Chap. 32 - Adam and Eve--Rulers in Eden

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; maleand female created he them. And God blessed them and God said unto them, Befruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and havedominion over . . . every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Gen. 1:27,28. {AG 40.1}

Adam was crowned king in Eden. To him was given dominion over every livingthing that God had created. The Lord blessed Adam and Eve with intelligence suchas He had not given to any other creature. He made Adam the rightful sovereignover all the works of His hands. {AG 40.2}

Created to be "the image and glory of God," Adam and Eve had receivedendowments not unworthy of their high destiny. . . . Every faculty of mind andsoul reflected the Creator's glory. Endowed with high mental and spiritualgifts, Adam and Eve were made but "little lower than the angels." {AG 40.3}

Our first parents, though created innocent and holy, were not placed beyondthe possibility of wrongdoing. God made them free moral agents, capable ofappreciating the wisdom and benevolence of His character and the justice of Hisrequirements, and with full liberty to yield or to withhold obedience. They wereto enjoy communion with God and with holy angels; but before they could berendered eternally secure, their loyalty must be tested. At the very beginningof man's existence a check was placed upon the desire for self-indulgence, thefatal passion that lay at the foundation of Satan's fall. The tree of knowledge,which stood near the tree of life in the midst of the garden, was to be a testof the obedience, faith, and love of our first parents. . . God placed man underlaw, as an indispensable condition of his very existence. He was a subject ofthe divine government, and there can be no government without law. . . . {AG40.4}

While they remained true to God, Adam and his companion were to bear ruleover the earth. Unlimited control was given them over every living thing. Thelion and the lamb sported peacefully around them, or lay . . . Together at theirfeet. The happy birds flitted about them without fear; and as their glad songsascended to the praise of their Creator, Adam and Eve united with them inthanksgiving to the Father and the Son. {AG 40.5}

Chap. 33 - The Rulership Forfeited

The most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever hewill. Dan. 4:17. {AG 41.1}

Among the lower creatures Adam had stood as king . . . ; but when hetransgressed, this dominion was forfeited. The spirit of rebellion, to which hehimself had given entrance, extended throughout the animal creation. Thus notonly the life of man, but the nature of the beasts, the trees of the forest, thegrass of the field, the very air he breathed, all told the sad lesson of theknowledge of evil. {AG 41.2}

Not only man but the earth had by sin come under the power of the wicked one.. . . At his creation Adam was placed in dominion over the earth. But byyielding to temptation, he was brought under the power of Satan. "Of whom a manis overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage" (2 Peter 2:19). When manbecame Satan's captive, the dominion which he held, passed to his conqueror.Thus Satan became "the god of this world" (2 Cor. 4:4). He had usurped thatdominion over the earth which had been originally given to Adam. {AG 41.3}

When Satan declared to Christ, The kingdom and the glory of the world aredelivered unto me, and to whomsoever I will I give it, he stated what was trueonly in part, and he declared it to serve his own purpose of deception. Satan'sdominion was that wrested from Adam, but Adam was the vicegerent of the Creator.His was not an independent rule. The earth is God's, and He has committed allthings to His Son. Adam was to reign subject to Christ. When Adam betrayed hissovereignty into Satan's hands, Christ still remained the rightful king. . . .{AG 41.4}

By the one who had revolted in heaven the kingdoms of this world were offeredChrist, to buy His homage to the principles of evil; but He would not be bought.. . . {AG 41.5}

Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by theapostle He says to us, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil,and he will flee from you . . ." (James 4:7, 8). We cannot save ourselves fromthe tempter's power; he has conquered humanity . . . ; but "the name of the Lordis a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe" (Prov. 18:10).{AG 41.6}

Chap. 34 - Christ the Second Adam

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 1 Cor.15:22. {AG 42.1}

The fall of man filled all heaven with sorrow. . . . The Son of God, heaven'sglorious Commander, was touched with pity for the fallen race. His heart wasmoved with infinite compassion as the woes of the lost world rose up before Him.But divine love had conceived a plan whereby man might be redeemed. The brokenlaw of God demanded the life of the sinner. In all the universe there was butone who could, in behalf of man, satisfy its claims. Since the divine law is assacred as God Himself, only one equal with God could make atonement for itstransgression. None but Christ could redeem fallen man from the curse of thelaw, and bring him again into harmony with Heaven. Christ would take uponHimself the guilt and shame of sin--sin so offensive to a holy God that it mustseparate the Father and His Son. Christ would reach to the depths of misery torescue the ruined race. . . . {AG 42.2}

The plan of salvation had been laid before the creation of the earth; . . .yet it was a struggle, even with the King of the universe, to yield up His sonto die for the guilty race. . . . Oh, the mystery of redemption! the love of Godfor a world that did not love Him! . . . Through endless ages immortal minds,seeking to comprehend the mystery of that incomprehensible love, will wonder andadore. {AG 42.3}

Christ is called the second Adam. In purity and holiness, connected with Godand beloved by God, He began where the first Adam began. . . . {AG 42.4}

Christ was tempted by Satan in a hundredfold severer manner than was Adam,and under circumstances in every way more trying. The deceiver presented himselfas an angel of light, but Christ withstood his temptations. He redeemed Adam'sdisgraceful fall, and saved the world. . . . He lived the law of God, andHONOURED it in a world of transgression, revealing to the heavenly universe, toSatan, and to all the fallen sons and daughters of Adam that through His gracehumanity can keep the law of God. . . . {AG 42.5}

Christ's victory was as complete as had been Adam's failure. So we may resisttemptation, and force Satan to depart from us. {AG 42.6}

Chap. 35 - Israel's Invisible King

Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven,and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments.Neh. 9:13. {AG 43.1}

All through the pages of sacred history, where the dealings of God with Hischosen people are recorded, there are burning traces of the great I AM. Neverhas He given to the sons of men more open manifestations of His power and glorythan when He alone was acknowledged as Israel's ruler, and gave the law to Hispeople. Here was a sceptre swayed by no human hand; and the stately goings forthof Israel's invisible King were unspeakably grand and awful. {AG 43.2}

