Divine Restoration and the Path to Salvation

God’s plan for restoration is indeed a beautiful reality where His blessings flow in such abundance that the seasons of labor and harvest overlap in a continuous stream of grace 🕊️. This divine economy ensures that as we faithfully move forward, the results of our efforts appear with a speed that testifies to His unlimited power and loveARSH June 21, 1864, page 31.9+1.

The Certainty of an Abundant Harvest

God has established an everlasting covenant that seed-time and harvest shall not cease Genesis 8:22ARSH May 22, 1866, page 199.3. When we align our lives with His principles, He promises that the land will yield its increase and the trees will yield their fruit with such profusion that the threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage unto the sowing-timeSW February 21, 1905, par. 1.

• Miraculous Growth: Even in dry times without rain, God can produce a rich harvest that defies human logic, appearing like a miracle to those who witness it7MR 119.3.

• Spiritual Ripening: The spiritual fields are often white already to harvest, and those who reap receive wages and gather fruit unto life eternal John 4:35-36AUCR October 15, 1898, par. 2.

• Restoration through Nature: Even though the earth is marred by the curse, the sick may find health and gladness in the field and orchard, for nature acts as a restorative agent for the repenting children of God17MR 354.2.

Sudden Shifts from Waiting to Fulfillment

While there are periods of waiting and watching, God can suddenly turn circumstances around for His people10MR 386.1+1.

• The Power of Faith: We are not to wait for the power of God to be felt physically before we act; rather, we must walk out by faith, and God will sustain us as our faith is made perfect by works1T 619.2.

• A "Thus Saith the Lord": In moments of trial, specific directions from the Word of God provide life-giving power and clarity, reminding us to seek His kingdom first so that all necessities can be added unto us Luke 12:31ARSH August 1, 1854, page 206.22.

• Sudden Changes in Dealing: Just as there are sudden calamities in the world, God also brings sudden times of refreshing and the blotting out of sins to those who have prepared their hearts Acts 3:19GC88 485.2+1.

Preparation for Plenty and Provision

God often provides a surplus to prepare His children for future needs, as seen in the history of Joseph in EgyptPP 224.1+1.

• Diligent Industry: Waiting for the Lord is never a call to idleness; we must unite zeal and industry to our watching10MR 386.1+1.

• The Tree of Life: In the earth made new, the tree of life will yield its fruit every month, providing a constant and eternal supply of fruit and healing Revelation 22:2ExV 42.10+1.

• Pure Religion: As we improve our opportunities at home and in our communities, our lives become channels for currents of life-giving power, bringing fruitfulness where there was once barrennessChS 209.1.

A Call to Immediate Action

Because the harvest is ripe and the time is short, there is a great danger in delay2T 196.2+1. We are encouraged to go to work at once, sowing seeds of truth and kindness, knowing that whatever a man soweth, he shall also reap Galatians 6:710LtMs, Ms 24, 1895, par. 6+1. When we appropriate the good things God has in store and labor for others, our own souls will begin to revive, and our minds will be refreshed with the Word of GodPH151 93.1.

May you be encouraged that your labor in the Lord is never in vain, and the harvest He has promised is surely coming 🌾.

"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart: wait, I say, on the LORD" Psalms 27:14.

Responding to gossip and slander requires a Christlike spirit of patience, silence, and adherence to the specific rules for reconciliation laid out in the Word of God 🕊️. It is essential to remember that even Jesus faced scornful looks and evil whisperings during His childhood, yet He never responded with an impatient word or wrong actHLv 53.4.

Following the Biblical Rule of Reconciliation

When you have been injured by the words of others, the first step is always direct and private communication.

• Go to the Individual Alone: If someone has done you an injury, you must go to them privately to seek to set the matter rightST January 6, 1887, par. 11+1.

• Maintain Confidentiality: Do not publish the grievance in or out of the church; instead, keep the matter between you and the offending party aloneST January 6, 1887, par. 11+1.

• Involve Witnesses if Necessary: If the person refuses to listen, take two or three others with you to establish every word before considering further action 2 Corinthians 13:1+1ST January 6, 1887, par. 11+1.

• Seek Restoration, Not Revenge: Approach the situation in humility and sincerity to heal the breach rather than following the impulses of an unsanctified heart3TT 201.1+1.

