher priesthood which God
had in mind when he established the Levitical priesthood. This higher
order of priests was typified by Melchizedek, the king-priest. R5460:6,
5424:2, 2935:5, 2128:6, 2051:2; SM139:3, 137:1
Natural Israel was also given a promise to be "a kingdom of priests and a
holy nation." (Ex. 19:6) HG51:6
Speaking prophetically; we are not priests yet. It is only those who will
be declared worthy to sit with him in his throne that will be the Royal
Priesthood; those who make their calling and election sure. CR361:1,
457:2; R4967:1, 4655:5; OV110:2
The real Royal Priesthood will be that portion of us that will attain unto
the first resurrection. Q83:T; R4389:4
The Church of the first-borns will all be overcomers but only a Little
Flock will be found specially saintly, holy. These will be the antitypical
priests. R4999:1
Typified by the priestly family of Aaron; they do not find their antitype
in the clergy of today, but in God's consecrated people, whether in or out
of public ministry. R4703:3, 5765:3, 5638:3, 5628:2, 5616:4, 4812:4, 1135:6
All the true Church are priests, an association of priests, and not an
association under the control of a clerical or priestly class. R1575:4,
2922:1; NS63:6
Peter, falsely styled the first pope, contradicts all such popish ideas by
declaring the whole Church, including the very humblest one, God's Royal
Priesthood. R1808:5
In the type, the under-priesthood received a measure of the anointing oil,
prefiguring the real priesthood to come. R5392:3
In the antitype, all of God's consecrated people are prospective kings and
are sacrificing priests. R5638:3, 5650:6
The Christ, Head and Body, will be the antitypical Royal Priesthood.
PD39/50; R3108:6, 510:5; HG689:1
Jesus, from the time of his resurrection and ascension to God, has been
the chief or High Priest. SM137:T
Now the Church of Christ, the saintly Bride class, is being selected from
the world to constitute the royal family of the future, when completed and
perfected by the first or chief resurrection. R5899:2
The royal feature of the matter belongs to the future; we have no royalty
yet. R3265:2, 3267:6
The royalty of the priesthood signifies that it will no longer be a
sacrificing class. OV204:3
What does royal mean? It means to be a king, a priest, to be a teacher.
When his Kingdom would be established, Jesus would be the great King or
Priest, unto the Church, and they would be assistant kings and priests.
CR250:3
Each overcomer is a priest, and all regard Jesus as the High or Chief
Priest of our profession. R397:6
The royal feature differentiates the Melchizedec from the Aaronic order.
Aaron and his sons had nothing whatever to do with the royalty of the
typical kingdom. SM139:2
A people to be clothed with authority and power to stand between God and
fallen humanity, to lift humanity up from its degradation and restore it
to the divine likeness and favor. R3621:3, 1567:3
The lesson to each member of this Royal Priesthood (prospective), is that
the special mission of their office, vocation, calling, in the present
time, is to sacrifice. R3265:3
They are all self-sacrificing priests, who serve the living God through
Christ Jesus acceptably, by serving one another, and all men as they have
opportunity, and in general serving the Gospel. R2129:4
The priesthood does not end when the kingly powers begin, for it is
written concerning the future reign, "And hast made us unto our God kings
and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." (Rev. 5:10) R2128:5
They will perform the priestly offices for the world of mankind, ransomed
by the great High Priest and his "better sacrifices." HG337:4
So styled in the embryo state; speaking of all who become united to
Christ, of every faithful believer anointed with the holy Spirit. R5616:4
Now is the time, in the dawning of the great antitypical Jubilee, when all
the priests are to blow upon the silver trumpets, making known to the
world the riches of God's grace about to be revealed. R4671:6
The saints of this Gospel age are an anointed company--anointed to be
kings and priests unto God. A81
The Christian worthies are promised that they shall be a Royal Priesthood;
while the promise to the Ancient Worthies is that they shall be made
"princes in all the earth." (Psa. 45:16) R5859:3
"Consider the High Priest of our profession." (Heb. 3:1) T22
The privilege of prayer, of approaching God in an acceptable manner, is
confined to the antitypical Royal Priesthood. R5692:5
One of the many titles applied to the Church. We are not to try to blend
all the various titles yet all are appropriate. R398:3
Prepared for a purpose so that after their development and trials to be
changed like their Lord and to share his glory, honor and work as members
of the great Messiah. NS513:6, 393:4
An holy nation -- A nation is a body of people united under one
government and having common interests and bound by mutual obligations and
mutual consent, either expressed or implied, to conserve those interests.
R1567:3, 3621:5
The Church; composed exclusively of saints. OV184:6; R4787:3, 3753:2,
3597:4
Typified by the Jewish nation. B75, 246; R5461:1, 2604:3
A new nation, God's nation, in the world, but not of it. R5825:3, 2276:3
Among the Jews, the "Israelites indeed" became the nucleus, or start, of
spiritual Israel. R5817:6; NS642:3
When the foreordained number shall have demonstrated their loyalty even
unto death, then this holy nation will be complete; then the blessing of
all the families of the earth will proceed. R5817:6, 3753:2
God recognizes no nations except Israel of the past and spiritual Israel
of the present. R5626:2
The Kingdom privileges or opportunities which were first offered to
natural Israel were transferred to spiritual Israel, whose existence began
at Pentecost. R4593:6; HG386:1
This "holy nation" was founded by our Lord Jesus, and had no existence
before his advent. R2127:6
First, the saintly Jews were taken to be the nucleus of the new nation,
spirit begotten, heavenly. Subsequently, the selective processes have
continued throughout this Gospel age. R4787:3
All who compose this holy nation shall, so far as possible, "live
peaceably with all men," avoiding strife and contentions, except where
principles are involved. (Rom. 12:18) R2128:3
This "holy nation" looks to a higher King and higher laws than any by
which others are governed. R2128:3
Christ comes to reign, and has promised that his "holy nation" shall be
associated with him in the reign of righteousness, wherewith he will
"bless all the families of the earth." R2128:4
The word nation signifies "people" or "generation"--these generated ones,
begotten of the holy Spirit, are the new nation that God is forming.
CR304:1; R5626:6
Christians are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers. R4776:6
Contemplating the complete subjection of every other power to universal
peace and happiness by the aid of the Sword of the Spirit. R3621:5
No earthly kingdom is God's Kingdom except in the sense that Peter
declares the Church to be the holy nation. R5680:2
It is this "holy nation" in its preparatory and embryotic condition that
is referred to in the parables of the Kingdom of heaven. R2276:3
"The Kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given unto a nation
bringing forth the fruits thereof." (Matt. 21:43) R2604:3
Spiritual Israelites which God is now gathering out of every kingdom, people, nation
and tongue to be the Kingdom of heaven, and to rule and bless all the
families of the earth. R2364:2
The begetting of this holy nation began at Pentecost. The birth will be
the resurrection. OV184:6
A peculiar people -- A people for a purpose. (Diaglott) R5825:3, 5057:2,
4725:1, 1149:6*; OV358:5
Separate from the world; in the world and yet not of it. R3621:3
Different from others, possessed of a special love for that which is just,
noble and good. R2726:4
They have the spirit of Christ, a spirit of full consecration to the Lord;
are self-sacrificing and know no will but the will of the King; adhering
to the Word of the Lord as their only law; have a decided faith and act
zealously in harmony therewith; they know the truth and are able to give a
reason for their hope, while others merely speculate and wonder and doubt.
R2128:2
We are a peculiar (separate) people in the sight of the Lord, implying
that God has done something special for us. R5461:2, 3621:2, 1567:2
Changed from human to spiritual nature by the power of the truth. R3621:3,
1567:3
During the Gospel age God is calling out a special people. R5460:3, 2276:3
They are new creatures in Christ; they have been purchased or redeemed
with his precious blood. R5461:5
Priests do not exercise kingly authority, nor kings, condescend to
priestly services, but in this peculiar people, the priesthood and
kingship are united. R2128:4
Not striving for the things of the world. R2146:4
They have one particular important work given them of the Father to be
done, hence they cannot take part in worldly reforms. R5462:1
Not peculiar in dress, manner, language, or foolish or senseless forms and
idiosyncrasies. R2128:2
"Zealous of good works." (Titus 2:14) E30; R5461:5, 2510:5
That ye -- Every member of the priesthood. F242, 295; R1433:4
All; male and female. R1549:1, 5807:5; Q514:4
Should be living epistles known and read of all men. R3211:2
Should shew forth -- Sound forth--in our words and deeds--the message is
too good to keep. R5441:2, 5229:3
God's people who have everything to rejoice in will seek to lift high the
royal banner, to tell the good tidings of great joy to the extent of their
ability and to cooperate with all others who are thus doing. R3777:5
This should be the chief business of all the saints. R942:4
The anointing we have received is for this very purpose. We are to have
the courage to speak our convictions. R5547:1
We are to exercise our function of ambassadorship. R5720:3
By constantly yielding to the influences of the Spirit of God. R3656:5
We are light bearers for the benefit of others--burning and shining
lights, sympathetic and helpful lights. CR126:1
The new creation is called to preach, not by ambitions or imaginations,
but by the Word. F295
The praises -- A heart filled with the spirit of love, the spirit of
God, the spirit of the truth, and overflowing with the same will be sure
to bestow it upon others. R4770:5, 2444:1
Witness to the world by faithfulness to the principles of righteousness.
Not to convert the world but to gather out the elect Bride of Christ.
R5053:1; F90, 92
Virtues of character and plan. R2129:5, 2133:3
By pointing men directly or indirectly to the Lord. R5358:1
God wishes his praises to be known because his praises will show to his
creatures the great blessings he has provided for them. R5461:2
Israel gave glory and praise to God for their deliverance from the bondage
of Egypt. How much more should those who have tasted of God's grace and
goodness show forth their praises unto him. R3998:6
All who are spirit-begotten have the authority to preach and to teach as
messengers from God to the extent of their opportunities. OV160:5
The Lord's servants are light-bearers for the benefit of others, burning
and shining lights, sympathetic and helpful lights. R4967:4
Our commission is not to break hearts, but to heal them; to pour in the
gracious promises of God's Word, sympathetically. R5521:2
Each one begotten of the holy spirit, love, should seek to let its light
so shine out, through all the avenues of communication with his fellow
creatures, as to glorify his Father in heaven. R4917:5
If we do not let our light shine we are unworthy of it, and the treasure
will be taken away and we will be left in darkness. R3199:6
"That men may see their good works, and glorify their Father which is in
heaven." (Matt. 5:16) R5057:2
All who have received the ordination of God have the authority to preach.