In all these revelations of the divine presence, the glory of God wasmanifested through Christ. Not alone at the Saviour's advent, but through allthe ages after the Fall and the promise of redemption, "God was in Christ,reconciling the world unto himself" (2 Cor. 5:19). Christ was the foundation andcentre of the sacrificial system in both the patriarchal and the Jewish age.Since the sin of our first parents, there has been no direct communicationbetween God and man. The Father has given the world into the hands of Christ,that through His mediatorial work He may redeem man and vindicate the authorityand holiness of the law of God. All the communion between heaven and the fallenrace has been through Christ. It was the Son of God that gave to our firstparents the promise of redemption. It was He who revealed Himself to thepatriarchs. . . . It was He who gave the law to Israel. Amid the awful glory ofSinai, Christ declared in the hearing of all the people the ten precepts of HisFather's law. It was He who gave to Moses the law engraved upon the tables ofstone. . . . {AG 43.3}

Jesus was the light of His people--the light of the world--before He came toearth in the form of humanity. The first gleam of light that pierced the gloomin which sin had wrapped the world, came from Christ. And from Him has comeevery ray of heaven's brightness that has fallen upon the inhabitants of theearth. In the plan of redemption Christ is the Alpha and the Omega--the Firstand the Last. {AG 43.4}

Chap. 36 - Our Ruler in the Heavens

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth overall. Ps. 103:19. {AG 44.1}

The three Hebrews were called upon to confess Christ in the face of theburning fiery furnace. They had been commanded by the king to fall down andworship the golden image which he had set up, and threatened that if they wouldnot, they should be cast alive into the fiery furnace, but they answered, "Weare not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom weserve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliverus out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that wewill not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up"(Dan. 3:16-18). {AG 44.2}

To bow down when in prayer to God is the proper attitude to occupy. . . . Butsuch an act was homage to be rendered to God alone . . . , the Ruler of theuniverse; and these three Hebrews refused to give such honour to any idol eventhough composed of pure gold. In doing so, they would, to all intents andpurposes, be bowing to the king of Babylon. . . . They suffered the penalty. . .. But Christ came in person and walked with them through the fire, and theyreceived no harm. {AG 44.3}

This miracle produced a striking change in the minds of the people. The greatgolden image, set up with such display, was forgotten. The king published adecree that anyone speaking against the God of these men should be put to death.. . . {AG 44.4}

These faithful Hebrews possessed great natural ability, they had enjoyed thehighest intellectual culture, and now occupied a position of honour; but allthis did not lead them to forget God. Their powers were yielded to thesanctifying influence of divine grace. . . . In their wonderful deliverance weredisplayed, before that vast assembly, the power and majesty of God. Jesus placedHimself by their side in the fiery furnace, and by the glory of His presenceconvinced the proud king of Babylon that it could be no other than the Son ofGod. . . . By the deliverance of His faithful servants, the Lord declares thatHe will take His stand with the oppressed and overthrow all earthly powers thatwould trample upon the authority of the God of heaven. {AG 44.5}

Chap. 37 - God with Us

They shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.Matt. 1:23. {AG 45.1}

From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; Hewas "the image of God," the image of His greatness and majesty, "the outshiningof his glory." It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To thissin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God's love--to be "God withus.". . . {AG 45.2}

Our little world is the lesson book of the universe. God's wonderful purposeof grace, the mystery of redeeming love, is the theme into which "angels desireto look", and it will be their study throughout endless ages. Both the redeemedand the unfallen beings will find in the cross of Christ their science and theirsong. It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is the gloryof self-sacrificing love. In the light from Calvary it will be seen that the lawof self-renouncing love is the law of life for earth and heaven; that the lovewhich "seeketh not her own" has its source in the heart of God. . . . {AG 45.3}

Jesus might have remained at the Father's side. He might have retained theglory of heaven, and the homage of the angels. But He chose to give back thesceptre into the Father's hands, and to step down from the throne of theuniverse, that He might bring light to the benighted, and life to the perishing.. . . {AG 45.4}

This great purpose had been shadowed forth in types and symbols. The burningbush, in which Christ appeared to Moses, revealed God. . . . The all-mercifulGod shrouded His glory in a most humble type, that Moses could look upon it andlive. So in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, Godcommunicated with Israel, revealing to men His will, and imparting to them Hisgrace. God's glory was subdued, and His majesty veiled, that the weak vision offinite men might behold it. So Christ was to come in "the body of ourhumiliation" (Phil. 3:21, R.V.), "in the likeness of men.". . . His glory wasveiled, His greatness and majesty were hidden, that He might draw near tosorrowful, tempted men. {AG 45.5}

Chap. 38 - The Kingdom Threatened

When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, tomake him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone. John 6:15. {AG46.1}

Seated upon the grassy plain, in the twilight of the spring evening, thepeople ate of the food that Christ had provided. . . . No human power couldcreate from five barley loaves and two small fishes food sufficient to feedthousands of hungry people. And they said one to another, "This is of a truththat Prophet that should come into the world" (John 6:14). . . . He can conquerthe nations, and give to Israel the long-sought dominion. {AG 46.2}

In their enthusiasm the people are ready at once to crown Him king. They seethat He makes no effort to attract attention or secure honour to Himself. . . .They fear that He will never urge His claim to David's throne. Consultingtogether, they agree to take Him by force, and proclaim Him the King of Israel.. . . Jesus sees what is on foot, and understands, as they cannot, what would bethe result of such a movement. . . . Violence and insurrection would follow aneffort to place Him on the throne, and the work of the spiritual kingdom wouldbe hindered. Without delay the movement must be checked. Calling His disciples,Jesus bids them take the boat and return at once to Capernaum. . . . {AG 46.3}

Jesus now commands the multitude to disperse; and His manner is so decisivethat they dare not disobey. . . . The kingly bearing of Jesus, and His few quietwords of command, quell the tumult, and frustrate their designs. They recognizein Him a power above all earthly authority, and without a question they submit.{AG 46.4}

When left alone, Jesus "went up into a mountain apart to pray.". . . Heprayed for power to reveal to men the divine character of His mission, thatSatan might not blind their understanding and pervert their judgment. . . . Intravail and conflict of soul He prayed for His disciples. . . . Theirlong-cherished hopes, based on a popular delusion, were to be disappointed in amost painful and humiliating manner. In the place of His exaltation to thethrone of David they were to witness His crucifixion. This was to be indeed Histrue coronation. {AG 46.5}