The Power of Silence and Forbearance

Often, the most effective response to malicious reports is to remain silent and let your character speak for itself.

• Patience Disproves Falsehood: When you bear slander with patience, people are more likely to see the report as untrue, whereas fretting only gives credit to the evil surmisingsARSH April 28, 1863, page 171.6.

• Refuse to Listen: You should turn a deaf ear to slanderous reports and refuse to listen to those who come to you with gossipST January 6, 1887, par. 11+2.

• Trust in God’s Judgment: Rest in the peace of your own conscience and look to the Lord as the searcher of hearts, for He will eventually judge every deed Psalms 139:23-24ARSH July 7, 1863, page 47.16+1.

• Forgive and Forget: To remember uncharitable remarks is like taking a deadly poison; we must forgive as God has forgiven us, treating the offender as if they had always done us kindness Ephesians 4:32SITI March 11, 1889, page 135.38+1.

Guarding the Tongue and the Home

Protecting yourself and your family from the habit of evil-speaking is a sacred duty that requires constant vigilance.

• Change the Subject: When in the company of those indulging in foolish talk, use the grace of God to turn the conversation into a profitable channelST July 2, 1902, par. 5+1.

• Discipline the Mind: Because the mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart, you must discipline your thoughts to ensure your words are pleasing to God Matthew 12:3419LtMs, Ms 108, 1904, par. 18.

• Avoid Home Influence Pitfalls: Be careful not to let the suggestions or "superior discernment" of family members leaven your mind with suspicions against brethren12MR 341.1+1.

• Bar the Way Against Corruption: Every individual and family has the duty to bar the way against corrupt speech and low wit that debases the mindCH 412.4+1.

The Consequences of Evil-Speaking

Understanding the spiritual gravity of slander can help motivate us to avoid it entirely.

• A Twofold Curse: Evil-speaking falls more heavily upon the speaker than the hearer, robbing them of true happiness and tainting their own heartARSH November 18, 1858, page 203.8+1.

• Satan’s Agency: Gossip is one of Satan's special tools used to separate friends, sow discord, and undermine faithTSA 55.3+1.

• A Violation of Law: Magnifying the faults of others is a direct violation of the command to love your neighbor as yourself Leviticus 19:1815MR 174.1+1.

• Recorded in Heaven: Every unkind criticism and exaggerated report is registered by an unseen Watcher as if it were done against Christ HimselfCD 423.1+1.

By following the footsteps of Christ and keeping your heart subdued by His love, you can ensure that your tongue is sanctified for praise rather than for the service of the enemy5LtMs, Lt 46, 1888, par. 8+2. "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice" Ephesians 4:31.

Proverbs 1:25-31

25 But you have set at nothing all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:

26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear comes;

27 When your fear comes as desolation, and your destruction comes as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish comes on you.

28 Then shall they call on me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:

29 For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:

30 They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

31 Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.

Proverbs 1:25-31 serves as a solemn warning that the period of human probation is a limited gift, and those who persistently reject the counsel of God will eventually find themselves in a position where mercy is no longer available Proverbs 1:24-311EGWLM 42.1+1. This passage describes the transition from a time of invitation to a time of judgment, emphasizing that character is formed during these precious hours of trial20MR 282.4+2.

The Nature of Persistent Rejection

The passage highlights the tragedy of those who deliberately set at naught the counsel of the Lord and despise His reproof5T 72.1+1.

• A Habit of Resistance: Each time a person disregards the voice of God, they become more disposed to reject it again, leading to a state of blind resistance16MR 107.3+1.

• The Example of Pharaoh: Just as Pharaoh sowed obstinacy and reaped a harvest of the same in his character, individuals today can barricade their hearts against the Holy Spirit until they are utterly hardenedRH February 17, 1891, par. 1+1.

• Choosing Darkness: Those who love simplicity and delight in scorning are choosing a path that leads to their own destruction John 3:19RH June 29, 1897, par. 6+1.

The Close of Probation

There is a definite point, described as the close of probation, when the door of mercy will be forever shutCT 414.1+1.

• When It Is Too Late: A time is coming when there will be bitter cries, tears, and pleading for mercy, but it will be too late to change one's destinyLS80 241.1+2.