However, sisters cannot preach as do brethren. They are fully ordained to
make known the good tidings but not in a public way. OV514:2
Who hath called you -- With this heavenly calling, not for our own sakes
merely, but for his own glory and the blessing of others. R5890:2
The underpriests call is of God. R4528:3
Out of darkness -- In permitting us to brush away the veil of
superstition, misunderstanding and mistranslation. R4783:3
We must remember that we were equally in the dark but a short time ago,
and that our neighbors and friends are no more responsible for being in
the dark than we were. R5521:2
His marvellous light -- This light has an effect upon the world,
reproving them and setting before them an example of better living, better
thinking. R5057:2
The holy Spirit becomes the illuminating power in the life of these.
R4746:2
If we possess the spirit of that new nature we will be active in the
service of God's truth now; living epistles known and read of all about
us; an honor to him who called us. R4809:6
The people of God -- As the Bride of Christ, she will be his companion,
his confidant, his peculiar treasure. R1820:3
As strangers -- Obedient to the laws, may look for protection under the
laws, but not compelled to fight against their King. F594
Conversation honest -- Words of truth and soberness. R4805:6
God-likeness certainly cannot include any harmful gossip, any unclean or
unholy conversation, any disloyal or rebellious words. R1938:5
Speak against you -- We are to rejoice, even if we are called to suffer
persecution for his sake. R5462:4
Glorify God -- By our good works and kindly spirit. R5556:6
Day of visitation -- Of their visitation; in the future. SM153:1
Shows a distinction between the day of the world's visitation and the day
of the Church's visitation. R4993:5
This Gospel age is the day of our visitation, when in the divine favor we
have forgiveness of sins and are brought into relationship with the
Father. R4993:5
The present time is not the world's, but the Church's visitation. R5084:1
Submit yourselves -- Christians are to be subject to the worldly powers
only in the absence of a contrary admonition from God. R5840:4
We are not to submit ourselves to each other but to the Lord and to each
other by the will of God to whatever extent we recognize the Lord's
leading and guidance through one another. NS381:5
To every ordinance -- Except when conscience would be violated. R2799:5
Including the Sunday ordinances. R3753:5
The laws of this land do not compel any man to violate his conscience by
working on the seventh day or any other day. R1732:2
The spirit of submission, rather than of contention, is enjoined upon the
whole Church. R1553:2
For the Lord's sake -- So that his spirit or disposition may be manifest
in you. R1553:2
Honour all men -- Respecting them according to their character or
office, and obeying the laws, does not necessarily mean a participation
with the world in the functions of government. F593
The Apostle points to justice as a consideration for rendering honor,
respect and service; honor to whom honor is due. R1556:4
Love -- With agapee or higher love which would gladly lay down life for
the brethren. R2807:5
The brotherhood -- Because of God-likeness in their good intentions, and
that they have given their hearts to the Lord. R4984:6
Only in proportion as we see character-likeness to Christ can we truly
love his followers; where the brother's flesh is much fallen, we have
largely a compassionate love rather than a loving admiration. R4984:6
Fear God -- Perfect love casts out slavish but not reverential fear.
R2986:6, 2289:6
He who loses the fear of God, and the fear of losing the great prize which
God has held out before us, is in a very dangerous position. R2289:5
"He that feareth him and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him."
(Acts 10:35) R2289:6
Honour the king -- Kings are not always personally worthy of honor; but
honor is always due to the office, which is "ordained of God." (Rom. 13:1)
R1555:5
With all fear -- With caution, lest you offend. R1553:1
Endure grief -- This is acceptable to God as a sacrifice of sweet
incense. R4805:4
Suffering wrongfully -- It is better to suffer wrongfully than to be
contentious, even for our rights. R1553:1
Let us see to it that our sufferings are for righteousness' sake only, let
us not charge God or our neighbors for sufferings due to our own faults.
R1938:5, 4805:5
And suffer -- Jesus suffered when he was doing right; and so that is
what the Church is doing. CR173:5; NS215:1
Take it patiently -- Uncomplainingly. R3889:4
Even hereunto -- Not to expect to have outward and tangible
manifestations of God's favor, but to suffer with Christ. They learn that
they must be obedient and appreciate what obedience means. R5712:3
To develop our own individual character; to fight a good fight; lay hold
on eternal life; to get the blessings which God has invited us to have.
SM635:1
Were ye called -- Called to "glory, honor and immortality." (Rom. 2:7)
R3913:5
The true saints must all suffer; for as Paul forewarned, we must "through
much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God." (Acts 14:22) R5696:3
"Think it not strange concerning the fiery trials that shall try you, as
though some strange thing happened unto you." (1 Peter 4:12) R5422:4
The Apostle urged the Church as soldiers; as a priesthood; as disciples;
as the Body members; as living stones of the Temple; as a chaste virgin,
espoused to one husband, Christ--these are all variations of the same
call. R399:4
Christ also suffered -- The Head suffered first. R218:4
The Master learned what obedience meant "by the things which he suffered."
(Heb. 5:8) R5712:3
Jesus suffered even unto death, and we are to do the same--have
"fellowship with his sufferings." (Phil. 3:10) R80:3
Leaving us an example -- Leaving you a copy. (Diaglott) R233:3
Contend only for such things as our Redeemer would have contended for.
R4900:4
Perfect in his example, which we should follow. R1810:3*
Ye should follow -- Jesus was the Head and forerunner of the Christian
Church, none preceded him as members of the Church. B202
With Christ we present ourselves in harmony with everything written in
God's book, to do his will even unto death. R5690:5
This is our privilege to "fill up that which is behind of the afflictions
of Christ." (Col. 1:24) R218:4
Abraham and the prophets could not be counted part of The Christ because
Jesus had not yet come to set the example. How proper it is that a leader
should precede the followers. R218:4
His steps -- Presenting oneself a living sacrifice and faithfully
carrying out the consecration vow as did Christ, until the sacrifice
terminates in death. A196
Jesus did more than render to every man his due, he sacrificed his own
rights on behalf of mankind. R5005:3
To follow in the Lord's steps of humiliation and sacrifice, even unto
death, is no light undertaking. It is the means by which we can become
partakers of the divine nature with our Lord. R1262:6, 234:4*
The Golden Rule was the one by which our dear Redeemer's every action was
measured, and it is essential to and incumbent upon all those who would be
his disciples, his followers to thus walk in his footsteps. R2689:2, 3586:1
None prior to Jesus' time could have been invited to present their body a
living sacrifice. R5774:6, 218:4
The steps Jesus trod were steps of suffering. If we follow in the exact
footsteps of another we always arrive at the same destination. R233:3
We must continually lose our mental and moral likeness to the world and be
more and more conformed to the image of our Lord. R1007:2
Who did no sin -- He was uncontaminated by his mother's imperfections.
R777:2
While all other men are sinners by nature. R776:2
To the reckoned sons, Jesus' brethren, no sin is imputed. R489:4*
Our Lord was a very sick man in the Garden of Gethsemane. But personal sin
could not have been the cause of sickness in him for we are told "And in
him is no sin." (1 John 3:5) R2767:1*
When he was reviled -- To be reviled is to be made to appear vile, to be
evil spoken of, slandered. R5172:3
His doctrines were disputed and he was slandered as a blasphemer. R4802:6
Finally they reviled him to the extent of crucifying him between two
thieves. R5678:6
"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution." (2 Tim. 3:12) E191
It is part of the divine will throughout this Gospel age to allow his
faithful servants to suffer reproaches even as in the case of the Master.
R5189:3
Reviled not again -- Jesus did not retaliate. When evil things were
spoken of him he did not speak evil of those who did him injury. R5678:3
Jesus could have contradicted the Jews, telling them the Devil was working
with them, etc. But he did not render evil for evil. R4802:6; CR492:6
At our Lord's trial he was charged with blasphemy, the rabble felt at
liberty to abuse Jesus and show their contempt by spitting upon him and
smiting him, yet he did not revile against them. R4711:5
No matter how much we are reviled, we are not to revile in return;
instead, we are to bless. R5172:3, 4483:6
If the person who has slandered us is in difficulty and needs help, we are
to overlook altogether what he has done to us, and be just as ready to
help them as any other person. R5172:3
Nor should we under any circumstances leave the Holy to render evil for
evil. We must follow in the footsteps of the great High Priest. T63
Our Lord's teaching is all the opposite of the spirit of reviling.
R5172:3, 4978:4, 2412:5
If under pressure we revile in return, and slander and backbite, we thus
demonstrate our unfitness for a place in the Kingdom. R5173:2, 4802:6
We can hate the sin, but not the sinner. R4978:4, 2412:5
We are not to attempt to retaliate upon our enemies by doing them evil, or
in any manner to "get even with them." This also includes our thoughts.
R3136:4
Bare our sins -- Paid the penalty for our sins which became the full
satisfaction of justice. E461; R1058:4, 324:2
The ransom for our sins has been paid by Jesus. R199:3
That is, he bore the punishment of our sins there--death. R387:1
"For to this end Christ both died and rose, and revived, that he might be
Lord (Master--or have authority over) both of the living and the dead."
(Rom. 14:9) R464:1, 641:6
"And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John
2:2) R866:4
All the sacrifices of the Law pointed forward to the great sacrifice for
sin slain on our behalf. E446
Own body on the tree -- On the cross; necessary for the salvation of the
Jew. R4868:6, 4869:1
The special sense in which Christ was made a curse for the Jew Paul has
stipulated in Gal. 3:13, 14. This was to hang upon a tree--the extreme
penalty of the Law. (Deut. 21:23) R4868:6
Ye were healed -- Greek, iaomai; to heal. Applied only in a moral or
spiritual sense. R4099:5*
If we accept by faith God's arrangement for us in Jesus, our shortcomings
are made good. R5005:2
Shepherd -- The Heavenly Father, the "Great Shepherd," sent his Son to
be our "Good Shepherd" and to bring back to the divine fold all of the
sheep that are desirous to return. R4278:6, 2431:4
Bishop -- Caretaker. R2706:6
There is one great Bishop or overseer, who, from time to time, raises up
and sends his own special messengers to uncover truths. But our Lord
retains the Bishopric himself. R1575:5, 670:6
Be in subjection -- Not in a spirit of slavish fear, but in a
reverence of love and devotion such as the Church has for Christ. F498
Every woman who usurps the place of the head of the household is surely
doing injury to herself and the best interests of her family, even though
she may seem for a time to prosper in her wrong course. R5168:4
Chaste conversation -- Conduct. R1553:2
Coupled with fear -- With carefulness to avoid giving offence.
