Adventist News

  • Iowa-Missouri Conference Children: A Welcome Addition at Kimberling City

    Children are a welcome addition at Kimberling City! Last November the Kimberling City, Missouri, church held an unheard-of (for them) party — a baby shower! A family from the Los Angeles area moved to Branson last summer and their daughter, Alice, has been attending the primary Sabbath school class. The shower was for her baby sister, Hazel, who arrived safely on Dec. 19. Although the number of active members at Kimberling City is very small, there were 20 who attended the shower, including friends of the “mother-to-be” who came from the Branson area.       Also, last summer, the Kimberling City church warmly welcomed their new pastor, Robert LaCelle, and his family. Pastor Robert and Esther have two young sons, Philip (almost 4) and Jared (1 1/2). The church has been praying for the Holy Spirit to help their church grow, however He saw fit. Not only did God send four children to them (they had none), but He also sent two very capable, child-nurturing ladies to lead out in the children’s Sabbath school classes. The Kimberling City Church currently has three kindergarten students and one lovely primary student. The “Little Church with a Big Heart” always welcomes young and old alike to worship with them. Carolyn Sowards is the communication leader for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kimberling City, MO.

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  • Dakota Conference How Prayers Brought a Ranger to Flag Mountain Camp

    “Lord, we really need a camp ranger for Flag Mountain.” I had begun saying this prayer daily since the moment I had finished thoroughly evaluating the mounting facility projects at our South Dakota camp. I wondered how we could complete the necessary work without a summer ranger.  At the office one day, I told my wife, Lynnette, how I wished we could have placed an ad in OUTLOOK Magazine for a camp ranger. However, we knew the ad deadline had already passed, we didn’t have an ad budget, and the next ads wouldn’t run for nearly three months—too late for us. We sadly realized we’d probably have to wait until next summer to get a ranger.  Suddenly, Jodi Dossenko, our conference communication director, called to say she had an unusual question to ask: OUTLOOK needed to fill last-minute ad space within the next couple of hours before it went to print, and did I possibly have anything I could advertise? Yes, yes I did! We said a thank-you prayer, quickly composed an ad, and asked God to bless. A month later, we were at Andrews University recruiting summer staff when a tall gentleman approached us to ask if we still needed a camp ranger. He had seen the ad, had previously worked at Flag Mountain Camp, and had always wanted to be a ranger there. He needed to check with his boss to get time off, but he would love for it to work out.  Praise the Lord, it did! God blessed and multiplied our ranger’s efforts. All summer, Ranger Nathan Roe tackled a variety of projects, so our facility could continue to be a place of ministry for many years to come, and in his “spare time,” Roe taught campers blacksmithing. Amazing! When it comes to camp ministry, God works daily miracles to provide for His kids. Our ranger was prayed for, and God answered through a post-deadline ad. We serve an awesome God! Ted and Lynnette Struntz serve as youth, camp, and club ministries directors for the Dakota Conference.

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  • DON REEDER, PRINCIPAL OF CAMPION ACADEMY, RETIRES Longest serving employee in Rocky Mountain Conference