Chap. 39 - A Kingly Procession

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold,thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation lowly, and ridingupon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. Zech. 9:9. {AG 47.1}

Five hundred years before the birth of Christ, the prophet Zechariah thusforetold the coming of the King to Israel. . . . Christ was following the Jewishcustom for a royal entry. . . . No sooner was He seated upon the colt than aloud shout of triumph rent the air. The multitude hailed Him as Messiah, theirKing. . . .They could lead the triumphal procession with no royal standards, butthey cut down the spreading palm boughs, Nature's emblem of victory, and wavedthem aloft with loud acclamations and hosannas. . . . {AG 47.2}

Never before in His earthly life had Christ permitted such a demonstration.He clearly foresaw the result. It would bring Him to the cross. But it was Hispurpose thus publicly to present Himself as the Redeemer. He desired to callattention to the sacrifice that was to crown His mission. . . . {AG 47.3}

Never before had the world seen such a triumphal procession. It was not likethat of the earth's famous conquerors. No train of mourning captives, astrophies of kingly valour, made a feature of that scene. But about the Saviourwere the glorious trophies of His labours of love for sinful man. There were thecaptives whom He had rescued from Satan's power, praising God for theirdeliverance. The blind whom He had restored to sight were leading the way. Thedumb whose tongues He had loosed shouted the loudest hosannas. The cripples whomHe had healed bounded with joy. . . . Lazarus, whose body had seen corruption inthe grave, but who now rejoiced in the strength of glorious manhood, led thebeast on which the Saviour rode. . . . {AG 47.4}

That scene of triumph was of God's own appointing. It had been foretold bythe prophet, and man was powerless to turn aside God's purpose. {AG 47.5}

As well might the priests and rulers attempt to deprive the earth of theshining face of the sun, as to shut from the world the beams of glory from theSun of Righteousness. In spite of all opposition, the kingdom of Christ wasconfessed by the people. {AG 47.6}

Chap. 40 - Jerusalem's King

Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on thesides of the north, the city of the great King. Ps. 48:2. {AG 48.1}

From the crest of Olivet, Jesus looked upon Jerusalem. Fair and peaceful wasthe scene spread out before Him. . . . The rays of the setting sun lighted upthe snowy whiteness of its marble walls and gleamed from golden gate and towerand pinnacle. "The perfection of beauty" it stood, the pride of the Jewishnation. What child of Israel could gaze upon the scene without a thrill of joyand admiration! But far other thoughts occupied the mind of Jesus. "When he wascome near, he beheld the city, and wept over it" (Luke 19:41). Amid theuniversal rejoicing of the triumphal entry, while palm branches waved, whileglad hosannas awoke the echoes of the hills, and thousands of voices declaredHim King, the world's Redeemer was overwhelmed with a sudden and mysterioussorrow. He, the Son of God, the Promised One of Israel, whose power hadconquered death and called its captives from the grave, was in tears, not ofordinary grief, but of intense, irrepressible agony. {AG 48.2}

His tears were not for Himself.... He wept for the doomed thousands ofJerusalem--because of the blindness and impenitence of those whom He came tobless and to save. . . . {AG 48.3}

Though rewarded with evil for good, and hatred for His love, He hadsteadfastly pursued His mission of mercy. Never were those repelled that soughtHis grace. . . . But Israel had turned from her best Friend and only Helper. Thepleadings of His love had been despised, His counsels spurned, His warningsridiculed. . . . {AG 48.4}

When Christ should hang upon the cross of Calvary, Israel's day as a nationfavoured and blessed of God would be ended.... As Christ looked upon Jerusalem,the doom of a whole city, a whole nation, was before Him--that city, thatnation, which had once been the chosen of God, His peculiar treasure. {AG 48.5}

The long-suffering of God toward Jerusalem only confirmed the Jews in theirstubborn impenitence. . . . Her children had spurned the grace of Christ. {AG48.6}

Chap. 41 - King of Glory

Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; andthe King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong andmighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Ps. 24:7, 8. {AG 49.1}

Christ came to earth as God in the guise of humanity. He ascended to heavenas the King of saints. His ascension was worthy of His exalted character. Hewent as One mighty in battle, a conqueror, leading captivity captive. He wasattended by the heavenly host, amid shouts and acclamations of praise andcelestial song. {AG 49.2}

The disciples not only saw the Lord ascend, but they had the testimony of theangels that He had gone to occupy His Father's throne in heaven. . . . Thebrightness of the heavenly escort, and the opening of the glorious gates of Godto welcome Him, were not to be discerned by mortal eyes. Had the track of Christto heaven been revealed to the disciples in all its inexpressible glory, theycould not have endured the sight. . . . {AG 49.3}

Their senses were not to become so infatuated with the glories of heaven thatthey would lose sight of the character of Christ on earth, which they were tocopy in themselves. They were to keep distinctly before their minds the beautyand majesty of His life, the perfect harmony of all His attributes, and themysterious union of the divine and human in His nature. . . . His visible ascentfrom the world was in harmony with the meekness and quiet of His life. {AG 49.4}

What a source of joy to the disciples, to know that they had such a Friend inheaven to plead in their behalf! Through the visible ascension of Christ alltheir views and contemplation of heaven are changed. . . . They now looked uponit as their future home, where mansions were being prepared for them by theirloving Redeemer. Prayer was clothed with a new interest, since it was acommunion with their Saviour. . . . {AG 49.5}

They had a gospel to preach--Christ in human form, a Man of sorrows; Christin humiliation, taken by wicked hands and crucified; Christ resurrected, andascended to heaven, into the presence of God, to be man's Advocate; Christ tocome again with power and great glory in the clouds of heaven. {AG 49.6}

Chap. 42 - Ruler Over All Nations

That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most highover all the earth. Ps. 83:18. {AG 50.1}

In the annals of human history the growth of nations, the rise and fall ofempires, appear as dependent on the will and prowess of man. The shaping ofevents seems, to a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, orcaprice. But in the word of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold,behind, above, and through all the play and counterplay of human interests andpower and passions, the agencies of the all-merciful One, silently, patientlyworking out the counsels of His own will. . . . {AG 50.2}