R1553:2
Outward adorning -- Leading to pride, causing envy and hindering
sacrifice. F596
The hidden man -- "Though our outward man perish, yet the inward
man is renewed day by day." (2 Cor. 4:16) F675; R2231:6
Is not corruptible -- Greek, aphthartos; that which cannot corrupt,
decay, or lose value. E398; R204:1
And quiet spirit -- Greek, pneuma; mind, disposition. E312, 319
Price -- Value. R2311:6, 3214:6, 2544:6
Not afraid -- Not fearing. (Diaglott) R1553:5
Any amazement -- Any terror. (Diaglott) Any evil results. R1553:5
Dwell with them -- Your wives. R1553:2
According to knowledge -- Wisely and generously. R1553:2
Exercising a sound mind in the use of man's highest natural power,
procreation. E262
Honour unto the wife -- Taking pleasure in her progress and in all
her noble attainments and achievements. R1553:2
The weaker vessel -- Using your strength for her support and
encouragement and not for her oppression. R1553:2
Of the grace of life -- Its favors and blessings. R1553:2
Finally -- Not primarily, but in the glorious consummation. It
requires long years to reach this condition. R2877:2
All of one mind -- Harmony does not mean alikeness. Rather it
signifies unity with diversity and is more desirable than a sameness.
R2877:1
The final result of discipline and instruction in the school of Christ.
R2877:5
Love as brethren -- Express your love with only such manifestations
as would be proper between brethren. R2213:3
Brotherly love; the Lord's followers should love as brethren, as true
brethren ought to love. SM697:2, 703:1
Such a high standard of love! How many of us, how few of us, have ever
realized the standard of brotherly love that would be appreciated by our
Lord--the standard that he demands as a condition of our being his
brethren. SM703:1
The increase of knowledge, combined with the increase of selfishness and
with the high tension at which people are now living, affects the increase
of crime and the decrease of brotherly love. SM699:1
Love commands that we think as little evil as possible of one another; and
that we judge each other's motives generously, charitably; and that we
screen each other's imperfections from others, except where principles are
involved. R1845:2
"He laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the
brethren." (1 John 3:16.) Love for the brethren will be one of the final
and most searching tests in which seemingly many will fail. R2453:4
Love for the brethren is set forth in the Scriptures as one of the
indisputable evidences of our having attained membership in the Body of
Christ. R3932:1
This love ignores wealth, education, earthly standing--ignores the flesh
and takes cognizance of the spirit, the will, the heart. R3932:3
This love will not only overlook various weaknesses and imperfections, but
is ready to lay down life on behalf of the brethren because they belong to
Christ. R3932:2
We learn to love all mankind, even those who misunderstand us and are
therefore our enemies; we learn to love all these as brethren. Not as
brethren in Christ, but as brethren of the one family of Adam. R3933:2
Be pitiful -- Sympathetic, tender-hearted. R2654:5; SM697:1
Be courteous -- Humble-minded. SM697:1
Evil for evil -- Let us be like our Lord who, when reviled, reviled
not again. (1 Peter 2:23) R4483:6
Forbearance to resent injuries and revilings. SM703:1
Railing for railing -- Reviling for reviling. (R.V.) SM697:1
Contrariwise blessing -- By meekness and gentleness, patience and
love, show the more excellent way. R4502:1
Thereunto called -- For hereunto were ye called. (Revised Version)
SM697:1
Inherit a blessing -- To be God's agency during the Millennial age
for bringing blessings to the world. R2879:5
Tongue from evil -- Neither a back-biter nor one who listens to a
back-biter will get into the Kingdom. R4240:5*
Eyes of the Lord -- Even as God's eye is always upon us, so parents
should have their children know that their eye and God's eye is always
upon them. R1097:4*
Ears are open -- The thought, care and interest of our Father and
Jesus will be constantly upon us. At any instant we may engage the special
attention of either or both. R1865:2
Unto their prayers -- The providence of God over his sons is a very
particular providence. R1561:3
Them that do evil -- Punishments will be adapted to the nature of
the offenses, always with the benevolent object in view being man's
permanent establishment in righteousness. R2613:5, 2596:4, 723:4
That will harm you -- The opposition of evil can really only work
good to the elect. R1956:2
Sanctify the Lord God -- The truth was intended for this particular
purpose--"Be ye holy that bear the vessels of the Lord's house." (Isa.
52:11) CR437:2
And be ready always -- Regardless of the hopes and doubts of
others. Always to be done in meekness. R1536:3
Every member of the Royal Priesthood is anointed to preach to individuals.
F258
The reading of tracts might be God's way of making ready your answer.
R201:2
To give an answer -- "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a
workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of
truth." (2 Tim. 2:15) R340:1
The majority of Christians, because of carelessness, and not knowing what
they believe, are unable to do so. R5640:5, 5052:6
From the Word of God. Only this storehouse contains an exhaustless supply
of things new and old together with meat in due season for the household.
A25
Those who can give an answer are the ones who have hearkened to the Word
of God and know their God. NS495:6
A reason -- Ability to reason is the noblest faculty of the human
mind--it is a prominent mark of the divine likeness; it gives to man his
superiority over the brute creation and makes him a creature worthy of
eternal life; it makes him capable of communion with God, and capable of
knowing and loving and serving him. R1565:3
Divine truth is set before us--consistent with itself and with the divine
character in every element and feature. It is presented with all the power
and force of logical deduction so that our faith in his plan might be a
reasonable faith enabling us to give our fellowmen a reason for our hope.
R1565:3
While it is true that without faith we cannot please God, it is none the
less true that without reason we cannot please him. R1566:2
Since God thus honors the human reason, this likeness to himself which he
has bestowed upon his human creatures, who are we that we should despise
it, ignore it, or degrade it, or teach others to do so? R1566:2
Human reason cannot attain full development except under the divine
instruction; and only the meek can receive such instruction and be truly
wise. R1566:6
It is right that we should always hold the deductions of our reason in
abeyance to God's superior wisdom, as he may reveal it. R1566:3
Human reasoning which fails to recognize the metes and bounds of divine
revelation is earthly, selfish, and eventually devilish, leading to envy,
strife, confusion and every evil work. R1567:1
Thus these two extremes, of underrating and of overrating human reason,
are seen to be fraught with evil consequences; with the loss of the truth,
of the divine favor, and of the blessings which can reach us only through
the channels of inspired truth. R1566:6
The wisdom from above, that reasons on the basis of divine revelation, is
first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy
and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. (James 3:17)
R1567:4
No Christian should be ashamed to be asked a reason for his faith, and he
should be so thoroughly informed respecting the divine message as to be
able to give it. R5132:2
The hope -- The faith. R4588:2
Our hope is that the curse of sin will be removed; that the reign of evil
will come to an end; that all hearts shall be made glad; that the crooked
shall be made straight, and the rough places smooth; and that a great
jubilee shall come and all men shall be set free from captivity of death.
R349:3*
Also that the earth itself shall feel the change, and that instead of
thorns and thistles and poisonous plants, healthful productions and
life-giving fruits shall take their place. R349:4*
Our hope that the blessings to mankind will be permanent and lasting is
guaranteed because God will establish a government in the heavens which
shall rule over all in truth and righteousness. R349:5*
It is the hope of being made perfect in Christ, of being made partakers of
the divine nature. R351:4*
But before we can come into possession of this hope there is much
suffering and trial to be endured; there is the "dying daily" until we are
dead with Christ. R351:5*
"And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is
pure." (1 John 3:3) R351:5*
Meekness and fear -- Fear lest we become a castaway. R349:5*
Speak evil of you -- To speak anything that is derogatory
respecting another, to tell things uncomplimentary of them, is evil
speaking. R4281:2
The Lord's Spirit, as well as his Word, forbids evil speaking. R4281:2
The speaking of anything that is prejudicial to the character of another,
whether it be truth or falsehood, is evil speaking in the proper
acceptance of the term. R4281:2
For Christ also -- "Christ died for our sins." (1 Cor. 15:3) E442;
R3066:2
Suffered for sins -- Death, not eternal torment. R3167:2
He suffered death on account of sin. R4428:6, 710:1
To open up for us and for all a way of reconciliation with God. E446
It was necessary before this sentence or curse could be removed that a
satisfaction of justice should be made. R5640:6
By virtue of his sacrifice for our sins we are made acceptable with God,
and the condemnation against us as members of Adam's race is set aside
that we may have a new start. R3985:3; E446
Just for the unjust -- The redemptive work of our Lord Jesus,
accomplished at Calvary making possible a recovery from the death
sentence. R4552:1, 4553:2, 5126:4; NS838:1
To make reconciliation for iniquity. SM150:1
That he might become the great Mediator. Q197:T
Jesus died for Adam and his race. OV349:T, 198:2, 139:2; SM29:1; NS731:2
Typified by the sacrifice of the bullock. R4493:1
That all of the unjust--every member of Adam's race--might have the
opportunity of returning to divine favor. R5425:6; SM402:T
Jesus took the place of the original sinner, Adam. Purchasing him back
from the death sentence meant the purchase of all who died in him.