    After 40 years of dedicated service to Campion Academy, Donavan Reeder has announced his retirement. Reeder has served as Principal for the past nine years and, prior to that, worked as a Men’s Dean for 31 years in the residence hall. He steps down as the longest-standing employee at the Rocky Mountain Conference. As an integral part of Campion Academy for so many years, he leaves a legacy of commitment and spiritual leadership to be honored.  Mic Thurber, RMC president, remarked, “Don’s dedication and commitment have left a mark on Campion Academy, and we are profoundly grateful for the impact he has had on the lives of countless students, staff, and the entire Campion community.” Reeder’s Campion roots run deep; he was born in Loveland, Colorado, while his parents both worked at Campion Academy. His family later moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where he attended Salt Lake City Junior Academy. He attended Andrews University and then transferred to Walla Walla University where he graduated with a degree in Communication.  He met and married his wife Donna while at Walla Walla. Donna also had Colorado roots, growing up in Denver and graduating from Campion Academy in 1980. After college, the couple decided to move to Loveland. As Don had studied communications, he obtained his first job with a video production company in Loveland.  At the time, Thure Martinsen was the chaplain at Campion, and he had been Reeder’s principal at Salt Lake Junior Academy. Martinsen invited Reeder to play on Campion’s faculty football team. After the staff had gotten to know him on the field, he was asked to apply as the Assistant Men’s Dean, and he began officially working at Campion Academy in 1984.  After just two years of working as an Assistant Dean and teaching Speech and World of Work classes, he took on the position of Head Dean of Men in 1986.  Reeder excelled as a Head Dean, maintaining the position for 29 years. Reeder shared, “I had originally desired to be a youth pastor. I saw that I could preach to the youth, but they needed examples of the Christian life lived in the real world. By being a residence hall dean, I would be living with the students and, hopefully, be a daily witness to God’s working in our lives, just as Mark 3:14 tells us that Jesus lived with His disciples before He sent them out to preach.” Before their daughter, Jessica, was born, Donna Reeder also worked at Campion Academy as an Assistant Girl’s Dean and in the cafeteria until finding her fit in the accounting department where she has continued to work for the past 25 years. Jessica (Reeder) Baker has followed in her parents’ passion for Adventist education and currently works as a teacher at the Fort Collins Adventist School.  Reeder served as a Vice-Principal in addition to Head Dean under Principal Spencer Hannah. In 2015, Reeder was selected to become Principal at Campion Academy.  At the end of the 2015 school year, Campion Academy was struggling with low enrollment, with around 120 students. Reeder was given a goal to increase that to 150 in his first year as principal and Ed Barnett, then RMC president, even promised to shave his head if they reached that goal. In a memorable event, the goal was reached, and Barnett’s head lost its hair.  Barnett commented, “He was a great leader and soon we were getting our enrollment back up. The thing that impressed me the most with Don was the spirituality on the campus,” he added. Don was a friend that Barnett will always cherish. “What a blessing he had been for the Rocky Mountain Conference!” he added. Reeder is well-known for keeping the mission and spiritual development of Campion Academy students at the forefront. As principal, he made the mission of Campion Academy clear, saying, “I wanted the students to be trained to go into the world with the message of Jesus.”  Under his leadership, Reeder expanded the Spiritual Life Committee to include the church pastors and HMS Richards principal which began to meet weekly. He also made sure Wednesday evenings were dedicated to spiritual programming (Fusion) to give more emphasis on spiritual development and training.  Other accomplishments included: creating security ID cards for secure entry to the Ad Building; creating new signage throughout campus and in the Ad building; adding a communication director; formalizing the international student program with Dean Helm; adding the Cougar statue to campus with the Stenbakkens and Bob McConnell; and creating the endowments for Student Legacy and Capital Improvements.  In 2019, Reeder’s dedicated service to the ministry of Adventist Education was formally recognized when he was ordained by the Rocky Mountain Conference.  Reeder led Campion Academy through the challenging years of the COVID pandemic, leading with a balanced approach; keeping Campion Academy open for in-person instruction while instituting strong policies to prioritize health and safety.  Among Don Reeder’s friends is the conference’s former Education Superintendent, Lonnie Hetterle, who has been acquainted with Reeder for nearly 30 years. He recollects that, “during that long span of time I have had the opportunity to observe and to work with him in a wide variety of circumstances and situations when he was a boy’s dean, a teacher, an academy principal and as a fellow follower of Jesus Christ. Faithfulness and consistency are two words that clearly describe Mr. Reeder.” “His desire to rightly represent his Savior has fully influenced all of his decisions. As a new principal he always was willing and, in fact, eager to take counsel and made every effort possible to arrive at the correct and best decision for each situation. His desire to be the very best leader he could be continued throughout his career. He did his best to look at every scenario from the student’s perspective, from the staff viewpoint, and from the school’s perspective but always with a redemptive mindset.”  According to Hetterle, Reeder set the standard for “servant-leadership.”   “His willingness to listen, DON REEDER, PRINCIPAL OF CAMPION ACADEMY, RETIRES Longest serving employee in Rocky Mountain Conference“>Read more…

