Additional Notes for Oct. 1 SS Study of Paul
Some Additional Insights for Today’s SS Lesson
Oct.1, 2011
Perhaps in connection with Stephen’s Death:
“God permits what He hates in order to accomplish what He loves.”
“Heaven and Hell can end up participating in the same event but for different reasons.” -- Joni E Tada (Used in one of my seminars on disabilities.)
The Greek word used by the NIV of Stephen falling “asleep” (Acts 7:60)from the stoning is the same Greek word used by Jesus to describe Lazrus being “asleep” prior Jesus resurrecting him. (John 11:11) Some translations avoid the word “sleep” but within these contexts the word brings with it the certain hope of this a being temporary condition.
Perhaps in connection with Paul’s Damascus road experience and our own:
Comments by Ellen White:
“It is when we most fully comprehend the love of God that we best realize the sinfulness of sin.” (Steps to Christ, p.36)
“When Satan tells you that your sins are such that you need not expect any great victories in God, tell him the Bible teaches that those who love most are those who have been forgiven most. Do not try to lessen your guilt by excusing sin. You cannot come near to God by faith unless you realize your sinfulness. Then you can place yourselves right on the promises, and with unwavering faith can claim a share in the infinite sacrifice that has been made for the human race. Cling closely to Jesus, and his great heart of love will draw you unto himself.” {Historical Sketches 135.3}
“God leads His people on, step by step. He brings them up to different points calculated to manifest what is in the heart. Some endure at one point, but fall off at the next. At every advanced point the heart is tested and tried a little closer. If the professed people of God find their hearts opposed to this straight work, it should convince them that they have a work to do to overcome, if they would not be spewed out of the mouth of the Lord. Said the angel: "God will bring His work closer and closer to test and prove every one of His people." Some are willing to receive one point; but when God brings them to another testing point, they shrink from it and stand back, because they find that it strikes directly at some cherished idol. Here they have opportunity to see what is in their hearts that shuts out Jesus. They prize something higher than the truth, and their hearts are not prepared to receive Jesus. Individuals are tested and proved a length of time to see if they will sacrifice their idols and heed the counsel of the True Witness. If any will not be purified through obeying the truth, and overcome their selfishness, their pride, and evil passions, the angels of God have the charge: "They are joined to their idols, let them alone," and they pass on to their work, leaving these with their sinful traits unsubdued, to the control of evil angels. Those who come up to every point, and stand every test, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation. 1T 187
The closer you come to Jesus, the more faulty you will appear in your own eyes; for your vision will be clearer, and your imperfections will be seen in distinct contrast with his perfect character. Be not discouraged; this is an evidence that Satan's delusions are losing their power, that the vivifying influence of the Spirit of God is arousing you, and that your indifference and ignorance are passing away. {BEcho, December 1, 1892 par. 5}
Perhaps in connections with the question: Which is harder – to be saved or lost.
“The sinner may resist this love, may refuse to be drawn to Christ; but if he does not resist he will be drawn to Jesus; a knowledge of the plan of salvation will lead him to the foot of the cross in repentance for his sins, which have caused the sufferings of God's dear Son.” (Steps to Christ, p.27)
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