R5578:3, 4352:2; PT387:4*; OV131:3
The just one for the unjust many. R391:1, 387:2, 280:3
Jesus died sacrificially. SM561:2; HG651:3
He died willingly, a sacrifice for our sins. R608:1
The demands of justice must be paid, before the work of restitution could
begin. R4792:6
There was a mortgage held on the human race by justice, and their case was
hopeless unless a redeemer should be provided. R5433:2, 4552:3
Jesus vindicated the justice of the Law and satisfied its claims upon us
by giving himself as our substitute, flesh for flesh--his life for the
life of the world. R677:2*, 1336:6*
The full penalty of the divine law against us, was the deprivation of
life. R4793:1; NS478:3
Jesus, at 30 years of age, was ready to be offered as an acceptable
sacrifice of sweet savor to God, on behalf of mankind. R4958:4
Crucifixion was the only way in which our Lord's death would be of full
value and accomplish the purpose intended. R5126:4
"Behold, the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." (John
1:29) R779:2
"He gave himself a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:6) A156
Unjust sinners. R199:3
This was only one step in the route to man's reconciliation. Had the
Redeemer remained dead the result would have been nothing. NS570:6
Both the heavenly and earthly salvation were made possible by our Lord
dying the just for the unjust. OV253:3
It is not enough that God's justice has been appeased. It is necessary
further that the Redeemer should grant the required assistance to the
redeemed for their deliverance from the chains of ignorance, superstition,
sin and death. SM51:1
Bring us to God -- Reconcile us to God; by dying. SM29:1; R4552:1
By paying father Adam's penalty. R4552:1
Thus he opened up a new way; a way to life everlasting. R5869:6
Some during this age (the Church) and some during the period of his
Messianic reign (humanity). R4715:5, 4426:2
That he might bring all back into harmony with God. R4973:2
He brings us into harmony and fellowship with God by restoring us to the
just or sinless condition, which Adam lost for himself and us. R391:1
None were brought to God until Christ had died. R5774:3
Put to death -- The days of his flesh are past. R5472:4, 677:1*
The reason for Christ coming in the flesh at his first advent was to
suffer death as man's corresponding price. R5917:5
Eternal torment was not the penalty. If the penalty against us had been
eternal torment, our redemption from it would have cost our Lord that
price. R4552:3
There is nothing in the Scriptures about incarnation. R5064:3
In the -- Omit these words, not in text. B108
Flesh -- Flesh and blood uniformly represent human nature. R611:2
It was our Lord's flesh or human nature that was given for Adam and his
race. R4147:2
The flesh was consecrated to death at the beginning of our Lord's
ministry, and this great sacrifice was symbolized in his baptism. R4123:6
The human nature was sacrificed forever: "The bread which I will give is
my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:51) E151;
R4123:6, 1247:5, 608:1
After Christ had fulfilled the terms of his covenant, he was put to death
in the flesh and quickened in spirit. R5090:2; 5579:1, 5472:5, 5416:1,
5025:5, 3910:2, 1678:3; PD71/85
The days of his flesh are past, ended. R5472:4
When our Lord sacrificed himself, he had finished the work the Father had
given him to do. Q441:T
The life he lived before his death was natural, and the life by
resurrection was spiritual. R67:6*
This humiliation to man's condition was not intended to be perpetual. It
accomplished its purpose when our Lord had given himself, a human being,
as our ransom. E84
Flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of heaven and hence we must all
be changed in our resurrection, as Jesus was, from earthly to heavenly
nature. NS534:4
But quickened -- Made alive. R3376:2, 5917:5, 5829:6, 5772:2,
5580:4, 5578:6, 5352:3, 5025:5, 4657:3, 3903:4, 1995:3, 1247:5; OV353:6
Resurrected. E84; R5829:6
Our Lord was raised a quickening, a life-giving spirit. R4854:3; Q658:2
God raised him from the dead, a spiritual being. CR290:6
By the -- Omit these words, not in text. B108
Spirit -- In spirit. R5621:2, 5829:6, 5472:4, 2981:2, 2925:6,
1678:3, 720:4
Raised a spiritual body. R122:3
Made alive in spirit. R5623:4, 5772:2, 5352:3, 5222:5
As a spirit being, in the "Most Holy" condition. T58
He was no longer the man Jesus, but the glorified spirit Jesus. R4427:3
Jesus was the first to pass from earthly condition to the heavenly
condition. R5772:2
Henceforth the divine Christ. R1247:5, 1228:2
God raised him from the dead a new creature of a new nature. R2797:2
After his resurrection, he appeared and disappeared, the doors being shut,
to teach his disciples that he was no longer human, but a spirit being.
R5352:3, 5222:2; Q441:T; NS751:2
He did not enter into the glorious station typified by Isaac until after
his resurrection from the dead. R5090:2
If Christ had been quickened in the flesh, it would be like taking back
the ransom. R690:3
The ransom secures man's recovery or reconciliation, but Christ's divine
life imparted to us secures eternal salvation. R47:3*
By which -- Two experiences--death and resurrection. R5043:1
The Spirit which raised Jesus from death was the same which while the ark
was preparing preached through Noah to the antediluvian sinners, now in
the great prison house of death. R150:1
Also -- In addition to his work done for us. R1678:3; HG727:3
Went and preached -- By example; actions speak louder than words.
R1679:4, 4177:1; SM98:1; Q672:T
By his sufferings, death and resurrection. R1679:4
In the same way that the apostle speaks of Abel, saying: "He being dead,
yet speaketh." (Heb. 11:4) R5044:4
In obedience to the Father Jesus had died and then the Father had raised
him from the dead. Q672:T
It was the great object lesson which the fallen angels saw that
constituted to them the great sermon that gave them a ground for hope.
R5044:4, 4177:2; OV18:4
Since Jesus preached to the fallen angels we suppose some would reform and
refrain from any further disobedience. Q20:T, 21:T; SM198:1
A lesson of the manifestation of God's great mercy to mankind in marking
the arrangement for their redemption; and there was a possibility that he
might also show mercy to the fallen angels. Q19:5, 18:4; R4177:2
Unto the spirits -- Wicked spirits; demons; angels of light who
became disobedient in the days of Noah. R2843:5, 4976:1, 4521:2, 1679:1;
NS805:1; Q840:2, 670:1
"The angels which kept not their first estate." (Jude 6) R4521:2, 2843:5,
1679:2; Q670:2, 19:5
Fallen angels: "We are made a spectacle both to angels and to men." (1Cor. 4:9) R1679:6
Not human beings, but spirit beings; not men but angels; this is clearly
stated in verse 20. SM192:2
They personate dead human beings; they seek human fellowship, and try to
gain possession of human beings who yield their wills; these are said to
be obsessed. R2844:1
They appeal to humanity to become their mediums, through whom they to some
extent communicate. R2844:1
In prison -- Restrained at the time of the flood. R4521:2, 4176:6
Restricted as respects their powers of fellowship with the holy angels,
and with mankind; being no longer privileged to appear as men
(materialize). R2844:1, 4976:1, 1679:2; Q464:2
The demons were cast into Tartarus and restrained in darkness or prison by
that chain. Q19:5
Which sometime -- Which before. R1678:3
Were disobedient -- Who left their primary estate as angels, and
sought to become men, and assumed the human form. (Gen. 6:1-4) R4976:1
They were imprisoned for disobedience. SM192:2
All the holy angels were tested. PD16/25
Noah -- "A preacher of righteousness." (2 Peter 2:5) R150:1
While the ark -- Type of Christ, and the power in him which will
replenish and reorganize society. A318
Was a preparing -- The Savior compares the period of his presence
to the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, not to the flood, as
some suppose. R237:4*; HG24:6
Were saved by water -- It marked the close of the first
dispensation. R2842:6
Noah and his family saved in that flood typified or represented the Gospel
Church saved in the flood or calamity which is about to overwhelm the
world. R3934:6
The Church of Christ are saved from death by their baptism into Christ,
not eternal torment. SM341:1
The like figure -- The ark representing Christ, entering into the
Ark of safety representing those who are baptized into Christ's death. The
flood representing the death of the world. R3934:6
Even baptism -- The Church of Christ are likewise saved from death
through their baptism. SM341:1
It is not the outward baptism that saves us, except in a figure. It
represents the real. SM342:2
Filth of the flesh -- The filth of our flesh as new creatures can
be washed away only by the grace of God in Christ. SM342:2
Both Priests and Levites washed in the laver in the Court. T119
The answer -- Response. SM343:1
Outward declaration. R2167:1
Acceptance of his gracious invitation. SM345:1
The resurrection -- Jesus is our Ark of safety. SM347:2
The Apostle's faith in a resurrection is not only for those now justified,
but it extends beyond this small class and includes a hope for many now
ignorant, sinful, unjustified. R1512:1
Gone into heaven -- A spirit being, exalted higher than he was
before, now of the divine nature, far above angels, principalities and
powers. (Eph. 1:21) R3167:3, 5252:5; HG728:2
Right hand of God -- The position of highest favor. R1679:4; A92
In power and glory and honor. R5118:6
He is not literally seated beside him at his right hand; but he has been
honored with a superior station, a position above all others, at the right
hand of divine power. R2935:2
Angels -- "Christ died and revived that he might be Lord both of the
dead (mankind) and living (angels)." (Rom. 14:9) R1853:6
Subject unto him -- By the Father. E39
Christ hath suffered -- As soon as the last member shall have passed
into the heavenly condition, all the sufferings of The Christ will be
over. R5341:3
In the flesh -- As our Lord suffered in the flesh, so will also those
who are members of the Church, which is his Body. However, while suffering
in the flesh, we are also being developed in the spirit. R5173:4
Flesh and blood uniformly represent human nature. R611:2
Arm yourselves -- If any realize that they have not been zealously and
voluntarily suffering with their Savior, they should arouse themselves to
appeal in prayer to the Master for grace and faith to walk in his steps of
voluntary sacrifice. R4921:4
The same mind -- Of determination to lay down our lives in opposition to
sin. R3246:3
As Christ redeemed us by laying down his life as a willing sacrifice, so
let us have this same mind, this same disposition, this same will. R5644:4
Not that we might have to experience the same amount of suffering, but the
thought was with "the same mind" enabling us to be more than victorious.
R2458:5*
Ceased from sin -- Dead people cannot sin. The Lord's people, having
consecrated themselves unto death, certainly will not commit sin wilfully.
For to do so would prove that their wills had changed. They would then
cease to be new creatures and it would mean second death. R3246:3
The sins of the mortal body were all cancelled through the imputation of
the Advocate's merit and at that moment the old nature died and ceased its
responsibility. The new creature which took possession of the mortal body
is held responsible for its conduct. R4585:2
For the time past -- When we were natural men, before we became new
creatures. R3246:6
Excess of wine -- "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess." (Eph.
5:18) R509:4
Think it strange -- It will cost us the good opinion and fellowship of
others. E431
Those who seek for earthly offices of fame and glory now cannot understand
our running for the "prize of the high calling." They consider our time
wasted. R3585:3
The world will say that we are of unsound mind because we care for the
better things, the heavenly things. R5094:6
Shall give account -- Be dealt with, corrected and disciplined in
righteousness, to bring about true reformation and finally perfection of
character. R1469:5
The quick and the dead -- The followers of Christ who have become dead
to the things of the world and alive to the heavenly or spiritual things.
Q762:3
For this cause -- Reason, purpose. Q762:3; R1414:2
Because we who are dead to the world and alive toward God are being called
out now, as the Lord's elect class. Q762:3
Was the gospel -- The gospel is. R3247:3
Good news of our redemption and the promise of glory; it was given to us
that our lives should be influenced by it and that we should be separated
from the world. R150:5
To them -- The Lord's elect class. R3247:3
That are dead -- We who are dead to the world. R3247:3, 704:4
Those that are reckoned dead to sin, but alive toward God and
righteousness. R1414:2
In his consecration he has given up, sacrificed, his justified human
nature; he reckons himself no longer of the human nature, but a new
creature in Christ Jesus. R704:1
That you might have Christ formed within you--his mind and principles.
R704:4
"Let the dead bury the dead." (Matt. 8:22) All mankind, from God's
standpoint, being under the sentence of death are counted as dead. Q287:4;
R1987:1; CR131:5
By nature we are counted dead with the world. But because we are reckoned
as having passed from death unto life in Christ, we are counted alive.