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  • Minnesota Conference Adventist Community Services Thrift Store Shows Jesus to Community By Amy Bacon and Dan Daniels

    For over seven decades, the Adventist Community Services Thrift Store has stood as a beacon of hope and support in the Detroit Lakes area. Founded in 1949, this thrift store, located on the grounds of the Detroit Lakes Seventh-day Adventist Church, has played a vital role in supporting the community through various initiatives and aid programs. Currently under the dedicated stewardship of Dan Daniels, who has diligently overseen operations for the past three years, the store operates primarily through the selfless dedication of volunteers. Apart from director Dan Daniels, the team consists of volunteers who devote their time and efforts to ensure the store’s success. The group of eight active volunteers manages the store’s operations. Volunteers contribute their skills to various tasks, including treasurer duties, paperwork, sorting, pricing, managing the register, and maintaining the store’s cleanliness.  The store also engages with community programs such as Day Star, a work release initiative for local jail inmates. One of the cornerstones of the thrift store’s work is its commitment to collecting and distributing donations of food and clothing. This dedication extends beyond just offering affordable goods to locals. In recent times, the store, which is open three days a week, has generously given away 36 totes and 121 bags of clothing to the Pine Point Indian Reservation, responding to specific requests from the reservation’s chief.  Moreover, collaborations with various organizations like the Disabled American Veterans, Becker County, First Lutheran Church, and Lakes Crisis Center have resulted in significant aid. This includes providing 482 bags of clothes to DAV, handling 41 referrals, and aiding 65 individuals by offering 463 clothing items and 20 boxes of kitchen items. In addition to providing material support, the Adventist Community Services Thrift Store actively participates in outreach programs. They distribute religious material like Amazing Facts and offer free Bible studies. Notably, their efforts led to the recent baptism of an individual who attended a seminar. The store’s outreach extends to collaborating with the White Earth rehab center, providing assistance and resources. They also act as a food pantry, distributing 150 pounds of food to those in need of it. Additionally, they assist the homeless, coordinating accommodations through arranging and funding hotel stays, partly facilitated by the ministerial committee. Furthermore, the store donates clothing and items to a bus service that travels to the Indian reservation, spearheaded by church members Mike and Shari Williams. This bi-weekly service involves providing free Bible studies, clothes, and health information. In addition, their altruism extends to other areas of need. After a tornado struck the area last year, the store initiated fundraising efforts to reroof two local houses. Recently, they insulated and wrapped a trailer home for a young family in need. The thrift store’s profits are channeled toward supporting various causes monthly, with $750 donated to organizations like Lakes Crisis Center, Hospice, and Health Resources Center. Their efforts were recognized last year when they were voted the best non-profit in the area, receiving a $5,000 grant from KLN Family Brands.  Moreover, their commitment to volunteerism extends to being recognized by the AmeriCorps Point of Light program, with Daniels submitting applications for presidential awards based on the volunteers’ collective hours of service, with each volunteer receiving a medal, certificate and a letter from the president. Dan Daniels’ commitment to service doesn’t end with the thrift store. He also volunteers as a character development instructor at the Civil Air Patrol in Crookston, Minnesota, contributing to shaping the next generation. The Adventist Community Services Thrift Store has been an indispensable force for good in Detroit Lakes for many years. Its unwavering commitment to serving the community, aiding the needy, and fostering volunteerism exemplifies the very essence of compassionate and selfless service. Under the guidance of dedicated individuals like Dan Daniels and the team of devoted volunteers, the store continues to make a profound impact, enriching lives and shining a light in the local community. Amy Bacon is associate communication director for the Minnesota Conference. Dan Daniels contributed to this article.  