Every nation that has come upon the stage of action has been permitted tooccupy its place on the earth, that it might be seen whether it would fulfillthe purpose of "the Watcher and the Holy One.". . . While the nations rejectedGod's principles, and in this rejection wrought their own ruin, it was stillmanifest that the divine, overruling purpose was working through all theirmovements. {AG 50.3}

This lesson is taught in a wonderful symbolic representation given to theprophet Ezekiel [chapters 1 and 10]. . . . A number of wheels, intersecting oneanother, were moved by four living beings. . . . The wheels were so complicatedin arrangement that at first sight they appeared to be in confusion; but theymoved in perfect harmony. Heavenly beings, sustained and guided by the handbeneath the wings of the cherubim, were impelling these wheels; above them uponthe sapphire throne, was the Eternal One; and round about the throne a rainbow,the emblem of divine mercy. As the wheellike complications were under theguidance of the hand beneath the wings of the cherubim, so the complicated playof human events is under divine control. Amidst the strife and tumult ofnations, He that sitteth above the cherubim still guides the affairs of theearth. {AG 50.4}

The history of nations that one after another have occupied their allottedtime and place, . . . speaks to us. To every nation and to every individual oftoday God has assigned a place in His great plan. . . . All are by their ownchoice deciding their destiny, and God is overruling all for the accomplishmentof His purposes. {AG 50.5}

Chap. 43 - Limits to God's Forbearance

It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Ps.119:126. {AG 51.1}

During a vision of the night, I stood on an eminence, from which I could seehouses shaken like a reed in the wind. Buildings, great and small, were fallingto the ground. Pleasure resorts, theatres, hotels, and the homes of the wealthywere shaken and shattered. Many lives were blotted out of existence, and the airwas filled with the shrieks of the injured and the terrified. {AG 51.2}

The destroying angels of God were at work. One touch, and buildings, sothoroughly constructed that men regarded them as secure against every danger,quickly became heaps of rubbish. There was no assurance of safety in any place.. . . The awfulness of the scenes that passed before me I cannot find words todescribe. It seemed that the forbearance of God was exhausted and that thejudgment day had come. {AG 51.3}

The angel that stood at my side then instructed me that but few have anyconception of the wickedness existing in our world today, and especially thewickedness in the large cities. He declared that the Lord has appointed a timewhen He will visit transgressors in wrath for persistent disregard of His law. .. . God's supreme rulership and the sacredness of His law must be revealed tothose who persistently refused to render obedience to the King of kings. Thosewho choose to remain disloyal must be visited in mercy with judgments, in orderthat, if possible, they may be aroused to a realization of the sinfulness oftheir course. . . . While the divine Ruler bears long with perversity, He is notdeceived and will not always keep silence. His supremacy, His authority as Rulerof the universe, must finally be acknowledged and the just claims of His lawvindicated. {AG 51.4}

There are limits even to the forbearance of God, and many are exceeding theseboundaries. They have overrun the limits of grace, and therefore God mustinterfere and vindicate His own honour. . . . {AG 51.5}

When the Lord comes forth as an avenger, He will also come as a protector ofall those who have preserved the faith in its purity and kept themselvesunspotted from the world. {AG 51.6}

Chap. 44 - Qualifying for the Kingdom

Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as alittle child, he shall not enter therein. Mark 10:15. {AG 52.1}

Christ does not acknowledge any caste, colour, or grade as necessary tobecome a subject of His kingdom. Admittance to His kingdom does not depend uponwealth or a superior heredity. But those who are born of the Spirit are thesubjects of His kingdom. Spiritual character is that which will be recognized byChrist. His kingdom is not of this world. His subjects are those who arepartakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in theworld through lust. And this grace is given them of God. Christ does not findHis subjects fitted for His kingdom, but He qualifies them by His divine power.Those who have been dead in trespasses and sins are quickened to spiritual life.The faculties which God has given them for holy purposes are refined, purified,and exalted, and they are led to form characters after the divine similitude. .. . {AG 52.2}

Christ draws them to Himself by an unseen power. He is the light of life, andHe imbues them with His own Spirit. As they are drawn into the spiritualatmosphere, they see that they have been made the sport of Satan's temptations,and that they have been under his dominion; but they break the yoke of fleshlylusts, and refuse to be the servants of sin. . . . They realize that they haveexchanged captains, and they take their directions from the lips of Jesus. As aservant looks to his master, and as a maid looks to her mistress, so thesesouls, drawn by the cords of love to Christ, constantly look unto Him who is theAuthor and Finisher of their faith. By beholding Jesus, by obeying Hisrequirements, they increase in the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom Hehath sent. Thus they become changed into His image from character to characteruntil they are distinguished from the world, and it can be written of them: "Yeare a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people;that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darknessinto his marvellous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now thepeople of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy" (1Peter 2:9, 10). {AG 52.3}

Chap. 45 - Sonship

As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12. {AG 53.1}

When Adam's sin plunged the race into hopeless misery, God might have cutHimself loose from fallen beings. He might have treated them as sinners deservedto be treated. He might have commanded the angels of heaven to pour out upon ourworld the vials of His wrath. He might have removed this dark blot from Hisuniverse. But He did not do this. Instead of banishing them from His presence,He came still nearer to the fallen race. He gave His Son to become bone of ourbone and flesh of our flesh. "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, . . .full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). Christ by His human relationship to mendrew them close to God. He clothed His divine nature with the garb of humanity,and demonstrated before the heavenly universe, before the unfallen worlds, howmuch God loves the children of men. {AG 53.2}

The gift of God to man is beyond all computation. Nothing was withheld. Godwould not permit it to be said that He could have done more or revealed tohumanity a greater measure of love. In the gift of Christ He gave all heaven.{AG 53.3}

Divine sonship is not something that we gain of ourselves. Only to those whoreceive Christ as their Saviour is given the power to become sons and daughtersof God. The sinner cannot, by any power of his own, rid himself of sin. . . .But the promise of sonship is made to all who believe on His name." Every onewho comes to Jesus in faith will receive pardon. {AG 53.4}

God was to be manifest in Christ, "reconciling the world unto himself" (2Cor. 5:19). Man had become so degraded by sin that it was impossible for him, inhimself, to come into harmony with Him whose nature is purity and goodness. ButChrist, after having redeemed man from the condemnation of the law, could impartdivine power to unite with human effort. Thus by repentance toward God and faithin Christ the fallen children of Adam might once more become "sons of God." {AG53.5}