Q287:4
Peter is exhorting to separateness from the world, not only of our minds
but also of our bodies as ruled over by our minds. R150:5
Might be judged -- By the world. R3247:3
The outward deeds. R1414:2
By the outward appearance. R1987:2
The world still judges us according to the flesh. Q287:4, 383:2; R3105:2,
762:3, 209:5, 150:5
We are reckoned as having passed from death unto life, and have our trial
here for life everlasting. Q287:4
The spiritual new creatures have their judgment time in this present life
and are judged in the flesh with its weakness and blemishes inherited from
Adam. Q762:3; R150:5
According to men -- Like other men; the world discerns not that the new
creatures are different from other men. R3247:3, 3105:2, 704:4
In the spirit -- Begotten to newness of life. R3247:3
God is judging us according to the spirit; according to the real motive
and intention. Q383:2; R3105:2, 1987:1, 1414:2, 704:4
We are reckoned as fulfilling the highest demands of the divine law to God
and to man, because we are not walking after the flesh but after the
spirit. R3832:1
"For this purpose the Gospel is preached to them that are dead (those
reckoned dead to sin, but alive toward God and righteousness); that they
might be judged of God in spirit (according to their real motives and
intentions), although judged by men merely according to (the outward
deeds) the flesh." (The Greek text supports this rendering, while the
common version shrouds this text in mystery.) R1414:2
This shows the double nature of one begotten of the Spirit. The body still
human; the spirit of the mind divine. R150:5
End of all things -- Present constitutions under the supervision of the
prince of this world. R3247:4
The end of the dominion of evil, the old order of things is to be in the
close of the sixth thousand years. R1187:3
The second coming of the Lord and the setting up of his Kingdom. R1187:3
The apostles perceived that a great light had come into the world, and
that a turning point in history had arrived. But it was not the shining of
the sunlight of the great Millennial day. R5769:3
Be sober -- Not disturbed or excited in mind. R3247:4
Guard against every approach to a spirit of pride and vainglory. R1972:1
We have a great responsibility that our tongue not be used in a flippant
way which would be dishonoring to God. R1938:1
Refuse the first draught of the wine of worldly-mindedness and you will
not be tempted to take the second. R1187:6
And watch -- The prize of the high calling is not for the easy-going
Christian. They are urged to run with intensity of zeal and earnest
striving to gain the prize. R2123:1
Unto prayer -- Communion with God is a great privilege and an evidence
of his favor. R4983:1
Pray for divine assistance, to resist even the slightest encroachment of
the enemy. R1187:6
Above all things -- In view of the fact that all who are the Lord's are,
like yourselves, battling for the Lord and the principles of right. R3247:5
For charity -- A deeply sympathetic love, a fervent (burning) love for
his fellows. R3247:5
Love is one of the first essentials of the Christian character. R1187:6
Multitude of sins -- Of their blemishes and imperfections; shortcomings
and failures. R3247:4, 1188:1
The disposition that exposes the weaknesses of the brethren is not the
love that covers. R5530:4
Use hospitality -- Liberality. R28:6*
It is an element of character that should be cultivated toward all men; it
should be hearty and not merely because the Lord commends and commands it.
R3247:5
Every man -- Each one. (Diaglott) Male or female. R1549:1
Received the gift -- A free gift. (Diaglott) R1549:1
The favors of life. R1188:1
The Lord's grace and bounty are manifold, in things both spiritual and
temporal. R3247:6
So minister the same -- The responsibility of stewardship is
proportionately increased. R3247:6
He who waters others shall himself be watered. (Prov. 11:25) This
principle applies to everything, both temporal and spiritual. R3247:6
As good stewards -- Of consecrated money, goods, time and talents, and
of the mysteries of God's plan. R820:1
It is required of a steward that a man be found faithful to his trust.
R820:1
Not only are we stewards of the consecrated money, time and talents in our
hands, be they little or much; but we are also the stewards of the
mysteries of God's plans. R819:6
Let him speak -- All who have the truth are commissioned to declare it
to others. R1356:6
Not uncertainly, not doubtfully. R1882:6
Not their own opinions. R1892:1
The oracles of God -- Wisely, and in accordance with the spirit and Word
of the Lord. R1937:3
Absolutely truthful, wholly reliable. R3247:6
His words should be of weight with the Church only as they are backed up
by the Word and Spirit of the Lord. R1892:2
We could guess about some things, but we do not allow ourselves to guess.
R5844:6
"He that hath my Word let him speak my Word faithfully." (Jer. 23:28)
R1882:6
Which God giveth -- And not of his own. R1357:4
Praise -- Not only are we to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of
God but also to look up to him and give him praise for all that we have
and are. R5284:5
Think it not strange -- It is reasonable that God should test severely
the faith and love of those invited to be joint-heirs with his son. They
must be loyal and trustful to the last degree. R3281:3, 1744:2
If our Lord had to be so severely tested to prove his worthiness of high
exaltation, we should not think it strange that this happens to us. R1263:4
That we are caused to be a gazing stock. (Heb. 10:33) R5412:4
None of the candidates for these coming honors need wonder at the course
of instruction, discipline and experience to which they are now subjected.
R1164:1
Many of the beloved of the Lord do think it "strange" when the fiery
trials strike them, doubtless because they do not appreciate the Lord's
design. R738:3
The fiery trial -- Necessary for the development of character, and for
the proving of the faithful ones. OV39:T
Trials must be the portion of all who would be "overcomers." R2792:3
Chastisements and correction. R739:1
The Lord's people should not think it strange when trials come, no matter
how fiery, no matter how severe. It is part of the terms and conditions of
the Church's calling. R5118:3
Our severest trials come not from without, but, "From among yourselves
shall arise false brethren" (Acts 20:30), to injure the flock in general,
through personal ambition. R5118:3
They come like fiery darts from our great enemy--Satan. R1744:4
Through which only the gold, the silver and the precious stones will pass
unharmed. R5097:5
We must not be disappointed and allow our faith to falter when the test of
patient endurance is applied. R5802:6
Such chastisements are thus a demonstration of God's love for us and of
his desire that we make our calling and election sure. SM650:1
It was necessary for the Captain of our salvation to be tempted and tried,
tested and proved; much more is it necessary that we who are children of
wrath, and justified through his grace, be thoroughly proved as respects
our loyalty. R3059:6
We are to expect a testing in the end of this age, just as there was a
testing of the Jewish nominal Church in the end of its age. R2496:4
Trials of faith and patience and love and endurance are as necessary to
our development and our fitting for the high position to which we are
called, as are the instructions of divine grace. R1744:2
The fires of the purgatory (periods of purgation) in which God has been
thus destroying our weaknesses and cleansing are purifying unto himself
the Gospel Church. R1316:4
The Jewish and the Gospel ages have been purgatories or periods of
purgation. R1316:4
If we would purchase the gold tried in the fire, it must be at the cost of
faithful and constant submission to the discipline of the Lord in the
fiery trials which are necessary to consume our dross and refine our gold.
R1944:2, 2971:2; NS447:5
Our Lord likens our Christian faith to a house, and represents the trials
in the end of this age as a great storm which will beat upon every house,
with the result that all that are founded upon the Rock will stand, and
all founded upon the sand will collapse. R2496:4
Some of these trials come from the enemies without, but the Christian's
greatest enemy is his old self, or carnal nature, against which the spirit
within, or new nature, wars. R199:4*
"Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he
receiveth." (Heb. 12:6) R569:3
"No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous." (Heb.
12:11) R1744:1
"The trial of your faith being much more precious than of gold that
perishes." (1 Peter 1:7) "He is like a refiner's fire." (Mal. 3:2) "Many
shall be purified and made white and tried." (Dan. 12:10) R1823:2
Its primary reference is to a great tribulation in the end of this age,
through which all except the Little Flock may be expected to pass.
NS358:5; SM726:1
Necessary that every element of the spirit of leaven, of corruption, of
sin may be destroyed so far as our heart intentions are concerned. NS350:3
Which is to try you -- The Church. R266:6
That is to do a purifying work. R5778:5
The Lord is the refiner purging out the dross that we may be made ready to
share with Christ in the Kingdom of glory, honor and immortality. R5118:3
To prove you, strengthen your character, cause the principles of truth and
righteousness to take deep root in your heart. R1744:2
All who are the Lord's people have trials and difficulties. By sharing
them with our brethren in testimony meetings, we learn to sympathize with
one another. F320
Our Master left us a portion of his cup that the Father poured for him.
R5545:6
Since the trial of our faith worketh patience, experience and hope, and is
needful for our perfecting in holiness, the Father will not hinder us from
having temptations, even though he himself tempteth no man. (Jas. 1:13)
R2005:3
Some strange thing -- New; unforetold. R2792:3, 266:6
But rejoice -- If the Lord's people find themselves involved in
temptations and tribulations, instead of feeling downcast, they are to
rejoice. R5459:6
Not that we enjoy tribulations, but we realize these are working for us
characters pleasing to God. R5779:4
Knowing that these fiery trials are of the Lord; not that the Lord is the
cause of them; usually it is the Adversary. R5778:6
Let us rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for Christ's sake now,
so as to be counted worthy to reign with him. R740:4; SM655:2
Inasmuch as -- To the extent that. R1563:4
Christ's sufferings -- Of self-denial. R1783:1
The sufferings did not end at Calvary but continue with the members of
Christ's Body. From this standpoint, the first advent of Christ--in the
flesh--has been a gradual one, covering a period of nearly nineteen
centuries. R3192:6, 5180:4
It is one sacrifice in the sense that it is all one Body of one Priest
that is offered. R4965:3
The antitypical priesthood includes all the members of the Body and so the
sufferings require all of the Gospel age to complete them. T50
That we may also be sharers in his glory. R5155:5
"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution." (2 Tim. 3:12) R5778:3
Those who will be found faithful unto death have fellowship in his
sufferings and will also have fellowship in his glory at the marriage
feast. C207
Christ's sufferings were for well-doing and for the truth's sake, not for
self-will or spiritual drowsiness or failure to keep his covenant. R739:1
None of us could share in the sufferings of the anointed, unless we had
first consecrated and become members of the anointed company. R739:2
The sacrifice and sufferings of Christ Jesus included every item of mental
and physical pain and self-denial experienced as a result of his
consecration, until it was completed in death; it included the denial of
all laudable and proper human ambitions; the reproach he bore from his
fellow-men for the sake of the truth; and his weariness and exhaustion
caused by preaching and the giving out of his own vital energy for the
good of others. SM651:2; R739:2
To the extent that we share his sufferings, it must not be as chastisement
for evil nor in the renouncing of evil, but a suffering wrongfully,
undeservedly. SM650:2; R739:1
Sacrifice your honor, your social standing, your good name and your
broad-minded reputation; for the Truth. SM655:1; R740:1
If we had no share in these trials, how could we know that we are of the
Body members? R5778:6
The sacrifice consists in denying ourselves things which are lawful and
proper. R739:3
If we suffer, let it be as unto the Lord, to as good purpose as possible.