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Blogs

  • The Teacher’s Notes–Worship That Never Ends, Lesson 12 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, "Psalms"

    Sabbath School Lesson for March 16-22, 2024 Overview of Lesson 12, Worship That Never Ends Memory Text: “I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” Psalm 104:33 NKJV People often wonder how much time should be spent worshiping God. But the truth is, our worship never ends. From the time we decide to join a worshiping community (also called “the assembly of the upright” in Psalm 111:1, and the “great assembly” in Psalms 22:22, 25 and 35:18) we will enjoy a fruitful relationship with God. Throughout eternity, the blessings of worship will flow back and forth between God and His people. Ideal worship has two components that feed off each other. Corporate worship is important, but so is individual praise and devotion to God. We need both, and so does God. Our potential to enhance the spreading of the gospel occurs when we combine a daily, personal communion with God and a communal worship experience of praise to Him and service to others. When this happens, our worship permeates every part of our lives, both here on earth and in the future heavenly Kingdom. The kind of worship God expects from us contains these features… Sunday: Lift Up Your Hands in the Sanctuary (Ps. 134)–what it means to “bless” God Monday: Sing to the Lord a New Song–what is the meaning of a “new song” Tuesday: Lord, Who May Abide in Your Tabernacle? (Ps. 15)–how we must live, in order to be in the sanctuary Wednesday: Declare His Glory Among the Nations (Ps. 96)–how can we best share God’s message of salvation Thursday: When God Does Not Delight in Sacrifices–when is our service to God offensive to Him Sunday: Lift Up Your Hands in the Sanctuary (Ps. 134) Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible, just two verses that express praise to the Lord. Psalm 134 is short as well, just three verses, but there are some things worth noticing here in the praise it encourages. Psalm 134 includes lifting up our hands to praise Him (also found in Psalm 63:3, 4). We can easily feel impressed to literally lift up our arms and hands heavenward as we worship God, and this action should remind us to worship God with everything we do with our hands. We should be offering our service to Him in tangible ways, even outside the confines of the church setting. Such a symbolic gesture surely signifies that God not only has our heart, but our total being–every part of us. All our thoughts and actions belong to Him. God is blessed mightily by sincere, enthusiastic praise, when it comes from an upright follower of His word. Psalm 134 contains a reminder that the servants of God, those who are in His house night and day, must also exemplify ardent worship that blesses God’s heart and fuels the praise that others pour out to Him. Pastors, teachers, or any servant involved in the organized operation of the church, is called to render heartfelt praise to their Master. Bible Verses: Psalm 134 How should we approach God in the worship service? Psalm 36:1 and 18:1, 2 What should be our state of mind toward God as we enter into worship? Monday: Sing to the Lord a New Song Many times in the Psalms, we discover that our praise should include a “new song” (Psalm 33:3, 40:3, 96:1, 98:1, 144:9, and 149:1). This special song is called “new” most likely because it comes from a sense of renewed joy and devotion after contemplating God’s miraculous works and deliverance on behalf of His followers. Isaiah 42:10-12 also mentions a “new song”, and Revelation 14:3 informs us that it will be sung by the redeemed. These are God’s chosen ones, numbered symbolically as 144,000, a multiple of 12, who are the “firstfruits” to God when we finally reach Mount Zion, the home of our Lord in heaven (Revelation 14:4). The lyrics of this new song are given in Revelation 5:9, 10, 11. Other lyrics of new songs are in Revelation 4:8, 11. The redeemed, who are His firstfruits, have survived the trauma of those last days and will obviously have exuberant praise for their Redeemer. True praise will always be fresh and dynamic, however, expressing our loving appreciation for all He has done in our daily lives. It will be a new song for our heavenly Father, indicating our ongoing, living relationship with Him. Bible Verses: Psalms 33:3, 40:3, 96:1, 98:1, 144:9, and 149:1 Why is it important to sing a new song, and just what makes it “new”? Isaiah 42:10-12 Why is it important to sing our new song over such a wide area of the world? Revelation 5:9 and 14:3 How will this new song be different from the ones before it? Tuesday: Lord, Who May Abide in Your Temple? (Ps. 15) Psalm 15, a psalm of David, is also a relatively short psalm, but one that is vital to knowing the kind of character God admonishes us to have, especially when we enter His holy temple, or any church dwelling. We know that God alone is perfect, and His Son was the only Person who was totally blameless and without sin while here on earth. But, we must do all we can to reach His high standard of conduct found in the Ten Commandments. Our obligation to Him includes being honest, pure, and kind to others, avoiding all those things that draw us away from God. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit is available to help us achieve these lofty goals. Some struggle to do so more than others, but all must try with all their heart to trust God, the One who knows us better than we know ourselves. Psalm 15 tells us clearly that only those who walk uprightly and do those things that are pleasing to God can abide in His presence (Psalm 15:1, 2). Our continued fellowship with God The Teacher’s Notes–Worship That Never Ends, Lesson 12 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, “Psalms”“>Read more…

