p. 585 | The Sabbath-School by J. W. Scoles

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Sep 23, 1889

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 15, No. 37.

The Sabbath-School.

By J. W. Scoles

Notes on the International Lesson.

A TEMPERANCE LESSON.

TEMPERANCE does not consist in abstinence from intoxicating liquors alone, by any means. The word properly denotes self-control, and applies with as much force to habits of life as to eating and drinking. True temperance consists not only in so controlling ourselves that we will wholly abstain from articles which are injurious in their nature, but it also implies that self-control which will guard us from an unlawful or intemperate use of lawful things.

WE are not to understand by this lesson that the apostle is here opening a door to the indiscriminate use of everything, both good and bad. God undoubtedly had good reasons in the time of Moses for imposing certain restrictions upon his people concerning their diet. Of course when the special Jewish polity ceased, these restrictions, as such, became inoperative. But undoubtedly, the reasons were and are as strong since, as they were then. Paul is simply referring to the fact that even temperate and wholesome articles may become stumbling blocks to others, if improperly used.

"WHETHER therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." Here is the key to the whole question. Any indulgence which comes under the condemnation of this scripture had better be laid aside. This brings temperance where it properly belongs, inside of a Christian standpoint, and no Christian who is worthy of the name, can knowingly and habitually engage in the use or practice of anything which tends to dishonor his Master.

OUR bodies are temples for the Holy Ghost to dwell in. In other words, the pure and holy influence of the Spirit of God cannot be felt by ourselves, nor manifested through us, if we consort with and love physical impurity. Think of the white-robed angels leaving their homes of glory to associate with the individual who uses foul language, or who is continually under the stupefying influence of drugs or drink, or who cherishes any other vile or filthy practice.

ANYTHING which defiles the body, defiles our soul-temples. Any practice or habit which unnaturally tears down our physical organization, breaks down our system, or injures our health; to this extent breaks down and destroys the temple of the Holy Ghost. "If any man defile (destroy, margin) the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 1 Cor. 3:17.

IT is not necessary that we should compromise with sin in order that no offense shall be given. We may not, must not, swerve from principle, even to gain the friendship of those whom we labor to save. Men are to be saved from sin, not in sin. But we should be scrupulously careful not to give offense in things pertaining to the truths we are proclaiming to others, in order that their minds shall not be prejudiced against them. We can well afford to take the closing advice of Paul in this lesson, endeavoring to have a quickened conscience for the weaknesses of others, and seeking to please not our own selves, as Christ pleased not himself.

J. W. SCOLES.