R1783:2
We should be careful not to interfere with the liberties of others. R1783:2
"And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ;
if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."
(Rom. 8:17) R411:3, 1782:6
Though the sufferings of Christ were not simply the trials which he
endured, yet the trials were included in the sufferings; and if they were
necessary for him, they certainly are more so for us. R28:2*
It is in anticipation of our joint-heirship with Christ in glory that the
fully consecrated rejoice to partake of his affliction. R1563:4
Sickness and discomfort of any sort, incurred by our energy in the service
of the truth, are permitted by our Father as evidences of our fidelity and
love. R2007:5
These sufferings are not such as are common to humanity, sickness, etc.,
incidental to sin and its penalty, death; but sufferings for Christ's
sake, which means activity in Christ's service. R1782:6
In the direct service of the truth; either by telling the Gospel orally or
by circulating the message in printed form or by writing of it to friends.
R1783:1
The flesh is suffering; but the new mind, the new will, has joy. R5459:6
Let us be careful not to make our sufferings subjects for boasting, as
though seeking the praise of men; or of continual complainings to other
members who are themselves perhaps suffering more acutely. R1783:2
Even failures may become "stepping-stones" by which we rise toward God and
heaven; they may lead to a strengthening of our character, a firm
determination for greater watchfulness. R5459:5
When -- A little while, shortly. R11:3
His glory -- Part of that glory shall be to crush the serpent. R11:3
Shall be revealed -- Greek, apokalupto; uncovered, unveiled. R2979:3
If ye be reproached -- But not as evildoers. R414:3
Any beheading socially or literally for the truth's sake becomes a witness
of the spirit testifying to our faithfulness. R2007:5
Happy are ye -- When we have the right focus on the subject of
persecution. R5544:5
Having the witness that you are a child of God. E237, 221
The spirit of glory -- The witness of the Spirit to faithfulness in the
narrow way. E237
He is glorified -- Nothing glorifies God's name and character more than
does the grand plan which he is showing to us, and which we preach. R214:4
Let none of you -- Not one, at any time, under any circumstances. R5274:1
Suffer -- If suffering should come upon us justly for our faults, we
should not glory in it, but rather be ashamed. R2782:1
Because of ungentleness, uncouthness, or lack of the wisdom of moderation,
which the Lord's Word counsels. R2493:3
Christians have been overtaken in the faults the Apostle lists but being
Christians at heart meant that such wrong-doings were subsequently
repented of in bitter sorrow. NS580:3
As a murderer -- Brother-hater. R2609:4
As an evildoer -- None of the Lord's people could willingly be
evildoers; but through some weakness of the flesh or through a snare of
the Adversary; evil deeds, even though unintentional, are to be guarded
against carefully. R5274:1
We might be misrepresented as evildoers, but that would not be suffering
for evil-doing. CR419:5
Or as a busybody -- Or a gossiper. R2222:2
If you were a witness to a murder it would be a duty to society to report
it to proper authorities. R4281:3
One who busies himself in the affairs of others, with which he has
properly nothing whatever to do. F583
Picking motes out of another's eye and neglecting the beam in your own.
(Matt. 7:3-5) F583
Contrary to the divine direction and the spirit of love; chances are that
they will do spiritual injury to themselves as well as to others. R4284:1
"Sweep before your own door." Those who pay great attention to their
neighbor's affairs are neglecting home duties and responsibilities. R4282:1
Mind your own affairs! If you get too busy watching others, the Adversary
will take advantage of you; God neither authorized us to judge one another
nor to exact justice from each other. R5274:6, 5275:4
God has never authorized his people to become inquisitors, investigators;
it is a wholly mistaken idea that we are commissioned to set everybody
else right. It betokens a great deal of pride to have such an idea.
R5274:3, 5275:4
The Lord's consecrated people are more inclined to be busy-bodies than are
others. They have higher standards than others. There is then continually
a temptation to advise and to seek to regulate everybody and everything.
R5274:1
Whoever is a faultfinder and busybody in the affairs of the brethren is
doing this against the flesh of Jesus. (Acts 22:8) R5274:3
The punishment of the busybody in part no doubt will be the rupture of his
own relationship with God. R5274:4
A source of difficulty in the Church, and all of God's people should be on
guard against it. R5274:2
In some cases there seems to be a disposition to try to hunt up everything
connected with each other, and to sit in judgment upon each other. R5274:2
The Adversary is on the alert to ensnare God's people and to develop in
them the spirit of busy-bodying and lovelessness, under the guise of duty,
love of righteousness, justice, etc. R5274:3
It is one evidence of an unsound mind; a measure of insanity. R1080:2
One half of the suffering in the Church is because of busy-bodying in
other men's affairs. CR419:5
It is not necessary for us to do or say a single unkind word or act toward
our friends in Babylon. R4433:1
Many bring upon themselves persecutions for being busybodies in other
men's affairs. R3736:2
Our influence upon each other should be uplifting. We should not cause
others to grieve. R5117:2
We are to be so busy embroidering our robe that we will not have time to
meddle with other matters or affairs. Tribulations brought about by
meddling add nothing to the embroidering on our robe. SM257:T
Suffer -- For his adherence to the doctrines of Christ. R581:3
Not the ordinary suffering common to all of fallen mankind but by
following Christ's example in advocating unpopular truths and exposing
popular errors. R5118:1
Either for Christian principles or Christian doctrines. R1823:4
Self-sacrificing labor, and endurance of reproach in sowing and watering
Christ's doctrines. R5118:1
Suffering because the darkness hates the light and slanders the truth.
This has been so from Jesus' time all the way down. R5779:4
One of Satan's devices is to make unimportant things seem important and in
this way to make people think that they are contending for righteousness
sake and that the sufferings they bring on themselves in this manner are
for righteousness sake. R5117:2
Because of something you have done that is right, in harmony with your
covenant with God. CR419:5
As Christ suffered, not for his sins, but for his right doing. R4547:5
Avoid persecutions or sufferings for evil doing of any kind. R3736:2
We need to differentiate between sufferings that come upon the Lord's
people because of sin and the sufferings which are necessary to them as
sons of God, in preparation for the Millennial service and glory. NS603:4
Our natural thought would be that suffering should only follow the course
of sin and that when the sinful course is abandoned and the heart given to
the Lord, all the suffering should cease. NS577:3
As a Christian -- As they were known in early times. R584:3
Paul suffered as a Christian because he was loyal to the Lord and his
Word. R3189:5, 584:6
A Christian is a follower of Christ, one who has cast in his lot to suffer
with Christ. R5117:3
All of our experiences are for correction in righteousness and for
educational purposes. R5117:6
Not be ashamed -- Not feel disgraced; if he suffer for truth's sake, for
righteousness' sake. R5779:4, 2782:1
Being thankful that he has endured something for Christ's sake. R5117:6
Paul was not ashamed of his sufferings because he realized that they were
endured for Christ's sake. R3189:6
Let him glorify God -- Let him be thankful for the opportunity, for on
all such rests the spirit of honor; and of God. R4558:4; OV345:1
Rejoicing that they are accounted worthy to suffer for the name of Christ,
and remembering that even thus also it was with our Lord Jesus. R3189:6
Judgment -- Greek, krima; final decision, sentence. F399; R2430:4
Testing, trial. This trial of the Church at its conclusion will
demonstrate who are the Lord's elect. R3870:2, 569:2, 331:2, 28:6*
May be properly applied to the process of trial, or to the result of
trial--the decision or verdict. In the former sense the judgment of the
Church began over eighteen hundred years ago, and has been progressing
ever since. But in the latter sense, it is due in the end of harvest of
the Gospel age. R605:6, 414:6
During the Gospel age, the Church have been having their trial. R49:1*,
414:6, 58:3
Liberties of evil spirits with saints will be increased. The closing test
or decision is in respect to character. R4311:3
Every creed of Christendom will be brought before the bar of public
judgment. R1356:1
Must begin -- It began with the Head of the "house of God," Christ
Jesus, who was tempted (tried) in all points like as we are. (Heb. 2:18)
R569:2
His first work will be with the Church, not with the world. SM511:2;
R4583:2, 4208:4, 1356:1
This testing now going on separates the true and the false, the wheat and
the tares in the nominal church. R414:6, 605:6
The "wheat" class may expect to escape the world's trouble, but it will
have its own trouble before. R3405:3
Necessarily it must begin with those who are highest up in that house as
respects light, knowledge and privileges. R4208:4
The house of God -- The consecrated; the Church; the Temple class; the
sanctified; the enlightened. R4191:2, 4583:2, 4208:4, 3870:2
Applies especially to the real Church, but also has a bearing upon nominal
systems. After the fall of Babylon as a great millstone, the great
distress of nations will come. R5348:6, 5268:5
The nominal church. OV297:3
The typical act of overthrowing the tables of the money changers indicates
that in the end of this age judgment begins with the professed house of
God and his great displeasure against those who make merchandise of the
truth. R1795:5
To extend in the hour of temptation to all them that dwell upon the face
of the whole earth. That which will begin with the Church will end with
the world, producing the most awful state of affairs imaginable, "A time
of trouble such as never was since there was a nation." (Dan. 12:1) R4311:3
Our anticipation is that the great conflict which will ultimately reach
the whole world, and eventuate in the anarchy which will overthrow all law
and order, will begin with the Church; the consecrated, the sanctified,
the enlightened. R4208:3
God has been judging this class for more than eighteen hundred years, in
order that they might not come into condemnation with the world. But in
the end of the Gospel age, he is especially judging them. CR495:6
There is a house of God nominal, the professing millions, and the house of
God actual, the consecrated ones, much fewer in number. The test will come
first to the latter class, and then proceed to the others, ultimately
culminating in anarchy. NS564:6
If the righteous -- God has promised eternal life only to the righteous.
SM304:1
The Apostle is not here referring to any class of people, but to a
principle of the divine law. SM304:1
Scarcely be saved -- Would have nothing of left-over merit. SM305:T,
304:2
Those who pass the judgment of this age and win the prize of the high
calling, will scarcely, that is, with difficulty, be saved. It will
require all their faith, and all their effort. R606:1
For the elect class the Lord will provide special protection, special
warnings, special assistances. R4293:2
Where -- What show would they have? If the divine law provided eternal
life for only those who are absolutely perfect in God's sight, what chance
would there be for any sinner condemned for many or few transgressions?
SM305:1
The ungodly -- Those failing to recognize their responsibility to the
Almighty. SM305:1
Those who do not exercise faith and put forth all their effort will not be
able to stand. R606:1
It is not their privilege to claim God as their Father and Christians as
their brethren. SM310:2
Those who obey not the Gospel. R4293:3
And the sinner -- Any failure to do the perfect will of God is sin.