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  • protein Animal Proteins vs. Plant Proteins 6 Tips for Healthier Eating

    In the ongoing debate about dietary choices and their impact on our health, the comparison between animal and plant proteins is a hot topic. Proteins are essential for the repair and growth of cells and muscle tissue, among other vital functions. But does the source of protein really matter when it comes to health? Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of both animal and plant proteins, and explore why plant proteins might just have the edge for a healthier lifestyle. The Benefits of Animal Proteins Complete Protein Source: Animal proteins, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, contain all nine essential amino acids necessary for the human body. These amino acids are called “essential” because the body cannot produce them, and they must be obtained from our diet. This makes animal proteins a convenient source for supporting muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. High in Nutrients: Besides being rich in protein, animal products often contain a variety of other nutrients beneficial for health. For example, red meat is a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. Fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health and cognitive functions.  Satiety and Weight Management: Protein is known for its ability to promote feelings of fullness, which can help in weight management. Animal proteins, with their high protein content and fat, can be especially effective in reducing appetite and subsequent calorie intake, aiding in weight loss or maintenance. The Benefits of Plant Proteins Diverse Nutrient Profile: Plant-based proteins come from a variety of sources, including beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Each of these sources brings not just protein, but also a unique set of nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This diversity can contribute to a more varied and healthful diet. Lower in Saturated Fats: Plant proteins generally contain lower levels of saturated fats compared to animal proteins. High intakes of saturated fats are associated with increased risk of heart disease. By opting for plant proteins, individuals can reduce their saturated fat intake, which is beneficial for heart health. Environmental Sustainability: Beyond personal health, plant-based proteins are considered more environmentally sustainable than animal proteins. They require less land, water, and energy to produce and contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This sustainability aspect adds another layer to the definition of “health,” extending it to the well-being of our planet. Why Plant Proteins Have the Edge Chronic Disease Prevention: Studies have shown that diets high in plant-based foods are associated with a lower risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. The fiber and antioxidants found in plants play a significant role in this protective effect. Weight Management and Metabolic Health: The high fiber content in plant proteins can help regulate appetite and support weight management. Fiber slows down the digestion process, leading to a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream, which can improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic health. Ethical and Environmental Considerations: For many, the choice to prioritize plant proteins over animal proteins is also driven by ethical and environmental considerations. Reducing animal protein consumption can lessen the demand for animal farming, which has implications for animal welfare and environmental health. Seventh-day Adventists believe in living a life that is in harmony with God’s principles, which includes adhering to a diet that promotes health and well-being. Many Adventists choose a plant-based diet as a way to honor the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit, as suggested in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, which says, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This perspective encourages the consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains, as they are seen as the original diet given by God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1:29), and are believed to contribute to better health, clearer minds, and a closer relationship with God.     Healthier Eating Tips Inspired by Seventh-day Adventist Practices: Incorporate a Variety of Plant Proteins: Diversify your protein sources by including different beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, and nuts in your meals. Each provides unique nutrients and health benefits. Eat Whole Foods: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods to maximize nutrient intake. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are staples of a healthful diet. Plan Balanced Meals: Ensure that each meal includes a good balance of macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates) and a wide array of vitamins and minerals to support overall health. Limit Processed Foods and Sugars: Minimize the intake of foods high in refined sugars and processed ingredients, which are often linked to health issues. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is vital for all bodily functions and can help control hunger and boost metabolism. Practice Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and without distraction, listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. This practice can improve digestion and prevent overeating. By embracing these principles, individuals can enjoy the health and environmental benefits associated with a plant-based diet, reflecting the Seventh-day Adventist commitment to hope and wholeness. This article was generated by Ai. Prompting, editing and curation by Samuel Devries and Hugh Davis Photo generated by ChatGPT-4