When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the life of Christ.{AG 53.6}

Chap. 46 - Adopted Sons and Daughters

Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ tohimself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the gloryof his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Eph. 1:5, 6. {AG54.1}

Before the foundations of the earth were laid the covenant was made that allwho were obedient, all who should through the abundant grace provided becomeholy in character and without blame before God by appropriating that grace,should be children of God. {AG 54.2}

We owe everything to grace, free grace, sovereign grace. Grace in thecovenant ordained our adoption. Grace in the Saviour effected our redemption,our regeneration, and our adoption to heirship with Christ. {AG 54.3}

As we fully believe that we are His by adoption, we may have a foretaste ofheaven. . . . We have a nearness to Him, and can hold sweet communion with Him.We obtain distinct views of His tenderness and compassion, and our hearts arebroken and melted with contemplation of the love that is given to us. We feelindeed an abiding Christ in the soul. We abide in Him, and feel at home withJesus. . . . We have a realizing sense of the love of God, and we rest in Hislove. No language can describe it, it is beyond knowledge. We are one withChrist, our life is hid with Christ in God. We have the assurance that when Hewho is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with Him in glory. Withstrong confidence we can call God our Father. {AG 54.4}

All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense thebrethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of Hisfamily, and wherever that love is manifest there the divine relationship isrevealed. . . . {AG 54.5}

Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was toimplant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glorybecame one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, "Love one another,as I have loved you" (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it,then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we haveheaven in our hearts. {AG 54.6}

Chap. 47 - The Redemption Price

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered inonce into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Heb. 9:12.{AG 55.1}

Every soul is precious, because it has been purchased by the precious bloodof Jesus Christ. {AG 55.2}

Some speak of the Jewish age as a Christless period, without mercy or grace.To such are applicable the words of Christ to the Sadducees, "Ye know not theScriptures, neither the power of God" (Mark 12:24). The period of the Jewisheconomy was one of wonderful manifestations of divine power. . . . {AG 55.3}

The very system of sacrifices was devised by Christ, and given to Adam astypifying a Saviour to come, who would bear the sins of the world, and die forits redemption. . . . {AG 55.4}

The blood of the Son of God was symbolized by the blood of the slain victim,and God would have clear and definite ideas preserved between the sacred and thecommon. Blood was sacred, inasmuch as through the shedding of the blood of theSon of God alone could there be atonement for sin. Blood was also used tocleanse the sanctuary from the sins of the people, thus typifying the blood ofChrist which alone can cleanse from sin. {AG 55.5}

Our Saviour declares that He brought from heaven as a donation eternal life.He was to be lifted up upon the cross of Calvary to draw all men unto Him. Howthen shall we treat the purchased inheritance of Christ? Tenderness,appreciation, kindness, sympathy, and love should be shown to them. Then we maywork to help and bless one another. In this work we have more than humanbrotherhood. We have the exalted companionship of heavenly angels. Theycooperate with us in the work of enlightening high and low. . . . {AG 55.6}

Christ determined in council with His Father to spare nothing, howevercostly, to withhold nothing however highly it might be estimated, that wouldrescue the poor sinner. He would give all heaven to this work of salvation, ofrestoring the moral image of God in man. . . . To be a child of God is to be onewith Christ in God, and to put forth our hands in earnest, self-sacrificing loveto strengthen and bless the souls that are perishing in their sins. {AG 55.7}

Chap. 48 - Abraham and His Children

If ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to thepromise. Gal. 3:29. {AG 56.1}

Of Abraham it is written that "he was called the friend of God," "the fatherof all them that believe." . . . {AG 56.2}

It was a high honour to which Abraham was called, that of being the father ofthe people who for centuries were the guardians and preservers of the truth ofGod for the world--of that people through whom all the nations of the earthshould be blessed in the advent of the promised Messiah. {AG 56.3}

Abraham was HONOURED by the surrounding nations as a mighty prince and a wiseand able chief. He did not shut away his influence from his neighbours. His lifeand character, in their marked contrast with those of the worshippers of idols,exerted a telling influence in favour of the true faith. His allegiance to Godwas unswerving, while his affability and benevolence inspired confidence andfriendship, and his unaffected greatness commanded respect and honour. {AG 56.4}

His religion was not held as a precious treasure to be jealously guarded andenjoyed solely by the possessor. True religion cannot be thus held; for such aspirit is contrary to the principles of the gospel. While Christ is dwelling inthe heart, it is impossible to conceal the light of His presence, or for thatlight to grow dim. On the contrary, it will grow brighter and brighter as day byday the mists of selfishness and sin that envelop the soul are dispelled by thebright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. {AG 56.5}

The people of God are His representatives upon the earth, and He intends thatthey shall be lights in the moral darkness of this world. Scattered all over thecountry, in the towns, cities, and villages, they are God's witnesses, thechannels through which He will communicate to an unbelieving world the knowledgeof His will and the wonders of His grace. It is His plan that all who arepartakers of the great salvation shall be missionaries for Him. The piety of theChristian constitutes the standard by which worldlings judge the gospel. Trialspatiently borne, blessings gratefully received, meekness, kindness, mercy, andlove, habitually exhibited, are the lights that shine forth in the characterbefore the world. {AG 56.6}

Chap. 49 - Citizens of Heaven

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizenswith the saints, and of the household of God. Eph. 2:19. {AG 57.1}

The people of God--the true Israel--though scattered throughout all nations,are on earth but sojourners, whose citizenship is in heaven. {AG 57.2}

The condition of being received into the Lord's family is coming out from theworld, separating from all its contaminating influences. The people of God areto have no connection with idolatry in any of its forms. They are to reach ahigher standard. We are to be distinguished from the world, and then God says,"I will receive you as members of My royal family, children of the heavenlyKing." As believers in the truth we are to be distinct in practice from sin andsinners. Our citizenship is in heaven. {AG 57.3}

We should realize more clearly the value of the promises God has made to us,and appreciate more deeply the honour He has given us. God can bestow no higherhonour upon mortals than to adopt them into His family, giving them theprivilege of calling Him Father. There is no degradation in becoming children ofGod. {AG 57.4}