SM304:1
They are "without God, having no hope in the world," (Eph. 2:12) and still
"children of wrath." (Eph. 2:3) SM310:1
The will of God -- For righteousness' sake. R1781:5, 1816:5, 1273:2
Souls -- Lives. R28:6*
Well doing -- Not in well-meaning. R1802:4*
The elders -- The Apostle has been addressing the elders of the Church,
exhorting them to give attention to the feeding of God's flock and
pointing out what should be the constraining influence to such a service.
R2654:2
A position fraught with responsibilities to the Lord and to the flock, as
well as with besetments to himself. R2654:5
Appointed because of aptness to teach--to point out the instructions of
our Lord and the apostles upon any subject. R2654:3
They should be examples in the matter of meekness, and courtesy, so that
as the brethren would copy these elders the spirit of the Lord would
prevail. R2654:3
The Apostle distinctly points out that a servant is not a ruler, that a
servant has no authority. R2654:2
The Lord does not raise up rulers from among our brethren in the Body of
Christ, but he does raise up faithful leaders, to whom earnest heed should
be given, and whose faith and example should be imitated. R1559:4
Those who have been called to the position of eldership amongst the Lord's
people should consider this an honor and a privilege from the Lord but it
also has great temptation and great danger. R5185:3
In seeking this position let each one remember that there is danger of the
development of pride and the assumption of power. R5185:3
The term "elder" would signify an elder brother, not necessarily an elder
in years, but matured in Christian character. R1894:3
Am also an elder -- To be an Apostle it was necessary that Peter be
esteemed an elder. F244
Sufferings of Christ -- The sufferings of Christ, Head and Body, have
been going on for more than eighteen centuries. They will be over when the
last member shall have passed into the heavenly condition. R5341:3,
4710:5; T50
Our Lord was an example for all the Church who are justified through faith
in his blood. R4964:6
Stephen had the high honor of being the first one of the brethren to
follow the Master's footsteps in a sacrificial death. R2952:1
Partaker of the glory -- The Church will share in his glory; they have
also a share in the first resurrection. R4964:6
When he shall appear, we also shall appear with him in glory. (Col. 3:4)
R579:5, 263:2, 19:2
As the wife is the glory of the husband, so the Bride is the glory of
Christ. We know that Christ could not come into the glory of his Kingdom
(Church) until he has first gathered it from the world. R19:2, 579:5, 263:2
Shall be revealed -- Greek, apokalupsis; uncovered, unveiled. R2979:3
Feed the flock -- With meat in due season; avoiding teachers that have
ears that itch for popularity and flattery. E284
The lambs and sheep make one flock, and there is but one Shepherd, who
superintends and cares for all. R118:3*
The elders are not commissioned to shear, frighten nor club the sheep.
R2655:4
Of God -- Not, your flock, your people, your church, as many ministers
today speak. F231; R1523:6
"My sheep know my voice." (John 10:27) F247, 249
Taking the oversight -- To feed them with the truth, to guard them
against the wolves in sheep's clothing, and in a general way, to act as
their representatives. R1890:3
Not by constraint -- Requiring urging. R1892:6
But willingly -- Willing to assume the labors and responsibilities of
the service. R1892:6
Not for filthy lucre -- In the early Church the elders served weekly
meetings without thought of compensation; probably continuing their usual
work or business for a livelihood. R1822:4
There are noble and ignoble ambitions. R5185:1
Of a ready mind -- With a desire to serve the Lord and the brethren.
R2500:2, 1892:6
As being lords -- Ecclesiastical potentates, Doctors of divinity, etc.
R3217:3
Assuming to be lords. R1895:4
Attempting to take the place of the Lord and acting arrogantly toward the
brethren. R4503:2, 2446:5
It would be wrong for a class to permit an elder to "boss" it; injurious
to both the elders and to class interests. R5921:3
The elders should remember that they are not the Chief Shepherd, but only
the under-shepherds. R5185:3, 4772:4
If any should lord it over the flock, he would bring injury to himself as
well as to the Church; he would be cultivating a spirit of pride. R5185:3
The spirit of ambition, rivalry, and desire to be greatest amongst the
Lord's people is one of the most dangerous foes of the Church, not only to
those over whom they rule, but also to those who will be rulers and
teachers. R5268:6
Dispensing their own wisdom, or the wisdom of other men instead of the
Word of the Lord. R3356:4
Peter recognized no clerical orders. OV160:5
Beginning before 325 AD, this doctrine had been growing; the bishops began
to manifest the attitude that they were higher than the common people,
that they were the church and the common people the laity. OV411:3
It is indeed true, that whoever exercises the gift of teaching lays
himself open to increased responsibility in the sight of God and men.
R2156:3
It would be just as contrary to the Lord's spirit if the class were to
lord it over the elders. R4772:4
Over God's heritage -- The Church. R2446:5
Being ensamples -- Patterns of humility, faithfulness, zeal and
godliness. R1523:6, 1553:3
The chief Shepherd -- The Lord established but one Church, and over that
one Church he himself is the only "Lord" and "Head," the only authority.
R1893:4
A crown of glory -- Immortality, the divine nature. A215; R1077:4
This crown that is reserved for us is conditional. CR406:6
It is the reward which brings glory, honor and immortality. R5499:3
Another name for the glory of the Kingdom, the glory of immortality, the
glory of the Father's favor, the glory of being joint-heirs with Christ in
his Kingdom. R3211:6
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as
I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." (Rev.
3:21) R2732:5
In their glorified condition the faithful will be the exalted seed of
Abraham with the glorious mission of blessing Israel after the flesh and
all the families of the earth. NS540:6
A crown is an emblem of honor, dignity and authority. NS134:1
Fadeth not away -- The Lord will give to his overcoming Bride the crown
of life "that fadeth not away." (1 Pet. 1:4) R1077:4
Submit yourselves -- We should submit ourselves as far as possible to
every reasonable regulation; but when it is a matter of conscience we are
to have sufficient courage and manhood to stand by that conscience so we
would not violate it. Q102:2
We are cautioned not to defy the elders, nor to blindly and worshipfully
follow them without proving their teachings by the Word of God. R1895:4
Unto the elder -- "Elder" has the significance of "older," yet amongst
the Lord's brethren it is not merely years of natural life that is to be
taken into consideration; in the Lord's family we sometimes see "babes"
with gray hairs. R2654:6
Some grow more rapidly and mature more quickly than others. R2654:6
Subject one to another -- We are to be subject to the Lord and every
ordinance of God; and to consider the truly consecrated people of God as a
unit and to seek to cooperate one with another. R3060:5
To hear gladly from the humblest of the flock; and be willing to yield his
own preference, so far as his judgment and conscience would permit. R2655:1
In humility and meekness, we are to harmoniously cooperate together as one
body for upbuilding in love and all the Christian graces, and for the
general advancement of the work of the Lord. R1895:4
All are so anxious to serve and so independent in their feelings that it
sometimes means as many different plans and arrangements as there are
members in the class; patience, forbearance and love are qualities greatly
needed. R5513:6
Clothed with humility -- We must be very childlike and humble. R135:4,
271:4
No cross-grained will of ours to oppose or thwart the will of God being
done in us. R271:4
Humility is one of the basic principles of a properly crystalized
character. R5843:4
"Gird yourself with humility, to serve one another."
(Revised Version) R5361:3, 5362:6
Justice and humility are set forth in the Scriptures as essential to the
development of the proper character on the part of God's very elect. NS16:2
The humble spirit seeketh not its own, is not puffed up, does not attempt
to speculate upon inflated values, does not think of itself more highly
than it ought to think, but thinks soberly--neither overrating, nor
underrating its own acquirements or achievements. R5185:5
Outside of every other adornment of character, and covering all others,
should be this robe of humble-mindedness, the opposite disposition to
pride. R2655:2
God resisteth -- Because the Almighty sees that we have nothing whatever
of which to be proud or to boast. Whatever we have has been of the Lord's
providence, or favoring circumstances. R5843:3
He disapproves of pride; all who are actuated by pride may be sure that
the Lord will resist them, push them from him. R2655:2
The proud -- The self-sufficient, the boastful. R2700:4
Pride is selfishness gone to seed. R5185:5
The self-seeking, the proud in spirit, could not be trusted by the Lord in
a high position. They might do damage to themselves and to his cause.
R5414:6
Even if they become his children, they would be kept at a distance. If the
proud were permitted to come nearer to the Lord it would make them more
proud. R5370:4
They also resist him. R1054:1
Nothing is more dangerous to the child of God than self-conceit; it blocks
the way to true progress and reformation of heart, and hinders true
usefulness to others, and especially usefulness in God's service. R2060:6,
5186:1
Be especially on guard against pride and self-conceit. R3734:1
Inflated values must at some time come down to a solid basis. R1486:6
Pride is the one thing that God hates. NS745:6
Giveth -- Showeth. R2450:5, 5464:4, 2700:4
Grace -- Favor. R425:5, 5843:3, 5464:4, 3734:1, 2700:4, 2450:5, 1920:2
To the humble -- Peter emphasizes the necessity on the part of the
Lord's people that they be clothed with humility. R5843:3
Only the humble will share with the Lord in the inheritance of the
Kingdom. R3734:1, 5362:6
The penitent. R5464:4
All who would abide in the Lord's love have need to be very careful along
this line; to keep humble, very lowly in conduct, and particularly in
mind. R2450:5
It is when we are thus humble and faithful that the Lord makes us his
chosen vessels to bear his name to others. R5186:4
Daniel exemplified this quality in all his dealings with the King and with
God. R2493:4
Humble yourselves -- As "little children." (Matt. 18:3) R4380:2
Essential to all who would be of the Lord's family. R5704:4
A primary element of the Lord's spirit; a principle of divine government.
R5825:5, 5844:5
Some brethren seem not to have learned the lesson of "God first, self
last." R5959:1, 5958:5
There is to be no boasting. It is the great Master Workman who is doing a
work upon us. R5284:5
One of the most important qualities for any of God's people to possess.