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  • The Teacher’s Notes–Longing for God in Zion, Lesson 11 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, "Psalms"

    Sabbath School Lesson for March 9-15, 2024 Overview of Lesson 11, Longing for God in Zion Memory Text: “My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” Psalm 84:2 NKJV The songs, or hymns, of Zion joyously expressed their love for the sanctuary of God. Wherever God was, His people longed to be. Many of the psalms that fit in this category were written by the sons of Korah, who either served as musicians in the temple (1 Chronicles 6:31-38), or as gatekeepers there (1 Chronicles 9:19). These temple workers rightfully knew what it was like to be in the arms of God, where they worshipped and learned more about His love and justice. The term “Zion” in these moving psalms referred to either the temple sanctuary or Jerusalem itself. However, the blessings enjoyed in God’s refuge city were to extend to the whole earth. After all, the entire world belongs to God, its Creator. With all our heart and body, we should desire to be near God, the true source of any peace and happiness we might enjoy on this troubled planet. Sunday: A Day in Your Courts Is Better Than a Thousand–what makes the sanctuary so unique (Ps. 84) Monday: Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem–when and how were they to come to Zion (Ps. 122) Tuesday: Zion–The Home of All Nations–what was Zion’s foundation that makes it our home (Ps. 87) Wednesday: Safety and Peace of Zion–when and how are we to experience peace (Ps. 46) Thursday: Immovable Like Mount Zion–why is it necessary to remain steadfast in the world today (Ps. 125) Sunday: A Day in Your Courts Is Better Than a Thousand (Ps. 84) As a bird longs for the relative peace and comfort of its little nest, so we experience a special longing for the presence of the Lord, wherever that may be (Psalm 84:1-4). What makes this place with God so special is… we see there “the beauty of the Lord” (Psalm 27:4) we are satisfied with “the goodness” of His house (Psalm 65:4) we are strengthened enough to trust Him with our lives (Psalm 84:5, 12) There are three groups of people who are blessed by God’s presence in the sanctuary. those who reside and serve there all the time (Psalm 84:4) pilgrims who choose to come there at the appointed times (Psalm 84:5-10) anyone who holds onto God, as their sun and shield (Psalm 84:11, 12) We must not forget the words in Psalm 84:11 that say: “No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly”. When we’ve been with God in His sanctuary, the evidence will be shown by the way we live our lives. The stamp of His presence is seen by the world, as a witness to the beauty and goodness of being with God. Nothing seems more important to us than walking humbly in His footsteps, guided by His love. Bible Verses: Psalm 84:1-4 What makes God’s tabernacle such a lovely place to be? Psalm 84:5-10 Who are also blessed by God’s presence, besides those who dwell there as servants? In what ways is God a sun and shield? Monday: Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem (Ps. 122) Psalm 122 is interesting because it presents two reasons for coming to Jerusalem. Three times a year they were to celebrate together in Zion the Feast of Unleavened Bread (or Passover), the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), and the Feast of Tabernacles (Ingathering). These were joyous times, because the people would be shown two aspects of God’s character: Psalm 122:4–His mercy (found within the temple gates)–referred to as “the Testimony of Israel” (Numbers 1:50) Psalm 122:5–His justice (found in the throne rooms of the king’s palace)–referred to as a place for judgment (2 Samuel 8:15) This twofold purpose for coming to Jerusalem is seen in how we keep the Ten Commandments. The first four commandments pertain to our relationship with God (which is why a visit to the temple was essential), and the last six commandments dealt with our relationship to each other (which was encouraged in the judicial system administered by the king). This same system of divine/human government in Jerusalem was forfeited when Daniel’s 70-weeks prophecy ended (see Daniel 9), leaving us to look forward to and praying for God’s New Jerusalem, when Jesus comes back to earth at His Second Coming (Revelation 21, 22). All human attempts to combine religion and government on earth have always experienced failure, and led to persecution of God’s people. Bible Verses: Psalm 122:1-5 What two places were possible to visit in Jerusalem when they came for their festivals there? What two features of God’s character were shown in each of these places? Psalm 122:6-9 What were they to pray for while in Jerusalem, or Zion? Tuesday: Zion–the Home of All Nations (Ps. 87) Three times in Psalm 87, we are told that all nations, both Jews and Gentiles, may be born in Zion, whether physically or spiritually. The foundation of its holy mountains extends far beyond the confines of the beloved city of God. Although the Lord rightfully places Zion above all others, the inclusive nature of this majestic nation indeed reveals that it is the spiritual birthplace of all who accept God as their own (Galatians 3:29). Daniel’s interpretation of the king’s dream in Daniel, chapter 2, shows us that the stone, which struck the image of kingdoms, “became a great mountain and filled the whole earth” (Daniel 2:34, 35). This new Kingdom then is established by Christ (who is called the Rock in 1 Corinthians 10:4 and is the foundation to build on, in Matthew 7:24). That Rock which consumes all the other kingdoms will stand forever (Daniel 2:44, 45). It is the heavenly Kingdom, not one established now here on earth. Jesus helped us understand the majestic nature of His Kingdom by using the example of a mustard seed. It may be small, The Teacher’s Notes–Longing for God in Zion, Lesson 11 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, “Psalms”“>Read more…