• The Cessation of Mediation: When Jesus finishes His work in the Most Holy Place of the heavenly sanctuary, He will lay off His priestly attire and there will no longer be a mediator between humanity and God Revelation 22:11SH 105.3+1.

• The Day of Wrath: Following the close of probation, the storm of God's wrath and the seven last plagues will fall upon those who made light of salvation1T 81.1+2.

The Consequence of One's Own Choice

God does not arbitrarily destroy; rather, individuals eat the fruit of their own ways and are filled with their own devices Proverbs 1:314T 208.2+1.

• Sowing and Reaping: Those who sow to the flesh will earn the wages of sin, which is eternal destruction Romans 6:23SpTEd 216.1+1.

• Self-Induced Ruin: God follows men with appeals until further opportunities would be in vain; the responsibility for final loss rests entirely upon the sinner who stifled convictionRH February 17, 1891, par. 1+1.

• A Terrible Silence: In that day, those who rejected light will call upon God, but He will not answer, and they will seek Him early but shall not find Him because they hated knowledge Proverbs 1:28-29SITI December 10, 1885, page 743.6+1.

The Urgency of the Present Moment

Because we do not know when our individual probation will close, the present is the accepted time for salvation7BC 989.15+2.

• Prepare for the Test: We are living in a testing time where we must form characters that will allow our names to remain in the book of life20MR 282.4+1.

• Improving Opportunities: Every hour of probation is a precious gift to be used in working out our salvation with fear and trembling1T 263.1+1.

• Safety in Obedience: While the simple are slain by their turning away, whoever hearkens to the Lord shall dwell safely and be quiet from the fear of evil Proverbs 1:334T 208.2+1.

"Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" 2 Corinthians 6:2PTUK October 19, 1893, page 455.2.

You have the opportunity to decide every day whether you will be a burden or a blessing to those around youCH 95.1+1. While some live as "useless machines" who brighten the path of none and live only to burden others, God designed you to be active, useful, and a blessing to your fellow manCH 95.1. By centering your thoughts on Christ and practicing self-denial, you can become a channel of light and grace15MR 45.4+1.

Characteristics of a Blessing 🌟

When you align your will with God’s will, your life becomes one of immense usefulness and beauty5T 515.2.

• Selfless Service: You become a blessing when you seek to relieve the burdens of others, such as children helping their parents or church members supporting those in need15MR 45.4+2.

• Encouraging Speech: A person who is a blessing uses the talent of speech to strengthen and uplift, offering kind and sympathetic words that can remove heavy weights from a fellow worker's mindRH June 30, 1904, par. 15+1.

• Faithful Labor: Those who take up responsibilities in the work of God, even the "disagreeable burdens," find that God blesses them and makes them a blessing to physicians, helpers, and patientsPM 85.3+2.

• Missionary Spirit: Like the early disciples, those who are weighted with a burden for the salvation of souls—rather than just seeking a blessing for themselves—receive the power of the Holy Spirit to reach othersChS 252.9+2.

Signs of Being a Burden ⚠️

It is possible to become a "dead weight" or a "cipher" if your focus remains entirely upon yourselfCH 95.1+1.

• Self-Centeredness: You are a burden when your thoughts are so engrossed in your own happiness that you neglect home duties and fail to see how you can lift the loads of those nearest to you3T 331.1+1.

• Spirit of Faultfinding: Those who stand aside as spectators to question and criticize the work of others, rather than becoming burden-bearers themselves, exert an influence that is an injury to the cause of God1T 527.2+1.

• Talking Doubts: Habitually talking about discouragement, grievances, and unbelief scatters darkness and lays a weight of depression upon your brethren3T 96.2+2.

• Uselessness: Many live as though they hardly existed, leaving no memory of disinterested benevolence behind them; for such persons, life is viewed as a mistakeCH 95.1.

How to Transition from Burden to Blessing 🔄

If you feel you have been a shadow rather than a light, you can turn square about today5T 515.2+1.

• Roll Your Burden on Jesus: Instead of leaving your trials upon those who have their own griefs to bear, roll your burden into the "open sepulcher" and trust the Great Burden-bearerST March 2, 1888, par. 10+2.