R5384:3
After the example of the Master. R5981:3, 5890:1
Only the submissive will pass the inspection. R4575:6
God will especially bless those who are more lowly, meek, teachable, more
trustful in the Lord. R5185:4, 5186:1
This spirit will make us very fearful of developing any pride or bombast
or desire of lording it over others. R5185:4
The sentiments of our hearts should not be that of pride, but of meekness,
humility, faithfulness. R5185:5
Avoid the spirit of ambition, rivalry, and the desire to be greatest
amongst the Lord's people. R5268:6
The tests of the present time are tests of faith and loyalty to God, and
of entire submission to his will. Without these we would be quite unfit
for the Kingdom. This test comes to the Lord and the Church only during
the Gospel age. R5844:2
It is indeed no easy matter to tread the pathway of humility, to
continually check the human aspirations, and to keep the sacrifice on the
altar until it is fully consumed. R5186:4
It is hard for those who are rich in the wisdom or power or wealth of this
world to do this. R1920:2
Peter evidently had spiritual pride in mind when he wrote to the Church
regarding humility. R5955:6
Submit yourself to whatever God's providence shall bring to you in life's
experiences. R5261:3, 5384:3
Look up to God and give him praise for all that we have and are. R5284:5
Cultivate this humility of mind and never allow it to be lost. R4928:2
Be not heady, high-minded and worldly-wise. R4710:5
Humility is a very prominent grace in the sight of God. It comes right in
as you find your weaknesses; humble yourselves and make it right with God.
CR294:5; NS465:2
Only the humble-minded are prepared to learn the great lessons that must
be learned before they will be ready for exaltation that would be
profitable to themselves or to others. R5847:5
If we occupy a teacher's position, it should be held very humbly and with
great fearfulness and continual watching and praying lest we enter into
temptation and ensnare ourselves and others in error. R4380:3
If any find himself in error, instead of attempting to justify it and
prove it right, let him remember the Apostle's words to humble yourself
under the hand of God. R1217:6
Those being selected for the glorious privilege of the future must fully
demonstrate to the Lord humility and absolute loyalty to his will, even in
their secret thoughts. R4364:1
Whoever would reign with Messiah in his approaching Kingdom must humble
himself in the present time. R4669:1, 4047:6
No matter how deep the humiliation which obedience to God may bring.
R3561:6
Amongst the Gentiles, the rulers are lords, who do no serving, but are
served, but among the followers of Jesus the rule is to be reversed; he
who would serve most was to be esteemed most highly. R3363:1
Humbling ourselves under the mighty hand of God, we shall be kept from the
self-assertion which was Moses' sin and typifies a cause of rejection in
some of the Lord's prominent ones of spiritual Israel. R4047:6
Those who are naturally poor in spirit, deficient in self-esteem have much
advantage every way over others as respects this element of character.
R3733:6
This is a life work with many. E255; NS382:6
No one can wholly follow the Lord without much of the spirit of humility,
without bringing his thoughts into subjection to the Lord. R5890:1
Therefore -- Because God puts a premium on humility. F90
Mighty hand of God -- Mighty power. R2655:6
To do whatever service his providence has made possible for you. R2412:2
Everything is being done by the mighty power of God, by which he is
causing all things to work together for good. R5185:4
The Lord's mighty hand has not yet been stretched out to take hold of
mankind in general and its affairs, to bring order out of confusion; but
it is stretched over his flock. R2655:3
He may exalt you -- With ultimate victory and life everlasting. R5464:4
To be the Bride, the Lamb's wife; joint-heirs with Jesus Christ our Lord.
R422:6, 5185:2
Even as he highly exalted our Lord. R2777:4
Our Lord humbled himself and God highly exalted him to the very position
which Satan coveted. Satan became proud and vain in his imagination, thus
losing his exalted position. R5843:3
To humble yourselves does not necessarily mean to think that we have no
talent, no power, no ability. Such an attitude would be foolishness.
R5843:4
The way of the cross, the way of humiliation and self-abasement, is the
way to the crown, to that true honor that cometh from God only. R1916:4
If Jesus had not been humble, he would not have attained to the glorious
station to which he was exalted. R5186:2
This great exaltation will be given all who are fully submissive to God's
will, whether their powers and talents be many or few. R5844:3
These would not be injured by the exaltation nor deflect in the future
work to which all of the Kingdom class are called. R5414:6
"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (Luke 14:11) R3363:1, 5988:1,
4928:2, 4708:4, 3079:2, 2860:4, 1766:6
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and he shall lift you up."
(James 4:10) E424
This is not the time to exalt ourselves and to show how we can shine.
R5890:1
In due time -- After that ye have suffered a while; after he shall have
made you ready for the exaltation and for the service he wishes you to
perform. R1888:5, 5261:3
During the Gospel age the Church is being gathered. R5603:3, 4047:6
At the second coming of our Lord. R5185:4
Casting all your care -- Anxiety, worry, trouble of mind. R5508:3
Worries and frettings; anxieties that would hinder us in the Lord's
service, that would rob us of our peace in the Lord, should be dropped,
not carelessly, however, but intelligently. R5509:2
The remedy for all unauthorized over-carefulness by the elected elders for
the interests of Zion. R2655:6
We cannot be faithful children of God if we are full of worry. Worry is
one thing, but proper carefulness is another. R5509:4
We need carry no anxious cares respecting the future. R2260:4
Addressed to the Church of Christ. R5508:3
Let us tell the Lord all about our burdens, great and small. R5509:5
Not all of the suffering and cross-bearing come from the world's
opposition to the truth. R1054:4
The Scriptures plainly teach that special trials may be expected in the
Church, amongst the brethren. R5118:3
Much of the suffering comes from our faithfulness in humbling and subduing
the evil propensities of our fallen nature. R1054:4
We must be tested by the hatred, the malice, the evil speaking and evil
surmising of those who dipped with us in the dish, of those who partook
with us of divine bounty at the table of the Lord. R4208:5
There are cares that come to the Lord's people because they are harassed
by the Adversary. R5509:1
A little carelessness along these lines, and the Adversary might readily
entrap us and ensnare us and then lead us captive at his will. This power
of intrusion will contain we believe, evil suggestions, promoting slanders
and back-biting. R4311:2
All true saints of God are care-full. They have an interest in the Lord's
work, they have a care in respect to it; they cannot be indifferent to the
interests of Zion. R2655:4
Upon him -- The Shepherd of the flock. R2655:6
He careth for you -- Taking thought. R5508:3
Each day that a Christian lives he should be more reliant upon the Lord.
R5509:2
"My God shall supply all your need." (Phil. 4:19) R3400:4
Illustrated by the feeding of Elijah by the ravens. God did not supply
Elijah with luxuries but with the absolute necessities. R3400:4
Be sober -- To guard against every approach to a spirit of pride and
vainglory. R1972:1
What a fearful responsibility attaches to the tongue that wags in an evil,
or even in a flippant way. R1938:1
Be vigilant -- It is a life work, a life battle against a mighty foe
intrenched in our flesh. R1859:6
Your adversary -- Satan, and the fallen angels. R5546:4
Who backs all the tricks and lies and obsessions of Spiritualism. R2188:5
The devil -- Greek, diabolos. Satan. The term Satan signifies adversary,
opponent. R5183:3
He beguiles with flattery, pride and ambition; vanquishes with
despondency; attracts with the pleasure of the present life; seduces
through too great reverence of human teachings; and tempts to disloyalty
to God. R4525:1
Whose very existence is now denied by many. F609
As a roaring lion -- Angry. R2172:5
When the beast is about to spring upon his prey, he roars so loudly that
the victim is paralyzed with fear, and thus is easily caught. R5183:6,
4988:3
Fear is one of the most disastrous things for the Lord's people to have.
R4988:3
As God incites by love, so Satan incites through fear. R4988:3
Satan, the Adversary of the Church, is strong and lion-like, vigilant and
fully awake. R5183:6, 2769:6
Sometimes, lion-like, when we are off guard he springs upon us unawares,
stirs up the evil of the old nature, and unless desperately resisted he
will take full control and drive us on to ruin. R1053:5
In the great Papal system Satan's lion-like strength has most fully
appeared. R1687:4
He sometimes appears as a skulking serpent in the grass. R1053:5
Although Satan is vigilant like a roaring lion, he never attacks us with a
roar, but subtly. R2770:1, 5183:6
When Satan is bound the prophet's words shall be fulfilled "no lion shall
be there." (Isa. 35:9) Q825:2
Whom he may devour -- Swallow up in calamity, laying snares to separate
us from God. R2769:6
To overcome us, to crush out our spiritual, life, and to destroy our faith
in God. R5183:6
The Adversary opposes all who walk in the footsteps of Jesus, particularly
those in public places and those active in the service of the truth.
R5142:2
Satan can make no direct attack upon the Lord, but he can attack his plan
and those who believe in God. R5329:3
He has no power against us except as God permits it. R5546:4
Satan continues to use all whom he can in his service to oppose the
saints. R726:4
Whom resist -- Our safety from the power of Satan and the fallen angels
lies in the resistance of our wills. R2172:5
By not allowing his seductive arguments to have weight with us. R5184:3
By standing; to stand is to adhere to fixed principles; i.e., to "be
steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." (1 Cor.
15:58) R1485:5, 90:1
It is a continual battle. CR455:1
"Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand." (Eph. 6:11)
R1859:2
If Satan be not resisted, the danger is that the light and the blessing
received through the knowledge of God will become a curse and an injury;
and that the result will be worse than before coming into relationship
with Christ. R5378:5
Stedfast -- Immovable. R1627:3
Thus "we become strong in the Lord and in the power of his might." (Eph.
6:10) R4988:6
These words imply that in order to resist we must have faith; confidence
in God. R2770:6
In the faith -- "This is the victory that overcometh the world, even
your faith." (1 John 5:4) R1859:5
The same afflictions -- Similar. R1485:5
The God of all grace -- Is not vengeful, not unkind. R4982:3
Suffered a while -- And our faith has been properly tested. R4488:6
This suffering takes in all of our present life's experiences. R4750:5
Unless we are willing to endure hardness, we will not be prepared to enter
the eternal glory. (2 Tim. 2:3) R5147:6
The chastisements we receive, many of which are not punishments for sins,
are but preparation for the work of the next age. R5147:6
"Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings." (1 Pet.
4:13) T50
Make you perfect -- We will not be actually perfect until we attain the
resurrection change. R4750:5
Stablish, strengthen -- After being perfected through suffering. R4750:4
Settle you -- Established in the faith and in the practice of the
principles of the Gospel. R1053:2, 3215:5
A condition of uncertainty is not a condition of faith. R1218:4
It is our duty to have settled convictions of truth, convictions so rooted
and grounded in God's Word that we cannot be moved therefrom. R1218:4
It is only through endurance as good soldiers of Christ that this
desirable condition can be attained, viz., perfect self-control and
ability to resist evil, established faith, patience and virtue, settled,
abiding rest in Christ, and hope through his word of promise. R1860:4
Saluteth you -- It is a pleasant observation that whenever there was
opportunity the Churches in one place were prompt to send Christian
greetings and benedictions to those in other places. R1895:4
A kiss of charity -- Which we instinctively recognize in spirit, but not
in letter. R1550:5
There would be nothing wrong in a kiss of love, but there is no intimation
that the brethren should kiss the sisters or the sisters kiss the
brethren. Q619:T, 618:5