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  • The Teacher’s Notes–Lessons of the Past, Lesson 10 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, "Psalms"

    Sabbath School Lesson for March 2-8, 2024 Overview of Lesson 10, Lessons of the Past Memory Text: “Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.” Psalm 78;3, 4 NKJV We must be faithful in sharing with the children of each generation the historical past of God’s people. When this happens, they will sing God’s praises with us, recounting all the wonderful things God has done. Together with our children, we will be honored to participate in achieving God’s purposes for the salvation of the world. People must know who God is and what He can accomplish when we faithfully work with Him. Several psalms help us in this mission. They are called the “historical”, or “salvation history” psalms. Psalms 78, 105, 106, 80, and 135 easily fit in this category. Knowing this historical past strengthens our trust in God, gives us hope for the future, and allows us to escape a repetition of our past sins and mistakes. The Scriptures must not be seen simply as a book of philosophy or religious ideology. It mostly contains narratives that point to the grand finale of our salvation. Some stories reveal the Messiah and others Christ’s Second Coming, but they all highlight the magnificent power and grace of our Creator. Sunday: The Lord’s Unstoppable Faithfulness–Ps. 78 shows us God’s faithfulness and Israel’s unfaithfulness Monday: Remembering History and the Praise of God–Ps. 105 focuses on God’s covenant with Abraham and the Promised Land he was given Tuesday: Remembering History and Repentance–Ps. 106 expresses hope that God will deliver us from this world of sin Wednesday: The Parable of the Lord’s Vine–Ps. 80 contains an image of a vineyard, representing God’s providential care for His people Thursday: The Lord’s Supremacy in History–Ps. 135 encourages us to praise God as our Creator and Savior Sunday: The Lord’s Unstoppable Faithfulness (Ps. 78) Psalm 78 covers three historical periods in Israel’s history, contrasting God’s patience and healing grace with Israel’s wandering away from God’s commandments. These periods were: the Exodus from Egypt (Psalm 78:9-54) their settlement in Canaan (Psalm 78:55-64) the time of David’s reign (Psalm 78: 65-72) The Israelites’ stubbornness and failure to trust God led them to several episodes of disloyalty to their Benefactor. Their disobedience was usually manifested in idolatry, which consisted of human efforts to save themselves. Such behavior certainly tested God’s faithfulness with His people, but His forgiveness was certain when they returned to Him with repentant hearts. Bible Verses: Psalm 78:2 and Matthew 13:34, 35 Why does God, and later Jesus, use parables/stories to teach about salvation? Psalm 78:7, 8 What was the core sin of Israel that caused them to be unfaithful to God? Psalm 78:58 and Deuteronomy 12:2 What does it mean by “high places” when it talks about idolatry? Why was idolatry so offensive to God, provoking Him to jealousy? How does