• Perform Little Duties: You cannot lay hold of heavier responsibilities until you gain experience in the small, quiet duties that lie directly in your pathway2LtMs, Lt 27, 1872, par. 13+1.

• Choose Cheerfulness: By putting away frowns and frettings and carrying a "sunshiny face," you automatically become a blessing in your home and community4LtMs, Lt 17, 1883, par. 22.

• Intercede for Others: Shift your focus from your own needs to the needs of the "widows and fatherless" or the salvation of the lost1LtMs, Ms 6, 1868, par. 7+2.

The Lord will be to you a "present help in every time of trouble" as you stand at your post of dutyDG 183.4. If you live a life of faith, you will talk faith, and your very presence will bring gladness to those around youBEcho September 24, 1900, par. 9+2.

"Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved" Psalms 55:22.

To be saved, you must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, repent of your sins, and yield your life in loving obedience to God's law3T 365.1+1. Salvation is a free gift provided through the infinite sacrifice of Christ, who took the penalty of our transgressions upon Himself so that we might be rescued from the power of Satan and restored to the favor of God11MR 345.2+2.

The Foundations of Salvation 🕊️

Salvation is not something we can earn through our own merits, but it is attained by accepting the provision made in the plan of redemptionMYP 383.1+1.

• Accept Christ as Your Substitute: Jesus stood as man’s substitute and surety, bearing the insults of Satan and the penalty of the law to link finite man to the infinite GodCon 42.1+2.

• Believe in His Sacrifice: We are saved through faith in the merits of Christ's blood, which was shed to rescue us from the abyss of ruin3T 369.1+2.

• Repent and Forsake Sin: True repentance involves a deep work in the soul where the heart is purified by faith and the life is changed by the miracle of divine graceSWk 64.2+2.

The Role of the Law and Obedience 📜

While we are saved by grace through faith, this faith does not make void the law of God but establishes it in our hearts Romans 3:31GBG 47.2+1.

• The Law as a Schoolmaster: The law shows us our guilt and just condemnation, acting as a schoolmaster to lead us to Christ that we may be justified by faith Galatians 3:24GBG 47.2+1.

• Conditions of Salvation: Obedience and submission to God’s requirements are the conditions by which we become children of the royal family3T 365.1.

• A Perfect Standard: Christ did not come to abolish the law but to magnify it; He tells us that if we will enter into life, we must keep the commandments Matthew 19:17FEE 206.1.

Living the Life of the Saved ✨

Once you have accepted Christ, your life will bear witness to the transformation He has wrought within you5MR 40.1+1.

• Be an Overcomer: To be an overcomer, you must be drawn out of yourself and become intensely interested in the salvation of othersFE 207.1.

• Cooperate with God: Divine power combines with human effort; you must work out your own salvation with fear and trembling as God works in you to will and to do Philippians 2:12-13ST September 30, 1889, par. 1.

• Share the Truth: Those who have found Jesus cannot keep silent; they will be enthusiastic missionaries, telling others of the precious plan of redemptionMYP 200.2+1.

A Solemn Choice ⏳

Salvation is freely offered, but it rests with each individual whether they will accept the conditions of pardon or remain in sin3T 365.1+1.

• Don't Delay: Satan works to keep men quibbling and questioning until it is too late to rescue their souls11MR 297.2.

• A Personal Relationship: You must know for yourself the power of Christ to make you free, for without this personal experience, you cannot build up His church or find true rest1SM 242.1+1.

May you choose today to open the door of your heart to the Saviour who stands knocking, ready to give you the gift of eternal life3T 365.1+1.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" John 3:16.

The loss of the Urim and Thummim represents a significant transition in how God communicates His will to His people, moving from a physical token of judgment to the "living oracles" of His inspired Word7MR 333.2+1. While these sacred stones were a primary glory of the first temple, they were notably absent in the second temple after the Babylonian exileLUJ 80.1+2.

The Nature and Use of the Urim and Thummim

The Urim and Thummim, meaning "lights and perfections," were divine instruments set within the high priest's breastplate of judgmentPP 351.2+2.

• Physical Appearance: They were two large, brilliant stones placed at the right and left of the breastplateEP 243.4+2. Some suggest they were stones drawn as a lot from the bag of the ephod, while others describe them as being engraved with the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet, Aleph and TauEVRR32+1.