We are strangers and pilgrims in this world. We are to wait, watch, pray, andwork. The whole mind, the whole soul, the whole heart, and the whole strengthare purchased by the blood of the Son of God. We are not to feel it our duty towear a pilgrim's dress of just such a colour, just such a shape, but neat,modest apparel, that the word of inspiration teaches us we should wear. If ourhearts are united with Christ's heart, we shall have a most intense desire to beclothed with His righteousness. Nothing will be put upon the person to attractattention, or to create controversy. {AG 57.5}

Christianity--how many there are who do not know what it is! It is notsomething put on the outside. It is a life inwrought with the life of Jesus. Itmeans that we are wearing the robe of Christ's righteousness. {AG 57.6}

Citizens of heaven will make the best citizens of earth. A correct view ofour duty to God leads to clear perceptions of our duty to our fellow men. {AG57.7}

Chap. 50 - The Test of Loyalty

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: andhe that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and willmanifest myself to him. John 14:21. {AG 58.1}

It is essential that every subject of the kingdom of God should be obedientto the law of Jehovah. . . . The fact that the law is holy, just, and good is tobe testified before all nations, tongues, and peoples, to worlds unfallen, toangels, seraphim, and cherubim. The principles of the law of God were wroughtout in the character of Jesus Christ, and he who cooperates with Christ,becoming a partaker of the divine nature, will develop the divine character, andbecome an illustration of the divine law. . . . {AG 58.2}

The more we study the attributes of the character of God as revealed inChrist, the more we see that justice has been sustained in the sacrifice thatmet the penalty of the law, . . . in order that man might have anotherprobation. . . . Those who are obedient to the law of the government of Godwhile in this brief probation, . . . will be pronounced in heaven loyal childrenof the Lord of Hosts. . . . {AG 58.3}

By both creation and redemption we are the Lord's property. We are absolutelyHis subjects, and amenable to the laws of His kingdom. Let no one foster thedelusion that the Lord God of heaven and earth has no law by which to controland govern His subjects. We are dependent upon God for everything we enjoy. Thefood which we eat, the clothing we wear, the atmosphere we breathe, the life weenjoy from day to day, are received from God. We are under obligation to begoverned by His will, to acknowledge Him as our supreme ruler. . . . {AG 58.4}

We are under a debt of gratitude to God for the revelation of His love inChrist Jesus; and as intelligent human agents, we are to reveal to the world themanner of character that will result from obedience to every specification ofthe law of God's government. In perfect obedience to His holy will, we are tomanifest adoration, love, cheerfulness, and praise, and thus honour and glorifyGod. It is in this way alone that man may reveal the character of God in Christto the world, and make manifest to men that happiness, peace, assurance, andgrace come from obedience to the law of God. {AG 58.5}

Chap. 51 - God's Claims are First

We ought to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29. {AG 59.1}

The message that we have to bear is not one that we need cringe to declare.Its advocates are not to seek to cover it, to conceal its origin and purpose. Asthose who have made solemn vows to God, and who have been commissioned as themessengers of Christ, as stewards of the mysteries of grace, we are underobligation to declare faithfully the whole counsel of God. {AG 59.2}

We are not to make less prominent the special truths that have separated usfrom the world, and made us what we are; for they are fraught with eternalinterests. God has given us light in regard to the things that are now takingplace, and with pen and voice we are to proclaim the truth to the world. {AG59.3}

The Sabbath is the Lord's test, and no man, be he king, priest, or ruler, isauthorized to come between God and man. Those who seek to be conscience fortheir fellow men, place themselves above God. Those who are under the influenceof a false religion, who observe a spurious rest day, will set aside the mostpositive evidence in regard to the true Sabbath. They will try to compel men toobey the laws of their own creation, laws that are directly opposed to the lawof God. . . . The law for the observance of the first day of the week is theproduction of an apostate Christendom. . . . In no case are God's people to payit homage. {AG 59.4}

The banner of truth and religious liberty held aloft by the founders of thegospel church and by God's witnesses during the centuries that have passed sincethen, has, in this last conflict, been committed to our hands. . . . We are torecognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment, and teachobedience to it as a sacred duty, within its legitimate sphere. But when itsclaims conflict with the claims of God, we must obey God rather than men. God'sword must be recognized as above all human legislation. A "Thus saith the Lord"is not to be set aside for a "Thus saith the church" or a "Thus saith thestate." The crown of Christ is to be lifted above the diadems of earthlypotentates. {AG 59.5}

Chap. 52 - Above Earthly Kingdoms

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shallteach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: butwhosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdomof heaven. Matt. 5:19. {AG 60.1}

The qualities which shine with greatest luster in the kingdoms of the world,have no place in Christ's spiritual kingdom. That which is highly exalted amongmen, and brings exaltation to its possessor, such as caste, rank, position, orwealth, is not esteemed in the spiritual kingdom. The Lord says, "Them thathonour me, I will honour" (1 Sam. 2:30). In Christ's kingdom men aredistinguished according to their piety. . . . {AG 60.2}

The kingdom of heaven is of a higher order than any earthly kingdom. Whetherwe shall have a higher position or a lower position, will not be determined byour rank, wealth, or education, but by the character of the obedience renderedto the word of God. Those who have been actuated by selfishness and humanambition, who have been striving to be greatest, who have been self-important,who have felt above confessing mistakes and errors, will have no place in thekingdom of God. Whether men will be HONOURED as members of the royal family ofGod, will be determined by the manner in which they bear the test and proving ofGod that is brought to bear upon them in this life. Those who have not beenself-denying, who have not manifested sympathy for the woes of others, who havenot cultivated the precious attributes of love, who have not manifestedforbearance and meekness in this life, will not be changed when Christ comes. .. . {AG 60.3}

The character which we now manifest is deciding our future destiny. Thehappiness of heaven will be found by conforming to the will of God, and if menbecome members of the royal family in heaven, it will be because heaven hasbegun with them on earth. They have cherished the mind of Christ, and when thecall comes, "Child, come up higher," the righteous will take every grace, everyprecious, sanctified ability, into the courts above, and exchange earth forheaven. God knows who are the loyal and true subjects of His kingdom on earth,and those who do His will upon earth as it is done in heaven, will be made themembers of the royal family above. {AG 60.4}