God’s jealousy and anger differ from ours? How is it the same? Monday: Remembering History and the Praise of God (Ps. 105) Psalm 105 doesn’t focus as much on God’s people who were unfaithful (as in Ps. 78). Rather, we read about those patriarchal leaders whose faith was more steadfast than most of their peers. This psalm describes the covenant made with Abraham and his son Isaac, renewing it with Jacob, and finally using Joseph and Moses to save His people from the horrific bondage they endured in Egypt. All of these miraculous events inspire us to trust God more and praise Him for His unfailing mercies. Through all generations, we receive hope from knowing the history of those fretful times. We are encouraged to trust God and wait patiently for His deliverance, especially in these last days. All nations who suffer oppression can know that God is on their side, and that His justice will prevail. Bible Verses: Psalm 105:1-5, 96:1, and 97:1 How and why are all nations of the earth involved in these stories, and should know and study them? Psalm 105:6-8 and Galatians 3:29 Why should Christians today continue telling these stories about Israel’s past? Tuesday: Remembering History and Repentance (Ps. 106) Also recounting Israel’s escape from slavery in Egypt, their long journey in the wilderness, and their conquest of Canaan when they arrived, Psalm 106 adds another chapter to their story. Written by a later psalmist, we find it included the time when they were carried away into exile by the Babylonians and kept there as unwilling captives for many years. This psalmist illuminated what they should have learned from these experiences. Their sins, which contributed to such unfortunate episodes in history, were once again forgiven. Many of them were later able to return to Jerusalem, because of God’s steadfast love for His people. The fervent prayers of Moses, Phineas, and Daniel turned away God’s wrath from them at critical times. Thankfully, the intercessory prayers of our risen Lord and Savior in the heavenly sanctuary are now responsible for any victory we gain from our enemy Satan. Bible Verses: Psalm 106:1-3, 48 Why does this psalm begin and end with praise to God? What value do we find in praising Him? Psalm 106:8-10, 30, 43-46 What can we learn from these stories about the past? Wednesday: The Parable of the Lord’s Vine (Ps. 80) This psalmist portrays God’s people as a once-thriving plant in the Lord’s vineyard. At this time, however, the vine was not thriving and its very existence was threatened. Psalm 80 is a tearful plea for God to intervene and save them from total destruction, as He had done in times past. Enemies were overwhelming them, and only God could restore them to their former state of peace and well-being. The horrific suffering of Israel was considered part of God’s judgment (Psalm 80:6, 16). They had admittedly turned away from God, and needed His forgiving The Teacher’s Notes–Lessons of the Past, Lesson 10 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 1Q, “Psalms”“>Read more…

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