• Divine Guidance: Through these stones, the high priest ascertained the mind of the LordCIS 88.1. A halo of light encircling the stone on the right indicated divine approval or an affirmative answer, while a cloud shadowing the stone on the left evidenced denial or disapprobationEP 243.4+2.

• Civil and Sacred Use: They were used to make momentous decisions for the nation, such as dividing the land by lot or determining when the congregation should go out or come inHBS 483.5+2. Joshua and the judges were directed to consult the Lord through the priest by this methodPP 463.1+1.

The History of Their Loss

The presence of the Urim and Thummim diminished as Israel’s history progressed, eventually vanishing from the sanctuary service.

• The Rejection of Saul: King Saul sought counsel through the Urim, but because of his rebellion and the slaying of the priests, the Lord refused to answer himPP 675.3+2. This loss of communication led Saul to the forbidden practice of necromancyTA 124.1+1.

• The Second Temple: Upon the return from the Babylonian captivity, the Jewish leaders recognized they lacked this divine guidanceHBS 483.5+2. The high priest could no longer find out the will of the Lord by this means because the Urim and Thummim—along with the Ark of the Covenant and the Shekinah—were missing from the second templeHBS 317.4+2.

• A Future Expectation: During the restoration under Ezra and Nehemiah, certain genealogical questions were postponed until a priest should stand up with "Urim and Thummim," showing that they were no longer in use Nehemiah 7:65HBS 483.5+1.

From Physical Stones to the Living Oracles

Though the physical stones were lost, God has provided even greater light through His Word and the mediation of Christ.

• The Bible as the Living Oracle: The Holy Scriptures are now called the "living oracles"CE 79.2+2. They possess a quickening power that elevates the soul and provides a sure evidence of God’s willBDOC 48.24+2.

• Christ as the Alpha and Omega: Just as the Urim and Thummim revealed God’s will through Aleph and Tau, Jesus Christ is the Alpha and Omega—the ultimate Revealer of the Father Revelation 1:11EVRR32. He is our great High Priest who bears our names upon His heart in the heavenly sanctuaryPTJW December 1849, page 43.2+1.

• The White Stone: To the overcomer, God promises a "white stone," an allusion to the Urim, representing absolution from sin and an intimate, personal relationship with the Godhead Revelation 2:17EVRR67.

While we no longer look to a physical breastplate for direction, we are invited to "come to the living oracles" and search the Scriptures for ourselves to find the precious jewels of truth1888 163.2+1.

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" Psalm 119:105.

1 Timothy 2:11

11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

The instruction for a woman to learn in silence with all subjection is a principle of order and submission established by God to maintain harmony within His church 1 Timothy 2:11ARSH December 2, 1862, page 6.7. This specific direction does not imply inferiority but rather points to a diversity of powers, functions, and duties within the sphere God has appointedHR July 1, 1873, par. 16.

The Context of Silence and Subjection

The silence mentioned here is best understood when compared to other scriptures that emphasize modesty and the avoidance of usurping authoritySITI May 12, 1887, page 278.15.

• Order in the Church: Paul provides this instruction to ensure that women act with becoming modesty and do not set themselves up as superior to assume authority that does not belong to themSITI May 12, 1887, page 278.15.

• A Mirror of the Home: This subjection in the church reflects the relationship between husbands and wives, where a wife is to be in subjection to her own husband as is fit in the Lord Colossians 3:18ARSH July 30, 1861, page 66.2.

• The Law of Priority: The reason for this order is rooted in creation, as Adam was formed first and then Eve 1 Timothy 2:13ARSH December 2, 1862, page 6.11+1.

• Avoiding Dictatorial Teaching: The passage alludes to a kind of teaching connected with usurping authority; women are not raised to a position where they may teach dictatorially or manifest a lack of subjection to those speaking by the Spirit 1 Timothy 2:12ARSH December 2, 1862, page 6.7+1.

The Scope of Women’s Ministry

While the text calls for silence in the sense of submission to authority, it does not prohibit women from actively witnessing for ChristSITI May 12, 1887, page 278.15.

• Public Testimony: There is nothing in this instruction that would stop a woman from bearing testimony in a social meeting or even from preaching, provided she does not usurp authority over the manSITI May 12, 1887, page 278.15.