Chap. 53 - Blessings Through Obedience

I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. Ps.40:8. {AG 61.1}

What a God is our God! He rules over His kingdom with diligence and care, andHe has built a hedge--the Ten Commandments--about His subjects to preserve themfrom the results of transgression. In requiring obedience to the laws of Hiskingdom, God gives His people health and happiness, peace and joy. He teachesthem that the perfection of character He requires can be attained only bybecoming familiar with His Word. {AG 61.2}

The true seeker, who is striving to be like Jesus in word, life, andcharacter, will contemplate his Redeemer and, by beholding, become changed intoHis image, because he longs and prays for the same disposition and mind that wasin Christ Jesus. . . . He longs after God. The history of his Redeemer, theimmeasurable sacrifice that He made, becomes full of meaning to him. Christ, theMajesty of heaven, became poor, that we through His poverty might become rich;not rich merely in endowments, but rich in attainments. {AG 61.3}

These are the riches that Christ earnestly longs that His followers shallpossess. As the true seeker after the truth reads the Word and opens his mind toreceive the Word, he longs after truth with his whole heart. The love, the pity,the tenderness, the courtesy, the Christian politeness, which will be theelements in the heavenly mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those thatlove Him, take possession of his soul. His purpose is steadfast. He isdetermined to stand on the side of righteousness. Truth has found its way intothe heart, and is planted there by the Holy Spirit, who is the truth. When truthtakes hold of the heart, the man gives sure evidence of this by becoming asteward of the grace of Christ. {AG 61.4}

Each steward has his own special work to do for the advancement of God'skingdom. . . . The talents of speech, memory, influence, property, are toaccumulate for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. He willbless the right use of His gifts. {AG 61.5}

Chap. 54 - Stewards of God's Grace

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one toanother, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10. {AG 62.1}

The knowledge of God's grace, the truths of His Word, and temporal gifts aswell--time and means, talents and influence-- are all a trust from God to beemployed to His glory and the salvation of men. Nothing can be more offensive toGod, who is constantly bestowing His gifts upon man, than to see him selfishlygrasping these gifts and making no returns to the Giver. Jesus is today inheaven preparing mansions for those who love Him; yes, more than mansions, akingdom which is to be ours. But all who shall inherit these blessings must bepartakers of the self-denial and self-sacrifice of Christ for the good ofothers. {AG 62.2}

Never was there greater need of earnest, self-sacrificing labour in the causeof Christ than now, when the hours of probation are fast closing and the lastmessage of mercy is to be given to the world. . . . {AG 62.3}

All that men receive of God's bounty still belongs to God. Whatever He hasbestowed in the valuable and beautiful things of earth is placed in our hands totest us, to sound the depths of our love for Him and our appreciation of Hisfavours. Whether it be the treasures of wealth or of intellect, they are to belaid, a willing offering, at the feet of Jesus. . . . {AG 62.4}

Whatever we render to God is, through His mercy and generosity, placed to ouraccount as faithful stewards. . . . Angels of God, whose perceptions areunclouded by sin, recognize the endowments of heaven as bestowed with theintention that they be returned in such a way as to add to the glory of thegreat Giver. With the sovereignty of God is bound up the well-being of man. Theglory of God is the joy and the blessing of all created beings. When we seek topromote His glory we are seeking for ourselves the highest good which it ispossible for us to receive. . . . God calls for the consecration to His serviceof every faculty, of every gift, you have received from Him. He wants you tosay, with David: "All things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee"(1 Chron. 29:14). {AG 62.5}

Chap. 55 - Stewards of Truth

Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done formy soul. Ps. 66:16. {AG 63.1}

Wherever there is life, there is increase and growth; in God's kingdom thereis a constant interchange--taking in, and giving out; receiving, and returningto the Lord His own. God works with every true believer, and the light andblessings received are given out again in the work which the believer does. Thusthe capacity for receiving is increased. As one imparts of the heavenly gifts,he makes room for fresh currents of grace and truth to flow into the soul fromthe living fountain. Greater light, increased knowledge and blessing, are his.In this work, which devolves upon every church member, is the life and growth ofthe church. He whose life consists in ever receiving and never giving, soonloses the blessing. If truth does not flow forth from him to others, he loseshis capacity to receive. We must impart the goods of heaven if we desire freshblessings. {AG 63.2}

As the knowledge of truth is imparted, it will increase. All who receive thegospel message into the heart will long to proclaim it. The heaven-born love ofChrist must find expression. Those who have put on Christ will relate theirexperience, tracing step by step the leadings of the Holy Spirit--theirhungering and thirsting for the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He hassent, the results of their searching of the Scriptures, their prayers, theirsoul agony, and the words of Christ to them, "Thy sins be forgiven thee." {AG63.3}

It is unnatural for any to keep these things secret, and those who are filledwith the love of Christ will not do so. In proportion as the Lord has made themthe depositaries of sacred truth will be their desire that others shall receivethe same blessing. And as they make known the rich treasures of God's grace,more and still more of the grace of Christ will be imparted to them. They willhave the heart of a little child in its simplicity and unreserved obedience.Their souls will pant after holiness and more and more of the treasures of truthand grace will be revealed to them to be given to the world. {AG 63.4}

Chap. 56 - Stewards of Strength

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul,and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. Mark 12:30. {AG 64.1}

To every man is committed individual gifts, termed talents. Some regard thesetalents as being limited to certain men who possess superior mental endowmentsand genius. But God has not restricted the bestowal of His talents to a favouredfew. To every one is committed some special endowment, for which he will be heldresponsible by the Lord. Time, reason, means, strength, mental powers,tenderness of heart--all are gifts from God, entrusted to be used in the greatwork of blessing humanity. {AG 64.2}

In the capital of strength a precious talent has been entrusted to men forlabour. This is of more value than any bank deposit, and should be more highlyprized. . . . It is a blessing that cannot be purchased with gold or silver,houses or lands; and God requires it to be used wisely. No man has a right tosacrifice this talent to the corroding influence of inaction. All are asaccountable for the capital of physical strength as for their capital of means.. . . {AG 64.3}