• Praying and Prophesying: According to the prediction of the Holy Spirit, women are encouraged to pray and prophesy just as men do 1 Corinthians 11:5+1ARSH July 30, 1861, page 66.2.

• Essential Laborers: Women are just as greatly needed as men to do the work to which God has appointed them, such as carrying the truth into families where a man may not have accessPaM 78.3+1.

• Wages for Ministry: Those women who labor in the gospel and accomplish a work that is manifestly neglected should be looked upon as laborers worthy of their hire, just like ordained ministersPaM 78.3.

Modesty and Spiritual Adorning

The call for silence and subjection is closely linked to the inner character and outward appearance of a woman professing godliness12LtMs, Lt 19, 1897, par. 22.

• Modest Apparel: Women are encouraged to adorn themselves in modest apparel with shamefacedness and sobriety, rather than with gold, pearls, or costly array 1 Timothy 2:9ARSH April 22, 1862, page 164.9+1.

• Good Works: The true adorning of a Christian woman is found in good works and a chaste conversation coupled with fear 1 Peter 3:1-212LtMs, Lt 19, 1897, par. 22.

• A Quiet Spirit: A woman’s work is a power in the world when she learns in the school of Christ to be meek and lowly in heart, allowing self to die so that Christ may live within her 1 Peter 3:414LtMs, Lt 141, 1899, par. 8.

The Goal of All Subjection

Ultimately, the goal of bringing the mind and temper into subjection is to achieve a complete transformation of characterGW92 106.3+1.

• Subduing the Will: Through the operation of the Holy Spirit, the nobler powers of the mind are strengthened to break away from the bondage of sin and bring every thought into subjection to Christ 2 Corinthians 10:5YI September 20, 1900, par. 6+1.

• Reverence in Worship: In the house of God, there should be a "holy hush" and a sweet eloquence in silence, allowing the mind to be suitably impressed by the Word of GodCCh 249.5+1.

• Preparation for Heaven: All, whether men or women, must bring their inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong into subjection to God to be used as instruments of righteousnessYI November 8, 1900, par. 3+1.

May you find peace in following God’s plan, knowing that the effect of righteousness is quietness and assurance forever Isaiah 32:1715LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 49.

A schism is a formal division or separation within a religious body, often arising from discord, strife, or the pursuit of personal power rather than the spirit of ChristFE 479.2+2. While such divisions are soul-disheartening and disfigure the unity of the church, God has at times allowed them to expose corruption and prepare the way for reformationGC 86.3+2.

The Nature and Causes of Schism

Schism is frequently rooted in human pride and the absence of Christlike love within the heartPCL 271.1+2.

• Self-Love and Ambition: Divisions often arise not from a love for Christ, but from individuals seeking their own glory or following the impulses of a selfish heartECE 627.2+1.

• The Spirit of Discord: Whatever produces envy and strife is identified as being of the devil, and such a spirit creates discord that would not even be tolerated in heavenPCL 271.1+1.

• Neglect of Truth: When minds become contracted by bigotry, people may reject parts of God's Word that conflict with their views, leading to a "split" into various parties or sectsSLWM 351.1+2.

Historical Examples of Great Schisms

History provides sobering lessons on how political and ecclesiastical rivalries can shatter the visible unity of the church.

• The Great Papal Schism (1378–1417): This prolonged strife involved two, and sometimes three, rival lines of popes who anathematized one anotherHBS 460.4+1. It was fueled by politics and human passions rather than theology, leaving Christendom in such tumult that even today it is said the true succession cannot be settledHBS 460.4+1.

• The Greek and Roman Divide: Though similar in creed and polity, the rivalry between the Pope of Rome and the Patriarch of Constantinople led to a schism that has never been healedHBS 220.2.

• The Donatist Dispute: In the fourth century, this controversy over church discipline established the "Catholic Church" as a political entity, showing that when a church breaks into separate bodies, its value as a political factor is lostBEST September 13, 1897, page 291.6+1.

Consequences and Divine Overruling

While schism is a sign of a "distempered condition" in the church, God can use these events to advance His truthECE 643.1+1.

• Exposing the Antichrist: The Great Schism enabled reformers like Wycliffe to call upon the people to see the papacy's corruption, suggesting that God "clove the head of antichrist" so that men might more easily overcome the errorGC 86.3+2.