The essential lesson of contented industry in the necessary duties of life isyet to be learned by many of Christ's followers. It requires more grace, morestern discipline of character, to work for God in the capacity of mechanic,merchant, lawyer, or farmer, carrying the precepts of Christianity into theordinary business of life, than to labour as an acknowledged missionary in theopen field. It requires a strong spiritual nerve to bring religion into theworkshop and the business office, sanctifying the details of everyday life, andordering every transaction according to the standard of God's word. But this iswhat the Lord requires. {AG 64.4}

Religion and business are not two separate things; they are one. Biblereligion is to be interwoven with all we do or say. Divine and human agenciesare to combine in temporal as well as in spiritual achievements. {AG 64.5}

We are to love God, not only with all the heart, mind, and soul, but with allthe strength. This covers the full, intelligent use of the physical powers. {AG64.6}

Chap. 57 - Stewards of Influence

Lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straightpaths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but letit rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which noman shall see the Lord: looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace ofGod. Heb. 12:12-15. {AG 65.1}

These words should teach us to be very careful how we snap the thread of ourfaith by dwelling on our difficulties until they are large in our own eyes, andin the eyes of others, who cannot read our inner, heart life. All shouldremember that the conversation has a great influence for good or for ill. . . .Do not allow the enemy so to use your tongue. . . . Do not exert an influencethat will break the hold of any trembling soul from God. . . . {AG 65.2}

The graces of Christ's Spirit must be cherished and revealed by the sons anddaughters of God. By their humility, their penitence, their desire to be likeJesus, to be conformed to His will by practising His lessons in their dailylife, they honour Him. . . . {AG 65.3}

"Ye are God's husbandry" (1 Cor. 3:9). As one takes pleasure in thecultivation of a garden, so God takes pleasure in His believing sons anddaughters. A garden demands constant labour. The weeds must be removed; newplants must be set out; branches that are making too rapid development must bepruned back. So the Lord works for His garden, so He tends His plants. He cannottake pleasure in any development that does not reveal the graces of thecharacter of Christ. The blood of Christ has made men and women God's preciouscharge. Then how careful should we be not to manifest too much freedom inpulling up the plants that God has placed in His garden! Some plants are sofeeble that they have hardly any life, and for these the Lord has a specialcare. {AG 65.4}

In all your transactions with your fellow men, never forget that you aredealing with God's property. Be kind; be pitiful; be courteous. Respect God'spurchased possession. Treat one another with tenderness and courtesy. Exertevery God-given faculty to become examples to others. . . . {AG 65.5}

Let Him who knows the heart and all its waywardness be able to deal with youin mercy because you have shown mercy and compassion and love. . . . (Heb.12:13). {AG 65.6}

Chap. 58 - Your Royal Birth

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive notthe grace of God in vain. 2 Cor. 6:1. {AG 66.1}

Many who claim to be Christians are not Christians. . . . God takes none toheaven but those who are first made saints in this world through the grace ofChrist, those in whom He can see Christ exemplified. . . . {AG 66.2}

"The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" (James 5:11). . . . He looksupon His redeemed heritage with pity. He is ready to pardon their sins if theywill surrender and be loyal to Him. In order to be just, and yet the justifierof the sinner, He laid the punishment of sin upon His only begotten Son. . . .For Christ's sake He pardons those that fear Him. He does not see in them thevileness of the sinner; He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whomthey believe. In this way only can God take pleasure in any of us. "As many asreceived him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them thatbelieve on his name" (John 1:12). {AG 66.3}

Were it not for Christ's atoning sacrifice, there would be nothing in us inwhich God could delight. All the natural goodness of man is worthless in God'ssight. He does not take pleasure in any man who retains his old nature, and isnot so renewed in knowledge and grace that he is a new man in Christ. Oureducation, our talents, our means, are gifts entrusted to us by God, that He maytest us. If we use them for self-glorification, God says, "I cannot delight inthem; for Christ has died for them in vain." . . . {AG 66.4}

To adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour, we must have the mind that wasin Christ. Our likes and dislikes, our desire to be first, to favour self to thedisadvantage of others, must be overcome. The peace of God must rule in ourhearts. Christ must be in us a living, working principle. . . . {AG 66.5}

By your obedience to God, respect yourselves as the purchased possession ofHis dear Son. Seek to be uplifted in Christ. This work is as lasting aseternity. . . . Shall we, sons and daughters of God, forget our royal birth?Shall we not rather honour our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ? Shall we not showforth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvellouslight? {AG 66.6}

Chap. 59 - A Share in Christ's Kingdom

I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; that yemay eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging thetwelve tribes of Israel. Luke 22:29, 30. {AG 67.1}

What a promise is this! Christ's faithful ones are to be sharers with Him inthe kingdom He has received from His Father. This is a spiritual kingdom, inwhich those who are most active in serving their brethren are the greatest.Christ's servants, under His direction, are to administer the affairs of Hiskingdom. They are to eat and drink at His table, that is, be admitted to nearcommunion with Him. {AG 67.2}

Those who search for worldly distinction and glory make a sad mistake. It isthe one who denies self, giving to others the preference, who will sit nearestto Christ on His throne. He who reads the heart sees the true merit possessed byHis lowly, self-sacrificing disciples, and because they are worthy He placesthem in positions of distinction, though they do not realize their worthinessand do not seek for honour. . . . {AG 67.3}

God places no value on outward display or boasting. Many who in this life arelooked upon as superior to others, will one day see that God values menaccording to their compassion and self-denial. . . . Those who follow theexample of Him who went about doing good, who help and bless their fellow men,trying always to lift them up, are in God's sight infinitely higher than theselfish ones who exalt themselves. {AG 67.4}

God does not accept men because of their capabilities, but because they seekHis face, desiring His help. God sees not as man sees. He judges not fromappearances. He searches the heart, and judges righteously. . . . {AG 67.5}

He accepts and communes with His lowly, unpretentious followers; for in themHe sees the most precious material, which will stand the test of storm andtempest, heat and pressure. Our object in working for the Master should be thatHis name may be glorified in the conversion of sinners. . . . {AG 67.6}

Let us rejoice that the Lord does not measure the workers in His vineyard bytheir learning or by the educational advantages they have had. The tree isjudged by its fruit. The Lord will cooperate with those who cooperate with Him.{AG 67.7}