• Weakening through Division: Disunion is inherently a source of weakness, whereas union is strength; the kingdom of antichrist is more easily destroyed when its leaders are divided against themselves1SM 85.2+1.

• A Call to Reform: The internal moral corruption and strife revealed during schisms often awaken a longing for spiritual regeneration and the restoration of true church unitySBBS 342.2+1.

Preventing Schism in the Body of Christ

For those who follow Christ, the preservation of unity is a sacred duty that requires individual effort and submission to the Holy Spirit1SM 85.2+1.

• Imitating Christ’s Virtues: To prevent schism, believers are pledged to shun any course of action that causes division, instead imitating Christ’s meekness, lowliness, and loveFE 479.2.

• The Role of the Holy Spirit: When God's people move under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and let all dissension cease, He restores the power that was lost through division1SM 85.2.

• Individual Responsibility: Character is formed by patient effort; if each member seeks to set a right example and cultivates the virtues God commends, there will be no room for divisions14LtMs, Lt 36, 1899, par. 15.

• Focus on the Message: Rather than dwelling on questions at issue in the world or "fanciful interpretations" of scripture, the church is to be united in uplifting the Saviour and preaching the Three Angels’ MessagesBDOC 66.19+2.

The Lord desires a church that is a representation of the harmony of the human body, where every member moves in union rather than being "torn limb from limb" by discord 1 Corinthians 12:12-27ARSH December 6, 1853, page 173.9.

"The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not vex Ephraim" Isaiah 11:13.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27

12 For as the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

14 For the body is not one member, but many.

15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?

18 But now has God set the members every one of them in the body, as it has pleased him.

19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?

20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.

21 And the eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of you: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

22 No, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

24 For our comely parts have no need: but God has tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked.

25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

The passage of ** 1 Corinthians 12:12-27** teaches that the church is the body of Christ, a single entity composed of many diverse members who are all animated by the same Spirit and hope 1 Corinthians 12:12-135T 239.2. This divine unity does not require everyone to have the same temperament, intelligence, or experience, but rather coordinates varied gifts into a beautiful harmony11MR 265.3+1.

The Nature of the One Body

Just as the human body has many parts with different functions, so the church is composed of individuals with distinct duties that must work in perfect fitness 1 Corinthians 12:12HR June 1, 1880, par. 5.

• A Divine Work: Christ is currently baptizing His people with the Holy Ghost into this divine unityARSH January 3, 1899, page 8.9.

• Interdependence: The church is formed so that each member may enjoy the assistance of the talents and graces of every other memberMR311 52.3.

• Mutual Care: There should be no schism or division in the body; instead, the members are to have the same care one for another 1 Corinthians 12:25ARSH December 26, 1854, page 147.25.

Diversity of Gifts and Functions

God has set different gifts in the church, and while they are diverse, they are all controlled by the same Spirit to prepare a people for Christ's coming6MR 231.4+1.

• Varied Capabilities: Each believer is improved by the refining influence of others, so that what is lacking in one may be more abundantly displayed in anotherMR311 52.3.

• Avoiding Comparisons: No worker has all the wisdom needed; therefore, different minds and methods must be united through counseling and praying together2MR 159.3+1.

• Individual Responsibility: Every person has a part to act, and as they use their one talent wisely, their influence and usefulness will continually increaseHR June 1, 1880, par. 5.

The Peril of Division and Criticism

Any spirit of dissension, criticism, or drawing apart from the brethren is not of Christ but is after the order of Satan1888 1141.2+1.

• Dishonoring the Truth: Divisions in the church dishonor the religion of Christ before the world and give enemies an occasion to justify their opposition5T 239.2+1.

• Self-Deception: Anyone who professes to belong to the body of Christ yet indulges in division is self-deceived and lacks the Spirit of ChristARSH January 10, 1899, page 24.6.

• The Root of Weakness: Fault-finding and magnifying little occurrences into grave sins have made the church weak; strength is found only in pressing together1888 1091.2+1.

Achieving and Preserving Unity

Maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace is a principle that must be practically worked out in the life of every believer1888 1141.2+1.

• Union with Christ First: Oneness with the brethren is the result of a vital, mystical union with Christ, the living VineMR311 13.2+1.

• Humility and Deference: Harmony is preserved when members manifest a humble, teachable spirit and refrain from placing themselves on the judgment seat over othersGW92 394.3+1.

• The Power of Love: Sincere love is a permanent power that flows from the cross of Calvary, enabling believers to be kindly affectioned and to prefer one another in honor Romans 12:101888 1141.2.

"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ" 1 Corinthians 12:12.

Isaiah 58:6-7

6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?

7 Is it not to deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house? when you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own flesh?

Isaiah 58:6-7 outlines the true fast that God has chosen, which is not a mere formal service or outward affliction of the soul, but a life of practical godliness characterized by breaking the chains of oppression and ministering to the physical needs of the sufferingDA 278.2+1. This scripture presents the very spirit and character of the work of Christ, who came as the unwearied servant of man's necessity to remove the burdens of disease, wretchedness, and sinCSA 58.5+1.

The Meaning of the True Fast

The fast God desires is a transformation of the heart that leads to decided reformation in actionRH October 13, 1891, par. 6+1.

• Breaking Every Yoke: To "loose the bands of wickedness" and "let the oppressed go free" means to remove the heavy burdens and unjust yokes that have been placed upon othersCSA 58.1+1. This includes breaking the power of oppression and the "putting forth of the finger" in reproachful or censuring ways toward those in trialRH January 22, 1895, par. 3+1.

• Practical Benevolence: The essence of this fast is to deal bread to the hungry, bring the outcast poor into one's home, and cover the nakedCSA 58.1+1. It is a work of unselfish interest where we do not hide ourselves from our "own flesh"—meaning our fellow human beings to whom Christ has allied HimselfCSA 58.1+1.

• A Remedy for Spiritual Ailments: This work is the "divine prescription" for the downcast, doubting, and trembling soul6T 266.1+1. Helping those in need is the recipe for healing spiritual and bodily maladies, as it turns the affection from self to the service of othersRH January 22, 1895, par. 3+1.

The Work of the Church and Individual

This scripture outlines the work that rests upon every soul who accepts the service of Christ5MR 33.3+1.

• The Gospel in Practice: Christian help work—feeding the hungry and clothing the naked—will often do more than the preaching of sermonsWM 274.3. This practical ministry opens hearts to respond to the truth and is the straightforward, substantial work that the gospel embracesWM 274.3+1.

• Social Equality and Justice: God’s regulations, including the principles in Isaiah 58 were designed to promote social equality and place a check on the inordinate love of property and powerCSA 61.1+1. True justice requires that the poor and unfortunate be treated with special consideration, as they have as much right to a place in God's world as the wealthyCSA 61.1+1.

• Cooperation with the Master-Worker: We are called to be laborers together with God, which involves much more than attending church services; it requires active cooperation with the Great Master-worker in relieving the situation of the oppressedGH April 1, 1905, par. 2+1.

The Promised Rewards

God has attached rich, abundantly precious promises to the fulfillment of these conditions2T 331.2+1.

• Health and Light: When this work is done, God promises that "thy light shall break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily"CSA 58.1+1. There is health and peace to be found in doing the will of our Heavenly FatherWM 302.5.

• Divine Guidance and Presence: To those who draw out their soul to the hungry, the Lord promises to guide them continually, satisfy their soul in drought, and be a "watered garden" whose waters fail not2MR 282.2+1.

• Answered Prayer: When the conditions of the true fast are met, then "shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am"8T 159.1+1. Fasting and prayer without this course of action accomplish nothing while the heart is estranged from God2T 145.1+1.

The Sabbath and the True Fast

There is a close connection between keeping the Sabbath holy and performing the work described in Isaiah 58+2.

• Right Relation to God: We cannot truly keep the Sabbath holy unless we serve the Lord by undoing heavy burdens and letting the oppressed go free5MR 33.3+1.

• The Repairer of the Breach: Those who engage in this work and honor the Sabbath are called the "repairer of the breach" and the "restorer of paths to dwell in"SpTA10 3.1+1. By turning away from doing our own pleasure on the holy day and instead finding delight in the Lord's service, we receive the heritage of JacobRH June 8, 1897, par. 14+1.

"Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?" Isaiah 58:6-7.